The final outing of everyone’s paranormal investigators – Ed and Lorraine Warren – has struck gold at the Indian box office. ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’, stormed theatres on Friday, registering a record breaking Rs 18 crore net debut according to early estimates on sacnilk. The film that faced some stiff competition at the Indian box office, as it clashed with domestic releases like ‘Baaghi 4’ and ‘The Bengal Files’, managed to hold its own, and rake in a gross estimated collection of approximately Rs 21 crore, across all languages on its opening day. With this, the film has instantly secured its place as the biggest ever Hollywood horror opener in India.
Occupancy and screen count
The strong start was reflected in occupancy rates. In English 2D formats, the film posted an overall 61.10% occupancy, beginning with 44% for morning shows and peaking at a stellar 78% for night screenings. Hindi versions also performed solidly, with an overall 49.61% occupancy. Meanwhile, other formats, including the 4DX format, scored as high as 91% occupancy in theatres in the country. With a rollout across 2,200+ screens nationwide, the film has set a new benchmark for horror releases in India.
Audience response
Backed by the fact that the film will be the final chapter in the franchise, it’s opening-day buzz translated into packed houses across multiplexes and single screens alike. Evening and late-night shows, in particular, witnessed heavy turnout. Great word of mouth and good reviews boosted strong advance bookings, which was also reported to be the highest ever for a horror release in India.
Star cast and direction
Directed by Michael Chaves, ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ sees Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return as Ed and Lorraine Warren. This time around, they are joined by Mia Tomlinson and Ben Hardy, who anchor the final chapter.
Competition at the box office
The film outperformed its Bollywood rivals with ease. ‘Baaghi 4’ and ‘The Bengal Files’ proved to be no match for this epic horror saga with the actioner earning around Rs 12 crore while the political drama took home an estiamted Rs 1.75 crore net.The horror thriller also surpassed the opening of Ajay Devgn and R. Madhavan’s ‘Shaitaan’, which earned Rs 17.50 crore on day one last year.
Global box office
Internationally, the movie is eyeing an equally impressive start, with reports projecting an estimated $50 million and $55 million opening weekend. Overseas markets spanning 66 territories are expected to generate another $50 million, potentially pushing the worldwide debut beyond the $100 million mark.
Hitting the Rs 100 crore mark
Industry experts predict ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ could soon enter the Rs 100 crore club in India, becoming the first Hollywood horror title to do so. If it continues to maintain its pace through the weekend, the film could also rewrite the record books for horror movies in the country.
