The Conjuring: Last Rites Movie Poster

It is safe to say that I am not going near a haunted house any time soon. The final and latest installment to the original “Conjuring” franchise “The Conjuring: Last Rites”, directed by Michael Chaves, had movie-goers at the edge of their seats watching the paranormal duo Ed and Lorraine Warren save an unsuspecting family from unknown evil spirits. Taking place in the 1970s, the franchise shifts its focus to follow the story of the famous duo’s daughter, Judy Warren, as she finds herself in Pennsylvania to get to the bottom of what exactly is tormenting the Smurl family.

Learning about the entire franchise is heavily inspired by the real life work of the Warrens, this latest movie did not fail to bring the fear to life. In fact, many viewers were so scared to the point where some felt the need to get blessed before watching the movie with the help of holy water, bishops, and priests. Each movie in the series unveils a new aspect of the hauntings, like the Warrens’ experience to the origins of the red-haired possessed doll named Annabelle, there is always a sense of anticipation, leaving viewers wanting to know more. Growing up watching these films, my excitement to watch a new horror movie always trumped my worries of jumpscares. To say the least, the newest edition did not disappoint. With the protagonist being the Warrens’ daughter, it was enthralling to see how she would carry on the legacy of legendary paranormal investigation.

An enthralling element of the film was the multiple perspectives from the characters, some having faced spirits before, while others hadn’t. This was an aspect that many fans such as myself enjoyed from the previous movies, and it was nice to see elements come back. Seeing shifting attitudes from skeptical to certitude and paranormal activities increasing in their intensity throughout the film, the acting and character development did not fall flat. Fan favorites Farmiga and Wilson were able to deliver stellar performances similar to their acting in the original movie. Personally, the resolve and bond of the Warren family during the investigation was admirable and revealed the strength of family despite hardships.

Even though I have not seen every film in the series, the film does not leave the audience confused on the past hauntings. Instead, the movie takes audiences on a journey in the life of Judy Warren from childhood to adulthood which makes the storyline incredibly easy to follow. With a sense of familiarity and an element of unknown, I was interested to see what it would take to end the hauntings once and for all. With the return of the fan favorite Annabelle doll, avid fans and newcomers alike can witness this beloved character take on physical forms never seen before.

Moreover, a common theme throughout the film is knowing your own strength and overcoming your fears, and I think that is an important message. Whether it’s a personal problem or in the career realm, anyone can relate to feeling a sense of fear to something unfamiliar and start doubting themselves, but Chaves uses the film as a means to show how powerful believing in yourself can be even in the darkest of times.

The last scene of the film truly sticks with me and shows the beauties of life that can shine brightly through the cracks of fear and exhibits excellent messaging to the audience. With this final installment, I am left feeling a little braver and wanting to rewatch the film again for every happy, scary, sad, and suspenseful moment. Even though “The Conjuring” franchise’s door is closing, not all hope is lost for those wanting more. In the near future, Michael Chaves and “The Conjuring” storywriters hope to expand this cinematic universe with all new characters, plot lines, and spirits with a lot more fear.