Although this is the debut film for a terrifying artifact from the Warren's home, this is not where Annabelle has a chance to sign. Both of the sequels to this film paint her out to be much more terrifying while this film is arguably the weakest of the whole franchise. Aside from the fear you can relate to if you're also a parent, this movie just isn't that scary. It has an eerie moment here and there, but you never get the full payoff it feels like. It feels like exactly what is, a setup to another movie. However, that being said, it's still worth the watch if you're a fan of the franchise and following along, but it won't knock your socks off. Also, I'd almost argue you should watch the sequel (which is technically a prequel) Annabelle Creation first.

A definite step in the wrong direction from the very strong outing from The Conjuring. Isn't nearly as scary or as exciting as when Annabelle first appeared in that one. Some fine scares of course, but doesn't build that atmosphere that I crave in horror movies.

The movie Annabelle is tense and suspenseful despite the fact that the doll itself isn't scary. Unlike Chucky, the titular doll never does anything to hurt the characters, just moving around unexpectedly. Annabelle relies more on the atmosphere for scares than events, which is a divisive choice. Unfortunately, the pacing feels a bit uneven, and the horror could be developed more. Still, it's an enjoyable watch.

Annabelle is a scary movie no doubt, but a lot of that terror comes from jump scares rather than the writing or a strong plot. The movie felt boring in some places and other than the jump scares, it had trouble holding my attention.