Why is the Wardrobe Scene Included in The Conjuring?

The Conjuring, released in 2013, is a brilliantly crafted horror film that masterfully utilizes props and symbolism to immerse the audience into a world of terror and suspense. One of the most striking elements of this film is the wardrobe scene. In this article, we will explore the strategic inclusion of this scene and its significance in the overall narrative of The Conjuring.

Symbolism and Prop Utilization in Horror Films

In the realm of horror, certain objects are often imbued with symbolic power. Doors, in particular, are frequently used to represent transitions, barriers, and the threshold between the mundane world and the realm of the unknown. The act of opening a door often symbolizes a profound shift in the narrative, often leading to terrifying encounters or revelations.

One manifestation of this symbolism is the wardrobe. It serves as a prop that opens up a portal to another dimension, much like a door. In many horror films, wardrobes are used not just as simple backdrops but as means to hint at other-worldly or supernatural elements. The wardrobe often becomes a focal point for eerie sounds, shadows, and hidden danger.

The Wardrobe Scene in The Conjuring

In The Conjuring, the wardrobe scene is particularly poignant because it serves as a microcosm of the film's overarching themes. The wardrobe appears early in the film and plays a significant role in the narrative, acting as a symbol of dark forces and hidden terror. Here’s a closer look at how the wardrobe scene contributes to the film's overall effectiveness:

1. Symbolic Representation

The wardrobe in The Conjuring is more than just a piece of furniture. It symbolizes a gateway to another world, one filled with malevolent spirits and unexplained phenomena. This symbolic representation is crucial because it builds suspense and sets the stage for the supernatural events that follow. The wardrobe becomes a source of unease and a focal point for the audience's growing tension.

2. Character Interaction

The wardrobe scene is pivotal in the development of the characters. In one sequence, the young girl sleep walks and inexplicably hits her head on the wardrobe, a minor but repetitive action that foreshadows the gender-specific threats the family faces. Another sequence features a demon positioned on top of the wardrobe, symbolizing the supernatural entity's insidious presence within the household. This presence is a key factor in the overall narrative, gradually revealing the extent of the evil that haunts the family.

3. Narrative Development

When the girl finally opens the wardrobe, it leads her to a cellar-like room where the atmosphere is altered to something darker and more menacing. This scene marks a significant turning point in the film as it introduces a concrete setting for the supernatural phenomenon, giving concrete form to the unseen evil. This transformation from a benign wardrobe to a dark, foreboding cellar underscores the emotional and psychological impact of the supernatural events on the family.

The Director's Vision: James Wan’s Approach

It is worth noting that the strategic inclusion of the wardrobe scene is a testament to the visionary director, James Wan. Wan has a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of how to use symbolic elements to enhance the horror genre. Unlike many directors who might simply use wardrobes as casual props, Wan purposefully chose to make the wardrobe a central element in the narrative, indicating his commitment to building a multi-layered and well-crafted horror experience.

Why Other Directors Might Not Prioritize Such Symbolism

Many directors choose to use wardrobes or similar props as simple decorative elements, often overlooking their potential to add depth and symbolism. However, Wan's choice to make the wardrobe a central mythological symbol in The Conjuring highlights his attention to detail and his belief in the power of symbolism to captivate and engage the audience. This scene, in particular, makes the wardrobe an integral part of the film's narrative, serving as a bridge between the mundane and the supernatural.

Conclusion

The wardrobe scene in The Conjuring is a masterful example of how a single prop can be transformed into a powerful symbol of terror and suspense. We have seen how the wardrobe serves as a gateway, a symbol of the unknown, and a focal point for character interaction and narrative development. The choice of James Wan to use the wardrobe this way demonstrates his skill in crafting a horror film that not only entertains but also engages the audience on a deeper, more psychological level. This scene is a testament to the power of symbolic representation in horror storytelling.