The First Omen movie guide: Do you need to watch the other Omen movies first?

Horror fans, rejoice! New thrills and chills arrive this weekend with The First Omen, in theaters on April 5. The movie serves as a sequel to the original 1976 movie, The Omen.

Those who haven't seen the 1976 classic may be wondering if there's anything they need to know ahead of watching The First Omen. Is watching other movies in the franchise necessary or can you go into this new movie blind? Here's what we think!

The First Omen introduces audiences to Margaret (portrayed by Nell Tiger Free), a young nun who sets out to start her life of service to the church. Margaret is sent to a convent in Rome and immediately feels strange about the place, but she never could have imagined the sinister secrets hidden in the halls. There are plans to welcome evil incarnate and bring the Antichrist in the world.

Check out the trailer below.

The movie also stars Tawfeek Barhom, Sonia Braga, Ralph Ineson, Bill Nighy, and others. If Nell Tiger Free's name rings a bell, that's because the actress starred in Servant on the hit Apple TV+ horror series. Needless to say, when it comes to thrills, we're in good hands with the star.

Movies to watch before The First Omen in theaters

The short answer is that you do not need to watch any of the movies in The Omen franchise. Since The First Omen is a sequel, the story will introduce and explain what the franchise is all about. However, fans who have seen the previous installments may catch the references to other installments, as well as be able to connect some dots in the franchise. That said, if you want to go into The First Omen with at least some knowledge, you only need to watch the original 1976 movie.

Here are all the movies in the franchise by order of release date:

• The Omen (1976)
• Damien: Omen II (1978)
• Omen III: The Final Conflict (1981)
• Omen IV: The Awakening (1991)
• The Omen (2006)

Now, as for where to watch these movies, Hulu is going to be your best friend. All five movies are available to stream on Hulu for free as part of your subscription.

The First Omen is in theaters Friday, April 5, with showings kicking off as early as the evening of Thursday, April 4. Will you be watching the movie this weekend or wait to see what the reviews have to say about it?