The Nun II makes a sombre entrance into cinemas, its dark, menacing presence threatening to send shivers down your spine. However, when the gates of terror swing open, it’s difficult not to get a sense of déjà vu. This sequel to 2018’s The Nun returns us to the ominous realm of Valak, but instead of growing, it seems more like a visit to a familiar haunted house – terrifying, but ultimately predictable. This chapter, directed by Michael Chaves and starring Taissa Farmiga, Jonas Bloquet, and Bonnie Aarons, is steeped in the gothic supernatural horror that has been a hallmark of The Conjuring Universe.
But does it outperform its predecessor, or is it simply another hymn from the same evil songbook? Let’s go more into The Nun 2’s heinous habit.
What is the plot of The Nun 2?
Sister Irene (Taissa Farmiga) is back in a boarding school in France four years after the events of the last film, battling Valak’s (the titular Nun) wicked pranks. The plot has a lot of promise, promising to dive into Valak’s past and the mysteries surrounding the cursed monastery. However, any hopes of a really immersive and scary tale are swiftly dashed as we follow a well-worn road of horror cliches.
Jump scares galore
Jump shocks, a modern horror film staple, are plentiful here, and it’s evident that they were deliberately planned into the screenplay. Unfortunately, they lack the element of surprise that would make them truly frightening. Instead, they appear inevitably, like a church bell clanging, depriving the film of any meaningful suspense.
At first, the atmosphere succeeds in evoking a sense of dread. The dark halls and poorly lighted chambers of the institution provide a frightening background for the developing events. In general, the usage of light is excellent. However, as the film goes on, Valak’s antics become less scary and more like a practiced routine. As Valak’s looks get progressively, um, nun-scary, the feeling of doom fades.
