Movies Similar to the Conjuring: 20 Horror Films to Feel Scary

If you are wondering about horror movies and scary tales, you may find sometimes scary movies similar to The Conjuring. These films take viewers to a secret world that is pretty strange and different from normal life and the common people. Equally important, these films make viewers conscious and deeply curious about the unusual things happening in the movies.

Notably, the viewers who love to watch horror fiction may enjoy controlling their nerves to some extent, but weak-hearted people can’t do so. For this reason, it is better to watch in your comfort zone because these films have serious encounters with unnatural creatures. Moreover, viewers may be compelled to feel a real heartbeat during some special scenes with loud shrieks, sudden appearances, and attacks.

20 Movies Similar to The Conjuring

If you want to watch a scary movie like The Conjuring and the same plot, then you should control your nerves to enjoy thrilling scenes. The movie is all about a hair-raising plot, terrible scenes, and loud music.

Furthermore, the conjuring similar movies offer super excited scenes and plots like the conjuring movie. So, watch and enjoy similar movies by getting brief insights discussed below

Oculus (2013)

Movie NameOculus (2013)
ProducerTrevor Macy
DirectorMike Flanagan
Release DateSeptember 8, 2013
Total Budget$5 million
Gross Profit$44 million

“Oculus,” a 2013 American supernatural horror film, stands as a testament to Mike Flanagan’s creative talents. Flanagan, who directed, co-wrote, and edited the film, drew inspiration from his earlier short work. With Brenton Thwaites and Karen Gillan leading the cast, the movie tells the scary story of two young adult siblings who become convinced that an ancient mirror is a malicious force behind their family’s tragedies.

This unsettling narrative had its world premiere on September 5, 2013, captivating audiences at the prestigious 2013 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). After this successful festival debut, “Oculus” received a wide theatrical release on April 11, 2014, leaving audiences both terrified and mesmerized by its suspenseful storytelling and spine-tingling atmosphere.

Furthermore, “Oculus” proved to be a commercial hit, resonating with horror enthusiasts and achieving success at the box office. Its power to evoke fear and fascination serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the horror genre in cinema.

Oculus (2013)

The Innocents (1961)

Movie NameThe Innocents (1961)
ProducerJack Clayton
DirectorJack Clayton
Release Date24 November 1961
Total Budget£430,000
Gross Profit$1.2 million

“The Innocents,” a 1961 British gothic emotional fear film, is a haunting masterpiece directed and produced by Jack Clayton. Drawing inspiration from the 1898 novella “The Turn of the Screw” by American novelist Henry James, the screenplay was skillfully adapted by William Archibald & Truman Capote. Remarkably, Archibald’s own 1950 stage play, also titled “The Innocents,” played a significant role in shaping the script.

At its core, the film revolves around a governess tasked with the care of two children in a grand estate. However, as the plot unfolds, it becomes evident that something sinister waits within the shadows of the mansion. The governess begins to fear that wicked spirits haunt the estate and that these entities have taken possession of the innocent children.

One intriguing aspect of “The Innocents” lies in the evolution of its screenplay. Archibald’s initial script embraced the notion that the paranormal occurrences were genuine. Still, director Jack Clayton felt it needed more depth. Enter Truman Capote, the renowned American writer who was enlisted to rework the script. 

The Innocents (1961)

The Autopsy Of Jane Doe (2016)

Movie NameThe Autopsy Of Jane Doe (2016)
ProducerFred Berger
DirectorAndré Øvredal
Release DateSeptember 9, 2016
LanguageEnglish
Gross Profit$6 million

“The Autopsy of Jane Doe” is a 2016 supernatural horror film directed by André Øvredal. This gripping tale revolves around a father-and-son coroner team portrayed by Brian Cox and Emile Hirsch. Their seemingly routine examination of an unidentified woman’s body, masterfully played by Olwen Kelly, takes a chilling turn when they encounter inexplicable supernatural phenomena.

