If you’ve ever sat down to watch The Conjuring universe only to realise the timeline is messier than your popcorn bucket, you’re not alone. With haunted dolls, cursed nuns, and demonic possessions all scattered across decades, this franchise has built its creepy cinematic universe. Whether you’re new to the series or rewatching before the next entry arrives, here’s the definitive guide on how to watch The Conjuring movies in chronological order.
The Conjuring Movies in Chronological Order
1. The Nun (2018)
Set in 1952 Romania, this is the earliest story in the timeline. It follows Sister Irene and Father Burke as they investigate the sinister demon Valak in a remote abbey. It’s the foundation of the franchise’s main villain.
2. Annabelle: Creation (2017)
Jumping to the 1950s, this prequel explains the cursed doll Annabelle’s origins. A grieving couple opens their home to orphans, but their kindness backfires when evil finds its way inside.
3. Annabelle (2014)
Set in 1967 California, this chapter shows Annabelle wreaking havoc on a young couple expecting their first child. It directly ties into the Warrens’ future cases.
4. The Conjuring (2013)
Now in 1971 Rhode Island, paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren are introduced. They face off against one of their most famous cases—the Perron family haunting—that cements them as the backbone of the franchise.
5. Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
Still in the 1970s, Annabelle is locked away in the Warrens’ artifact room. Naturally, she doesn’t stay quiet for long, unleashing chaos on the Warrens’ daughter Judy and her babysitters.
6. The Curse of La Llorona (2019)
Although not always listed, it loosely connects through Father Perez (who appeared in Annabelle). Set in 1973 Los Angeles, it follows the legend of the Weeping Woman terrorizing a social worker and her kids.
7. The Conjuring 2 (2016)
This one jumps to 1977 London, where the Warrens investigate the infamous Enfield Poltergeist case. Valak returns, confirming its role as the central evil of the saga.
8. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
Set in 1981, the Warrens face a chilling case involving a murder suspect claiming demonic possession. It’s darker, more courtroom-driven, but still dripping in supernatural scares.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order
If you prefer to experience the films as audiences did in theatres, here’s the release order:
- The Conjuring (2013)
- Annabelle (2014)
- The Conjuring 2 (2016)
- Annabelle: Creation (2017)
- The Nun (2018)
- The Curse of La Llorona (2019)
- Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
- The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
Watching in release order emphasises the Warrens’ arc first, while chronological order offers a more linear demonic backstory.
Where to Watch The Conjuring Movies in the UAE and Saudi Arabia
Most of the Conjuring universe is available on streaming platforms like OSN+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV for rental or purchase in the region. Availability can vary, so check your local streaming library before planning your marathon.
FAQs
Do you need to watch The Conjuring movies in order?
Not strictly, but chronological order helps the lore make more sense. Watching in release order mirrors how the universe unfolded for fans.
Is The Curse of La Llorona part of The Conjuring universe?
Yes, though loosely. Its connection comes through Father Perez, linking it to Annabelle. You can skip it without missing key storylines.
Will there be more Conjuring movies?
Yes. The Conjuring 4 is confirmed to be in development, expected to wrap up the saga of Ed and Lorraine Warren.
Which Conjuring movie is the scariest?
That’s subjective, but many fans point to The Conjuring 2 for its terrifying depiction of the Enfield haunting and Valak’s presence.
Final Thoughts
The Conjuring universe may have started as a haunted-house flick, but it’s now an interconnected web of prequels, spin-offs, and sequels. Watching in chronological order will help you appreciate how the cases of the demon Valak, Annabelle, and the Warrens tie together into one sprawling supernatural saga.