When The Conjuring hit theaters in 2013, it marked the start of a beloved horror series directed by James Wan. Over the years, this film has led to sequels and various spinoffs, creating a vast universe for fans. Fast forward to 2025, we now have The Conjuring: Last Rites, which wraps up the story of Ed and Lorraine Warren. This installment has plenty of emotional depth but is missing the traditional scares that fans have come to expect.
Set in the 1980s, the film shows Ed (Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine (Vera Farmiga) enjoying a quieter life. They’re raising their daughter Judy (Mia Tomlinson), who is navigating her own relationship while rejecting the supernatural gifts handed down from her mother. But their peace is interrupted when a new case brings a troubled family into their lives, linking back to the Warrens’ own harrowing past.
Wilson and Farmiga continue to shine in their roles. Their chemistry is natural, adding warmth to the film. They portray a loving couple dealing with both personal and supernatural challenges. Tomlinson supports them well as Judy, effectively showcasing her character’s inner battle with her abilities. Together, they form a compelling family unit that draws viewers in.
Visually, the film excels with its immersive atmosphere. The lighting and production design create a sense of dread that’s crucial for horror. Under director Michael Chaves, the film does manage some tense moments, forcing audiences to lean forward in anticipation. However, the film suffers because the scares often fall flat. The timing and creativity of these moments feel predictable, leading to missed opportunities for genuine thrills.
One major issue is the pacing. The setup drags on for nearly an hour, delaying the action in favor of character development. While this background is important, it feels excessive, especially for fans familiar with the genre. The film runs over two hours, and this long runtime is felt in the slow build-up. Even the climax feels rushed, lacking the emphasis one would expect from a finale.
Interestingly, the horror genre has been experiencing a resurgence with fresh voices and innovative concepts. Films like Hereditary and Get Out show that audiences crave originality. In comparison, The Conjuring: Last Rites relies on familiar tropes without offering something new. According to a recent survey by The NPD Group, ticket sales for horror movies increased 38% in 2024, showcasing the demand for quality content in the genre.
Some fans have taken to social media to share their mixed feelings about this sequel. While some appreciate the emotional aspects, others voiced disappointment in the lack of genuine scares and excitement that defined earlier installments. A hashtag, #LastRitesLetdown, has even started trending among viewers expressing their dissatisfaction.
In summary, while The Conjuring: Last Rites showcases talented performances and strong visuals, it ultimately falters in delivering the terror fans expect. This film may carry the emotional weight of the series but lacks the spine-tingling moments that made it a hallmark of horror. For those hoping for a thrilling conclusion, this entry might leave them wanting more.
Grade: 2/5 Stars
