The Conjuring Movies In Order: A Comprehensive Guide

The Conjuring Universe has captivated audiences worldwide with its spine-chilling tales of paranormal investigations and supernatural occurrences. Since its inception, the series has grown into a complex web of interconnected stories, each contributing to a larger narrative tapestry. For fans and newcomers alike, understanding the chronological order of these movies can enhance the viewing experience, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the intricate storytelling and thematic continuity. In this article, we will meticulously unravel the sequence of The Conjuring movies, providing a detailed guide to the order in which they should be watched.

Rooted in the real-life experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring Universe blends fact with fiction, creating an immersive horror experience that is both compelling and terrifying. The franchise, which began with the release of "The Conjuring" in 2013, has expanded to include sequels and spin-offs, exploring various haunted artifacts and sinister entities encountered by the Warrens. As the series continues to grow, its complex timeline can be challenging to navigate without a clear roadmap.

For those seeking to delve into the chilling world of The Conjuring, understanding the order of these films is essential. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of each installment, from the main Conjuring films to the spin-offs that delve into the eerie backstories of the franchise's most notorious villains. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, this article will serve as your definitive resource for exploring The Conjuring Universe in all its terrifying glory.

Table of Contents

• The Conjuring (2013)
• Annabelle (2014)
• The Conjuring 2 (2016)
• Annabelle: Creation (2017)
• The Nun (2018)
• The Curse of La Llorona (2019)
• Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
• The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
• Impact on Horror Cinema
• Thematic Elements and Characters
• Real-Life Inspiration
• Critical Reception and Box Office Success
• Future of The Conjuring Universe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

The Conjuring (2013)

The Conjuring, released in 2013, marks the beginning of the cinematic journey into the paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren. Directed by James Wan, this film introduces audiences to the couple's world of supernatural encounters, setting the tone for the entire franchise. The story is based on the real-life Perron family, who experienced a series of increasingly disturbing events in their Rhode Island farmhouse during the 1970s.

The genius of The Conjuring lies in its ability to build suspense through a combination of atmospheric tension, compelling storytelling, and chilling performances. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga deliver standout portrayals of the Warrens, capturing both their professional expertise and personal dedication to helping those afflicted by malevolent spirits. The film's success can be attributed to its masterful use of classic horror techniques, such as eerie soundscapes, shadowy visuals, and heart-pounding sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Central to the plot is the demonic presence haunting the Perron family, which manifests in increasingly violent ways. The Warrens' investigation leads them to uncover the dark history of the property, including a witch named Bathsheba who had cursed the land. This revelation sets the stage for a climactic confrontation between the Warrens and the malevolent entity, showcasing their expertise in exorcisms and spiritual warfare.

The Conjuring's impact on horror cinema cannot be overstated, as it revitalized interest in supernatural horror and inspired a wave of similar films. Its success paved the way for the expansion of the franchise, delving into the Warrens' extensive case files and exploring the stories of other haunted artifacts and entities they encountered. By combining a compelling narrative with terrifying visuals and sound, The Conjuring set a new standard for horror films and established a dedicated fan base eager to explore more of the Warrens' paranormal adventures.

Annabelle (2014)

The first spin-off in The Conjuring Universe, Annabelle, delves into the origins of one of the franchise's most iconic and terrifying entities—the Annabelle doll. Released in 2014 and directed by John R. Leonetti, the film serves as a prequel to The Conjuring, providing audiences with insight into how the cursed doll came to be a central figure in the Warrens' collection of haunted artifacts.

Set in the late 1960s, Annabelle follows the story of John and Mia Form, a young couple expecting their first child. Their seemingly idyllic life takes a sinister turn when John gifts Mia a vintage doll to complete her collection. Unbeknownst to them, the doll becomes the conduit for a malevolent spirit after their home is invaded by a satanic cult, resulting in a horrifying series of events that threaten their lives and sanity.

The film explores themes of motherhood, vulnerability, and the struggle between good and evil, as Mia fights to protect her family from the supernatural forces targeting them. The tension is heightened by the doll's unsettling presence, which serves as a constant reminder of the lurking danger. Annabelle's success lies in its ability to create a sense of dread through atmospheric visuals, suspenseful pacing, and clever use of sound design.

While Annabelle received mixed reviews from critics, it was embraced by audiences and became a commercial success, further cementing the doll's status as a horror icon. Its popularity led to the development of additional sequels and spin-offs, expanding the lore surrounding Annabelle and her connection to the broader Conjuring Universe. By exploring the origins and influence of the cursed doll, Annabelle adds depth to the franchise and provides a chilling glimpse into the dark forces at play within The Conjuring Universe.

