Watching the Conjuring series in order helps you appreciate the evolving mythology and grounded horror style that has defined modern supernatural cinema. This guide walks you through the optimal viewing sequence, related media, and key details that enhance your experience.
Whether you are new to the universe or revisiting familiar scares, following a structured path ensures you never miss crucial character moments or subtle connections between films.
| Viewing Path | Films Included | Purpose | Approx. Runtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Chronological | The Conjuring (2013), The Conjuring 2 (2016), The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) | Follow the main investigators in order of events | ~315 minutes |
| Expanded Universe | Core Chronological + Annabelle (2014), Annabelle: Creation (2017), Annabelle Comes Home (1973), The Nun (2018), The Crooked Man (2023) | Explore spin-offs and deeper mythology | ~600+ minutes |
| Themed Pairings | The Conjuring + The Nun, Annabelle + Annabelle: Creation | Focus on specific entities and settings | Variable |
| Marathons by Era | Classic Era (1970s–1990s), Modern Era (2010s), Current Era (2020s+) | Compare horror styles and production approaches | Variable |
Watch the Core Conjuring Films in Timeline Order
The Conjuring (2013)
This origin story introduces Ed and Lorraine Warren and establishes their methodology, making it the essential starting point for understanding their cases.
The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Set four years later, this sequel expands the Warrens’ reputation while diving into a high-profile London haunting that tests their partnership.
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
The most recent mainline entry pushes the mythology forward, exploring legal and moral dilemmas tied to demonic influence.
Explore the Annabelle Lineage for Deeper Context
Annabelle (2014)
Serving as a prequel within the broader timeline, this film deepens the history of the possessed doll first seen in The Conjuring.
Annabelle: Creation (2017)
A chilling prequel that traces the doll’s origins and showcases the Cursed Nun’s backstory with gothic atmosphere.
Annabelle Comes Home (1973)
The classic foundation of the modern Annabelle story, offering vintage horror craftsmanship that influenced the entire series.
Watch The Nun to Complete the Main Mythology
The Nun (2018)
Set in 1952 Romania, this film reveals the origins of the Demon Nun Valak and connects directly to the first Warren investigation.
The Crooked Man (2023)
This standalone entry introduces a new entity while expanding the lore around cursed figures and personal temptation.
Recommended Viewing Checklist
- Start with The Conjuring (2013) to meet the Warrens and learn their methods.
- Progress to The Conjuring 2 (2016) for their most intense case yet.
- Watch The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) for the latest investigation.
- Explore Annabelle and Annabelle: Creation to understand the doll’s cursed legacy.
- See The Nun (1973) and (2018) to trace Valak’s origins fully.
- Consider themed marathons to compare horror styles and narrative tones.
FAQ
Reader questions
Should I watch the spin-offs before or after the main Conjuring films?
Watch the core Conjuring films first to build a solid foundation, then explore the Annabelle and Nun films to deepen your understanding of the universe timeline.
Is The Conjuring 2 connected to The Nun in terms of story?
Yes, The Conjuring 2 precedes The Nun chronologically, and key events from the 1976 case influence the backstory of Valak and the nuns.
Does The Devil Made Me Do It continue the Warrens’ story directly?
It continues their investigative work and introduces new cosmic stakes, reflecting the evolution of threats they face in the modern era.
Are the classic films from the 1970s essential viewing?
Annabelle Comes Home and other early classics provide historical context and artistic roots that enrich your view of the contemporary series.