The Conjuring Last Rites Features New Demon Connected to Warrens

The Conjuring: Last Rites serves as the final chapter in the saga of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, focusing on the Smurl family haunting and introducing a new, mysterious demon tied to an antique mirror. While the film honors its predecessors with references such as the return of the iconic Annabelle doll, critics noted that it fails to develop the Smurl family characters, making it difficult for audiences to connect emotionally. The movie features various demons, including a memorable axe-wielding ghost and the subtle but constant presence of ghostly entities, with the primary antagonist—the so-called 'mirror demon'—remaining mostly unseen until the climax. Despite mixed reviews, the film includes homages to earlier Conjuring movies and other horror classics, emphasizing the Warrens' long and personal battle against evil. Annabelle's role is significant, connecting back to earlier franchise entries and underscoring her ongoing torment of Judy Warren. Overall, while the film offers chilling moments and franchise continuity, it is critiqued for its pacing and character focus, leaving some potential underexplored.