How to Watch The Conjuring Movies in Chronological Order

The Conjuring movies have become a cornerstone of modern horror cinema, captivating audiences with their blend of supernatural scares, period settings, and claims of being based on real-life paranormal events. For newcomers and horror fans alike, navigating the release order can be confusing, as the series has expanded beyond its initial premise to include prequels, spin-offs, and interconnected storylines

Viewing Order vs. Release Date Order

While this guide will walk you through the chronological order of the Conjuring universe, there's also value in watching the films in order of release date. This allows viewers to experience the evolution of the franchise's storytelling and visual style.

The release order is:

Now, let's dive into the chronological order of the Conjuring universe, providing insights into each film and how they connect to create a rich tapestry of terror.

The Nun (2018) - Set in 1952

Our journey begins in Romania with "The Nun," a gothic horror tale that serves as the earliest entry in the Conjuring timeline. The film follows Father Burke (Demián Bichir) and Sister Irene (Taissa Farmiga) as they investigate the mysterious suicide of a nun at a cloistered abbey. Here, we're introduced to the demonic nun Valak (Bonnie Aarons), which becomes a recurring antagonist throughout the franchise.

"The Nun" sets the stage for the overarching mythology of the series, exploring the origins of one of its most iconic and terrifying villains. A direct sequel, "The Nun II," is set to continue this storyline, further expanding the lore surrounding Valak and its connection to the broader Conjuring universe.

Annabelle: Creation (2017) - Takes place in 1955

Just a few years later in the timeline, we encounter "Annabelle: Creation," which delves into the origins of the infamous demonic doll. Set in the mid-1950s, the film tells the story of a dollmaker (Anthony LaPaglia) and his wife who welcome a group of orphans and Sister Charlotte into their home. This prequel serves as an effective origin story for the Annabelle doll, connecting it to the broader Conjuring universe while standing on its own as a tense and atmospheric horror film.

Annabelle (2014) - Set in 1967

Moving forward to the late 1960s, "Annabelle" continues the story of the possessed doll. This film follows a young couple in Southern California whose vintage doll becomes a conduit for an evil spirit. While "Annabelle" was the first spin-off from the main Conjuring films, its place in the chronology makes more sense when viewed after "Annabelle: Creation." The film expands on the doll's mythology and sets up plot points that will be revisited in future installments.

The Conjuring (2013) - Based on a 1971 case

We now arrive at the first Conjuring movie that started it all. Directed by James Wan, "The Conjuring" introduces us to paranormal investigators Ed (Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine Warren (Vera Farmiga), based on the real-life couple. The film recounts one of their famous cases involving the Perron family and their haunted house in Rhode Island.

"The Conjuring" set a new standard for modern horror films with its masterful build-up of tension, effective jump scares, and strong performances. It also established the Warrens as the heart of the franchise, with their relationship providing an emotional anchor amidst the supernatural chaos. Wan's direction, particularly his use of practical effects and long, tension-building shots, set the tone for the entire series.

Annabelle Comes Home (2019) - Set in 1972

Picking up shortly after the events of the first movie, "Annabelle Comes Home" brings the haunted doll into the Warrens' home. When Ed and Lorraine are called away, their young daughter Judy (McKenna Grace) is left with a babysitter. Curiosity leads to the awakening of Annabelle, unleashing various evil entities from the Warrens' artifact room.

This entry serves as a sort of "greatest hits" of the Conjuring universe, introducing several new spirits and demons that could potentially spawn their own spin-offs. It also provides more insight into the Warrens' home life and the toll their work takes on their family.

The Curse of La Llorona (2019) - Takes place in 1973

While not initially marketed as part of the Conjuring universe, "The Curse of La Llorona" was later confirmed to be connected through the character of Father Perez. Set in 1973 Los Angeles, the film follows a social worker (Linda Cardellini) and her children as they are drawn into the terrifying realm of La Llorona, a folkloric spirit known as "The Weeping Woman."

The Conjuring 2 (2016) - Based on a 1977 case

Returning to the main storyline, "The Conjuring 2" finds the Warrens traveling to England to assist with the Enfield hauntings. This sequel expands on the Warrens' relationship while upping the ante in terms of scares and supernatural threats. It also introduces the demon Valak as a major antagonist, tying back to "The Nun" and further interweaving the franchise's mythology. The film features another memorable entity, the Crooked Man, adding to the series' roster of creepy characters.

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) - Set in 1981

The most recent entry in the main series, directed by Michael Chaves, is based on the trial of Arne Johnson, the first US murder trial to claim demonic possession as a defense. This film sees the Warrens involved in a case that moves from haunted houses into the world of crime and courtrooms.

The Future of the Conjuring Universe

As of 2024, the Conjuring universe continues to expand. Future installments are likely to explore more of the Warrens' case files, including potentially the infamous Amityville horror case, which has been referenced but not fully depicted in the series.

Easter Eggs and Connections

One of the joys for fans of the Conjuring universe is spotting the various easter eggs and connections between films. From the appearance of the Annabelle doll in the Warrens' artifact room in the original film to the subtle references to other cases like Maurice Theriault's exorcism, these movies reward attentive viewers with a rich, interconnected world.

The Conjuring universe has carved out a unique place among cinematic universes, blending jump scares with genuine pathos, historical settings with timeless fears. The success of the franchise owes much to the talents behind the camera, with James Wan's direction in the first two Conjuring films setting a high bar for subsequent entries. The series has also benefited from strong performances, particularly from Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren.

Whether you're a seasoned fan looking to revisit these films or a newcomer ready to dive into the world of the Warrens, the Conjuring universe promises a thrilling and chilling experience. From demonic possessions to last rites, from 1950s Romania to 1980s America, these horror movies have captivated audiences worldwide. So dim the lights, grab some popcorn, and prepare for a journey through one of horror's most successful franchises. Just remember, if you hear mysterious clapping or see a music box winding itself, you might want to call the Warrens!