The Conjuring 2 (2016)

The Conjuring 2, released in 2016 and once again directed by James Wan, continues the chilling adventures of Ed and Lorraine Warren as they investigate one of their most famous cases—the Enfield Poltergeist. Set in 1977, this sequel takes the Warrens to London, where they are called upon to assist a family experiencing disturbing paranormal activity in their council house.

At the heart of the story is the Hodgson family, particularly the young Janet, who becomes the primary target of the malevolent entity haunting their home. As the Warrens delve deeper into the case, they encounter a series of terrifying manifestations, including the sinister nun known as Valak, who would later become a central figure in the franchise. The film expertly balances moments of genuine horror with the emotional struggles of the characters, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.

The Conjuring 2 builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, utilizing atmospheric tension, expertly crafted scares, and strong character development to deliver a memorable horror experience. The film's exploration of the Warrens' personal lives adds depth to their characters, highlighting their unwavering commitment to their work despite the toll it takes on their relationship and well-being.

Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, The Conjuring 2 solidified the franchise's reputation for high-quality storytelling and innovative horror filmmaking. It expanded the universe by introducing new supernatural entities and laying the groundwork for future spin-offs, such as The Nun. By revisiting one of the Warrens' most notorious cases, The Conjuring 2 continues to captivate audiences and maintain the franchise's status as a cornerstone of modern horror cinema.

Annabelle: Creation (2017)

Annabelle: Creation, released in 2017 and directed by David F. Sandberg, serves as a prequel to the first Annabelle film, further exploring the origins of the cursed doll and the tragic events that led to its creation. Set in the 1950s, the film introduces audiences to Samuel and Esther Mullins, a grieving couple who open their home to a group of orphaned girls and their caretaker, Sister Charlotte.

The story reveals how the Annabelle doll came to be possessed by a malevolent entity after the Mullins' young daughter, Annabelle, tragically dies in an accident. In their desperation to communicate with their deceased child, the Mullins inadvertently invite a dark presence into their home, resulting in a series of horrifying events that threaten the lives of the orphans and their caretakers.

Annabelle: Creation stands out for its atmospheric tension, well-crafted scares, and engaging character development. The film effectively utilizes its period setting and isolated farmhouse location to create a sense of dread and unease, while the strong performances from the cast bring depth and emotion to the story. The film's exploration of grief, loss, and the consequences of meddling with supernatural forces adds layers to the narrative, elevating it beyond a standard horror film.

Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, Annabelle: Creation received praise for its ability to deliver genuine scares and expand the lore of The Conjuring Universe. It serves as a crucial piece in the franchise's puzzle, providing context for the Annabelle doll's origins and its subsequent influence on the events of the other films. By deepening the mythology surrounding Annabelle, the film enriches the overall narrative of The Conjuring Universe and continues to captivate audiences with its chilling tale.

The Nun (2018)

The Nun, released in 2018 and directed by Corin Hardy, is a spin-off that delves into the backstory of one of The Conjuring Universe's most terrifying entities—Valak, the demonic nun. Set in 1952, the film takes audiences to a remote abbey in Romania, where a young novitiate named Sister Irene is sent to investigate the mysterious death of a nun alongside Father Burke, a seasoned priest with experience in supernatural matters.

As they delve deeper into the abbey's dark history, Sister Irene and Father Burke encounter the malevolent force of Valak, who seeks to escape the confines of the abbey and wreak havoc upon the world. The film combines elements of gothic horror with atmospheric tension, utilizing the eerie setting and chilling visuals to create a sense of dread and unease.

The Nun explores themes of faith, courage, and the battle between good and evil, as Sister Irene confronts her fears and uncovers the truth behind the abbey's sinister past. The film's strong performances, particularly Taissa Farmiga as Sister Irene, add depth and emotion to the narrative, while the expertly crafted scares keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, The Nun was a commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing film in the franchise. Its exploration of Valak's origins adds depth to the character and enriches the overall mythology of The Conjuring Universe. By providing audiences with a deeper understanding of one of the franchise's most iconic villains, The Nun continues to captivate and terrify viewers, solidifying its place within the larger narrative tapestry of The Conjuring Universe.