Directed by André Øvredal, this film marks his foray into English-language cinema, showcasing his talent for crafting a suspenseful and frightening narrative. If viewers are interested in exploring scary movies like The Conjuring, then “The Autopsy of Jane Doe” will be one of the best options.

Critics and audiences alike have praised the film for its intelligent and mysterious storytelling. Rotten Tomatoes’ critical consensus appropriately describes it as “a smart, suggestively creepy thriller,” highlighting the film’s ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with its creepy atmosphere and unsettling mysteries.

The Autopsy Of Jane Doe (2016)

The Night House (2020)

Movie NameThe Night House (2020)
ProducerDavid S. Goyer
DirectorDavid Bruckner
Release DateJanuary 24, 2020
Running Time110 minutes
Gross Profit$15.5 million

“The Night House” is a fear-based supernatural film released in 2020. Directed by David Bruckner and brought to life by the creative minds of screenwriters, this chilling tale unfolds around Rebecca Hall’s character, a widow who embarks on a journey of unsettling discoveries within the house her late architect husband built. 

In addition, premiering at the Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 2020, “The Night House” made its theatrical debut in the United States on August 20, 2021, under the banner of Searchlight Pictures.

Furthermore, this haunting masterpiece has garnered widespread acclaim, particularly for Rebecca Hall’s captivating performance. Its unsettling atmosphere and compelling storyline have earned it numerous award nominations, including recognition at the Saturn Awards for Best Horror Film. “The Night House” is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror, offering a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking experience.

The Night House (2020)

Verónica (2017)

Movie NameVerónica (2017)
ProducerEnrique López Lavigne
DirectorPaco Plaza
Release Date25 August 2017
Running Time105 minutes
Gross Profit$6.3 million

“Veronica” is a spine-tingling Spanish supernatural horror film released in 2017. Loosely inspired by real-life events, “Veronica” delves into the unsettling 1991 Vallecas case. It revolves around the mysterious death of Estefanía, who met an eerie fate after experimenting with a Ouija board. This haunting narrative serves as the backdrop for a terrifying exploration of the supernatural.

Under Paco Plaza’s direction, “Veronica” offers a fascinating and hair-raising cinematic experience that has left audiences on the edge of their seats. If you’re a fan of horror that delves into the eerie realms of the unknown, “Veronica” is a must-watch.

Verónica (2017)

The Haunting (1963)

Movie NameThe Haunting (1963)
ProducerRobert Wise
DirectorRobert Wise
Release Date21 August 1963
Total Budget$1.05 million
Gross Profit$1.02 million

“The Haunting” is a classic 1963 horror film that was skillfully directed and produced by Robert Wise. The plot of “The Haunting” revolves around a small group of individuals who receive invitations from a paranormal investigator. Their mission: to explore a house covered in terrifying legends of hauntings and supernatural occurrences.

Nelson Gidding, the talented screenwriter behind the film, embarked on a six-month journey to craft the script after being introduced to Shirley Jackson’s novel by director Robert Wise. While the book primarily explores supernatural elements, Gidding’s script cleverly infuses the story with themes of mental breakdown, adding an interesting layer to the narrative.

“The Haunting” stands as a remarkable cinematic achievement, blending psychological suspense and supernatural horror to create an unforgettable and chilling viewing experience. If you’re a fan of horror classics that delve into the depths of fear and the unknown, this film should be on your must-watch list.

The Haunting (1963)

The Legend of Hell House (1973)

Movie NameThe Legend Of Hell House (1973)
ProducerAlbert Fennell
DirectorJohn Hough
Release Date15 June 1973
Running Time95 minutes
Gross Profit$2.5 million

“The Legend of Hell House” is a chilling gothic supernatural horror film from 1973, skillfully directed by John Hough. The story revolves around a group of fearless researchers who embark on a distressing mission. Their task is to spend a week in a foreboding mansion that was once inhabited by a sadistic murderer. To make matters even more unsettling, previous teams of paranormal investigators who ventured into the house met mysterious and untimely fates.

The screenplay for “The Legend of Hell House” was written by renowned American author Richard Matheson. It’s based on his 1971 novel titled “Hell House.” As the group delves deeper into the mysteries of this malevolent mansion, they uncover horrifying secrets that defy coherent explanations.

