The highly anticipated conclusion to one of horror’s most successful franchises arrives in cinemas today. “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” the fourth main installment in the Conjuring series, opens nationwide on September 5, 2025, bringing Ed and Lorraine Warren’s paranormal investigations to a close. Directed by Michael Chaves, the film reunites Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson as the real-life demonologists facing their most personal demonic threat yet.
A Franchise Built on Real-Life Horror
The Conjuring universe, which began in 2013 under director James Wan, has expanded into a sprawling saga with spin-offs like Annabelle and The Nun. Grossing over $2 billion worldwide, the series draws from the Warrens’ case files, blending supernatural scares with emotional depth. “Last Rites” marks the end of the core storyline, focusing on the Warrens in the 1980s as they confront a haunting that tests their faith and family bonds.
This final chapter promises to deliver the signature jump scares, atmospheric tension, and heartfelt moments that fans expect. With a runtime of 2 hours and 15 minutes, it’s rated R for intense horror violence, disturbing images, and some language.
Plot Overview: A Personal Haunting
Set in the early 1980s, “The Conjuring: Last Rites” follows Ed and Lorraine Warren as they investigate a mysterious case involving a haunted artifact that unleashes a powerful evil force. The story delves into the couple’s family life, including their daughter Judy (played by Mia Tomlinson), and explores themes of legacy and sacrifice. Without spoiling key twists, the plot involves a demonic entity that forces the Warrens to question their life’s work, leading to a climactic confrontation.
The screenplay, written by Ian Goldberg, Richard Naing, and David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick from a story by Johnson-McGoldrick and James Wan, ties back to the original film’s roots while escalating the stakes. Early viewers note its blend of family drama and terror, making it a fitting farewell.
Star-Studded Cast Returns
Vera Farmiga reprises her role as clairvoyant Lorraine Warren, delivering a performance praised for its emotional vulnerability. Patrick Wilson returns as Ed Warren, the steadfast demonologist, with their on-screen chemistry remaining a highlight of the series.
Supporting roles include Mia Tomlinson as Judy Warren, Ben Hardy as Tony Spera (the Warrens’ son-in-law), and Steve Coulter as Father Gordon. New additions like Elliot Cowan and Rebecca Calder add fresh dynamics to the ensemble. The cast’s familiarity helps ground the supernatural elements in relatable human struggles.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Direction
Michael Chaves, who previously helmed “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” and “The Nun II,” directs this installment. Filming took place in locations including Knebworth, Hertfordshire, England, capturing the eerie atmosphere essential to the franchise.
Produced by New Line Cinema and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film features cinematography by Michael Burgess and a score by Joseph Bishara, both veterans of the series. The official trailer, released in July 2025, has garnered millions of views, building hype for its theatrical debut.
Early Reception and Critical Buzz
Initial reviews for “The Conjuring: Last Rites” are mixed but highlight its scares and emotional core. Critics praise the film’s return to the intimate horror of the first movie, with standout sequences that deliver genuine frights. However, some note it leans more into family drama, potentially diluting the terror for pure horror fans.
On Rotten Tomatoes, early aggregations suggest a score in the mid-60s, with outlets like Bloody Disgusting calling it a “heartfelt farewell” full of memorable chills. IGN notes a strong start that fades, while The New York Times describes it as a “disappointing send-off.” Overall, it’s seen as a solid, if not revolutionary, conclusion.
Where to Watch and Future Availability
“The Conjuring: Last Rites” is now playing in theaters, including IMAX formats for an immersive experience. For those preferring home viewing, digital release is expected in early October 2025, followed by streaming on Max later in the year.
As the Conjuring universe wraps its main arc, spin-offs may continue, but this film closes the Warrens’ chapter on a poignant note.
