What's Happening?
'The Conjuring: Last Rites' has achieved a significant milestone by earning $34.5 million on its opening day, including preview screenings across 3,802 locations. This marks the highest opening day gross in the history of 'The Conjuring' franchise, surpassing the previous record set by the 2018 spinoff 'The Nun,' which earned $22 million. The film is projected to have a $50 million debut weekend, potentially surpassing 'The Nun's' $53 million opening weekend record. Directed by Michael Chaves, the film features returning stars Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson as Ed and Lorraine Warren. Despite mixed reviews and a CinemaScore of 'B,' the film's performance is bolstered by its release in Imax and premium large-format theaters.
Why It's Important?
The impressive opening of 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' underscores the enduring appeal of the horror genre and the franchise's ability to draw audiences. This success is significant for Warner Bros., marking their seventh consecutive film to open above $40 million. The film's strong performance, despite mixed reviews, highlights the franchise's loyal fan base and the effective marketing strategies employed. The success of 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' also reflects the continued viability of theatrical releases in the post-pandemic era, particularly for horror films, which often benefit from the communal viewing experience.
What's Next?
With its strong opening, 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' is poised to continue its box office success in the coming weeks. The film's performance may influence future decisions regarding the franchise, potentially leading to more sequels or spin-offs. Additionally, the film's success could encourage other studios to invest in horror films, recognizing their potential for high returns. As the film continues to perform well, it may also impact the strategies of competing studios, prompting them to adjust their release schedules or marketing approaches to capitalize on the horror genre's popularity.