The Curse of La Llorona (2019)

The Curse of La Llorona, released in 2019, is a standalone installment in The Conjuring Universe that draws inspiration from Mexican folklore. Directed by Michael Chaves, the film tells the story of a social worker named Anna Tate-Garcia, who becomes embroiled in a supernatural battle against the malevolent spirit of La Llorona, also known as the Weeping Woman.

Set in 1973 Los Angeles, the film follows Anna as she investigates the mysterious deaths of two children and their connection to the cursed spirit. As La Llorona targets Anna's own children, she must seek the help of a former priest turned spiritual healer to protect her family and uncover the truth behind the curse.

The Curse of La Llorona explores themes of motherhood, guilt, and redemption, as Anna confronts her own fears and seeks to protect her children from the vengeful spirit. The film effectively utilizes its cultural and historical backdrop to create a sense of authenticity and depth, while the strong performances from the cast bring emotion and intensity to the narrative.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, The Curse of La Llorona was a commercial success, further expanding the reach of The Conjuring Universe. Its exploration of cultural folklore adds a unique dimension to the franchise, providing audiences with a fresh perspective on supernatural horror. While it stands as a standalone film, its connection to the broader universe is hinted at through subtle references and thematic parallels, enriching the overall narrative tapestry and continuing to captivate audiences with its chilling tale.

Annabelle Comes Home (2019)

Annabelle Comes Home, released in 2019 and directed by Gary Dauberman, serves as both a sequel to the previous Annabelle films and a continuation of the main Conjuring storyline. Set in the early 1970s, the film follows the Warrens as they bring the cursed Annabelle doll to their home for safekeeping in their infamous artifact room, which houses various haunted objects and relics collected from their cases.

The story centers around the Warrens' daughter, Judy, and her babysitter, Mary Ellen, who find themselves in a nightmarish situation when Annabelle's malevolent influence awakens the other spirits and entities within the artifact room. As the supernatural chaos unfolds, Judy, Mary Ellen, and their friend Daniela must navigate the horrors unleashed by Annabelle and find a way to contain the evil before it spreads further.

Annabelle Comes Home explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of belief, as the young protagonists confront their fears and work together to overcome the supernatural threats. The film combines elements of classic horror with moments of humor and heart, creating a balanced narrative that resonates with audiences.

Critically and commercially successful, Annabelle Comes Home was praised for its engaging story, strong performances, and effective scares. The film's exploration of the Warrens' artifact room adds depth to the franchise, providing audiences with a glimpse into the vast array of haunted objects and the potential stories they hold. By blending elements of the main Conjuring narrative with the Annabelle storyline, the film enriches the overall mythology of The Conjuring Universe and continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling tale.

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, released in 2021 and directed by Michael Chaves, is the third installment in the main Conjuring series. The film is based on the real-life trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson, the first known case in the United States where demonic possession was used as a defense in a court of law.

Set in the early 1980s, the story follows the Warrens as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder committed by Arne Johnson. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a sinister connection to a malevolent occultist who has orchestrated a series of demonic possessions in an attempt to fulfill a deadly curse.

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It explores themes of faith, justice, and the power of love, as the Warrens confront both supernatural and human adversaries in their quest to uncover the truth. The film combines elements of courtroom drama with classic horror, creating a unique narrative that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

Critically and commercially successful, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It was praised for its strong performances, particularly from Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, who continue to bring depth and authenticity to their roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film's exploration of real-life events adds an extra layer of intrigue and authenticity to the narrative, further enriching the mythology of The Conjuring Universe.

By blending elements of true crime with supernatural horror, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It offers a fresh perspective on the franchise, while staying true to the themes and tone that have made The Conjuring Universe a beloved staple of modern horror cinema. The film continues to captivate audiences with its gripping tale and leaves the door open for future installments in the ever-expanding Conjuring Universe.

Impact on Horror Cinema

The Conjuring Universe has had a profound impact on modern horror cinema, redefining the genre and inspiring a new wave of supernatural horror films. Its success can be attributed to a combination of compelling storytelling, expertly crafted scares, and strong character development, which have resonated with audiences worldwide.

One of the key factors contributing to the franchise's success is its ability to blend elements of traditional horror with innovative filmmaking techniques. The Conjuring films have mastered the art of building suspense and tension through atmospheric visuals, eerie soundscapes, and expertly timed jump scares, creating a sense of dread that lingers with audiences long after the credits roll.

The franchise's exploration of real-life paranormal cases adds an extra layer of intrigue and authenticity to the narrative, appealing to both horror enthusiasts and those interested in the supernatural. By drawing inspiration from the experiences of Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring Universe has created a unique blend of fact and fiction that sets it apart from other horror franchises.

