The Conjuring, a film about Ed and Lorraine Warren, a real-life couple who claimed to have intervened in countless hauntings and exorcisms, was released in 2013 and became a huge hit.
This success led to a profitable franchise and several successful spin-offs. With the recent announcement of The Conjuring: Last Rites, now is an excellent time to revisit all the Ed and Lorraine Warren movies, which number in the dozens.
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A Brief Overview of Ed and Lorraine Warren’s Influence on the Movie Industry
Ed and Lorraine Warren were not just ordinary individuals. They were a remarkable couple who dedicated their lives to investigating the paranormal.
Ed, a self-proclaimed demonologist, and Lorraine, a clairvoyant and medium, were among the first investigators in the controversial field of the paranormal.
Their work spanned over five decades, during which they investigated over 10,000 cases. These cases ranged from minor disturbances to extreme demonic possessions, and their investigations took them all over the United States and even to various parts of the world.
Ultimately, Ed and Lorraine Warren brought the concept of ghost hunting and paranormal investigation into the mainstream, paving the way for countless movies, TV shows, and books.
Their investigations have been the subject of intense scrutiny and debate, but there’s no denying their influence on popular culture and the paranormal community.
The influence of Ed and Lorraine Warren on the movie industry is undeniable. Their investigations have inspired a multitude of films, most notably the highly successful “Conjuring” series.
These movies have not only been box office hits, but they’ve also changed the landscape of the horror genre, introducing audiences to a new kind of terror – one rooted in the possibility of reality.
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The Warrens’ cases have provided a rich source of material for filmmakers, offering a blend of horror, mystery, and drama that has captivated audiences worldwide.
From the infamous Annabelle doll to the haunting of the Perron family, the stories of Ed and Lorraine Warren have been transformed into cinematic experiences that continue to thrill and chill viewers to this day.
In essence, the legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren extends far beyond their paranormal investigations.
They have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, turning their extraordinary lives into a cinematic universe that continues to expand and captivate audiences around the globe.
The Conjuring Universe
Detailed Overview of the Conjuring Universe and its Timeline
The Conjuring Universe is a series of horror films, initiated by the success of “The Conjuring” in 2013. The universe is centered around the cases Ed and Lorraine Warren investigated, and it has since expanded to include several sequels and spin-offs.
The timeline of The Conjuring Universe is intricate, with films set in different periods. The chronological order of the movies, based on the events they depict, is as follows:
- “The Nun” (2018) – Set in 1952, it explores the origins of the demonic nun Valak, a character first introduced in “The Conjuring 2”.
- “Annabelle: Creation” (2017) – Set in 1955, it serves as a prequel to “Annabelle,” explaining the creation of the haunted doll.
- “Annabelle” (2014) – Set in 1967, it follows the experiences of a couple who come into possession of the haunted Annabelle doll.
- “The Conjuring” (2013) – Set in 1971, it introduces Ed and Lorraine Warren as they help the Perron family deal with a haunting in their Rhode Island home.
- “Annabelle Comes Home” (2019) – Set in 1972, it follows the Warrens’ daughter and her friends as they become targets of the Annabelle doll.
- “The Curse of La Llorona” (2019) – Set in 1973, it tells the story of a mother in Los Angeles who must save her children from a malevolent spirit.
- “The Conjuring 2” (2016) – Set in 1977, it follows the Warrens as they travel to England to assist the Hodgson family, who are experiencing poltergeist activity.
- “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” (2021) – Set in 1981, it follows the Warrens as they investigate a murder the suspect claims was caused by a demon.
How the Conjuring Universe Relates to the Warrens’ Cases
The Conjuring Universe is deeply rooted in the real-life cases of Ed and Lorraine Warren.
The main films in the series, “The Conjuring,” “The Conjuring 2”, and “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,” are directly based on their investigations.
These films depict the Warrens’ involvement in the cases of the Perron family, the Hodgson family, and the trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson, respectively.
While not directly involving the Warrens, the spin-off films are also connected to their cases.
For instance, the “Annabelle” series is based on a haunted doll that the Warrens kept in their Occult Museum. Similarly, “The Nun” explores the backstory of a demonic entity that the Warrens encountered.
Portrayal of Ed and Lorraine Warren in the Conjuring Universe
In the Conjuring Universe, Ed and Lorraine Warren are portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, respectively.
Their performances have been praised for their chemistry and bringing authenticity and humanity to the characters.
The films depict the Warrens as deeply committed to their work and to each other. They are shown as compassionate and brave, often putting themselves in danger to help those affected by supernatural phenomena.
The films also highlight their strong faith, which they rely on to combat the forces of evil they encounter.
