How a 1970s London poltergeist case became a global horror blockbuster franchise
In short: The Conjuring 2 brought the infamous Enfield poltergeist case to the big screen, blending historical paranormal investigation with high-stakes supernatural dread. Directed by James Wan, the film became a massive financial success, proving that audiences remain captivated by the real-life mysteries surrounding Ed and Lorraine Warren’s most chilling documented encounters.
Released in 2016, The Conjuring 2 follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they travel to Enfield, London, in 1977. The plot centers on the Hodgson family, whose home becomes the site of intense poltergeist activity. While the film dramatizes the haunting, it draws heavily from the Warrens' real-world reputation, specifically their involvement in the Enfield case and their earlier investigation into the Amityville murders. The production process was notably rigorous, involving 50 days of filming across Los Angeles and London, and even included a blessing of the set by a priest to ward off the inexplicable events that plagued the first film's production.
The film’s antagonist, a demonic nun named Valak, was a late addition. Initially designed as a winged creature, director James Wan opted for the nun design during additional photography in March 2016 to ground the horror in a more unsettling, human-like reality. This creative pivot proved effective, as the film grossed $323 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing horror film of 2016 and the second-highest-grossing horror film of all time, trailing only the 1973 classic The Exorcist. Its financial performance was particularly strong in international markets, including the United Kingdom, Mexico, and South Korea.
Beyond the box office, the film sparked an expansive cinematic universe. The success of the Enfield narrative led to the development of spin-offs like The Nun, released in 2018, and further sequels in the main franchise. While critics noted that the sequel lacked the raw, surprising impact of the original, it was widely praised for its technical skill and consistent atmosphere of dread. The film remains a case study in how horror franchises can leverage established lore and real-world urban legends to maintain audience engagement, even as the stories become increasingly stylized and complex.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The Conjuring 2
- Also: Wikidata — The Conjuring 2 · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — The Conjuring 2 · CC0
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/entertainment-the-conjuring-2.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Films · More in Entertainment · Latest · A–Z · All topics
