The long-running “Conjuring” franchise reaches its (allegedly) final chapter with “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” bringing real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren back for one last harrowing case. Portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, who have become genre icons for their subtly calibrated performances, the film sees the beloved couple facing their most personal battle yet. After launching a nine-film blockbuster franchise with the original “The Conjuring” in 2013, the Warrens, initially presented as out of the game or retired due to Ed’s heart condition in 1986, are drawn back into the supernatural world.

“Last Rites” notably shifts its focus, drawing from the Warrens’ highly publicized Smurl case, involving a three-generation Pennsylvania family tormented by paranormal experiences. However, the film takes liberties, weaving in a direct association with the Warrens' personal history: a cursed mirror they first encountered early in their careers, just before the birth of their daughter, Judy (Mia Tomlinson). Decades later, Judy, who inherited clairvoyant abilities from her mother, becomes entangled in the demonic events. The narrative skillfully intertwines the Smurls' terrifying ordeal with the Warrens' own familial struggles, making the demons’ target increasingly personal.

Directed by Michael Chaves, who previously helmed “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” and “The Nun II,” “Last Rites” showcases an improved form, armed with commanding imagery like an anxious child’s face reflected in home video playback and the gloomy infinity mirror of a wedding dress shop. The film consciously leans into familiar finale fan service, providing a narrower focus on its marquee characters. While some critiques point to muddled unease and predictable scare sequences, the movie commits to the inherent sadness of its ghost stories. Chaves effectively uses a hand-held camera effect, tuning into the 1980s feel, and incorporates elements that superfans will appreciate.

The film delves into the Warrens’ enduring marriage and faith, presenting them as two lovers against the world, a truly aspirational portrait. However, by turning the Warrens into case subjects rather than symbiotic interlopers, the narrative struggles to introduce doubt into their unwavering convictions, leading to a story that feels on-rails with surprisingly smaller stakes despite a bloated, franchise-high runtime. This over-investment in the Warrens, despite them being the franchise’s most reliable creation, suggests that the series may indeed be past its utility, even if it delivers a spine-tingling finale.

Commercially, “The Conjuring: Last Rites” has demonstrated strong performance, making $8.5 million in Thursday previews, marking the largest for the entire franchise and for a horror movie this year. The R-rated Warner Bros. production, with a 135-minute runtime and a 15 rating, is expected to open with approximately $50 million to $55 million, aiming to surpass the original’s $41.9 million opening and potentially achieve the highest opening in the series' history. The film's cast also includes Ben Hardy and Rebecca Calder, further enriching the ensemble’s performances as the franchise bids its final farewell.