However, it’s important to note that while the films are based on the Warrens’ cases, they are not strictly biographical. The movies take creative liberties with the events and characters for dramatic effect.
For instance, the Warrens never investigated the Enfield Poltergeist case at the same time as another family’s haunting in the U.S., as depicted in “The Conjuring 2“.
Moreover, the Conjuring Universe expands on the Warrens’ cases to create new stories. For example, the character of Valak, the demonic nun, is a creation of the filmmakers and does not feature in any of the Warrens’ documented cases.
Despite these deviations, the Conjuring Universe succeeds in capturing the essence of Ed and Lorraine Warren’s life work. It portrays their dedication to helping people tormented by supernatural forces and their unwavering belief in the power of faith.
The Conjuring Movies in Chronological and Release Order
The Conjuring Universe is a unique blend of horror and reality, with each film adding a new layer to the intricate tapestry of Ed and Lorraine Warren’s investigations.
Here’s a detailed look at each movie in both chronological and release order:
“The Nun” (2018)
Chronologically the first film in the series, “The Nun” delves into the origins of the demonic entity Valak, which later haunts the Warrens in “The Conjuring 2”. Set in 1952, the film follows a priest and a novice as they investigate the mysterious death of a nun in a Romanian abbey.
“Annabelle: Creation” (2017)
This prequel to “Annabelle” reveals the origins of the haunted doll. Set in 1955, it tells the story of a dollmaker and his wife who, after the tragic death of their daughter, invite a nun and several girls from a shuttered orphanage into their home. Soon, they become the target of the dollmaker’s possessed creation, Annabelle.
“Annabelle” (2014)
Released as the first spin-off from “The Conjuring,” “Annabelle” is set in 1967 and follows a couple expecting their first child. Their peaceful life is shattered when their vintage doll, Annabelle, becomes a conduit for a malevolent entity.
“The Conjuring” (2013)
The film that started it all, “The Conjuring” introduces audiences to Ed and Lorraine Warren as they help the Perron family deal with a haunting in their Rhode Island home in 1971. The film is based on the Warrens’ real-life investigation of the Perron family’s experiences.
“Annabelle Comes Home” (2019)
Set in 1972, this film follows the Warrens’ daughter and her friends as they unwittingly awaken the evil spirit within the Annabelle doll while the Warrens are away.
“The Curse of La Llorona” (2019)
Although not directly connected to the Warrens, this film is set in the same universe and follows a mother in Los Angeles in 1973 who must save her children from a malevolent spirit known as La Llorona.
“The Conjuring 2” (2016)
Set in 1977, this sequel follows the Warrens as they travel to England to assist the Hodgson family, who are experiencing poltergeist activity at their Enfield council house. The film introduces the demonic nun Valak and is based on the real-life Enfield Poltergeist case.
“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” (2021)
The latest film in the series, set in 1981, follows the Warrens as they investigate a murder the suspect claims was caused by a demon. The film is based on the real-life trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson, also known as the “Devil Made Me Do It” case.
How Each Movie Relates to the Warrens’ Investigations
Each film in the Conjuring Universe is deeply connected to the Warrens’ investigations, either directly or indirectly. The main films, “The Conjuring,” “The Conjuring 2”, and “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,” are directly based on their cases.
These films depict the Warrens’ involvement in the cases of the Perron family, the Hodgson family, and the trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson, respectively.
While not directly involving the Warrens, the spin-off films are also connected to their cases.
For instance, the “Annabelle” series is based on a haunted doll that the Warrens kept in their Occult Museum. According to the Warrens, the doll is inhabited by the spirit of a young girl named Annabelle Higgins.
The films take this premise and expand upon it, creating a backstory for the doll and exploring its malevolent activities.
“The Nun,” another spin-off, explores the backstory of a demonic entity that the Warrens encountered in “The Conjuring 2”.
While the character of Valak, the demonic nun, is a creation of the filmmakers and does not feature in any of the Warrens’ documented cases, the film still ties into the larger Conjuring Universe by providing a backstory for one of its most terrifying entities.
“The Curse of La Llorona,” while not directly connected to the Warrens or their cases, is set in the same universe and follows a similar theme of a family tormented by a supernatural entity.
The film is based on the Latin American folklore of La Llorona, the Weeping Woman, and adds another layer to the rich tapestry of supernatural horror in the Conjuring Universe.
In essence, each film in the Conjuring Universe contributes to the larger narrative of the Warrens’ investigations, either by directly depicting their cases or by exploring the stories of the supernatural entities they encountered.
How to Watch the Ed and Lorraine Warren Movies in Order
The Conjuring Universe is a complex web of interconnected stories, with each film adding a new layer to the narrative.
