‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ sets box office records in Philippines

Metro Manila, Philippines - “The Conjuring: Last Rites” has broken multiple box office records in the country, including the biggest opening day for a horror film of all time, Warner Bros. Pictures announced Wednesday, Sept. 4.

The ninth installment in the billion-dollar Conjuring universe drew fans to midnight screenings on Sept. 3, setting a new record for the country’s highest-grossing midnight opening. The film also posted the biggest debut for an R-16 movie, surpassing the mark previously held by “Final Destination Bloodlines.”

Directed by franchise veteran Michael Chaves, “Last Rites” reunites Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga in their farewell appearance as real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film also secured the second-highest opening day gross for any movie in the country this year.

“Vera and Patrick have always been the center of these movies,” said James Wan, who directed the first two Conjuring films and serves as producer. “They come for the fright and the scares, but they really stick around for Vera and Patrick.”

Producer Peter Safran credited the pair for anchoring the franchise. “I think the success of the universe has really hinged on the Warrens as a family,” he said. “That’s why people keep coming back.”

Farmiga reflected on her time in the role, calling the film “the last act” for Ed and Lorraine Warren. Wilson added that his journey with the character began as “a gift to be able to do this” back in 2013.

The film, rated R-16, is now showing in cinemas nationwide.