If you're a fan of the spine-chilling *Conjuring* universe, which includes the original trilogy and several spinoffs, you've likely encountered its terrifying tales of hauntings, cursed objects, and demonic entities. Spanning nine films and counting, the franchise has amassed over $2 billion worldwide on modest budgets. Created by James Wan, the mastermind behind *Saw*, the series centers on real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, bringing their harrowing experiences to life while introducing audiences to infamous villains like Annabelle, The Nun, and other sinister forces.
As you eagerly await the upcoming *The Conjuring: Last Rites*—set for release in September—here’s a list of 13 films that capture the essence of what makes *The Conjuring* so compelling. Whether you're into ghostly apparitions, malevolent spirits, or cursed objects, these films will scratch that supernatural itch.
Movies Like *The Conjuring*
Insidious (2010)
Director: James Wan | Writer: Leigh Whannell
Stars: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey
Known for co-creating Saw with James Wan, Leigh Whannell introduced the world to the Insidious franchise—a series of five supernatural thrillers. The first two installments, directed by Wan himself, follow a family plagued by ghastly entities. Fans of The Conjuring will recognize Patrick Wilson, reprising his role as a demonologist alongside Rose Byrne.
Insidious
Alliance Films
PG-13
The Changeling (1980)
Director: Peter Medak | Writer: William Gray, Diana Maddox, Russell Hunter
Stars: George C. Scott, Trish Van Devere, Melvyn Douglas
Release Date: March 28, 1980
A timeless classic, The Changeling tells the story of a widower haunted by the spirits of his new home. As he unravels the mansion's dark past, George C. Scott delivers a powerful performance.
The Changeling
Pan-Canadian Film Distributors
R
Poltergeist (1982)
Director: Tobe Hooper | Writer: Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais, Mark Victor
Stars: JoBeth Williams, Heather O'Rourke, Craig T. Nelson
Release Date: June 4, 1982
Steven Spielberg’s Poltergeist remains a quintessential horror experience, featuring eerie moments like evil trees and a haunting clown doll. The Freeling family’s fight against supernatural forces is a thrilling journey through suburbia terror.
Poltergeist
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
PG
Oculus (2013)
Director: Mike Flanagan | Writer: Mike Flanagan, Jeff Howard
Stars: Karen Gillan, Brenton Thwaites, Katee Sackhoff
Release Date: September 8, 2013
This psychological horror film revolves around a cursed mirror linked to a series of tragic events. Directed by Mike Flanagan, Oculus offers a chilling dive into paranoia and the supernatural.
Oculus
Relativity Media
PG-13
The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Director: Scott Derrickson | Writer: Scott Derrickson, Paul Harris Boardman
Stars: Jennifer Carpenter, Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson
Release Date: September 9, 2005
Combining elements of horror and courtroom drama, The Exorcism of Emily Rose is based on the true story of a priest accused of negligence following an exorcism. Jennifer Carpenter delivers a standout performance.
The Exorcism of Emily Rose
Screen Gems
PG-13
The Exorcist (1973)
Director: William Friedkin | Writer: William Peter Blatty
Stars: Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Linda Blair
Release Date: December 26, 1973
An undisputed masterpiece, The Exorcist set the gold standard for supernatural horror. Its influence is felt across countless films, including the Conjuring series.
The Exorcist
Warner Bros. Pictures
R
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Director: Stuart Rosenberg | Writer: Sandor Stern
Stars: James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger
Release Date: July 24, 1979
Based on real-life events, this classic haunted-house tale follows a young couple tormented by supernatural forces in their newly purchased home.
The Amityville Horror Collection
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
R
The Haunting in Connecticut (2009)
Director: Peter Cornwell | Writer: Adam Simon, Tim Metcalfe
Stars: Virginia Madsen, Kyle Gallner, Martin Donovan
Release Date: March 27, 2009
This horror film centers on a family moving into a house to care for their sick son, only to face violent spirits lurking within the walls.
