Another Conjuring movie? Yep. We’re now nine movies deep into the Ed and Lorraine Warren universe, including the hit-or-miss spin-offs like Annabelle and The Nun (which, let’s be honest, were mostly miss). But here’s the good news: the core Conjuring entries just don’t seem to lose their horrifying momentum.
The demonic plot of Last Rites is largely a rehash of the classic formula, but it is so well told and the sheer level of horror is absolutely ramped up. For those who live for horror movies based on “real” stories, this is a must-see cinema experience.
The “True” Story Charm
The enduring secret weapon of this whole franchise is that it’s based on the case files of the infamous paranormal investigators, Ed and Lorraine Warren. While the couple (who have both since passed away) are now pop-culture icons, the film briefly touches on the fact that, at the time of their work, they were seen as controversial figures.
We all know the deal: the movies take actual cases and then massively fictionalise and dramatise them—adding in the exaggerated exorcism scenes and supernatural spectacles. The idea of turning a controversial real-life story into an effective horror movie only works because the producers make the story so utterly exciting and capable of suspending our disbelief. Sure, we have no idea what’s true and what’s not, but the mere fact that it stems from original claims is creepy enough.
Formulaic Plots and the Daughter Twist
The formula is pretty set in stone: the Warrens visit a family (usually with young daughters) besieged by a demonic entity. This can make things slightly predictable; how many ways can a demon really terrorize a suburban home?
While I personally loved the sequel that tackled the U.K.’s Enfield Poltergeist case (it was a welcome break from standard Hollywood ghouls), Last Rites tries to mix things up with a personal twist. While the spirit is plaguing a family in Pennsylvania, it also actively tries to possess the Warrens’ own daughter. This is where the plot really tests your willingness to suspend your disbelief—even for a movie about ghosts!
Scares and the Spinning Mirror
If you’re here for the jumps, you will not be disappointed. The jump scares are arguably more creative than before, and they certainly made some in the cinema audience flinch.
The final act focuses on the main horror prop: an elevated, spinning mirror. This climactic sequence, involving the daughter and the mid-air revolving mirror, is genuinely exhausting to watch. Unashamedly, the plot plays fast and loose with reality even within the movie’s own logic—like when the mirror is crushed in a dumper truck but then somehow reappears perfectly fine in the house’s loft.
The Verdict
The Conjuring: Last Rites is an enjoyable, old-fashioned ghoul movie. Yes, it’s a rehash, but it’s a well-executed rehash. The storytelling is tight, and the ramped-up scares make it a must-see on the big screen.
