The Conjuring cinematic universe began with the 2013 release of The Conjuring, followed by a series of expansions and spin-offs. The chronological order of The Conjuring movies can be confusing given multiple timelines and prequels. This overview clarifies the main series and related entries, focusing on release sequence while noting in-universe chronology. Understanding this timeline helps viewers track supernatural investigations, family origins, and evolving mythology. Below is the order you can follow to experience the films consistently.
The Main Conjuring Series in Release Order
1. The Conjuring (2013)
The first feature in the main series follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they assist the Perron family in a rural farmhouse. This film establishes the Warrens’ careers and introduces recurring motifs of demonic presence.
2. The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Set in 1977, this sequel centers on the Enfield poltergeist case in London. It further develops the Warrens’ relationship and deepens the lore surrounding demonic activity.
3. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
The first officially labeled sequel in the main series, it draws from the 1981 Arne Cheyenne Johnson case and introduces courtroom elements alongside continued Warren investigations.
The Conjuring Universe Timeline in Chronological Sequence
When arranged by in-universe chronology, the central arc begins with the earliest encounters and progresses toward later investigations and crossovers. This approach clarifies cause-and-effect across films.
Early Investigations and Origins
- The Conjuring (2013) — Set in 1971, this serves as the foundational case for the Warrens.
- The Conjuring 2 (2016) — Takes place in 1977, six years after the first case.
- The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) — Occurs in the early 1980s, marking a shift toward legally themed horror.
Spin-offs and Solo Stories
Several films operate outside the direct Warren narrative while enriching the shared world. These entries explore different haunted locations and entities.
The Conjuring spin-off series in release order
| Title | Year | Setting or Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Annabelle | 2014 | Prequel to The Conjuring, set in 1969 focusing on a nurse and a demonic doll. |
| Annabelle: Creation | 2017 | Prequel to Annabelle, exploring the doll’s origins in 1955. |
| The Nun | 2018 | Set in 1952 Romania, introducing Valak and expanding the cosmic horror mythology. |
| The Crooked Man | 2025 | Based on the legend referenced in The Conjuring 2, entering production for a future release. |
Additional Films and Future Installments
The franchise has continued to grow with further explorations of characters and mythos. Some entries connect directly to the Warrens’ timeline, while others broaden the universe thematically.
- Bride of Chucky (1998) and Curse of Chucky (2013) — Belong to the broader Chucky saga, with Curse of Chucky linking thematically to the Conjuring world through shared references.
- The Returned (TBA) — Officially announced as a continuation of The Conjuring 2, focusing on the Enfield case with Lorraine Warren narrating.
How to Approach the Chronological Order
Viewers have two main approaches: follow release order for production context or adhere to chronological order for narrative progression. Release order often enhances reveals and evolving tone, while chronological order emphasizes character development and event causality.
Notable Connections and Easter Eggs
The series is designed with cross-references, visual cues, and shared artifacts. Paying attention to details such as the war room, specific artifacts, and Lorraine Warren’s appearances enriches the experience across films.
Common Questions About Viewing Order
Many viewers wonder whether to prioritize release or timeline sequence. There is no single correct path, but aligning choices with preferred storytelling style helps. Casual viewers may prefer release order, while lore enthusiasts often favor chronological progression.
Where to Watch and Preserve Continuity
Availability varies by region and platform. Official compilations and curated marathons can help maintain continuity, especially when exploring interconnected subplots and character arcs.
Conclusion
The Conjuring movies span multiple timelines, genres, and formats, yet they cohere around a central mythology. Whether following release sequence or in-universe chronology, the series offers sustained supernatural storytelling with carefully developed entities and evolving lore.
By understanding the chronological order of The Conjuring movies, viewers can better appreciate the intricate web of investigations, origins, and cosmic threats that define this enduring franchise.
Tags: conjuring movies order, conjuring universe timeline, conjuring film series