The horror legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren is coming to an emotional and terrifying conclusion with The Conjuring: Last Rites. Warner Bros. has officially released the trailer for this final chapter in the iconic franchise, and fans are already buzzing with anticipation. Scheduled to hit theaters across North America on September 5, 2025, and internationally beginning September 3, the film promises a spine-chilling farewell to one of horror cinema's most beloved duos. As the franchise steps into its final act, Last Rites draws upon one of the most controversial and disturbing real-life cases ever investigated by the Warrens—the infamous Smurl haunting of 1986.
Storyline Based on True Events
At the heart of The Conjuring: Last Rites is the Smurl family haunting—an alleged supernatural ordeal that plagued a modest duplex in West Pittston, Pennsylvania. The case spanned more than a decade, marked by terrifying reports of foul odors, unexplained noises, ghostly apparitions, and even physical and sexual attacks from unseen entities. In 1986, the Warrens—renowned paranormal investigators—were called in and declared the house occupied by multiple spirits, including a particularly dangerous demon. Although skeptics dismissed the haunting as media sensationalism or psychological disturbance, the events left an undeniable mark on paranormal lore.
In the film adaptation, Ed and Lorraine Warren are pulled back into the field, no longer just as investigators, but as parents. Their daughter, Judy Warren, now an adult, begins experiencing psychic visions similar to those her mother once had. The twist, as revealed in the trailer, is that this demonic force may not be new—it’s a sinister entity from the Warrens' very first case, now resurfacing to haunt not just them, but their legacy.
Trailer Highlights
The newly released trailer doesn't waste time in setting the mood. Lorraine’s voice opens the sequence with an ominous reflection: “We were young. We were scared. We ran away.” This chilling line sets the tone for a horror story that is less about the thrills and more about unfinished business. The visuals quickly turn unsettling—blood pouring from a sink, eerie figures in the mirror, and unsettling sounds echoing through abandoned hallways.
One of the most memorable scenes from the trailer features Judy Warren, dressed in a wedding gown, staring into a mirror as her reflection morphs into something deeply unnatural. As the music swells and the images become more frantic, a whisper cuts through the darkness: “We’ve been waiting so patiently for you.” It’s a clear sign that this entity is not merely haunting a home—it’s targeting a bloodline, and it’s been biding its time.
Also Checkout: Top 10 psychological thrillers movies of all time
Cast Returns One Final Time
Leading the cast once again are Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, reprising their roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren. Over the past twelve years, the duo has anchored the franchise with powerful performances that balance faith, fear, and family. Their chemistry has been the emotional glue of the series, and Last Rites will serve as their swan song.
Joining them is Mia Tomlinson as the grown-up Judy Warren, stepping into a central role as the family’s psychic heir. Judy’s character arc is expected to bring emotional depth to the film, especially as she confronts her inherited abilities and the horrors they attract. Ben Hardy appears as Tony Spera, Judy’s partner, and the film also features Rebecca Calder and Elliot Cowan as Janet and Jack Smurl, the real-life couple at the center of the haunting. Other notable cast members include Kíla Lord Cassidy, Steve Coulter, and Shannon Kook, returning as Drew.
The Conjuring: Last Rites is directed by Michael Chaves, who previously helmed The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It and The Curse of La Llorona. The screenplay is penned by Ian Goldberg, Richard Naing, and David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, with the story developed alongside horror maestro James Wan, who also serves as producer alongside Peter Safran. This final chapter marks a significant tonal shift, opting for a more personal, emotionally driven narrative rather than relying solely on traditional jump scares.
The film’s score, composed by Benjamin Wallfisch, takes over from franchise staple Joseph Bishara, promising a fresh yet haunting musical backdrop. Cinematography by Eli Born and editing by Gregory Plotkin aim to deliver that signature Conjuring feel—eerie, atmospheric, and grounded in realism.
More Than Just a Horror Movie—It’s an Emotional Send-Off
Unlike previous entries in the franchise that focused on haunted objects or court cases, Last Rites takes a deeply personal approach. It’s a story not just of exorcisms and hauntings, but of the weight of legacy. Lorraine Warren is forced to confront her past decisions, not just as a medium but as a mother, while Judy’s evolution offers a fresh generational perspective. This makes Last Rites more than just a horror film—it’s a spiritual reckoning.
Director Michael Chaves has said that the film’s aim is to blend fear with emotion, offering a unique horror experience that will linger long after the final scene. The stakes aren’t just supernatural—they’re familial. The Warrens are not just facing a demon; they’re confronting everything they’ve left unresolved.
With The Conjuring: Last Rites, Warner Bros. is closing the door on a franchise that helped redefine modern horror. But instead of going out with a scream, the film promises to go out with soul—one that dives into grief, inheritance, and the shadows we all carry. Whether you're a fan of the supernatural or a long-time follower of the Warrens’ journey, this is a film that deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Get ready to experience the final rites of fear this September 5, 2025. This isn’t just the end of a franchise—it’s the end of an era.
Also Read: The running man 2025 movie release date storyline detailsDon’t miss the final chapter—watch the trailer and mark your calendar for September 5!
0 Comments