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“The Conjuring: Last Rites” Is a Bittersweet Farewell, Say James Wan and Filmmakers, Opens September 3 in Cinemas

James Wan and Peter Safran reflect on the emotional journey of wrapping up the world’s most successful horror franchise with “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” hitting PH cinemas on September 3.…

Horror Royalty Says Farewell

When James Wan and Peter Safran first brought The Conjuring to life back in 2013, they were simply hoping to create one terrifyingly great ghost story—something fans hadn’t seen in years. What they sparked, however, was the birth of a modern horror phenomenon.

Now, after nearly a decade and nine unforgettable films, The Conjuring Universe officially closes its doors with The Conjuring: Last Rites, premiering in Philippine cinemas on September 3.

Watch the Trailer Here:

From a Single Scare to a Global Horror Legacy

Reflecting on the franchise’s legacy, producer Peter Safran says the original goal was never to build a universe—it was to tell one phenomenal story.

“We just wanted to make one great movie,” shares Peter Safran, producer of “The Conjuring: Last Rites” and all the other previous eight movies in the franchise. “And so, we’re really proud to be here 14 years later, with all of the tremendous commercial and critical successes that these films have had… I believe you’re always conflicted by the end of something beautiful – I feel happy and sad. But with the series, I’m happy to have been involved with such an amazing group of artists, and that we’ve all gotten to end this journey on a high note.”

Wan on Wrapping Up: “It’s the Right Time”

For James Wan, who directed the first two Conjuring films and served as a producer across the franchise, Last Ritesmarks more than just a film—it’s a farewell to a creative family.

“For me, ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ is pretty much the end of an era and, because of that, it’s somewhat bittersweet,’ says Wan. “We’ve had such a good time making these films, because it feels like such a family unit. But like all good things… I think we’re finishing up at the right time. It feels like this movie is a good way to wrap up the world, at least for now. It’s been over a decade with the ‘Conjuring’ Universe. I’ve made many acquaintances who’ve become long-term friends.”

Why Fans Fell in Love: Vera & Patrick’s Powerful Onscreen Bond

Ask any Conjuring fan and they’ll tell you—it’s not just the scares that kept them coming back. It was the heart. And that heart has always been Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, portraying real-life paranormal investigators Lorraine and Ed Warren.

“Vera and Patrick have always been the center of these movies,” says Wan. “They have such a great relationship, onscreen and off – they’re such good friends. I think that really comes across and the audience sees how authentic it is. I think it brings much more reality to the characters that they play. It’s a big part of why fans out there love these films. I have always said, ‘They come for the fright and the scares, but they really stick around for Vera and Patrick.’

Director Michael Chaves, who helmed The Devil Made Me Do It and The Nun II, echoes this admiration:

“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” and 2023’s “The Nun II”: “I’ve been so lucky to be part of the ‘Conjuring Universe.’ Saying goodbye to this experience – and to the friends I’ve made along the way – has been really emotional. Vera and Patrick have always been our secret weapon. They’re the heart and soul of these films, and it’s their talent and who they are as people that have shaped these movies from the start. These films ended up being family stories in a way not a lot of people expected – big family stories with plenty of scares.”

What to Expect in The Conjuring: Last Rites

Set against the backdrop of a chilling real-life case, The Conjuring: Last Rites brings Ed and Lorraine Warren back for their most emotional investigation yet. It’s a final stand against evil, and a touching tribute to the characters that defined an era.

Saying Goodbye to the Dark—and the Light

As the team prepares to send the franchise off, there’s a profound sense of gratitude. The Conjuring films not only redefined horror, they also nurtured long-lasting friendships and collaborations.

The Last Case Begins September 3

The Conjuring: Last Rites isn’t just the ninth installment in a record-breaking saga—it’s the final word in a story that’s terrified, moved, and inspired millions.

So if you’ve laughed nervously, screamed in fear, or cried over Ed and Lorraine’s love story… this one’s for you.

Don’t miss the grand finale in cinemas nationwide this September 3. Distributed locally by Warner Bros. Pictures PH.

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

Tags: Coming to Cinemas Soon, James Wan, The Conjuring: Last Rites

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