The Conjuring: Last Rites has cast a powerful spell over the box office, achieving a remarkable franchise-best $34.5 million opening day. This strong debut firmly cements the film’s place at the pinnacle of horror releases in 2025. As the latest installment in the long-standing horror series, it surpasses initial industry forecasts and positions itself for a record-breaking weekend.
Record-Breaking Debut
The film’s $34.5 million earned across Friday and preview screenings in 3,802 theaters has outshone previous franchise entries, notably “The Nun,” which debuted with $22 million. This milestone positions “The Conjuring: Last Rites” for a potential $50 million weekend, making it the series’ biggest opening, possibly surpassing “The Nun’s” $53 million. With the support of Imax and large-format screenings, it might even challenge the year’s top weekend offerings, like “Thunderbolts.”
Franchise’s Enduring Appeal
Despite being the ninth film in “The Conjuring” universe, this entry once again captivates audiences. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson return, reprising their roles as real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Director Michael Chaves, familiar with the franchise, directs “Last Rites,” following his work on “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” and “The Nun II.” The film’s success continues Warner Bros.’ streak of hits, marking its seventh consecutive $40 million-plus opening.
Mixed Reviews But Strong Earnings
Reviews might be lukewarm, with Cinema Score giving it a “B” grade—the lowest for the franchise—but the moviegoers’ interest remains undiminished. The film’s production budget of $55 million is well-supported by its impressive initial earnings, ensuring a robust start.
Other Box Office Contenders
Meanwhile, Disney’s “Hamilton,” a filmed version of the Broadway sensation, makes its theatrical debut in 1,825 theaters. With $3.9 million by Friday, it anticipates a $9 million weekend, despite being available on Disney+ for several years. The film’s re-release coincides with its 10th anniversary, tapping into a nostalgic audience.
Another Warner Bros. offering, “Weapons,” claims third place, sustaining steady earnings as it enters its fifth weekend. The original horror flick has accumulated over $140 million domestically.
In fourth place, Disney’s “Freakier Friday” earned $960,000, maintaining its momentum. Its success is noteworthy, nearing “Snow White” in domestic earnings, placing it among the top releases of the year.
Sony’s “Caught Stealing” struggles, seeing a steep 58% decline from its debut, while the Salvation Poem Project’s “Light of the World” debuts modestly with projected earnings placing it in eighth.
Overall, The Conjuring: Last Rites continues to demonstrate the power of a compelling horror franchise, drawing in audiences and achieving new heights in box office performance.
