Last summer’s incredibly successful horror film The Conjuring is set to continue, though not in a straightforward sequel fashion just yet.  Bloody Disgusting first reported that New Line was set to develop three low-budget spinoffs of The Conjuring in addition to a full sequel, and now The Wrap reports that the studio is officially moving forward its first, AnnabelleThe Conjuring cinematographer John Leonetti will direct the pic, which will revolve around the creepy and possessed titular doll that The Warrens (Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson) hold in their house full of collectibles.  Presumably Annabelle will tell the story of the doll’s demonic exploits before being acquired by The Warrens, acting as a prequel of sorts to The Conjuring.

Annabelle Wallis (Peaky Blinders) and Ward Horton (The Wolf of Wall Street) will lead the cast of the low-budget spinoff, scripted by Gary Dauberman, and The Conjuring director James Wan will act as executive producer.  This doesn’t mean that a proper The Conjuring sequel is off the table, but New Line is keen on striking while the iron is hot and the low-budget Annabelle is an easy way to do just that.