Healthy, pro-Christian feature film Summoning: The Last Ritual Sets Box Office Records
Chapter 9 of the Conjuring Universe, featuring Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as real-life demon hunters Ed and Lorraine Warren, was anticipated to debut between $40 and $50 million over the weekend. Warner Bros. had expected it to be closer to around $35 million.
However, as the receipts for Thursday and Friday came in, The Last Ritual seemed to be heading toward a staggering $65 million opening. This not only marks the best start for the Warren franchise but also surpasses all nine films in the entire Conjuring Universe. Interestingly, the previous record was held by the 2018 film The Nun, which opened at $54 million.
Some argue that this could represent one of the best opening weekends in September film history and stands out as the year’s leading horror debut.
So, what’s happening here?
My theory is… well, everyone knew this was the final chapter featuring Wilson and Farmiga, and over 12 years, moviegoers have developed a genuine affection for this duo. Ed and Lorraine Warren present something rare in today’s cinema—they are healthy, openly Catholic, and maintain a loving relationship while raising their only child. They embody a stable, romantic marriage that feels almost nostalgic. Living in the suburbs, they uphold their faith and risk their lives to assist families troubled by malevolent forces. They’re portrayed as ordinary, relatable, and good-hearted people, which draws audiences in, whether they fully realize it or not.
This appeal becomes even stronger against the backdrop of a Hollywood often quick to portray men as flawed or toxic and women as overly masculine or uncomfortable. Families are typically depicted as dysfunctional, suburbs shown as stifling, and Christian faith often comes off as oppressive.
In the Summoning series, Ed embodies a masculine, moral protector, while Lorraine represents a nurturing, feminine presence. The Warrens provide stability amid chaos in the characters’ lives, and their suburban setting feels like an ideal haven. Their faith appears genuine and enriching for those who embrace it.
Today, this approach is not just original but strikingly countercultural.
Now, you might wonder, “How can R-rated horror films seem healthy?”
That’s what differentiates Summoning within the Warren series. It captures the voices of the Warrens while presenting a realistic and terrifying depiction of evil—something that elevates it above many other horror films. Sure, it’s R-rated, but then again, so is The Passion of the Christ (2004). The rating doesn’t dictate the theme or message.
Audiences are eager to witness the Warrens’ journey. Yes, there’s a desire for a scare, but it’s intertwined with a deep-seated love for these characters.
As I noted, The Last Ritual leans heavily on the charm and authentic decency of the Warrens, which is why it feels more like a family film than just another horror flick. This final installment serves as a heartfelt goodbye, resonating with those who appreciate everyday goodness amid Hollywood’s chaos.
