The Conjuring universe has captivated horror movie enthusiasts with its spine-chilling tales, paranormal investigations, and terrifying entities. In this article, we will provide a chronological guide to watching the movies in the Conjuring universe. Allowing you to immerse yourself in the supernatural world in the most cohesive and hair-raising manner possible.
The Nun (set in 1952): Released in 2018
To embark on this sinister journey, we recommend starting with “The Nun”. Serving as a prequel to the other films, this installment explores the origins of the demonic entity known as Valak.
Valak is probably Lorraine Warren’s (Vera Farmiga) most vicious demonic encounters. Truly, one that has haunted her for years. There is a theory that the movie’s main character, sister Irene, is actually a younger Lorraine Warren. Although it does make sense, but there’s no official revelation about that yet. You may find the two actresses who play these characters look uncanny because they are indeed related. The actress portraying sister Irene is Vera Farmiga’s little sister, Taissa Farmiga.
Annabelle: Creation (set in 1955): Released in 2017
Following “The Nun,” it’s time to delve into the origins of another iconic figure, Annabelle. “Annabelle: Creation,” set in 1955, unravels the haunting backstory of the possessed doll that the Warren’s have kept in their very owm artifact room, the Occult museum.
There are hundreds of possessed and haunted items inside that room such as the demonic toy monkey, the Perron family music box, the haunted piano, the samurai, and many more. But, nothing has dealt more damage than Annabelle. Based on the Warren’s own Raggedy Ann, Annabelle wreaks demonic havoc after a demon possesses this inanimate object in South Carolina.
The Nun 2 (set in 1956): To be released in September 2023
The Nun 2 is the franchise’s latest installment, and it is presumed to be set four years after the first movie (1956). This highly anticipated sequel is expected to continue exploring the sinister plans of Valak. The Nun 2 is slated to release on September 8, 2023.
Annabelle (set in 1967): Released in 2014
Next in line is “Annabelle,” which takes place in 1967. In this film, we witness the malevolent influence of the doll on a young couple. Brace yourself for supernatural terror and the escalating horrors that ensue.
Annabelle finds its way to a loving couple, doctor John Form and Mia, who are expecting a child. Thinga go south when Annabelle slowly invades the home with ita demonic motives and brings nothing but chaos to the innocent family.
The Conjuring (set in 1971): Released in 2013
After exploring the dark origins of the haunting entities, it’s time to experience the events that introduced Ed and Lorraine Warren, the renowned paranormal investigators. “The Conjuring,” set in 1971, follows the Warrens as they confront a malevolent presence in a secluded farmhouse. Featuring the Perron family and the haunted music box, this spine chilling movie brings everybody on their seats with jump scares and thrilling scenes.
The Conjuring universe began with this film, which was released in 2013. The film was directed by award-winning director James Wan, who previously handled projects like Saw, Insidious, and Malignant.
Annabelle Comes Home (set in 1972): Released in 2019
Continuing chronologically, “Annabelle Comes Home” is set in 1972, shortly after the events of “The Conjuring.” Witness the Warrens’ efforts to contain the malevolent doll within their artifact room and the terrifying consequences that unfold when Annabelle is unleashed upon their own daughter.
This is the time when Annabelle finally gets locked up in a secured glass box inside the Warrens’ Occult Room. But, when an unprecedented event lead to Annabelle being freed, this would cause a lot of problems for the Warrens, especially their young daughter.
The Curse of La Llorona (set in 1973): Released in 2019
Although not directly tied to the main storyline, “The Curse of La Llorona” is set in 1973 and presents a connection to the Conjuring universe. Prepare for a bone-chilling encounter with the vengeful ghost of La Llorona as she torments a social worker and her children.
La Llorona is inspired by the famous Mexican folklore which translates to “weeping woman”. She is said to be a vengeful spirit who roams around bodies of water, mourning the death of her children whom she drowned when she was still human. The film tackles the consequences of a woman who prays to La Llorona to kill the children of a social worker in order to bring her own kids back to life.
The Conjuring 2 (set in 1976): Released in 2016
Returning to the core narrative, “The Conjuring 2” transports us to 1976 as the Warrens investigate the infamous Enfield Poltergeist case in London.
However, it’s not the poltergeist that Lorraine and Ed Warren should be worried about. Coming in alongside the vile spirit is the demon nun, Valak. Lorraine’s demon nemesis is back, and wants to take the life of Ed.
The Conjuring 3: The Devil Made Me Do It (set in 1981): Released in 2021
The Conjuring 3, set in 1981, is the latest movie in the franchise. This film explores one of the Warrens’ most disturbing cases, involving a murder trial in which demonic possession becomes a central defense.
In this installment, the Warrens face a different kind of demon. Here, a demon that posseses and manipulates others to kill without mercy is the highlight of the movie. As veterans and experts in the paranormal field, the husband and wife duo of Lorraine and Ed must face this sinister head on with everything they have left.
The Conjuring 4: Last Rites (upcoming movie): TBD
While the release date and exact setting for “The Conjuring: Last Rites” have yet to be announced, it is presumed to take place after the events of “The Conjuring 3.” Anticipate another haunting chapter in the Warrens’ journey as they face new supernatural horrors.
Have you started binge watching these movies? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. For more content, stay with us here at Spiel Times. Make sure you subscribe to our push notifications and never miss an update. You can also follow us on Spiel Anime, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Until next time!
