Warner Bros.’ newest horror release, The Conjuring:
Last Rites, has stormed to the top of the Nigerian box office, earning ?31
million in its opening weekend. The performance makes it the highest-grossing
film across Nigerian cinemas during its debut run.
Distributed locally by FilmOne Entertainment,
the film outpaced Nollywood and other international titles, cementing the
rising popularity of global horror franchises in Nigeria’s expanding cinema
market.
The ninth entry in the Conjuring Universe, Last
Rites continues the saga of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine
Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga.
Directed by Michael Chaves, the film also stars Mia Tomlinson and
Ben Hardy, with a script inspired by the real-life Smurl haunting.
Since its U.S. release on September 5, 2025,
the film has grossed $187 million globally against a $55 million
budget, already surpassing its break-even point. Its opening weekend alone
delivered over $150 million worldwide, outperforming the overseas debuts
of Warner Bros.’ earlier horror hits It and It: Chapter Two.
In Nigeria, cinema operators reported strong
attendance, particularly during evening and weekend screenings, highlighting
the appeal of horror films to younger audiences. Analysts point to the mix of brand
recognition, effective distribution, and the communal thrill of
big-screen horror as key drivers of the local box office success.
Though modest compared to U.S. and global numbers, the
?31 million haul represents a major win in Nigeria, where
openings above ?20 million are considered strong. For FilmOne, the result
continues a streak of successful international releases that have boosted
Nigeria’s contribution to Hollywood’s global revenue streams.
The success of The Conjuring: Last Rites
underscores the competitive balance between Nollywood blockbusters and
Hollywood imports, a trend that has strengthened cinema culture across West
Africa’s largest film market.
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