The Conjuring release order outlines the sequence of main series films and related spin-offs that form The Conjuring Universe, a shared horror setting built around occult investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Understanding the release order helps viewers follow recurring characters, myth beats, and timeline continuity while choosing an intentional viewing path. This guide presents the verified theatrical sequence, notes key spin-offs and prequels, and offers practical options for newcomers or completists. Treat dates, cast details, and box notes as reference points rather than evolving news.
Core Series: The Conjuring Release Order
The core Conjuring series follows the Warrens’ most notable cases in roughly chronological order, prioritizing dread and grounded supernatural investigations. Below is the theatrical release sequence with a short clarifying note for each title.
The Conjuring (2013)
The first film introduces Ed and Lorraine Warren and their methodology while investigating a farmhouse plagued by a malevolent presence. Its measured pacing and period setting establish the template for slow-building tension that defines the series.
The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Set four years after the first, this installment follows the Warrens to Enfield, London, where they confront a persistent poltergeist haunting a single family home. The case deepens the mythology around Lorraine’s visions and introduces recurring spiritual warfare motifs.
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
The first sequel to arrive in contemporary times, this film revisits the Warrens as they probe a murder trial in which a defendant claims demonic possession. It expands the mythology by linking cases and addressing the legal and personal consequences of confronting evil.
The Conjuring Last Rites (2025)
The latest mainline theatrical entry follows the continued adventures of the Warrens and their family of investigators. Confirming its canonical placement after The Devil Made Me Do It, it advances ongoing character arcs while introducing new threats consistent with prior lore.
Extended Universe and Spin-Offs
Beyond the main series, several films operate within The Conjuring Universe, either as prequels, origin stories, or companion narratives. Viewing them alongside the core series can reveal connective threads and recurring entities; however, many spin-offs are designed as modular, case-based entries.
Annabelle Series
- Annabelle (2014): Prequel exploring the origins of a haunted doll encountered by the Warrens.
- Annabelle: Creation (2017): Period-set backstory that deepens the doll’s myth and links to broader cosmic evil.
- Annabelle Comes Home (2019): A museum-centric coda that revisits the original haunting, framed as a later chapter.
Other Key Entries
- The Nun (2018): Set in Romania and tied to the Valak entity introduced in The Conjuring 2.
- The Crooked Man (2020): A standalone entry inspired by legends surrounding a folkloric antagonist.
- The Bride in Black (2024): A recent release exploring a historical case with connections to Warren investigations.
Canonical Timeline Overview
For viewers who prefer a chronological rather than release-based experience, the series can be arranged to follow in-story chronology while acknowledging that some entries were released out of strict temporal order. The overview below reflects the internal timeline inferred by filmmakers and writers, cross-referenced with confirmed story beats.
| Film | Canonical Period | Relation to Core Arc |
|---|---|---|
| The Nun | 1950s | Introduces Valak and ties to wartime events |
| Annabelle: Creation | 1950s | Expands the doll mythology and cosmic evil |
| The Conjuring | 1970s | Groundwork for the Warren partnership |
| Annabelle (2014) | 1970s | Follows the first film and deepens object arc |
| The Conjuring 2 | 1977 | Key evolution for Lorraine’s abilities |
| The Crooked Man | 1970s–1980s | Standalone case with myth echoes |
| The Devil Made Me Do It | early 1980s | Bridges Warren maturity and modern cases |
| The Bride in Black | 1980s | Bridges historical and modern investigations |
| The Conjuring: Last Rites | 1980s–present | Latest chronological and theatrical entry |
Practical Viewing Roadmaps
How you choose to watch The Conjuring universe depends on whether you prioritize release context, narrative chronology, or thematic cohesion. Below are two concise paths to align the experience with your goals.
Roadmap 1: By Release Order
- The Conjuring (2013)
- The Conjuring 2 (2016)
- Annabelle (2014)
- Annabelle: Creation (2017)
- The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
- The Nun (2018)
- The Crooked Man (2020)
- The Bride in Black (2024)
- The Conjuring Last Rites (2025)
Roadmap 2: By Internal Chronology
- Annabelle: Creation
- The Nun
- The Conjuring
- Annabelle (2014)
- The Conjuring 2
- The Crooked Man
- The Devil Made Me Do It
- The Bride in Black
- The Conjuring: Last Rites
Continuity Notes and Recurring Elements
The Conjuring series emphasizes recurring themes—faith, family, and the burden of confronting the supernatural—more than strict continuity. Certain objects, locations, and motifs reappear, but you do not need to connect every detail to appreciate individual stories. Consistency in tone and procedural investigation frames each case, while key character developments—particularly Lorraine’s visions and Ed’s dedication—anchor the overarching narrative.
Why Release Order Matters for New Viewers
Following the Conjuring release order can help you experience the evolution of craft, from tighter period-bound storytelling to broader, ensemble-driven myth-building. While the films are largely self-contained, later entries reference earlier investigations and artifacts in ways that feel earned when seen in sequence. That said, each movie is designed to stand alone, and skipping spin-offs will not prevent you from understanding the central Warren journey.
Where to Watch and Stay Updated
Availability varies by region and platform; check local streamers or digital storefronts for current access. Studios sometimes adjust scheduling for legacy titles, so confirm current windows before committing to a viewing plan. For ongoing developments, refer to official announcements rather than speculation; this guide prioritizes stable, verifiable details that remain useful across years.