Film Review: The Conjuring: Last Rites
2 min read
“The Conjuring: Last Rites delivers another thrilling chapter of the iconic Conjuring cinematic universe, based on real events. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson reunite for one last case as renowned, real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren in a powerful and spine-chilling addition to the global box office-breaking franchise.” – Warner Bros UK
Snapshot Review: The Conjuring: Last Rites is the fourth installment of the highest grossing horror franchise of all time. The film mostly takes place in 1986 in a suburban Pennsylvanian town. Yet, the film begins with an origin story of the Warrens where we see how their initial contact with a demonic spirit has and will follow them for the rest of their lives. This savage satanic being appears to come in the form of a mirror. When a pregnant Lorraine Warren stares into this mirror she becomes possessed which kickstarts her into labour.
What follows is a series of disingenuous miracles and devastating tragedies. The main focus of the plot is on the Smurl family who find themselves with the mirror when giving it to their daughter as a confirmation gift. As you might expect, this is no gift, it’s a devastating deathtrap that will inevitably tear the Smurl family apart. This is where the Warrens come in. Their last task is to rid the Smurl family of this paranormal pest. Will they succeed and move on from their demonic past, or will this evil haunting harm them forever.
Simply put, the film is not a revelation. It is shot in this weirdly, cosy 80’s recreational feel and is essentially a series of jump scares that feel oddly absurd in the most predictable of ways. Fans of the Conjuring universe will enjoy cameos from certain iconic demons but those not familiar with this world will not find anything fresh or original. That being said, there is a ludicrous and playful quality to much of the setups which will be enjoyable to much of the fanbase. Nonetheless, this will not leave you shaking in your boots or offer you with anything remotely fascinating to think about.
Release Date: 05/09/2025
Genre: Horror
Starring: Vera Farmiga, Mia Tomlison, Patrick Wilson, Ben Hardy
Related posts:
