The Conjuring: Last Rites Unleashes Record-Shattering Box Office Debut!

The latest chilling chapter in the horror saga, "The Conjuring: Last Rites," has burst onto the box office scene with an absolutely electrifying performance, sending shivers down the spines of competitors and delighting fans alike. The film raked in an astounding $14.3 million from its Thursday preview screenings, not just setting a new high for the current year in horror, but decisively claiming the title for the biggest preview night in the entire "Conjuring" universe's illustrious history.

This phenomenal opening isn't just a win; it's a statement.

"Last Rites" has unequivocally outmuscled every previous installment, leaving its predecessors in its spooky wake. To put this in perspective, its $14.3 million haul absolutely dwarfs the preview numbers of past hits: "The Nun II" (a respectable $3.1 million), "Annabelle Comes Home" ($3.5 million), "The Nun" ($5.4 million), "Annabelle Creation" ($3.5 million), "The Conjuring 2" ($3.7 million), "Annabelle" ($2.1 million), "The Conjuring" ($3.2 million), and "The Curse of La Llorona" ($2.75 million).

This triumph underlines the enduring power and magnetic appeal of the franchise, proving that audiences are hungrier than ever for the latest terrifying tales from the world of Ed and Lorraine Warren.

The "Conjuring" universe is more than just a series of scary movies; it's a global phenomenon.

With "Last Rites" now bolstering its already impressive ledger, the franchise continues its legacy as one of the most consistently successful horror cinematic universes ever created, having collectively grossed over $2 billion worldwide across its ten films. This latest entry, with its robust opening, is poised to significantly add to that staggering total.

Industry analysts are watching closely, with initial projections for "The Conjuring: Last Rites" pointing towards a sensational opening weekend in the range of $35 million to $40 million.

This would be a triumphant debut, especially considering the film's production budget stands at approximately $40 million before the substantial costs of marketing and distribution are factored in. Such a strong start positions the film for significant profitability, further solidifying Warner Bros.

and New Line Cinema's faith in the lucrative horror genre.

Directed by Michael Chaves, who previously helmed "The Curse of La Llorona" and "The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It," "Last Rites" sees the return of the iconic paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed with compelling depth by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga.

Their unparalleled chemistry and dedication to their roles have been a cornerstone of the franchise's success, drawing audiences back time and again to witness their battles against the supernatural. Joining them is the talented Mckenna Grace, adding another layer to the chilling narrative. As the box office numbers continue to climb, "The Conjuring: Last Rites" is not just another horror film; it's a testament to a franchise that understands how to perfectly blend frights with compelling storytelling, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and eager for more.