Advertisement
The Conjuring: Last Rites serves as a fitting farewell to the iconic horror franchise, blending emotional depth with supernatural terror, though it’s not without its flaws.
Cast and Crew: Directed by Michael Chaves, who previously helmed The Devil Made Me Do It and The Nun II, the film brings back franchise staples Vera Farmiga (Lorraine Warren) and Patrick Wilson (Ed Warren), whose performances remain steady and emotionally grounded. New additions include Mia Tomlinson as the grown-up Judy Warren, delivering an impressive portrayal during possession sequences, and Ben Hardy as her fiancé, Tony Spera, adding warmth to the family dynamic. Supporting cast members such as Steve Coulter (Father Gordon), Elliot Cowan, Rebecca Calder, and Kíla Lord Cassidy provide solid, if secondary, contributions.
Plot: Set in the 1960s, the story focuses on Lorraine’s supernatural pregnancy, a demonic mirror, and the experiences of Judy as she grows up, encountering terrifying visions that culminate in a final confrontation with the forces haunting the Warren family. Themes of legacy, family bonds, and facing evil head-on are woven alongside the franchise’s signature hauntings and possessions.
Strengths: The film excels in atmosphere, thanks to meticulous cinematography capturing shadows and flickers with chilling precision. Performances, particularly by Farmiga, Wilson, and Tomlinson, anchor the story and give weight to the horror elements. The final 20 minutes deliver a thrilling climax, combining scares with a heartfelt conclusion that honors the franchise. Fans are likely to appreciate the emotional send-off for Ed and Lorraine Warren.
Weaknesses: The pacing in the first two acts is uneven, potentially testing viewers’ patience. Additionally, the film leans heavily on familiar horror tropes, such as jump scares and eerie visuals, which, while effective, can feel repetitive and predictable over time.
Verdict: The Conjuring: Last Rites is a strong, emotionally resonant finale that balances scares with sentiment. While the early pacing and repetitive tropes slightly detract from the experience, the performances and climactic horror moments make it a satisfying conclusion for long-time fans of the franchise.