To fully appreciate the depth and intricacy of the storyline, it is recommended to watch the movies in chronological order.
Here’s a guide on how to watch all movies related to Ed and Lorraine Warren’s cases in order:
- “The Nun” (2018) – Start with “The Nun” to understand the origins of the demonic entity Valak, which later haunts the Warrens in “The Conjuring 2”.
- “Annabelle: Creation” (2017) – Next, watch “Annabelle: Creation” to learn about the origins of the haunted doll that plays a significant role in the Conjuring Universe.
- “Annabelle” (2014) – Follow up with “Annabelle” to see how the doll becomes a conduit for a malevolent entity.
- “The Conjuring” (2013) – Watch “The Conjuring” next to be introduced to Ed and Lorraine Warren and their investigation of the haunting of the Perron family.
- “Annabelle Comes Home” (2019) – Continue with “Annabelle Comes Home” to see how the Annabelle doll wreaks havoc in the Warrens’ home.
- “The Curse of La Llorona” (2019) – Watch “The Curse of La Llorona” next to learn about another malevolent spirit in the Conjuring Universe.
- “The Conjuring 2” (2016) – Follow up with “The Conjuring 2” to see the Warrens’ investigation of the Enfield Poltergeist case and their encounter with Valak.
- “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” (2021) – Finally, watch “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” to see the Warrens’ involvement in the trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson.
Where to Watch the Ed and Lorraine Warren Movies
The Ed and Lorraine Warren movies, forming the Conjuring Universe, are widely available across various streaming platforms.
Here’s a quick guide to where you can watch these films:
- Netflix: Netflix offers several films from the Conjuring Universe, including “The Conjuring,” “The Conjuring 2,” and “Annabelle.” The availability of these films may vary depending on your region.
- Hulu: Hulu also hosts a number of films from the Conjuring Universe. However, you may need to add specific premium channels to your subscription to access them.
- Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video offers the Conjuring Universe films for rent or purchase. With a Prime subscription, you can access thousands of popular movies, TV shows, and award-winning Amazon Originals. On top of that, the first 30 days are free.
- HBO Max: HBO Max is the streaming platform for Warner Bros., the studio behind the Conjuring Universe. As such, it offers all the films from the Conjuring Universe.
Remember to check the availability of these films on your chosen platform, as it can vary depending on your location and the platform’s licensing agreements.
Alternatives to Watching the Movies
While the Ed and Lorraine Warren movies offer a thrilling and chilling viewing experience, there are other ways to delve into the Warrens’ fascinating world of paranormal investigations.
One alternative is to read the numerous books the Warrens wrote about their investigations.
These books provide a more detailed and in-depth look at their cases, offering insights and details that the movies may not cover.
Some of their most notable books include “The Demonologist: The Extraordinary Career of Ed and Lorraine Warren,” “Ghost Hunters: True Stories from the World’s Most Famous Demonologists,” and “Graveyard: True Hauntings from an Old New England Cemetery.”
For those who prefer listening to reading, the Speechify Audible-integrated audiobook service offers a selection of books by and about the Warrens.
This service allows you to listen to these books on the go, turning your reading experience into a more flexible and accessible one.
Another alternative is to explore the numerous documentaries and interviews featuring the Warrens.
These provide a firsthand look at the Warrens and their work, offering a more personal and intimate perspective on their investigations.
While the movies offer a thrilling and cinematic exploration of the Ed and Lorraine Warren cases, there are numerous alternatives for those who wish to delve deeper into their world.
Whether through books, audiobooks, or documentaries, there are many ways to explore the fascinating and chilling world of the Warrens.
Frequently Asked Questions
In what order should I watch Ed and Lorraine Warren movies?
To fully appreciate the narrative of the Conjuring Universe, it’s recommended to watch the movies in chronological order based on the events they depict:
“The Nun” (2018)
“Annabelle: Creation” (2017)
“Annabelle” (2014)
“The Conjuring” (2013)
“Annabelle Comes Home” (2019)
“The Curse of La Llorona” (2019)
“The Conjuring 2” (2016)
“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” (2021)
What movies have the real Ed and Lorraine Warren in?
The real Ed and Lorraine Warren don’t appear in the movies themselves, but they have appeared in various documentaries and interviews related to their work. However, their characters are central to the Conjuring Universe, with actors Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga portraying them.
How many Ed and Lorraine Warren movies are there?
As of 2023, eight movies in the Conjuring Universe are directly or indirectly based on the Warrens’ cases.
Who plays Ed Warren and Lorraine Warren in the movies?
In the Conjuring Universe, Ed and Lorraine Warren are portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, respectively.
