The Conjuring (2013) is a supernatural horror film directed by James Wan, based on the real-life experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Set in 1971, the story follows the Perron family, who move into an old farmhouse in Harrisville, Rhode Island, only to be plagued by increasingly disturbing supernatural occurrences.

As the hauntings escalate, Carolyn Perron reaches out to the Warrens for help. Ed (played by Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine (played by Vera Farmiga) agree to investigate the house. Upon arrival, they immediately sense a dark presence and set up an array of recording devices to capture evidence of the paranormal activity. They soon discover that the house has a gruesome history. It was once owned by a woman named Bathsheba Sherman, a witch who sacrificed her child to the devil and then hanged herself in the property’s backyard in 1863, cursing anyone who would take her land.

The Warrens find that Bathsheba’s malevolent spirit, along with other trapped souls, is terrorizing the Perron family. They uncover that Bathsheba’s influence has led previous occupants to commit murder and suicide. As the hauntings become more violent, Lorraine experiences troubling visions and physical attacks. The family dog is found dead, and one of the daughters, Cindy, sleepwalks into dangerous situations.

Ed and Lorraine decide that an exorcism is necessary but must first gather enough evidence to convince the Catholic Church to sanction it. They witness increasingly terrifying events, including the possession of Carolyn by Bathsheba’s spirit. With the help of their assistants, Drew and Brad, they manage to document the paranormal activity.

In the climax, Carolyn, fully possessed by Bathsheba, attempts to kill her children. Ed performs an exorcism while Lorraine uses her abilities to reach out to Carolyn, reminding her of her love for her family. This connection weakens Bathsheba’s hold, and with great effort, they manage to expel the spirit from Carolyn, saving her and her family.

The film concludes with the Warrens returning to their home, adding the Perron case file to their collection of haunted artifacts. They receive a call about another haunting in Long Island, setting the stage for their next case.

The Conjuring is praised for its atmospheric direction, strong performances, and the effective use of practical effects to create tension and fear. It revitalized interest in the horror genre and led to a successful franchise, including sequels and spin-offs based on other cases from the Warrens’ investigations.