The horror genre has been on a thrilling ride, dominating the box office in 2025 and setting records. Among the biggest horror releases of the year was The Conjuring: Last Rites, the highly anticipated final chapter in the Conjuring series. This film not only wrapped up the story of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren but also shattered box office records, becoming the highest-grossing horror film of the year. Despite its success, the movie received mixed reviews, with critics pointing out certain flaws, but audiences embraced it for its nostalgic haunted house feel and the focus on the Warrens' relationship.
However, there's a catch for fans eager to binge-watch the entire Conjuring franchise on Prime Video. While Last Rites has made its way onto the streaming platform, it's the only film in the series currently available. This leaves fans wondering why Prime Video hasn't acquired the rights to the entire franchise, especially given the popularity of the genre and the success of Last Rites.
The Rise of Horror and the Conjuring Legacy
The horror genre has experienced a resurgence in recent years, with 2025 being a particularly strong year. Major releases like Sinners, Weapons, and Final Destination Bloodlines contributed to the genre surpassing the $1 billion mark at the domestic box office by September. This success has continued into 2026, with several highly anticipated horror movies on the horizon.
In this thriving landscape, The Conjuring: Last Rites stood out as a record-breaking finale to the Conjuring series. Directed by Ian Goldberg, the film not only topped the box office charts but also became the highest-grossing film in the franchise. Its opening weekend earnings of $194 million globally surpassed the previous record held by It, solidifying its place in horror history.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
While The Conjuring: Last Rites divided critics, with a Tomatometer score of 57%, audiences were more receptive, giving it a 77% approval rating. This disparity highlights the subjective nature of horror, where personal preferences and expectations play a significant role. Critics pointed to pacing issues, a lengthy runtime, and a less compelling antagonist compared to previous films. However, audiences appreciated the film's return to the classic haunted house formula, effective scares, and the emotional depth of the Warrens' relationship.
The Future of the Franchise
Despite being marketed as the final installment in the main Conjuring series, the massive success of Last Rites has ensured the franchise's continuation. A new prequel, The Conjuring: First Communion, is already in the works, with a release date set for September 10, 2027. This development raises questions about the future direction of the franchise and whether it will explore new storylines or revisit familiar characters and settings.
Prime Video's Horror Lineup
The arrival of The Conjuring: Last Rites on Prime Video is part of a larger trend of horror movies finding their way onto streaming platforms. This April, Prime Video added several other terrifying titles to its library, including the original Child's Play and its 2019 remake, Dark Harvest, Killer Klowns from Outer Space, Lifeforce, The Poughkeepsie Tapes, and The Prodigy. This expansion of Prime Video's horror offerings provides fans with a diverse range of options to satisfy their cravings for thrills and chills.
Conclusion
The Conjuring: Last Rites is a testament to the enduring appeal of the horror genre and the power of well-crafted storytelling. While Prime Video's decision to stream only this film from the Conjuring franchise may be a disappointment to some fans, it also highlights the ongoing evolution of the horror landscape. As the genre continues to evolve and expand, streaming platforms will play an increasingly important role in delivering horror content to audiences worldwide. Whether it's through new releases or classic favorites, horror fans can look forward to a future filled with spine-tingling entertainment.
