The Evolution of Horror Films Through the Decades: The Legacy of The Conjuring Universe

Throughout the decades, horror films have been closely associated with specific time periods. In the 1980s, slasher films like Halloween and Friday the 13th dominated the genre. The 2000s brought about a rise in horror films focused on gore, exemplified by the Saw franchise.

However, the decade from 2010 to 2019 was defined by a different type of horror film, with The Conjuring standing out as a prominent example.In the past, the horror genre has seen its fair share of crossovers, such as Freddy vs. Jason and the classic Universal Monsters.

However, The Conjuring managed to achieve something unique by establishing a successful 'cinematic universe'. This concept has become a popular trend in the film industry, with The Avengers being a prime example of its success in 2012. Director James Wan followed suit a year later with The Conjuring, which laid the foundation for a shared universe within the horror genre.

The Conjuring is a series set in the 1970s that focuses on the paranormal investigations of Lorraine and Ed Warren, portrayed by Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson. The characters are based on the real-life couple who were experts in supernatural phenomena. The success of the first film led to the development of spinoffs and sequels, expanding the universe further.

The Warrens' collection of supernatural artifacts, inspired by their real museum in Connecticut, serves as the basis for many of these spinoff films.Since the release of the original Conjuring film, multiple spinoffs have been introduced, including the Annabelle series, The Nun, and The Curse of La Llorona. This week, The Nun II, the latest installment in the Conjuring universe, will be released in theaters.

The sequel follows Sister Irene as she once again confronts Valak, the demonic nun. Audiences can experience The Nun II in cinemas starting September 7, while the entire Conjuring universe is available for streaming on HBO Max.In recent years, a new trend in horror films has emerged, often referred to as 'elevated horror'.

Movies like Hereditary, Get Out, and The Lighthouse have gained attention for their social commentary and symbolic storytelling. While some may view this as a positive evolution in the genre, others criticize it for creating a hierarchy within horror films and setting unrealistic standards for audiences. The Conjuring universe, however, demonstrates that there is still relevance and appreciation for traditional horror storytelling.

The continued success of The Conjuring franchise and its spinoffs exemplifies the enduring popularity of horror films in the modern era. With its blend of supernatural scares, compelling characters, and interconnected storytelling, the Conjuring universe has managed to carve out a unique space for itself within the horror genre. As audiences eagerly anticipate the release of The Nun II and explore the other films within the franchise, it is clear that the legacy of The Conjuring will continue to haunt audiences for years to come.