The third direct entry in the 'Conjuring' series sees James Wan vacate the director’s chair to make way for Michael Chaves.
Worryingly, Chaves helmed the hugely disappointing franchise spin-off 'The Curse of La Llorona'.
'The Devil Made Me Do It' is an improvement, but still rates as the weakest 'Conjuring' instalment.
Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson’s Ed and Lorraine Warren return to investigate a murder that may be linked to demonic possession.
I was expecting an 'Amityville Horror-style' supernatural tale mixed with family drama and murder, but while it starts out heading in that direction, 'The Devil Made Me Do It' takes a different turn in the road.
Instead, the plot, crafted by Wan and David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, encompasses cults, devil worship and the seen it all before possession of vulnerable youngsters.
As ever, the highlight of the 'Conjuring' series is the relationship between Farmiga and Wilson, and they are once again in fine form.
Due to health concerns, Ed is in a vulnerable state, which really adds drama and tension to the couple’s paranormal escapades.
No-one else can really hold a candle - or a crucifix - to the pair. Physically, Ruairi O’Connor ( Arne ) does a good job but he lacks the emotional presence.
The cult idea is brimming with possibilities but never quite hits the mark, while one character’s supposedly hidden knowledge of what is happening is painfully obvious.
The film is more slow-burn than its predecessors, however Chaves learns from the master Wan when it comes to effective scares.
I’ve never seen the appeal of a water bed, but wouldn’t want to ever go near one after seeing this, and there’s a morgue scene that terrifyingly portrays life after death.
Sadly, even with the reliable presence of Farmiga and Wilson, 'The Devil Made Me Do It' feels like a tacked-on addition to the 'Conjuring' franchise; it may be time to whip the holy water out to keep future entries at bay.
● What are your thoughts on 'The Devil Made Me Do It' and the 'Conjuring' series overall? Pop me an email at ian.bunting@reachplc.com and I will pass on your comments - and any movie or TV show recommendations you have - to your fellow readers.
Stuart Donaldson said: “The two seasons of 'Sensitive Skin' on Netflix have got bucket loads of irony. It’s not an ego trip for anyone involved and its subtlety is its charm.”
● 'The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It' is screening in cinemas now.