Finally, this film promises a suspenseful experience for horror enthusiasts. If you enjoy tales of the supernatural, dark mysteries, and haunted houses, this classic is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Legend of Hell House (1973)

As Above, So Below (2014)

Movie NameAs Above, So Below (2014)
ProducerThomas Tull
DirectorJohn Erick Dowdle
Release DateAugust 29, 2014
Total Budget$5 million
Gross Profit$41.9 million

“As Above, So Below” is a 2014 American horror film that delves into the supernatural and chilling realms. The film’s exciting title draws inspiration from the widely known paraphrase of the second verse of the Emerald Tablet, a mystical text. “As above, so below” serves as a central theme throughout the movie, hinting at the interconnectedness of different realms and dimensions.

Equally important, the film takes viewers on a thrilling journey with a documentary crew as they explore the scary tale. Notably, the movie invites audiences to confront their deepest fears in the darkest and most enclosed of settings.

While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it proved to be a commercial success, grossing a substantial $41 million against its modest $5 million budget. Moreover, if you’re a fan of horror that delves into the supernatural and the psychological, this film might offer a chilling and thought-provoking experience.

As Above, So Below (2014)

Insidious (2010)

Movie NameInsidious (2010)
ProducerJason Blum
DirectorJames Wan
Release DateSeptember 14, 2010
Total Budget$1.5 million
Gross Profit$100.1 million

“Insidious,” a 2010 supernatural horror film, marked the beginning of a thrilling franchise. The storyline of “Insidious” revolves around a married couple who experience a frightening trial when their young son mysteriously falls into a dragging state. What makes their difficulty even more horrifying is that their son becomes a vessel for a multitude of malevolent demonic entities dwelling in an astral plane.

This hair-raising film made its world debut on September 14, 2010, at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It was then unleashed upon a broader audience with a wide theatrical release on April 1, 2011, distributed by FilmDistrict.

“Insidious” serves as the inaugural chapter in a franchise that continues sending shivers down horror enthusiasts’ spines. The spine-chilling journey continues with two sequels, “Chapter 2” (2013) and “The Red Door” (2023), as well as two prequels, “Chapter 3” (2015) and “The Last Key” (2018).

Insidious (2010)

The Exorcism Of Emily Rose (2005)

Movie NameThe Exorcism Of Emily Rose (2005)
ProducerTom Rosenberg
DirectorScott Derrickson
Release DateSeptember 9, 2005
Total Budget$19 million
Gross Profit$145.2 million

In 2005, director Scott Derrickson brought audiences a chilling blend of supernatural horror stuff. This American film stars Laura Linney and Tom Wilkinson in riveting performances. Loosely inspired by Felicitas D. Goodman’s book “The Exorcism of Anneliese Michel,” the story delves into the terrifying ordeal of Anneliese Michel.

The film follows the journey of a self-proclaimed agnostic, played by Laura Linney, who steps into the role of a defence attorney. Her mission is to represent a parish priest, portrayed by Tom Wilkinson, who stands accused of negligent homicide. The charges stem from his involvement in an exorcism that took a horrifying turn.

As the courtroom drama unfolds, the film weaves a spine-tingling narrative that explores the thin line between the supernatural and the legal system. The movie keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, offering a unique blend of fear and intrigue. If you’re a fan of films that delve into the supernatural while tackling complex legal issues, this gripping tale is sure to captivate your imagination.

The Exorcism Of Emily Rose (2005)

The Babadook (2014)

Movie NameThe Babadook (2014)
ProducerKristina Ceyton
DirectorJennifer Kent
Release Date17 January 2014
Total Budget$2 million
Gross Profit$10.5 million

In 2014, a psychological horror film based on Kent’s 2005 short film “Monster” weaves a tale of terror and psychological torment. The story revolves around a widowed single mother, played by Essie Davis, who must confront a menacing and mysterious humanoid monster that terrorizes her home. As she grapples with her own grief and fears, she also faces her young son’s overwhelming dread of this evil presence.

