Introduction:
The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025) brings the long-running horror franchise to a close, following Ed and Lorraine Warren’s last paranormal investigation.
Directed by Michael Chaves and featuring the iconic leads Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, this installment dives deep into a harrowing haunting tied to the Smurl family.
While it respects the tone of previous films, it carries a heavier emotional weight, reminding audiences that the battles between good and evil also break the spirit within us.
Release Details:
The film was released on September 5, 2025, and was produced by James Wan and Peter Safran, and serves as the ninth and final installment of the first phase of the Conjuring Universe.
Cast:
Patrick Wilson
Vera Farmiga
Mia Tomlinson
Ben Hardy
What’s in the Movie:
The Conjuring: Last Rites centers around Ed and Lorraine Warren’s final investigation into a terrifying haunting linked to the Smurl family in Pennsylvania.
The story begins with mysterious events around an antique mirror, which becomes the focal point of supernatural disturbances affecting the family.
The Warrens are drawn back into the world of paranormal investigation by a mix of frightening occurrences and deeply personal challenges, including the growing psychic abilities of their daughter Judy.
The film blends atmospheric horror with emotional depth, exploring not only the external haunting but also the Warrens’ own fears, faith, and family bonds.
Viewers can expect a tense buildup of eerie moments, shadowy figures, cryptic visions, and a demon force that pushes the characters to their limits..
What Works:
Strong performances by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga ground the supernatural chaos with genuine emotion.
Building a gripping atmosphere with psychological dread that sticks beyond the movie.
A sense of finality and closure for longstanding fans, delivering a satisfying end to the Warrens’ journey.
Balanced mix of scares and heartfelt moments that resonate emotionally.
What Doesn’t Work:
Some viewers find the scares less intense or original compared to earlier Conjuring films.
Certain plot points remain unresolved or feel rushed, leaving questions unanswered.
The pacing drags at moments, and a few character decisions can feel questionable or underdeveloped.
Reliance on jump scares and loud noises may dilute the genuine dread fans expect.
Audience Reaction:
Fans largely praise Last Rites for its chilling atmosphere and emotional core, calling it a “perfect swan-song” for the Warrens.
While some express disappointment over a lack of intense scares compared to earlier films, many appreciate the heartfelt farewell and performances.
Social media buzz reflects a generally positive reception with glowing remarks on the lead duo’s chemistry and the fitting closure to the saga
Correct Watching Order for The Conjuring Universe:
The Nun (2018)
Annabelle: Creation (2017)
Annabelle (2014)
Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
The Curse of La Llorona (2019)
The Conjuring (2013)
The Conjuring 2 (2016)
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025
Final Thoughts:
The Conjuring: Last Rites is a worthy and emotional finale that may not reinvent the wheel, but captures the spirit of the Conjuring universe admirably.
It’s a satisfying closure for fans devoted to the Warrens’ saga, offering enough chills and depth to linger after the credits.
While it’s divisive among critics and audiences regarding scare factor, the palpable chemistry between the lead actors and the emotional weight make the hype mostly justified.
If invested in the franchise, viewers will find this entry a fitting and memorable goodbye to Ed and Lorraine Warren.
The Conjuring: Last Rites may not be the scariest chapter in the franchise, but it excels as a haunting and emotional farewell, making the hype mostly worth it for loyal fans of the universe.
Its finality and strong character moments ensure it closes the door on the Warrens with respect and genuine impact.
