The Conjuring, a supernatural thriller that opened to an astounding $17 million this past Friday, July 19 proves that appealing to faith-based viewers can reap heavenly dividends for filmmakers. No ordinary screamfest, this haunting effort from director James Wan draws heavily upon the real-life paranormal experiences of renowned demonologist Ed Warren and his psychic-clairvoyant wife Lorraine Warren -- devout Catholics who made their living by coming to the aid of New England residents battling demonic and ghostly apparitions in their homes.

Starring Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuringcenters around a specific 1971 case involving a haunted Rhode Island farmhouse owned by Roger and Carolyn Perron (played by Ron Livingston and Lili Taylor). Disturbed by the relentless paranormal activity plaguing them and their five children, the Perron family enlists the aid of the Warrens to rid their home of demonic possession.

In another departure from typical cinematic horror fare, The Conjuring tells its story from the perspective of the hunters, not the hunted. By dramatizing this tale of unspeakable horror from the Warrens' point-of-view rather than that of the beleaguered Perron family, directorJames Wan not only creates another element of suspense, he instigates a deeper level of soul-searching for his audience. For those who reject religion, this harrowing film might actually scare them into reconsidering the meaning of faith and the existence of God -- something screenwriters Chad and Carey Hayes would welcome. Like their film's protagonists, they believe in a Higher Power and hope that the movie, in addition to raking in sweet box-office dollars, will also usher in a deeper conversation about the Almighty and religion. 

Throughout their paranormal career, the Warrens' had always credited their stalwart Catholic faith for enabling them to battle and prevail over demonic forces. The Conjuringhonors their belief system while simultaneously tapping into the mindset of a Christian audience seeking a 20th Century version of the classic Biblical teachings of good versus evil, Jesus versus Satan. Judging from its opening night returns, this approach has paid off nicely.

In spite of its nod to Christianity prior to its national release the film had already been widely acclaimed by prominent sites like Rotten Tomatoes, where it currently enjoys an 85% Tomatometer Rating, and major newspaper critics including Lou Lumenick of the New York Post who raves:

"Classy old-school horror, James Wan's The Conjuring depends more on its excellent cast and atmospheric direction than cheap gimmicks to raise hairs on the back of your neck. Which it does, quite frequently."

Although Ed Warren passed away in 2006, his wife provided consultation on the film. When asked by the screenwriters if it bothered her that many doubted the veracity of her and her husband's claims she replied, "Oh honey, I don't really care. It's between God and them."

Says Carey Hayes, "The Warrens' sharpest tool in the shed was their faith. It's all they can depend on. It's such a great opportunity to illustrate that without being preachy."

If its remarkable opening-night earnings are any indication, it appears the screenwriters' have accomplished their goal.

Have you seen or plan to see The Conjuring? Let us know what you think!