Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema announced yesterday work has begun on a third Conjuring with The Conjuring 2‘s David Leslie Johnson penning the screenplay. The reports also included a note about James Wan, who directed the first two films that have since been spun off into several franchises including Annabelle, The Nun and the forthcoming Crooked Man. According to the trades, it is “highly unlikely” that Wan would return to the director’s chair. Various publications are now reporting that he will not helm the third film, which is not what was reported. This prompted me to do the actual work and see if I could find some more information for you guys. Here’s what I got.
As previously reported, Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson are returning in The Conjuring 3 as Lorraine and Ed Warren. Per one of my sources, the duo prefers to reunite with Wan, who has a strong affinity for the actors. While you can never say never (the door is open), Wan will most likely pass the torch to someone new. In fact, his hand may be forced as Conjuring 3 clashes with his Aquaman schedule.
Obviously, we horror fans would rejoice if Wan would complete the trilogy, a feat that rarely occurs in cinema. It’s also worth noting that the third film could ditch the “haunted house” angle and do something completely new, which would be perfect for Wan to avoid retread. Even if he were to step away from the universe as a director he’ll continue to wear the producer hat, which is comforting in its own right. Watch for more news as it comes in.
