The Warrens are back one last time in The Conjuring: Last Rites, the supposed grand finale of the franchise that redefined modern horror. But does this curtain call deliver true terror, or is it just coasting on nostalgia? Let’s break it down.
The film came in hot, hyped as the ultimate send-off for Ed and Lorraine Warren. It dives into the infamous Smurl haunting of the 1980s, weaving supernatural dread with an emotional storyline that centers heavily on the Warren family. Think less “haunted house chaos” and more “spiritual closure.”
Once again, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga prove why they are the franchise. Their chemistry is the glue that holds this film together. Farmiga, especially, pulls off an emotional knockout in scenes where Lorraine’s psychic battles aren’t just against demons but also her own fears of legacy and family.
- The Good:
The final act lands hard. The emotional resonance is undeniable, and the dedication to wrapping up the Warrens’ journey gives longtime fans the closure they craved. The scares, while predictable, are executed with polished timing. - The Bad:
At over two hours, the pacing drags. The first half leans heavily on melodrama, almost blurring into soap opera territory before the supernatural tension kicks in. For those expecting a non-stop fright fest, this might feel like a slow burn that takes a little too long to catch fire. - The Creepy:
The film grounds itself in a true story, and that makes the scares hit differently. Knowing the Smurl haunting is based on real-life accounts adds a shadow of authenticity that keeps you looking over your shoulder long after the credits roll.
Reactions are divided. Some viewers hail it as a “beautiful and terrifying end” to the saga, applauding the mix of fear and feeling. Others dismiss it as predictable, claiming the scariest demon was the script itself. Either way, the conversation around Last Rites is alive and buzzing, which is exactly what a finale should spark.
The Conjuring: Last Rites is not the scariest entry in the series, but it might be the most heartfelt. It prioritizes legacy over jump scares, aiming to give the Warrens and fans a proper goodbye. While the pacing could’ve been tighter, the emotional payoff ensures it won’t be forgotten.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5. A haunting farewell that lingers more in the heart than in the nightmares!
