Full Breakdown
The Conjuring: Last Rites Breaks Box Office Records
9/9/2025, 12:19:56 AM
Record-Breaking Opening Weekend
“The Conjuring: Last Rites,” the ninth installment in the Conjuring Universe, achieved a remarkable box office debut, grossing an estimated $83 million in its opening weekend in the United States and Canada. This figure not only sets a new record for the franchise, surpassing the previous high of $53.8 million set by “The Nun” in 2018, but also marks the third-largest opening for a horror film in history, trailing only behind “It” (2017) and “It: Chapter Two” (2019). The film's global earnings reached approximately $194 million, making it the highest-grossing horror film opening weekend ever, overtaking the previous record held by “It” ($190 million).
Background and Context
Directed by Michael Chaves, “Last Rites” follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, as they confront the Smurl haunting, a case based on real events. The film is marketed as the final chapter in the Warrens' story, which has captivated audiences since the franchise began in 2013. The Conjuring Universe has become the highest-grossing horror franchise of all time, amassing over $2.3 billion globally.
Audience Reception and Critical Response
Despite mixed reviews, with a 56% score on Rotten Tomatoes, audience reactions have been more favorable, awarding the film a 79% rating. Analysts attribute the film's success to strong franchise loyalty, effective marketing, and the pent-up demand for a major horror release following a slow summer at the box office. Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst at Comscore, noted that “Last Rites” provided a much-needed boost to the industry, stating, “There is no better way to kick off a fall movie season than an overperforming film.”
Official Statements and Industry Impact
Warner Bros. has now achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first studio to release seven consecutive films that opened above $40 million. This streak began with “A Minecraft Movie” in April 2025 and continued with titles such as “Sinners” and “Final Destination: Bloodlines.” The success of “Last Rites” is seen as a significant turnaround for Warner Bros., which had previously struggled with several underperforming releases.
Criticism and Opposition
While the film has been celebrated for its box office performance, it has also faced criticism regarding its portrayal of the Warrens. Some reviews argue that “Last Rites” sanitizes the controversial legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren, who have been accused of exploiting paranormal claims for profit. Critics have pointed out that the film glosses over the complexities of the real-life Smurl haunting, which involved allegations of sexual assault and skepticism from paranormal investigators.
What's Next for the Franchise
Although “Last Rites” is billed as the concluding chapter for the Warrens, there are indications that the Conjuring Universe will continue. Director Michael Chaves and franchise creator James Wan have hinted at potential future projects, suggesting that the franchise may evolve into a “Phase Two” with new characters and stories. The enduring popularity of the franchise and its characters ensures that audiences will likely see more from the Conjuring Universe in the future.
Conclusion
“The Conjuring: Last Rites” has not only set box office records but has also reaffirmed the franchise's place in horror cinema. As audiences flock to theaters to witness the final chapter of Ed and Lorraine Warren's story, the film's success underscores the enduring appeal of the supernatural and the power of well-established characters in the horror genre.
