As Halloween approaches, horror fans are eager to delve into the Conjuring Universe—a highly successful film franchise with a looming new release, The Conjuring: Last Rites. Known for its unnerving tales based on real events, this film series continues to captivate audiences, grossing over $2.2 billion worldwide despite receiving mixed reviews from critics. The franchise includes a core trilogy starring Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as real-life paranormal investigators, Ed and Lorraine Warren, and several spin-offs expanding the unsettling lore.

The Beginning: 'The Nun'

Start your journey with the fifth-released yet earliest in the timeline, 2018’s The Nun. Set in 1950s Romania, this film explores Father Burke and Sister Irene's investigation of a nun's mysterious death, culminating in an encounter with the demonic entity, Valak. Despite receiving critical disapproval, it was a box office success, grossing $366 million, setting the stage for its sequel.

Exploring the Doll's Origins: 'Annabelle: Creation'

Next, dive into Annabelle: Creation—a prequel revealing the maleficent doll's disturbing past, grossing $306.5 million. The story involves a doll-maker's household terrorized by one of his possessed creations after welcoming orphans into their home.

Continuing the Journey: 'The Nun II'

The third film in chronological order, The Nun II, released in 2023, returns to Sister Irene's confrontation with the malevolent Valak. Though divisive, it made $269.5 million globally.

Unravelling Evil: 'Annabelle'

Transition to Annabelle, set in late 1960s California. This supernatural horror unfolds as a couple experiences terrifying occurrences Courtesy of a satanic cult and a vintage doll. Although met with mixed reviews, it amassed over $257 million worldwide.

Back to the Origin: 'The Conjuring'

The heart of the franchise, The Conjuring, debuted in 2013 and centers on the Warrens aiding a family haunted by supernatural activity. This foundational film grossed $319 million, setting the stage for the expansive universe.

A Mix of Fun and Fright: 'Annabelle Comes Home'

Directed by Gary Dauberman, Annabelle Comes Home introduces Judy Warren, the Warrens' daughter, embroiled in malevolent chaos. Known for its playful tone, it grossed $231.3 million.

Crossing the Atlantic: 'The Conjuring 2'

The Conjuring 2 transpires in England during the late 1970s, where the Warrens confront a poltergeist in a council house, uncovering the demon Valak's influence. Garnering $321.8 million, it solidified the franchise’s stature.

The Final Step: 'The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It'

Concluding the timeline before the upcoming release, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It focuses on a notorious murder trial inspired by true events. Despite varied reviews, it marked $206 million globally.