The Conjuring: Last Rites, A Haunting That Ends with a Hug, Not a Scream

The Conjuring franchise has long been celebrated for its chilling atmosphere, suspenseful storytelling, and genuinely terrifying moments rooted in supernatural lore. With Last Rites, the latest entry, expectations run high for a gripping continuation of the Warrens’ paranormal investigations. However, the film struggles to maintain the balance between horror and heartfelt storytelling. Rather than delving deep into darkness, it leans toward a softer, almost fairy tale-like conclusion. While the scares and eerie setups are present, they often feel overshadowed by emotional beats that demand closure and hope. This tonal shift divides the audience, leaving horror enthusiasts craving more fear and less comfort. The pacing sometimes suffers as the narrative tries to juggle jump scares with sentimental scenes. Ultimately, Last Rites feels like a story about faith and family wrapped in the trappings of a horror movie, sometimes to its detriment. Here’s how the film’s different elements come together.