Following the record-breaking success of “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema have officially confirmed that the high-stakes world of the Warrens is far from over, though it is heading back to the beginning.
The studios have announced a release date for “The Conjuring: First Communion,” a prequel that promises to peel back the layers of the franchise’s supernatural lore. Set to haunt theaters on September 10, 2027, the film will occupy the prime post-Labor Day slot that has historically served as a powerhouse for the studio’s horror hits like “IT” and “The Nun.”
A New Chapter in the Warren Legacy
While “Last Rites” was marketed as the final chapter for Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga’s iteration of Ed and Lorraine Warren, the announcement of “First Communion” suggests the studio is ready to explore the early days of the paranormal power couple.
Reports indicate that the film will be directed by Rodrigue Huart, a rising voice in the genre, working from a screenplay by Richard Naing and Ian Goldberg. The story is expected to dive into the formative years of the Warrens’ careers, potentially exploring the first cases that cemented their reputation as the world’s preeminent demonologists long before the Perron farmhouse or the Enfield Poltergeist.
The shift toward a prequel comes at a time when the phase one of the “Conjuring” universe has officially concluded, leaving fans eager to see how the mythology will be retooled for a new era. Industry insiders suggest that “First Communion” will surely feature a younger cast in the lead roles, though the studio has remained tight-lipped regarding specific casting details.
This move follows a massive year for the franchise, which saw “Last Rites” exceed all box office expectations, grossing nearly $500 million worldwide. With a dedicated TV series also in development, Warner Bros. is clearly leaning into the phases model, ensuring that the “Conjuring” brand remains the cornerstone of modern cinematic horror. As the September 2027 date approaches, fans can expect the typical breadcrumb trail of cryptic teasers and jumpscare-laden trailers to begin surfacing by next year.