Wrapping Up the Conjuring: Ed and Lorraine Warren's Final Adventure

"Last Rites," the reported final episode in the "Conjuring" saga, retraces the adventures of famed paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, played by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga. The plot picks up from a departing phase in the Warrens' life, living a quiet existence featuring a series of humdrum lectures. However, their retirement is short-lived; a grand finale beckons for these beloved franchise figures.

Across the series, the duo has methodically unravelled obscure demonic mysteries, breathed life into a dulled yet blockbuster franchise, often outshining their co-stars. Their final escapade revolves around their own family, making it rather personal, focusing on their own haunted child.

The narrative draws from the real-life Smurls' case, which "Last Rites" spins creatively by associating it directly with the Warrens. The Smurls are plagued by a cursed mirror of which the Warrens are no strangers; they first came across this eerie artifact at the onset of their careers. The curse follows Judy, their daughter, who, revealing similar clairvoyant abilities as her mother, finds herself inextricably tied to her parents' paranormal endeavours.

The narrative alternates between the Warrens and the Smurls, keeping the audience tense with anticipation for the haunting to begin. This suspense is essential for a franchise that often doesn't capture the true vulnerability of its characters or the inherit sadness of its ghost tales.

Director Michael Chaves attempts to spice things up but falls short. His portrayal of the story's most significant scares is overburdened, affecting the narrative negatively. However, he is in improved form, creating several captivating visual moments.

The bold step to convert the Warrens into case topics rather than intervening parties, subjecting them to their own horror, asks more of the audience than previous instalments. For the most part, the "Conjuring" franchise has been grounded in unseen faith, utilizing the Warrens' unorthodox Christian guidance to reshape another family's horror.

As this new narrative approaches the end, the focus shifts entirely onto the Warrens, sidelining the Smurls to become almost insignificant. On the flip side, the narrative assures the audience of the unwavering faith of the Warrens, making the stakes seem smaller, despite the film's extended runtime. Yet, this shift represents a parting note for the franchise over-utilizing the Warrens, signaling that it's time to retire.