In addition to its storytelling and technical prowess, The Conjuring Universe has also been praised for its strong performances, particularly from Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, whose portrayals of the Warrens have become iconic in the horror genre. Their chemistry and dedication to their roles have brought depth and authenticity to the franchise, further enhancing its appeal to audiences.

The Conjuring Universe's impact on horror cinema extends beyond its own films, as it has inspired a wave of similar supernatural horror films and franchises. Its success has demonstrated the enduring appeal of well-crafted horror stories and has set a new standard for the genre, paving the way for future filmmakers to explore the world of the supernatural in innovative and compelling ways.

Thematic Elements and Characters

The Conjuring Universe is renowned for its exploration of various thematic elements and its rich tapestry of interconnected characters. Central to the franchise are the themes of faith, courage, and the battle between good and evil, which are expertly woven into each film's narrative.

At the heart of the franchise are Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, whose unwavering commitment to their work and each other serves as a guiding force throughout the series. Their characters embody the themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience, as they confront both supernatural and human adversaries in their quest to protect the innocent and uncover the truth behind paranormal occurrences.

Another recurring theme in The Conjuring Universe is the exploration of fear and its psychological impact on individuals and families. Each film delves into the emotional and psychological struggles faced by the protagonists as they confront their deepest fears and grapple with the supernatural forces threatening their lives. This exploration of fear adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, resonating with audiences and creating a more immersive horror experience.

The franchise also explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of meddling with supernatural forces. Characters such as the Mullins in Annabelle: Creation and Anna Tate-Garcia in The Curse of La Llorona grapple with their past mistakes and seek redemption in the face of overwhelming supernatural odds. This exploration of personal growth and redemption adds an emotional layer to the narrative, elevating the franchise beyond standard horror fare.

The Conjuring Universe's rich tapestry of interconnected characters and thematic elements creates a cohesive and compelling narrative that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. By exploring these themes through the lens of horror, the franchise offers a unique and engaging perspective on the human experience, resonating with viewers and cementing its place as a cornerstone of modern horror cinema.

Real-Life Inspiration

The Conjuring Universe draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Ed and Lorraine Warren, renowned paranormal investigators whose case files have provided a wealth of material for the franchise's chilling tales. The Warrens dedicated their lives to investigating and documenting paranormal phenomena, and their extensive body of work serves as the foundation for the films in The Conjuring Universe.

Ed Warren, a self-taught demonologist, and Lorraine Warren, a gifted clairvoyant, founded the New England Society for Psychic Research in 1952, through which they conducted numerous investigations into haunted locations, demonic possessions, and supernatural occurrences. Their work has been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and, of course, the films in The Conjuring Universe.

The Conjuring (2013) is based on the Warrens' investigation of the Perron family haunting, while The Conjuring 2 (2016) explores their involvement in the Enfield Poltergeist case. Both films draw heavily from the Warrens' case files and personal accounts, blending fact with fiction to create a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.

The franchise also explores the Warrens' collection of haunted artifacts, which serves as a source of inspiration for the Annabelle films and other spin-offs. The real-life Annabelle doll, a Raggedy Ann doll believed to be possessed by a malevolent spirit, is one of the most infamous items in the Warrens' collection and has become a central figure in the franchise.

By drawing inspiration from real-life events and the experiences of Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring Universe adds an extra layer of authenticity and intrigue to its narratives. This connection to real-life paranormal cases appeals to audiences' fascination with the supernatural and elevates the franchise beyond standard horror fare, offering a unique blend of fact and fiction that continues to captivate viewers worldwide.

Critical Reception and Box Office Success

The Conjuring Universe has achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying its status as one of the most successful horror franchises in cinematic history. Each film in the franchise has received praise for its compelling storytelling, expertly crafted scares, and strong performances, contributing to its enduring popularity and appeal.

The Conjuring (2013) was met with widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its effective use of suspense, atmospheric tension, and strong performances from Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga. The film's success at the box office further cemented its status as a modern horror classic, grossing over $319 million worldwide against a modest budget.

Subsequent installments, including The Conjuring 2 (2016), Annabelle: Creation (2017), and The Nun (2018), continued to receive positive reviews and achieve commercial success, further expanding the franchise's reach and influence. Each film has contributed to the overall success of The Conjuring Universe, with the franchise collectively grossing over $2 billion worldwide.

