The Conjuring-verse, masterminded by the acclaimed director James Wan, who also brought us the gripping Saw franchise, has captivated audiences with its blend of real-life inspired paranormal tales and chilling cinematic storytelling. This universe, encompassing three main Conjuring films and multiple spin-off series, has raked in over $2 billion globally, all while maintaining the modest budgets typical of horror films.
The saga began with The Conjuring, a film that dramatized the paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren. Subsequent entries delved deeper into the lore of its demonic entities, such as in The Nun and The Nun 2, and explored the menace of cursed artifacts in the Annabelle series.
As we eagerly anticipate the release of The Conjuring: Last Rites, slated for September, we've curated a list of 13 horror films that evoke the same spine-tingling atmosphere as The Conjuring. These selections span tales of ghosts, devils, and malevolent spirits, designed to deliver that essential Conjuring thrill.
For fans eager to dive deeper into the Conjuring universe, make sure to watch all nine films in the franchise: The Conjuring, Annabelle, The Conjuring 2, Annabelle: Creation, The Nun, The Nun 2, The Curse of La Llorona, Annabelle Comes Home, and The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It. Our comprehensive guide on where to stream these movies will help you navigate your viewing journey.
Now, let's explore 13 movies that will satisfy your craving for horror akin to The Conjuring.
Insidious (2010)
Image credit: FilmDistrictDirector: James Wan | Writer: Leigh Whannell | Stars: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey | Release Date: September 14, 2010 | Review: IGN's Insidious review
James Wan, alongside his frequent collaborator Leigh Whannell, not only brought us the Saw series but also crafted the haunting Insidious franchise. With five films to its name—Insidious, Insidious: Chapter 2, Insidious: Chapter 3, Insidious: The Last Key, and Insidious: The Red Door—this series features ghostly possessions and eerie nocturnal disturbances. Starring Patrick Wilson, who also appears in The Conjuring, and Rose Byrne, the first two films are directed by Wan himself, making it a must-watch for fans of his work. Insidious 6, initially set for August 2025, has been rescheduled to August 2026.
InsidiousAlliance FilmsPG-13
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The Changeling (1980)
Image credit: Pan-Canadian Film DistributorsDirector: Peter Medak | Writer: William Gray, Diana Maddox, Russell Hunter | Stars: George C. Scott, Trish Van Devere, Melvyn Douglas | Release Date: March 28, 1980
For a classic haunted house experience, look no further than The Changeling. George C. Scott stars as a man mourning the loss of his wife and daughter, who moves into a new home harboring a dark secret. As he uncovers the haunting truth, he grapples with the possibility of redemption amidst the supernatural turmoil.
The Changeling [1980]R
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Poltergeist (1982)
Image credit: MGM/UA Entertainment Co.**Director: Tobe Hooper | Writer: Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais, Mark Victor | Stars: JoBeth Williams, Heather O'Rourke, Craig T. Nelson | Release Date: June 4, 1982 | Review:** IGN's Poltergeist review
Poltergeist became the quintessential horror film for young audiences of its time, delivering a masterclass in presenting malevolent spirits. With its evil trees, sinister clown dolls, and iconic moments, the film follows the Freeling family as they encounter more than they bargained for in their suburban California home.
PoltergeistMetro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)PG
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