🎬 Introduction
The Conjuring: Last Rites, directed by Michael Chaves, is billed as the emotional and supernatural finale in the Conjuring Universe, bringing back Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren. This ninth installment tackles one of the most infamous hauntings ever documented.GamesRadar++15Wikipedia+15Trill+15
📖 Story Overview (Spoiler-Free)
Set in 1986, the film follows a retired Attic duo drawn back into action to help the Smurl family in West Pittston, PA, who have endured years of alleged supernatural torment. With Ed’s declining health and Lorraine’s clairvoyant gifts amplified by their daughter Judy (Mia Tomlinson), the Warrens must face what’s described as their final—and most personal—case.Reddit+5Wikipedia+5Reddit+5
🔍 Deep Dive: What Stands Out
Themes & Atmosphere
Rather than relying on gimmicks, Last Rites builds psychological dread through lingering tension and emotional stakes. It’s reportedly the darkest entry yet in the series.Trill
Performances
Farmiga and Wilson deliver hauntingly sincere farewells to their roles. Mia Tomlinson elevates the narrative as Judy Warren, now more central than ever. Their dynamic reinforces the core theme: family bound by belief and trauma.IMDb+13Wikipedia+13Reddit+13
True-Life Inspiration
The script draws on the Smurl haunting, a long-debated paranormal case from the 1980s. While skeptics question the Warrens' methods, the film’s grounding in "true events" lends a compelling weight.Reddit+2Wikipedia+2Trill+2
Visual Style & Effects
Early reactions praise the film’s atmosphere and practical effects. However, one recurring criticism revolves around the trailer's CGI—particularly a flying doll scene that some viewers called “overly cartoonish.”Reddit+1Reddit+1
✅ What Works & What Doesn’t
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| Emotional depth from dedicated lead performances | Some CGI visuals (like the doll) feel jarring |
| A solemn, atmospheric ending that honors franchise legacy | Several supporting characters lack development |
| Authentic sense of real paranormal investigation | Slow pacing may not appeal to casual viewers |
🗓️ Release Info
The film is widely anticipated to debut in the United States on September 5, 2025, with international releases starting as early as September 3.Rotten Tomatoes+12Reddit+12AVForums+12Wikipedia+13Wikipedia+13Reddit+13AVForums
🧠 Final Verdict
The Conjuring: Last Rites is a somber and atmospheric farewell to the Warrens' cinematic journey. With strong performances and a grounded narrative, it succeeds in honoring the series' legacy—even if a few visual slips pull it back from perfection.
Rating: ⭐ 4.0 / 5
Best for: Fans of slow-burning supernatural horror and emotional storytelling rooted in legacy.
Less ideal for: Viewers looking for jump scares, fast pacing, or light scares.