The Conjuring: Last Rites is the ninth and possibly final installment in the Conjuring horror franchise, directed by Michael Chaves. The film returns to the Warrens' real-life paranormal investigations, focusing on a demonic haunting of the Smurl family in the late 1980s. Reviews praise the movie for delivering effective scares and jump scares typical of the franchise, alongside familiar elements like cursed dolls and sinister music boxes. However, some criticism points to the film feeling heavy on fan service with plenty of nods to past films, and a somewhat slow buildup before the Warrens become involved. The "rules" of the hauntings and the logic of the exorcisms are not very clear, making parts of the story less satisfying. Overall, it successfully recreates the classic Conjuring atmosphere and style, with strong performances by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga reprising their roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren.
Key Points from Reviews:
- Effective jump scares and creepy atmosphere.
- Familiar franchise tropes and fan service.
- Dual narratives with good pacing of supernatural terror.
- Some narrative and logical weaknesses, such as unclear haunting rules.
- Strong final performances by the main cast.
- Contains cameos and references to previous Conjuring and spinoff films.
This installment serves as a satisfying conclusion for fans, though it may feel less innovative than the original film.