The Conjuring: L'Heure du Jugement

While aiming to build upon a great legacy, the film ultimately disappoints. It lacks the intense horror that defines the genre's best works and struggles to deliver genuine scares. Consequently, it falls short of being a proper horror movie, particularly when compared to earlier installments in The Conjuring series😔

Sometimes in life, in order to move forward, we have to go back to the beginning, I guess. Well that's very much the case with Ed and Lorraine Warren in this latest addition to The Conjuring franchise.

What I initially assumed would be a fresh investigation sadly turns out to be more of the same formula we've seen over the past 10 years. There's little here that feels original; most of it either borrows heavily from previous entries or is clearly influenced by familiar tropes. A door left slightly open for the audience to notice... SLAM. A recording or photo reveals a ghostly figure. A quick camera cut - and boom, you're face-to-face with a demon.

My biggest issue with the film is that it simply cannot stand on its own. It leans too heavily on paranormal figures the Warrens have battled before. Yes, there are creepy moments, the buildup often leads to little more than cheap jump scares.

For a film with a runtime of 2 hours and 15 minutes - and a cast of 13 people and one dog - it plays things very safe. Sure there is suspense but, where is the danger? Who is the actual target? These are questions I found myself asking throughout the film. It's an enjoyable however, there's nothing here to challenge the franchise or push it in a new direction.

I watched this in IMAX, so of course my expectations were pretty high for The Conjuring: The Last Rites. Maybe I set the bar a little too high, but honestly it didn't disappoint me.

What I liked:

• Solid emotional build-up.

• A satisfying ending.

• A few scenes actually made me flinch.

What didn't work for me:

• Way too predictable (though, to be fair, the Conjuring formula is easy to guess).

• A slow burn at the beginning.

• The music didn't feel scary enough.

• The ending felt a bit rushed.

*The Conjuring: Last Rites* is an absolute triumph and a remarkable addition to the renowned horror franchise! This latest chapter skillfully delivers spine-chilling scares and heart-pounding moments that will undoubtedly keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson shine brilliantly as Ed and Lorraine Warren, infusing their characters with an emotional depth and a palpable chemistry that has become iconic throughout the series.

From the very first scene, the film immerses you in an eerie atmosphere, expertly crafted through stunning cinematography that captures the haunting essence of each haunting locale. The chilling sound design further elevates the experience, making every minor creak and whisper feel significant, creating an unshakeable sense of dread that will linger long after the credits roll.

This installment is not just about jump scares; it weaves a rich narrative that blends horror with heartfelt moments, exploring the complexities of love, loss, and the courage to confront one's fears. As it wraps up the main saga, the film delivers a powerful and satisfying conclusion that ties together long-standing storylines and character arcs, leaving audiences both fulfilled and eager for what may lie ahead.

For horror enthusiasts, this film is a must-watch-a cinematic experience best enjoyed in IMAX where the grandeur and intensity of the visuals and sound can truly be appreciated. Whether you're a longtime fan of the franchise or a newcomer to the world of The Conjuring, *Last Rites* promises to be a captivating journey that will haunt your thoughts and spark spirited conversations for days to come.

The movie has a slow build-up but lacks interest in developing the story of the demon, or it had a rushed ending with a lot of questions not being answered. As the movie has a few sequels, we expect more as an audience. For me, The Conjuring 2 is still the best, with a perfect build-up and living up to the characters. It was a shame to see such a good story turn into another "fast food" movie.