New Delhi, September 5, 2025
Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga reprise their roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren in The Conjuring: Last Rites, the ninth and final installment of the popular supernatural horror franchise. However, despite the returning cast, the film struggles to deliver the suspense and terror audiences have come to expect from the series.
Storyline
The film opens with a flashback to 1964, depicting a demonic force clashing with the young Warren family and attaching itself to Judy from birth. Years later, the same spirit begins haunting the Smurl family in Western Pennsylvania. Amidst four daughters and the family elders, the malevolent force wreaks havoc until the retired Warren couple steps in once again. The central question remains: will the Warrens save the Smurls, or become victims themselves?
Writing and Direction
The screenplay by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, Ian Goldberg, and Richard Naing lacks the sharpness and intensity expected from the franchise. While the trailer hinted at a menacing supernatural entity, the film keeps this presence minimal, reducing its impact. Director Michael Chaves emphasizes emotions and family drama over outright horror, which undermines the series’ signature suspense-driven narrative. Early ghostly sequences create tension but gradually lose their effect.
Performances
Vera Farmiga shines with her nuanced portrayal of Lorraine, balancing maternal instincts with fear, keeping viewers engaged. Patrick Wilson’s role, however, is somewhat limited in scope. New additions Mia Tomlinson (Judy) and Ben Hardy (Tony) feel natural in their roles, while supporting cast members, particularly Beau Gadsdon as Don Smurl, strengthen the story.
Technical Aspects
The film’s background score stands out and effectively sets the mood. However, shortcomings in the script and direction weaken the overall experience.
Verdict
The Conjuring: Last Rites fails to provide the grand farewell fans anticipated. What should have been a memorable closing chapter instead comes across as a standard family drama. Still, seeing Ed and Lorraine Warren on screen for the last time offers a special moment for loyal fans of the franchise.
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