The franchise's success can be attributed to its ability to deliver high-quality horror films that resonate with audiences, combining compelling narratives with expertly crafted scares and strong character development. This winning formula has set a new standard for horror cinema and inspired a wave of similar supernatural horror films and franchises.

In addition to its box office success, The Conjuring Universe has also garnered a dedicated fan base and become a cultural phenomenon, with its iconic characters and chilling tales continuing to captivate audiences worldwide. The franchise's impact on horror cinema is undeniable, and its continued success ensures that it will remain a cornerstone of the genre for years to come.

Future of The Conjuring Universe

The future of The Conjuring Universe looks promising, with several new projects in development that aim to expand the franchise's rich mythology and explore new and terrifying tales. As the franchise continues to grow, it remains committed to delivering high-quality horror films that captivate audiences with their compelling narratives and expertly crafted scares.

One of the most anticipated projects is a sequel to The Nun, which will further explore the origins and influence of the demonic entity Valak. Additionally, there are plans for a new film centered around the haunted artifact room featured in Annabelle Comes Home, offering audiences a deeper look into the Warrens' collection of supernatural relics and the stories behind them.

The franchise is also exploring new avenues for storytelling, with potential spin-offs and standalone films that delve into the vast array of paranormal cases documented by Ed and Lorraine Warren. By continuing to draw inspiration from the Warrens' extensive body of work, The Conjuring Universe remains committed to delivering authentic and chilling tales that resonate with audiences.

As the franchise continues to expand, it maintains its commitment to delivering high-quality horror cinema that combines compelling storytelling with expertly crafted scares and strong character development. The Conjuring Universe's continued success ensures that it will remain a cornerstone of modern horror cinema, captivating audiences with its chilling tales and rich mythology for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many movies are there in The Conjuring Universe?

The Conjuring Universe currently consists of eight films: The Conjuring (2013), Annabelle (2014), The Conjuring 2 (2016), Annabelle: Creation (2017), The Nun (2018), The Curse of La Llorona (2019), Annabelle Comes Home (2019), and The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021).

2. What is the correct order to watch The Conjuring movies?

To watch The Conjuring movies in chronological order, start with The Nun (2018), followed by Annabelle: Creation (2017), Annabelle (2014), The Conjuring (2013), Annabelle Comes Home (2019), The Curse of La Llorona (2019), The Conjuring 2 (2016), and finally, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021).

3. Are The Conjuring movies based on true stories?

Yes, The Conjuring movies are inspired by the real-life experiences and case files of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. While the films take creative liberties for dramatic effect, they are rooted in actual events and accounts documented by the Warrens.

4. Is the Annabelle doll real?

Yes, the Annabelle doll is a real artifact in the Warrens' collection of haunted objects. However, the real Annabelle doll is a Raggedy Ann doll, not the porcelain doll depicted in the films. The Warrens believed the doll was possessed by a malevolent spirit and kept it in a secure case in their museum.

5. Will there be more Conjuring movies?

Yes, there are several projects in development within The Conjuring Universe, including a sequel to The Nun and a new film centered around the Warrens' artifact room. The franchise continues to expand, exploring new stories and characters within the rich mythology of The Conjuring Universe.

6. How does The Conjuring Universe differ from other horror franchises?

The Conjuring Universe stands out for its blend of real-life inspiration and supernatural horror, drawing from the case files of Ed and Lorraine Warren to create compelling narratives rooted in actual events. The franchise is known for its strong character development, expertly crafted scares, and atmospheric tension, setting a new standard for modern horror cinema.

Conclusion

The Conjuring Universe has captivated audiences worldwide with its chilling tales of paranormal investigations and supernatural occurrences. From its humble beginnings with The Conjuring (2013) to its expansion into a complex web of interconnected stories, the franchise has redefined modern horror cinema and established itself as a cornerstone of the genre.

By exploring the real-life experiences of Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring Universe offers a unique blend of fact and fiction that resonates with audiences and adds an extra layer of authenticity to its narratives. The franchise's success can be attributed to its compelling storytelling, expertly crafted scares, and strong character development, which have set a new standard for horror films and inspired a wave of similar supernatural horror franchises.

As The Conjuring Universe continues to expand and explore new stories within its rich mythology, it remains committed to delivering high-quality horror cinema that captivates audiences with its chilling tales and engaging narratives. With several new projects in development, the future of The Conjuring Universe looks promising, ensuring that it will continue to thrill and terrify viewers for years to come.