Jennifer Kent embarked on this cinematic journey in 2009, driven by a desire to delve into profound themes such as parenting, grief, and the haunting fear of descending into madness. To bring her vision to life, she secured financing through a combination of Australian government grants and crowdfunding, resulting in a film that has left a lasting impact on the horror genre.

“The Babadook” is a testament to Kent’s skilful storytelling and her ability to tap into the deepest fears and anxieties of both the characters and the audience. If you’re a fan of psychological horror that explores the darkest corners of the human psyche, this film is a must-see.

The Babadook (2014)

Paranormal Activity (2007)

Movie NameParanormal Activity (2007)
ProducerJason Blum
DirectorOren Peli
Release DateOctober 14, 2007
Total Budget$215,000
Gross Profit$194.2 million

“Paranormal Activity” is a groundbreaking 2007 American supernatural horror film that left an indelible mark on the genre. This cinematic gem was a labour of love, with Oren Peli as its producer, writer, director, cinematographer, and editor.

The film’s spine-chilling narrative centres on a young couple, portrayed by Katie Featherston and Micah Sloat, who find themselves tormented by an evil supernatural presence within the confines of their home. Desperate to uncover the truth and capture the scary occurrences, they set up a camera to document their haunting experiences.

“Paranormal Activity” introduced the found-footage style, which became a defining feature of the subsequent films in the series. Recognizing its potential, Paramount Pictures acquired the film and invested an additional $200,000 to refine certain aspects, including a new ending. This investment paid off handsomely, as “Paranormal Activity” became a cultural phenomenon, thrilling audiences and setting a new standard for the horror genre. 

Paranormal Activity (2007)

Dead Silence (2007)

Movie NameDead Silence (2007)
ProducerGregg Hoffman
DirectorJames Wan
Release DateMarch 16, 2007
Total Budget$20 million
Gross Profit$22.4 million

“Dead Silence” is a spine-tingling 2007 American supernatural horror film that dives viewers into a world of fear and mystery. The film weaves a haunting narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story revolves around Jamie Ashen, a young widower who returns to his hometown in search of answers surrounding his wife’s enigmatic demise. As he delves deeper into the town’s secrets, he unearths a malevolent force tied to a sinister dummy.

“Dead Silence” is one of the prominent horror movies like The Conjuring, where you can become deeply involved with mesmerizing plot depiction. Notably, the film is dedicated to Gregg Hoffman, adding a moving touch to its supernatural storytelling. While it initially received mixed reviews, “Dead Silence” has since garnered a devoted cult following, testifying to its enduring ability to send shivers down the spines of horror enthusiasts.

Dead Silence (2007)

Lights Out (2016)

Movie NameLights Out (2016)
ProducerJames Wan
DirectorDavid F. Sandberg
Release DateJune 8, 2016
Total Budget$4.9 million
Gross Profit$148.9 million

“Lights Out” is an American supernatural horror film that marked the directorial debut of David F. Sandberg. This atmospheric fright-fest was brought to life through the production efforts. Notably, it features Lotta Losten, who starred in Sandberg’s original 2013 short film of the same name, serving as a connection between the two.

In the story, a woman finds herself confronted by a horrifying presence from her family’s dark history. To protect her young stepbrother, she must face a malevolent spirit that preys on its victims when darkness falls.

After the short film’s success, Sandberg embarked on creating a feature-length adaptation. The film’s principal photography commenced in June 2015 in the eerie streets of Los Angeles, wrapping up on August 5, 2015. At last, stay yourself for a suspenseful journey into the darkness when you dive into “Lights Out.”

Lights Out (2016)

The Taking Of Deborah Logan (2014)

Movie NameThe Taking Of Deborah Logan (2014)
ProducerJeff Rice
DirectorAdam Robitel
Release DateOctober 21, 2014
Running Time90 minutes
CountryUnited States

“The Taking of Deborah Logan” is a spine-tingling 2014 American supernatural horror film that marks the directorial debut of Adam Robitel. This hair-raising cinematic experience unfolds as a found footage horror tale, with Robitel also contributing to the screenplay and serving as the film’s editor alongside Gavin Heffernan.

