Are you ready to dive into one of horror cinema’s most terrifying universes? The Conjuring franchise has become a cornerstone of modern supernatural horror, spawning eight films that have collectively earned over $2 billion worldwide. But with spin-offs, prequels, and sequels, knowing the correct viewing order can be confusing. Whether you’re a horror newcomer or a seasoned scary movie veteran, this comprehensive guide will walk you through The Conjuring movies in order, ensuring you experience every spine-chilling moment in the perfect sequence. Get ready to explore The Conjuring Universe like never before!
Understanding The Conjuring Universe Timeline
The Conjuring Universe isn’t just a collection of random horror films – it’s a carefully crafted supernatural saga that spans decades of paranormal investigations. Created by James Wan and expanded by various talented filmmakers, this horror franchise follows the real-life cases of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, along with the dark entities they encountered.
The universe operates on two different timelines: the release order and the chronological story order. While most fans prefer watching in release order for the best narrative experience, understanding the chronological timeline adds depth to the overarching story.
The Conjuring Movies in Order (Release Order – Recommended)
1. The Conjuring (2013)
The film that started it all! James Wan’s masterpiece introduced audiences to Ed and Lorraine Warren (Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga) as they investigate the Perron family’s haunted farmhouse in Rhode Island. This supernatural thriller set the gold standard for modern horror filmmaking.
Behind the Scenes Insight: The infamous clapping scene was improvised by director James Wan, who hid in the basement and clapped to genuinely startle the actress. The authentic fear you see on screen is completely real!
Box Office Magic: Made on a modest $20 million budget, the film grossed over $319 million worldwide, proving that original horror stories could still captivate global audiences.
2. Annabelle (2014)
This prequel spin-off focuses on the origins of the demonic doll that briefly appeared in the first Conjuring film. Set in the late 1960s, it follows a young couple terrorized by the possessed porcelain doll after a tragic home invasion.
Trivia Alert: The real Annabelle doll is actually a Raggedy Ann doll, not the porcelain version seen in the movies. The filmmakers changed the design to create a more cinematically terrifying appearance.
3. The Conjuring 2 (2016)
James Wan returned to direct this sequel, taking the Warrens to Enfield, England, to investigate one of their most famous cases – the Enfield Poltergeist. The film introduces The Nun (Valak), which would later get its own spin-off.
Fascinating Fact: Vera Farmiga actually painted the creepy portrait of The Nun that appears in the film, despite having no formal art training. Her hidden artistic talent added an authentic touch to the movie’s most haunting image.
4. Annabelle: Creation (2017)
This prequel to the Annabelle prequel explains how the demonic doll became possessed. Set in the 1950s, it follows a dollmaker and his wife who welcome several orphan girls and a nun into their home, unleashing supernatural terror.
Director’s Vision: David F. Sandberg brought his indie horror sensibilities to this film, creating some of the franchise’s most creative scares using practical effects and minimal CGI.
5. The Nun (2018)
Set in 1952 Romania, this film serves as the earliest chronological entry in The Conjuring Universe. It follows a priest and a novice investigating the suicide of a nun at a Romanian abbey, where they encounter the demonic entity Valak.
Location Secrets: The abbey scenes were filmed at Corvin Castle in Romania, adding authentic Gothic atmosphere to the supernatural narrative. The castle’s real history of violence and tragedy influenced the film’s eerie ambiance.
6. Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
This direct sequel to the first Annabelle film brings the doll into the Warrens’ artifact room, where she awakens other supernatural entities. The film serves as a bridge between the spin-offs and main Conjuring storyline.
Easter Egg Heaven: The Warrens’ artifact room contains references to numerous real cases, including items that could spawn their own movies. Sharp-eyed viewers can spot potential future franchise entries!
7. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
The third main Conjuring film explores the first murder case in U.S. history where demonic possession was used as a legal defense. The Warrens investigate the supernatural forces behind a shocking crime.
Real-Life Drama: This film is based on the actual Arne Cheyenne Johnson case from 1981. The real trial proceedings and police reports heavily influenced the screenplay’s development.
8. The Nun II (2023)
The sequel to The Nun brings Valak back for another terrifying encounter. Set four years later, it follows Sister Irene in 1956 France. She must once again face the demonic nun.
Franchise Connection: This sequel strengthens ties to The Conjuring Universe by expanding Valak’s mythology. It connects more deeply to the main storyline. The film also explores the origins of evil in greater detail than its predecessor.
What Makes The Conjuring Universe Special?
The sequel to The Nun sees Valak return for another chilling encounter. Four years later, in 1956 France, Sister Irene finds herself once again confronting the demonic nun.
Franchise Connection: This chapter deepens ties to The Conjuring Universe by expanding Valak’s mythology and weaving more closely into the main storyline. It also delves further into the origins of evil, offering richer detail than its predecessor.
Future of The Conjuring Universe
The franchise reached a new milestone with The Conjuring: Last Rites, which was released on September 5, 2025. This latest installment promises to deliver the signature scares and supernatural investigations that fans have come to expect from The Conjuring Universe. Our comprehensive spoiler-free review of Last Rites will be available on the site soon, so stay tuned for our in-depth analysis!
With additional projects still in development and the continued success of recent releases, the franchise shows no signs of slowing down. The universe continues expanding, promising more supernatural investigations and spine-tingling encounters for horror enthusiasts worldwide.
Conclusion
The Conjuring movies in order offer horror fans an incredible journey through supernatural terror and human courage. From the Warrens’ first investigation to demonic dolls and ancient evil, The Conjuring Universe has redefined modern horror cinema. Whether you choose release order or chronological viewing, each film contributes unique scares and unforgettable moments to this masterful horror saga.
Ready to begin your supernatural journey? Start with the original Conjuring and prepare for sleepless nights ahead. And don’t forget to share this guide with fellow horror enthusiasts – they’ll thank you for helping them navigate this terrifying but incredible cinematic universe!
Ready to dive deeper? Check out our individual film reviews for spoiler-free insights and behind-the-scenes details that will enhance your viewing experience!
