The Conjuring: Last Rites, the final chapter of the popular horror franchise, hit Indian theatres on September 5, 2025. Directed by Michael Chaves, this film brings back Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson as paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. With a mix of spine-chilling scares and heartfelt moments, it aims to give a fitting end to the beloved series. But does it live up to the expectations of Indian horror fans? Let’s find out.
Story
Set in 1986, the movie follows the Smurl family in Pennsylvania, who face terrifying supernatural events after bringing a haunted mirror into their home. Strange occurrences, like shadowy figures and eerie voices, haunt the family, especially their daughter Heather. Meanwhile, Ed and Lorraine Warren, now retired, get pulled into the case due to a personal connection involving their daughter, Judy. The story weaves together the Smurl haunting with the Warrens’ emotional journey, making it more than just a horror film.
What Works
The film shines in its second half, delivering gripping horror moments that will make you jump. The climax is intense, with loud supernatural confrontations and creepy visuals, like an axe-wielding spirit and a chilling Annabelle doll scene. Indian audiences, who love high-energy horror, will enjoy these well-crafted scares. The chemistry between Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson remains a highlight, bringing warmth and authenticity to their roles as Ed and Lorraine. Their emotional bond, especially with their daughter Judy (played by Mia Tomlinson), adds a touching layer to the story.
The film’s visuals are stunning, with shadowy corners and haunting close-ups that create a spooky atmosphere. The sound design, with eerie whispers and sudden silences, keeps you on edge. For fans of the franchise, there’s enough fan service, like nods to past films, to make it a satisfying goodbye.
What Doesn’t Work
The first half of the movie feels slow and stretched, which might test the patience of Indian viewers who prefer fast-paced horror. The pacing drags, with some scenes feeling repetitive. While the scares are effective, they can be predictable, and the film doesn’t feel as terrifying as The Conjuring or The Conjuring 2. Some fans on X have called the script weak, saying it doesn’t bring anything new to the franchise. The focus shifts heavily to the Warrens in the second half, making the Smurl family’s story feel incomplete.
Performances
Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson steal the show with their heartfelt performances. Their chemistry makes the emotional moments stand out. Mia Tomlinson impresses as Judy, especially in the scarier scenes. The Smurl family actors, like Rebecca Calder and Elliot Cowan, do a decent job but don’t get enough screen time to shine.
Box Office Buzz
The Conjuring: Last Rites has created a buzz in India, with advance ticket sales crossing 1.2 lakh tickets, outpacing Bollywood films like Baaghi 4. It earned Rs 4.2 crore on its opening day and is expected to hit Rs 15 crore, a strong start for a Hollywood horror film. Analysts predict it could cross Rs 100 crore if word-of-mouth stays positive, making it a record-breaker for the genre in India.
Verdict
The Conjuring: Last Rites is a mixed bag. It’s not the scariest film in the series, but it delivers enough chills and emotional moments to keep fans hooked. The slow start and predictable scares might disappoint some, but the strong performances and thrilling climax make it worth watching, especially for those who love the Warrens’ journey. It’s a bittersweet farewell to a franchise that has scared and touched Indian audiences for over a decade.
Rating: 3.5/5
Where to Watch: In theatres and IMAX across India in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
Recommendation: A must-watch for Conjuring fans and those who enjoy horror with a touch of heart.
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