First Communion: The start date for the Conjuring prequel has been set!
The horror franchise is far from over
Although the main series of the popular horror franchise came to a grand conclusion with "Conjuring: The Last Rites", the story of the warrens is far from over. A prequel entitled "Conjuring: First Communion" is in the works – and now there is also a start date.
According to industry magazine Deadline, the new film will be released in cinemas on September 10, 2027. Warner is still keeping mum about the plot. However, it is known that the film will be directed by Rodrigue Huart. He has previously only been responsible for a series of short films. The screenplay, on the other hand, was penned by Richard Naing and Ian Goldberg, who were also responsible for "The Last Rites" and "The Nun 2".
It is not yet clear whether Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga will reprise their iconic roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren – but a return is considered unlikely. However, as the new film is a prequel, we could get to see the younger versions of the two ghost hunters. We'll keep you up to date!
From surprise hit to horror legend: The cult status of the Conjuring franchise
When "The Conjuring" was released in 2013, few expected the film to have a lasting impact on modern horror cinema. What began as a comparatively classic haunted house film developed into one of the most successful and influential horror franchises of all time within just a few years. Today, the "Conjuring" universe has a genuine cult status – supported by iconic characters, a consistent atmosphere of horror and a loyal fan base.
The return of classic horror
At a time when the genre was increasingly dominated by found-footage formats, shock effects and quick cuts, "The Conjuring" deliberately took a different direction. Director James Wan took his cue from classic horror films of the 1970s and relied on a slow build-up of tension, subtle camerawork and playing with the unseen. The focus was not on the monster, but on the fear of it.
This approach struck a nerve. Viewers and critics praised the dense atmosphere, the precise craftsmanship and the lack of cheap effects. "The Conjuring" seemed familiar and fresh at the same time – a mixture that quickly gave the film a special status within the genre.
Ed and Lorraine Warren as icons
The characters Ed and Lorraine Warren, played by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, are a key factor in the franchise's cult status. Unlike many horror protagonists, the Warrens were not mere victims, but active fighters against evil. Their relationship – characterized by love, respect and mutual trust – lent the films an emotional depth that is rare in the horror genre.
The real-life model of the two parapsychologists also generated fascination and discussion. Even if the cinematic portrayal is heavily romanticized, the reference to the "true story" contributed significantly to the mythologization of the franchise. For many fans, Ed and Lorraine Warren became modern horror heroes, and their farewell with "Conjuring: Last Rites" was received with corresponding emotion.
Antagonists who became pop culture
In addition to the main characters, the cult status of the "Conjuring" universe lives above all from its antagonists. Demons such as Bathsheba, Valak and the doll Annabelle have long since found their way into pop culture. Annabelle in particular has become one of the most well-known horror symbols of the 21st century – including her own film series. These characters function not only as frightening figures, but also as recognizable brands. Cosplays, merchandise, memes and Halloween costumes bear witness to how deeply the "Conjuring" universe has burned itself into the collective horror memory.
A coherent universe as a recipe for success
Long before "shared universes" became the standard in Hollywood, "The Conjuring" established a narratively connected film universe. Spin-offs such as "Annabelle", "The Nun" and "Llorona's Curse" expanded the mythology and made it possible to unite different horror subgenres under one roof.
Not every one of these films was celebrated by critics, but it was precisely this mixture of highs and lows that reinforced their cult status. Fans passionately discuss their favorites, defend underrated spin-offs and analyze cross-connections down to the last detail – a typical feature of true cult series.
Community, fandom and rediscovery
Another aspect of cult status is strong fan loyalty. The Conjuring franchise thrives on a community that constantly rediscovers, reinterprets and celebrates the films. Streaming platforms have also helped younger viewers find access to the films and consume them in marathons or thematic series. In addition, there are numerous YouTube analyses, podcasts and forums in which hidden details, demonology and real backgrounds are discussed. For many fans, horror does not end with the end credits – it continues in their engagement with the universe.
Lasting influence on horror cinema
The influence of the Conjuring franchise on modern horror cinema cannot be overlooked. Many more recent films are based on the so-called "slow-burn horror" popularized by James Wan and his successors. Atmosphere, soundscapes and psychological tension are once again central elements of the genre. The franchise also proved that horror films can achieve enormous commercial success on a comparatively moderate budget without losing their creative identity. Studios are still influenced by this realization today.
Why the Conjuring is – and remains – cult
The cult status of the "Conjuring" franchise is the result of a rare combination: strong horror craftsmanship, emotional characters, iconic villains and a consistently constructed world. Even after the end of the main series, interest remains unbroken – not least thanks to new projects such as the announced prequel "The Conjuring: First Communion".
"Conjuring" has long been more than just a film series. It is a modern horror tale, a pop culture myth and, for many fans, an integral part of their personal movie history. And that is exactly what makes it a true cult.
