Watching The Conjuring films sequentially (by release date and chronological sequence)

The Conjuring universe, one of the most successful horror franchises in the history of cinema, has been terrifying audiences since the release of its first instalment in 2013. With over $2.2 billion in revenue generated, the series continues to captivate and chill viewers worldwide.

Let's delve into the timeline of this chilling saga. The Conjuring (2013), the franchise's inaugural film, is set in 1976. The main characters, Lorraine and Ed Warren, portrayed by Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, encounter a malevolent spirit in Rhode Island.

The Conjuring 2 (2016), the second movie in the series, takes us back to 1981, as the Warrens travel to London to investigate another supernatural occurrence.

Following the release of The Conjuring 2, Annabelle: Creation (2017) graced the screens. This prequel, set in 1955, delves into the origins of the infamous Annabelle doll. The main part of the story unfolds in a secluded farmhouse, where a couple, struggling to cope with the loss of their daughter, invites a nun and several orphan girls to live with them.

Annabelle Comes Home (2019), the fourth movie in the series, plays out shortly after The Conjuring. The film centres around the Warrens' daughter, Judy, who is left in the care of her babysitter and a friend while her parents are away. As one might expect, chaos ensues when Annabelle, locked away in the Warrens' artifact room, begins to wreak havoc.

The Curse of La Llorona (2019), although not officially considered an official entry by some sources, is another thrilling addition to the series. Set after the events of Annabelle Comes Home, Linda Cardellini's character, Anna, seeks the help of Father Perez, a character first seen in 2014's Annabelle. This connection is considered canonical, adding an intriguing layer to the overall narrative.

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) is the latest instalment in the series, set in 1981. Based on a true story, the film explores the Warrens' battle against a man who claims to be possessed by a demon.

Looking ahead, the upcoming installment, The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025), is set in 1986. This film, directed by Michael Chaves, will mark the final big screen appearance for Lorraine and Ed Warren.

The Nun (2018) and its sequel, The Nun 2 (2023), are spin-offs from the main series, taking place in the same universe but focusing on different characters and supernatural entities. The Nun 2, directed by Chaves, takes place four years after the events of The Nun.

Lastly, The Devil Made Me Do It, The Nun 2, and Last Rites are all directed by Michael Chaves, the director of Annabelle: Creation and The Conjuring: Last Rites. With his unique vision, Chaves promises to deliver another chilling chapter in the Conjuring universe.