Warner Bros. Achieves Box Office Success with 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' Opening

What's Happening?

'The Conjuring: Last Rites,' the latest installment in the 'The Conjuring' universe, has made a significant impact at the domestic box office, earning $83 million in its opening weekend. This figure surpasses industry expectations, which had projected earnings of around $50 million. The film's debut marks the highest opening for the franchise, overtaking 2018's 'The Nun,' and ranks as the third-highest opening for a horror movie, following 'It' and 'It: Chapter Two.' Released by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film's success contributes to a strong year for horror films, with the genre surpassing $1 billion in domestic box office revenue in 2025. Other successful horror films this year include 'Sinners' and 'Final Destination: Bloodlines.'

Why It's Important?

The success of 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' underscores the enduring popularity and profitability of the horror genre in the film industry. This achievement highlights Warner Bros.' strategic positioning within the genre, as the company continues to release high-grossing horror films. The film's performance also reflects a broader trend of audiences seeking communal experiences in theaters, particularly for horror films, which are known for their immersive and thrilling nature. The strong box office results contribute positively to the financial health of the film industry, which has been recovering from the impacts of the pandemic.

What's Next?

The momentum generated by 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' is expected to continue with upcoming horror releases. Universal Pictures is set to release 'Black Phone 2' in October, followed by 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2' in December. These sequels are anticipated to draw significant audiences, further bolstering the horror genre's presence in theaters. Additionally, the success of 'The Conjuring: Last Rites' may encourage studios to invest more in horror films, potentially leading to a surge in production and innovation within the genre.