The Conjuring: Last Rites

The Conjuring: Last Rites introduces a new narrative thread in The Conjuring Universe, one that delves into the twilight years of the investigation career of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. As a testament to their dedication and bravery in the face of dark forces, the aging couple embarks on what they initially believe to be their final investigation. The film begins with Ed Warren, played once again by Patrick Wilson, announcing his "retirement" from paranormal investigations due to the toll it has taken on his health and family life. Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Vera Farmiga, is reluctant to accept this decision, knowing that her husband's withdrawal from the investigations would not be as absolute without continued exposure to the malevolent entities they have always sought to confront. This convergence of events leads to the couple's visit to an old friend and fellow investigator, who contacts them with a cryptic warning that has sparked widespread concern about the existence of an unknown cult operating in Eastern Europe. As a result, Ed and Lorraine find themselves unwittingly drawn into one final, fateful confrontation with an evil force that has haunted their previous investigations. Upon their arrival in Eastern Europe, Ed and Lorraine begin to realize that the warnings of an unknown cult were more than just unfounded rumors - they are facing a dark entity that will challenge the very fabric of their resolve. It is an Otherworldly being that dates back to the war-torn period of history and has only begun to periodically emerge from its containment within the unknown realms. Their research into the mysterious cult points towards a deep connection with an isolated and mysterious figure known as Nikola, a spiritual being who lives at the center of a sprawling forest filled with mass graves of World War II. Upon their visit to Nikola, the Warrens try to discern whether he may be possessed by this malevolent entity, or whether he has simply grown to be so consumed and deluded by its grip. As they investigate further, they discover the remnants of a horrific cult that has all but been completely decimated by the very malevolent entity they had set out to uncover. In retracing the investigation's course, they ultimately establish their true roles as warriors for the light, and deliver a definitive blow to the entity in their dying gasp before departure. However, the very last scene throws a curveball, raising yet more questions about the dark forces that once menaced the last pair of our time and conjuring hero-worshippers. Upon Ed Warren's decease, Lorraine experiences out of body, leaving her spirit to travel the length and breadth of the Earth - her whereabouts enshrouded by turmoil and questions - with various ghostly apparitions and unseen souls caught under the eye of malevolent on lookers still. As our previous investigation heroes sink deeper in remembrance, in their reminiscing struggles, one thing becomes drastically clear - their battles would not be at an end.