The Nun stands among the elite horror franchises that have left an indelible mark on audiences. Spawned from The Conjuring Universe, The Nun franchise lures viewers into an unsettling odyssey through the abyss of malevolence and dread. With its chilling ambiance, eerie locales, and formidable antagonist, this sinister saga has cemented its place as a genre favorite, captivating fans and lingering in their deepest fears — culminating in the release of The Nun 2.
The Conjuring Universe films that set up The Nun 2
The Conjuring (2013)
Before delving into the eerie world of The Nun, we must first trace its roots back to The Conjuring. Directed by James Wan, this supernatural horror film tells the story of the Warrens, a pair of paranormal investigators who were called in to help a family dealing with supernatural events occurring in their Rhode Island farmhouse. Ed (Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine Warren (Vera Farmiga) are asked to investigate the creepy things that have been happening, such as moving furniture and unexplained noises, which soon turn into apparitions, possessions, and hauntings. Thus, the movie follows the Warren’s investigation and their attempt to rid the house of its evil menace.
The Conjuring 2 (2016)
The 2016 sequel The Conjuring 2 introduces the demonic entity Valak (Bonnie Aarons) who is responsible for terrorizing the Hodgson family in England in 1977. In this movie, we learn more about Valak’s origins as it is suggested that she was summoned by Enfield, an old witch living in a nearby town. This also serves as an introduction to Lorraine Warren’s powers and abilities as a clairvoyant, allowing her to foresee the future danger posed by Valak.
Also, be sure to check out Hollywood.com’s exclusive interview with the cast of The Conjuring 2!
The Nun (2018)
The 2018 spin-off prequel film The Nun ties directly into The Conjuring 2 as it serves as an origin story for Valak. Directed by Corin Hardy and written by Gary Dauberman, The Nun takes us back to the 1950s, where a secluded Romanian abbey holds dark secrets. When a young nun (Charlotte Hope) takes her own life, a priest with a haunted past (Demián Bichir) and a novitiate on the threshold of her final vows (Taissa Farmiga) are sent by the Vatican to investigate. What’s more, as they unravel the abbey’s mysteries, they confront an ancient evil in the form of Valak, the demonic nun.
In this film, we learn how Valak became an entity with immense power by summoning dark forces from Hell and using them for her own purpose. We also get hints at her possible ties to other haunted Catholic locations throughout Europe such as Romania, where much of the story takes place. Following the aforementioned events, these connections are further explored in the upcoming 2023 sequel The Nun 2, which promises to uncover even more secrets about Valak’s past and explore her relationship with other supernatural entities known only through legend.
Peak behind the curtains on the set of The Nun through Hollywood.com’s look behind the scenes.
Setting the mood for The Nun and The Nun 2: Atmosphere and locations
What sets The Nun franchise apart is its mastery of atmospheric elements and haunting locations. From the eerie corridors of the Romanian abbey to the shadowy catacombs beneath, each scene exudes dread and suspense. The dimly lit hallways, religious artifacts, and unsettling statues all contribute to an atmosphere that consistently keeps the audience on edge throughout the films.
Furthermore, the franchise’s architecture, inspired by Gothic aesthetics, and its gloomy surroundings transport viewers to an era dominated by religious fervor and fear of the unknown. This backdrop provides the perfect canvas for the malevolence of Valak to unfurl.
The dreadful presence of Valak in The Nun 2 and The Conjuring Universe
At the heart of The Nun franchise is Valak, the demonic entity that terrorizes the protagonists and viewers alike. Portrayed by Bonnie Aarons, Valak’s chilling appearance as a pale-faced, menacing nun clad in a tattered habit leaves a lasting impression. Further, her glowing yellow eyes and unnerving smile are enough to send shivers down anyone’s spine.
And then with her ability to exploit fears and torment her victims, Valak embodies the quintessential evil that horror enthusiasts crave. As one of the most formidable villains in modern horror cinema, she has solidified her place among the iconic characters that haunt our nightmares.
Future horrors: What to expect from The Nun 2 and the franchise moving forward
Taking place four years after the events of its predecessor, The Nun 2 unfurls the chilling tale of Sister Irene confronting the malevolent Valak, known as the Nun, within the confines of a French boarding school.
In addition, Taissa Farmiga, Jonas Bloquet, and Bonnie Aarons reprise their roles from the original film, while Storm Reid and Anna Popplewell join the cast. Lastly, producers Peter Safran and James Wan resume their positions behind the scenes.
The Nun franchise has taken its place as one of the most captivating and haunting horror series of recent years. With its sinister atmosphere, memorable antagonist, and connection to The Conjuring Universe, it has become a must-watch for thrill-seekers and horror enthusiasts. As the dark veil surrounding Valak’s origins and future plans unravel, one thing remains certain: The Nun will continue to chill audiences to their core for years to come.
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