The Conjuring Universe has become one of the most successful horror franchises of the modern era, beginning with James Wan’s 2013 hit The Conjuring. Marketed as “so scary it earned an R-rating”, the film delivered on its promise, combining claustrophobic tension, paranormal dread, and chilling performances by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren. With its Certified Fresh rating and more than $300 million worldwide, a sequel was inevitable—The Conjuring 2 nearly matched the original in scares and critical acclaim.
Since then, the franchise has expanded into a sprawling cinematic universe, with sequels and spin-offs exploring haunted dolls, cursed nuns, and international paranormal cases. With The Conjuring: Last Rites expected to tie the saga together, here’s how every Conjuring movie ranks by Tomatometer, from the terrifying highs to the weaker entries.
1. The Conjuring (2013)
Critics Consensus: Well-crafted and gleefully creepy, the film builds tension through classic old-school scares.
Why It Works: The original still stands tall with its haunting atmosphere and the Warrens’ most memorable case.
2. The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Critics Consensus: Familiar yet still a superior ghost story told with spine-tingling skill.
Why It Works: The infamous Enfield poltergeist case adds chilling depth, cementing James Wan as a modern horror master.
3. Annabelle: Creation (2017)
Critics Consensus: A strong entry proving that possessed dolls never lose their terror factor.
Why It Works: A prequel done right, with suspenseful set-pieces and a tragic backstory for Annabelle.
4. Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
Critics Consensus: Not the scariest, but a fun ride that shows the franchise still has energy.
Why It Works: The Warrens’ artifact room becomes a house of horrors, unleashing Annabelle and other spirits.
5. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
Critics Consensus: A step down from the core films, though Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson keep it compelling.
Why It Works: Inspired by the chilling “first demonic possession trial” in U.S. history.
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6. The Nun II (2023)
Critics Consensus: Scarier than its predecessor, if not entirely original.
Why It Works: Expands the mythology of Valak, with new settings and effective atmosphere.
7. Annabelle (2014)
Critics Consensus: Relies on cheap jump scares without building on the terror of The Conjuring.
Why It Works: A mixed bag, though it cemented Annabelle as an icon of modern horror.
8. The Curse of La Llorona (2019)
Critics Consensus: Too dependent on formulaic scares, failing to tap into its cultural potential.
Why It Works: Despite its flaws, it introduced audiences to a Latin American ghost legend within the Conjuring Universe.
9. The Nun (2018)
Critics Consensus: Strong performances and eerie visuals overshadowed by weak narrative.
Why It Works: Set in Romania, the film explores the origins of the demon nun Valak, though its story felt stretched.
While not every entry maintains the chilling perfection of the original, the Conjuring movies have created a shared universe that blends supernatural horror, folklore, and true-crime elements. Whether it’s the terrifying power of The Conjuring itself or the cult following of Annabelle and The Nun, the franchise has solidified its place in modern horror cinema.