Set amidst the haunting landscapes of Virginia, the story revolves around a documentary crew embarking on a project focused on Alzheimer’s patients. However, as they document a woman grappling with the disease, they stumble upon something far more sinister waiting beneath the surface.

In addition, this chilling film was brought to life through the production efforts of Jeff Rice and Bryan Singer, and it made its way to audiences on October 21, 2014. Prepare for a nerve-disturbing journey into the unknown when you delve into “The Taking of Deborah Logan.”

The Taking Of Deborah Logan (2014)

The Skeleton Key (2005)

Movie NameThe Skeleton Key (2005)
ProducerMichael Shamberg
DirectorIain Softley
Release DateJuly 29, 2005
Total Budget$43 million
Gross Profit$94 million

“The Skeleton Key” is a captivating 2005 American Southern thrilling horror film that takes audiences on a chilling journey. Directed by Iain Softley and penned by Ehren Kruger, this spine-tingling tale boasts a talented cast including Kate Hudson, John Hurt, Peter Sarsgaard, Gena Rowlands, and Joy Bryant.

Equally important, the story centers around a New Orleans hospice nurse who embarks on a new job at a mysterious Terrebonne Parish plantation home. As she becomes more deeply involved, she is entangled in a web of supernatural enigmas surrounding the house, its former inhabitants, the rituals and spells. Prepare for a hair-raising experience as you explore the dark and eerie world of “The Skeleton Key.”

The Skeleton Key (2005)

The Exorcist (1973)

Movie NameThe Exorcist (1973)
ProducerWilliam Peter Blatty
DirectorWilliam Friedkin
Release DateDecember 26, 1973
Total Budget$12 million
Gross Profit$428.2 million

“The Exorcist,” a legendary 1973 American supernatural horror film, stands as a testament to the power of terror in cinema. The plot unfolds around the harrowing demonic possession of a young girl and her mother’s desperate quest to save her soul through a demanding exorcism performed by two Catholic priests. In addition, the film’s dark and eerie atmosphere, combined with exceptional performances, has solidified its status as one of the most iconic horror movies of all time.

Finally, Blatty and Friedkin faced numerous challenges throughout its production, including casting dilemmas that led them to select relatively unknown actors like Burstyn, Miller, and Blair over established stars. This decision initially met resistance from Warner Bros. 

The Exorcist (1973)

It (2017)

Movie NameIt (2017)
ProducerRoy Lee
DirectorAndy Muschietti
Release DateSeptember 5, 2017
Total Budget$35-40 million
Gross Profit$701.8 million

The 2017 supernatural horror film “It,” also known onscreen as “It Chapter One,” is a spine-tingling cinematic experience directed by Andy Muschietti and written by Chase Palmer. This film marks the beginning of a two-part adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic 1986 novel, sharing the same title.

To continue, “It” delves into the first half of King’s novel, capturing the eerie and terrifying essence of the story. Notably, it serves as the inaugural instalment in the film series based on “It” and is the second cinematic adaptation following Tommy Lee Wallace’s 1990 miniseries. With its exceptional blend of horror and suspense, the film has left a lasting mark on audiences and Stephen King fans alike.

It (2017)

Mama (2013)

Movie NameMama (2013)
ProducerJ. Miles Dale
DirectorAndy Muschietti
Release Date18 January 2013
Total Budget$15 million
Gross Profit$148.1 million

“Mama,” released in 2013, is a spine-chilling supernatural horror film that marked the directorial debut of Andy Muschietti. Muschietti also co-wrote the screenplay, drawing inspiration from his 2008 Argentine short film titled “Mamá.”

Equally important, the story revolves around two young girls who are left abandoned in a remote forest cabin. They are taken under the care of a mysterious entity that they refer to as “Mama.” However, as they transition to a new residential home under the guardianship of two adults, they soon discover that “Mama” has followed them, leading to a series of unsettling events. “Mama” is a film that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its supernatural and haunting narrative.

