Here's a breakdown:
* The Warrens: The Warrens were a real couple who investigated paranormal activity for decades. They wrote books, gave lectures, and amassed a collection of artifacts related to their cases.
* The Perron Family: The movie's central story revolves around the Perron family and their experiences in a Rhode Island farmhouse. While a family did live in that house, there is debate about the extent to which their experiences match the film's depiction. Some family members have disputed the film's accuracy.
* Historical Accuracy: The film does take liberties with the real events for dramatic purposes. Some details are changed or exaggerated, and the timeline of events is compressed.
So, is The Conjuring a true story?
It's complicated. The film draws inspiration from real events involving the Warrens, but it is a fictionalized account. There is no consensus on the authenticity of the Warrens' claims, and the film's portrayal of the Perron family's experiences has been contested.
Ultimately, it's up to each viewer to decide how much they believe. Some people may find the film's portrayal of the Warrens and their investigations compelling, while others may be more skeptical.