The Conjuring: Last Rites serves as both the 9th entry in the Conjuring Universe and the closing chapter of Ed and Lorraine Warren’s journey. Directed by Michael Chaves and featuring Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga in their final performances as the paranormal investigators, the film revisits one of the Warrens’ most infamous cases while also tying their story back to the beginnings of their career.
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The plot unfolds in 1986, where the Smurl family reports terrifying disturbances in their Pennsylvania home. What begins as a case of violent hauntings soon unravels into something far darker—a history of murder within the house and the presence of a demon the Warrens have faced before. Their retirement plans are put on hold as they discover the entity’s true target: their daughter, Judy. This revelation turns the case into the Warrens’ most dangerous, not only because of what’s at stake for the Smurls but also because their own family is now under siege.
What truly stands out in Last Rites is how it weaves the Warrens’ personal life into the horror narrative. The earlier films always highlighted the bond between Ed and Lorraine, but here, their relationship expands into a family dynamic that feels fuller and richer. Judy is no longer a child on the sidelines—her maturity, her boyfriend, and her struggle with newfound abilities give the film a heartfelt throughline.
The interactions among the four characters—Ed, Lorraine, Judy, and her boyfriend—bring a natural warmth to the film. Lighthearted jokes and playful exchanges break the tension, while moments of vulnerability and shared fear bind them together. This blend of humor, love, and resilience provides a refreshing balance to the darkness, reminding us that the Conjuring series has always been about the strength of family as much as it has been about battling demons.
Where the film stumbles, however, is in its horror execution. While the family drama is layered and engaging, the supernatural side of the film doesn’t quite reach the terrifying heights that the series is known for. The scares are serviceable, with a handful of effective set pieces, but they lack the intensity and innovation of earlier installments. At times, it feels as though the film is leaning on familiar tricks rather than pushing the envelope, which makes the horror element feel decent but not exceptional. For a franchise that built its reputation on chilling atmosphere and sequences, this final chapter falls just short of delivering that same lasting impact.
That being said, the performances keep the film grounded and emotionally resonant. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga once again prove why they’ve become the heart of the Conjuring Universe, embodying Ed and Lorraine with sincerity and grace. Their chemistry is as compelling as ever, lending credibility to both the quieter moments of tenderness and the more intense scenes of dread. Mia Tomlinson brings Judy to life with a mix of vulnerability and strength, while Ben Hardy adds charm and balance as her supportive boyfriend. Together, the ensemble creates a believable family dynamic that carries the film even when the scares falter.
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In the end, The Conjuring: Last Rites succeeds as a heartfelt farewell to Ed and Lorraine Warren, even if it doesn’t fully deliver on the franchise’s trademark horror. The emotional depth, the sense of family, and the strong performances make it a satisfying conclusion, offering closure to characters that fans have followed for over a decade. While it may not be the scariest entry in the series, it captures the spirit of resilience and love at the core of the Conjuring films, ensuring that the Warrens’ legacy resonates long after the final credits roll.
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