Michael Chaves, the director behind The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, returns to the terrifying world of the Conjuring Universe with the highly anticipated sequel, The Nun II. This spine-chilling installment takes viewers to 1950s France, introducing a new dimension to the beloved horror franchise. Chaves recently shared insights about the film’s creative process, inspirations, and the potential impact of this sinister tale on the larger Conjuring Universe.
The Conjuring Universe has enjoyed remarkable success, grossing over $2 billion at the box office. This achievement is particularly impressive, considering it doesn’t rely on superheroes like other cinematic universes. Surprisingly, the highest-grossing chapter in this spine-tingling universe is 2018’s The Nun, which raked in a staggering $366 million. Now, fans eagerly await the return of Valak, the malevolent Demon Nun, in The Nun II.
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The film, led by Taissa Farmiga, marks Chaves’ second venture into the Conjuring franchise. Chaves’ involvement in the Conjuring Universe began with his feature directorial debut, The Curse of La Llorona (2019), and a character appearance from 2014’s Annabelle. Chaves’ deep connection to the franchise did not include La Llorona, as it wasn’t shepherded by franchise co-producer Peter Safran alongside James Wan.
The Nun II picks up in 1956, four years after Sister Irene (Farmiga) and Maurice (Jonas Bloquet) banished Valak, the Demon Nun. The once-terrifying entity has been vanquished, or so it seemed. Sister Irene and Maurice now lead separate lives in different parts of France, until a series of gruesome deaths across Europe forces them back together.
Chaves drew inspiration for the film from classics like Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992) and Diabolique (1955). However, he emphasizes the significant influence of French street photography from the 1950s on the movie‘s visual style.
“I really wanted to get the ’50s right. I really wanted it to feel like you’re time traveling. So we just went through treasure troves of old photographs,” Chaves shared. French street photographer René Maltête, who captured the essence of 1940s and 1950s France, served as a pivotal source of inspiration. The playful and visually intriguing aspects of this photography era profoundly influenced the film’s visual language.
Chaves expressed his inclination to rely on old photographs for inspiration, rather than referencing movies. He believes that exploring these photographic gems, often overlooked by many, offers unique and unexpected creative insights.
As for the success of the Conjuring Universe, Chaves attributes it to several factors. He highlights the movies’ unwavering commitment to delivering genuine scares while infusing them with heart. These films feature beloved characters and often explore themes of faith, creating a unique blend that resonates with audiences.
Intriguingly, Chaves also cryptically alludes to a pivotal moment in The Nun II, suggesting that it may have significant implications for the broader Conjuring Universe. As the franchise continues to evolve and terrify audiences, fans can only speculate about the horrors that await in this latest installment.
The Nun II promises to be a thrilling addition to the Conjuring Universe, transporting viewers to a bygone era filled with supernatural terrors. With its innovative visual style and potential impact on the Conjuring Universe, it’s a film horror enthusiasts won’t want to miss.