Mama (2013)

The Shining (1980)

Movie NameThe Shining (1980)
ProducerStanley Kubrick
DirectorStanley Kubrick
Release DateMay 23, 1980
Total Budget$19 million
Gross Profit$47.3 million

“The Shining,” a 1980 horror masterpiece, was both produced and directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick. Its co-writer set the screenplay in collaboration with novelist Diane Johnson. Torrance accepts a new job as the off-season caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel. Furthermore, his young son, Danny, played by Danny Lloyd, possesses psychic abilities referred to as “the shining.” 

Danny’s imaginary friend, Tony, warns him of the hotel’s sinister hauntings just before a severe winter storm strands the Torrance family in the Colorado Rockies. As the story unfolds, Jack Torrance’s mental state deteriorates due to the malevolent influence of the hotel and its ghostly inhabitants. “The Shining” is a classic horror film celebrated for its psychological intensity, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable performances.

The Shining (1980)

About the Conjuring

The Conjuring is a scary movie series that contains real fear elements to upheaval the sensations of curious viewers. The movie is directed by James Wan and is based on supernatural scary plots and scenes. The movie was developed under The Conjuring Universe franchise, which successfully released the first part in 2013, then in 2016 and onwards. Moreover, the characters performed scary scenes and encounters with real depictions that made the viewers astonishing.

SeriesThe Conjuring (2013)The Conjuring (2016)The Conjuring (2021)
DirectorJames WanJames WanMichael Chaves
ProducerTony DeRosaPeter SafranJames Wan
Running Time112134112
Release DateJuly 15, 2013June 10, 2016May 26, 2021

The Conjuring Plot

The movie’s plot reflects the real fear and horrible scenes during encounters with supernatural species. The Conjuring is all about a suffering family who move into a home on the Island. Moreover, the family faces real threats: the hidden existence of someone who shows their presence through sudden slamming, dark spots, and strange smells.

The-Conjuring-2013

The Conjuring Cast

The following characters performed different roles in the recurring series of the Conjuring movie. In addition, these characters appeared in almost the tri-part series.

  • Vera Farmiga worked as Lorraine Warren.
  • Patrick Wilson performed the role of Ed Warren
  • Lili Taylor worked as Carolyn Perron
  • Ron Livingston portrayed the role of Roger Perron
  • Shanley Caswell did adopt a role as Andrea
  • Hayley McFarland delivers the role of Nancy
  • Joey King worked as Christine
  • Mackenzie Foy appeared as Cindy
  • Kyla Deaver appeared as April
  • Shannon Kook cast as Drew
  • John Brotherton was cast as Brad

Box Office Performance

The entire series of The Conjuring movies performed really well on the box. Equally important, the movie doubled its budget in the form of a gross box office budget.

SeriesBudgetBox Office
The Conjuring (2013)$20 million$319.5 million
The Conjuring (2016)$40 million$321.8 million
The Conjuring (2021)$39 million$206.4 million
Total Budget$99 million$847.7 million

Conclusion

After getting the complete overview of the above descriptions, you may find the movies similar to The Conjuring easily. The films as mentioned above continue to captivate and confuse audiences with their chilling ambiguity and psychological depth.

In addition, movies like The Conjuring inject psychological complexity into the narrative, offering alternative interpretations of the events on screen. Remarkably, these frightening masterpieces were crafted on millions of dollars shoestring budget. At last, it is a testament to the power of creative storytelling and minimalist filmmaking techniques to deliver maximum scares.

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Castro Silva

Castro Silva is a digital nomad with an insatiable curiosity for uncovering exceptional websites dedicated to movies, manga, and anime. As a regular contributor to online publications, he's known for spotting user-friendly web experiences and sharing his discoveries. With a Bachelor's degree in Digital Media Studies from Stanford University, he combines academic knowledge with ongoing self-education in web development and user experience design. Castro has become a trusted curator of websites that enhance movie, manga, and anime experiences.