Ready for a spine-chilling journey through the Conjuring Universe? But here's where it gets controversial... While many fans adore the franchise, some critics argue it relies too heavily on jump scares. Love it or hate it, the series has captivated audiences worldwide, and with The Conjuring: Last Rites released in September 2025, now’s the perfect time to dive in—or revisit—this supernatural saga. But how do you navigate this complex web of films? Let’s break it down.
The Canonical Order: Unraveling the Warren Cases
If you’re a stickler for storytelling continuity, watching the Conjuring films in canonical order is the way to go. This sequence follows the timeline of Lorraine and Ed Warren’s paranormal investigations—though, and this is the part most people miss, not every film features the iconic duo. Here’s the lineup:
- The Nun (2018) – The origins of the demonic Valak.
- The Nun 2 (2023) – Valak’s return, setting the stage for darker forces.
- Annabelle: Creation (2017) – The chilling backstory of the cursed doll.
- Annabelle (2014) – The doll’s terror unleashed on a new family.
- The Conjuring (2013) – The Warrens’ first cinematic case.
- Annabelle Comes Home (2019) – The doll’s chaos in the Warren artifact room.
- The Curse of La Llorona (2019) – A standalone tale tied to the universe.
- The Conjuring 2 (2016) – The Enfield Poltergeist case.
- The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) – A demonic possession trial.
- The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025) – The emotional finale.
Bold Question: Does the canonical order truly enhance the viewing experience, or is it just a fan theory? Let us know in the comments!
Chronological Release Order: For the Purists
Prefer to watch the films as they hit theaters? Here’s the release order, which highlights the franchise’s evolution:
- The Conjuring (2013) – The film that started it all.
- Annabelle (2014) – The first spinoff, proving the universe’s potential.
- The Conjuring 2 (2016) – Expanding the Warrens’ legacy.
- Annabelle: Creation (2017) – A prequel that deepened the lore.
- The Nun (2018) – Introducing Valak, the franchise’s most iconic villain.
- The Curse of La Llorona (2019) – A standalone story with subtle connections.
- Annabelle Comes Home (2019) – The doll’s return to the Warren’s home.
- The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) – A departure from the haunted house formula.
- The Nun 2 (2023) – Valak’s terrifying comeback.
- The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025) – The bittersweet conclusion.
Streaming Guide: Where to Watch the Chills
Wondering where to stream these films? Since the Conjuring saga is a New Line franchise, most titles are available on HBO Max. However, The Conjuring: Last Rites is currently only available for digital rental or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. But here’s the catch... While HBO Max is your go-to for most films, some titles like The Conjuring, The Nun, and Annabelle are also streaming on Netflix and The Roku Channel.
Controversial Take: Is HBO Max’s dominance over the franchise a blessing or a curse for viewers? Share your thoughts below!
Final Thoughts: The End of an Era?
With The Conjuring: Last Rites marking the series’ finale, fans are left with mixed emotions. While it’s sad to say goodbye to Lorraine and Ed Warren, the franchise’s impact on horror cinema is undeniable. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, there’s no better time to experience the Conjuring Universe in all its chilling glory. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for a marathon that’ll keep you up at night—just don’t blame us if you hear creaks in the dark!