The Conjuring Last Rites: Box Office Success, Ending Explained & What’s Next

The Conjuring: Last Rites has officially hit theaters, and horror fans worldwide are flocking to see the final chapter in Ed and Lorraine Warren’s chilling saga. Directed by Michael Chaves and starring Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, the film not only marks the conclusion of an era but also sets the stage for what New Line Cinema calls the beginning of “Phase Two” of The Conjuring Universe.

A Record-Breaking Opening

Horror films rarely dominate the global box office, but The Conjuring Last Rites has already broken records. On its opening day in India, the film earned a staggering ₹18 crore, becoming the biggest Hollywood horror debut ever in the country. This performance even surpassed blockbuster action titles like Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning.

Globally, industry insiders report strong ticket sales across North America and Europe, with horror fans praising its return-to-roots storytelling. The momentum suggests that Last Rites is well on its way to becoming one of the highest-grossing installments of the franchise.

A Return to Classic Conjuring Style

Director Michael Chaves emphasized a deliberate creative choice: strip away the over-the-top spectacle and bring the story back to the intimate, suspense-driven terror that defined James Wan’s original The Conjuring in 2013.

Unlike some spin-offs in the universe (The Nun II, Annabelle Comes Home), Last Rites thrives on its atmosphere, slow-building dread, and the dynamic between Wilson and Farmiga. Critics note that this approach reminds fans why the series captured audiences in the first place—it’s more about eerie storytelling than jump-scare overload.

The Ending and Emotional Farewell

Without giving away every detail, the final act of The Conjuring Last Rites delivers both heart-pounding horror and emotional closure. For longtime fans, seeing Ed and Lorraine Warren confront one last haunting feels like a natural yet poignant end to their journey.

Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga deliver performances that balance fear with humanity, reminding audiences that the heart of The Conjuring films was never just the demons, but the strength of love and faith in the face of darkness.

Post-Credits Scene Ties It All Together

The post-credits scene is one of Last Rites’ most talked-about features. The filmmakers decided to respect the franchise’s origins rather than hinting at a monster or a new antagonist. The scene alludes to Ed Warren’s old video, bringing to mind the first case files and the mirror that served as the focal point of the Warrens’ actual investigations.

This nostalgic callback underscores the theme of legacy—closing one chapter while opening the possibility for the next generation to take up the mantle.

The Future: What Is Phase Two?

Although The Conjuring Last Rites is confirmed to be the final film centered on Ed and Lorraine, the franchise is far from over. New Line Cinema has teased a “Phase Two,” which is rumored to explore the Warrens’ daughter, Judy, and her husband, Tony Spera.

This shift could provide a fresh perspective while still staying within the universe’s lore. Judy Warren was introduced in earlier films, and fans are curious to see how her inherited connection to the supernatural unfolds.

If Phase Two follows the same formula of grounded horror and character-driven storytelling, the universe may continue to thrive for years to come.

Where to Watch The Conjuring Last Rites

Currently, The Conjuring Last Rites is playing exclusively in theaters following its global release on September 5, 2025. Streaming availability has not yet been officially confirmed, but industry trends suggest it will land on HBO Max in late October—just in time for Halloween binge sessions.

Why This Film Matters for Horror Fans

For over a decade, The Conjuring has been a defining force in modern horror. It created one of the most popular horror franchises ever, sparked spin-offs, and rekindled interest in supernatural storytelling.

The Conjuring Last Rites doesn’t just close a story; it highlights the franchise’s cultural significance. Its balance of scares, faith, and family makes it more than just another haunted house flick. It’s a farewell letter to fans who’ve followed Ed and Lorraine’s journey since the very beginning.