The Conjuring: Last Rites – A Deep Dive into the Warrens’ Final Chapter
After nearly a decade of spine-chilling cases, The Conjuring saga is preparing to close its first major chapter with The Conjuring: Last Rites. Slated for release in September 2025, this ninth entry doesn’t just aim to scare—it’s being framed as the emotional farewell to Ed and Lorraine Warren. Let’s unpack why this finale feels different, what it means for horror cinema, and how it’s shaping up to be the most talked-about release of the year.
The End of an Era
The Conjuring Universe has quietly become one of the most profitable horror franchises ever, crossing $2 billion globally. But unlike many horror series that rely solely on jump scares and monsters, these films stood out because of their emotional anchor: the Warrens’ relationship.
James Wan, the creative force behind the series, has emphasized that Last Rites isn’t about spectacle—it’s about closure. Think Logan rather than Avengers: Endgame. Horror fans aren’t just bracing for demonic scares; they’re preparing for a bittersweet goodbye.
The Real Case Behind the Fiction
This installment explores the Smurl Haunting, a real case from the 1980s in Pennsylvania. The Smurl family reported terrifying events—violent attacks, disembodied voices, and even claims of possession. The Warrens famously investigated, sparking both fascination and controversy.
By rooting the finale in this case, the film ties together two threads: the supernatural horror that built the franchise and the historical “true-story” element that made it believable.
Why Early Reactions Call It the Best
Critics who’ve seen early cuts describe Last Rites as “the scariest and most emotional” Conjuring yet. That duality is key:
Fear – Michael Chaves doubles down on atmosphere, dread, and tension rather than cheap tricks.
Heart – The film leans into Ed and Lorraine’s bond, their love becoming the weapon against evil.
It’s horror with weight—a blend of fright and feeling that resonates deeper than shock value.
Beyond Jump Scares: Cultural Impact
The Conjuring films reshaped modern horror. They proved that audiences crave stories where the emotional core is as strong as the supernatural conflict. By ending with Last Rites, the franchise leaves behind more than a box office legacy—it leaves a template for future horror storytellers: anchor your scares in something human.
What’s Next for the Franchise?
Though this is the Warrens’ last ride, Warner Bros. isn’t closing the universe. Spin-offs (The Nun, Annabelle) and potential new “phases” remain on the horizon. But emotionally, this is the endgame. For many fans, Last Rites will be the film that defines whether The Conjuring is remembered as just another horror franchise—or as one of the most impactful storytelling sagas of the genre.
Final Take
The Conjuring: Last Rites is more than another haunted-house movie. It’s a love letter, a farewell, and a horror event rolled into one. Expect tears alongside screams—and maybe even a little relief as the Warrens finally find peace.
