The Conjuring: Last Rites brings the main storyline of the beloved horror series to a close, packed with hidden nods, callbacks, and references that honor the entire franchise and horror cinema history. Director Michael Chaves filled the film with subtle details that reward vigilant viewing, connecting past cases and celebrating genre classics. Here are 11 Easter eggs and references you might have missed.
“The Conjuring: Last Rites pays homage to the entire series while also functioning as a standalone horror experience. The director, Michael Chaves, packed the movie with hidden references and Easter eggs.”
1. Annabelle’s Ominous Return
The infamous possessed doll appears multiple times, first during Ed and Lorraine’s lecture and later in Judy’s childhood bedroom. Most notably, a giant, monstrous version of Annabelle chases Judy through the Smurl family’s hallways. This isn’t the real Annabelle but the mirror demon manipulating Judy’s fears, connecting directly to her traumatic experiences in earlier films.
2. Ghostbusters Comparison
During a lecture scene, students mock the Warrens by comparing them to the Ghostbusters, referencing the 1984 comedy. This irritates Ed, highlighting how public perception of their work has changed over time. The moment bridges horror and comedy subgenres while reflecting the challenges paranormal investigators face.
3. John Wayne Poster Jump Scare
A poster of Western icon John Wayne creates a tense false alarm. Janet Smurl spots a lurking figure in her basement, only to realize it’s the poster when she turns on the light. This cleverly plays with perception and fear, unusually merging Western and horror elements.
4. Officer Brad Hamilton’s Comeback
Brad Hamilton, the police officer from the original The Conjuring, returns at Ed’s birthday party. He references the Perron family case and shows the scar on his face from Bathsheba Sherman’s attack. His appearance reinforces the continuity of the Warrens’ relationships with those they’ve helped.
5. Real-Life Judy Warren and Tony Spera Cameo
The real Judy Warren and Tony Spera make a subtle appearance during Ed’s birthday celebration. This meta moment honors the true story behind the franchise and blurs the line between reality and fiction. Their inclusion adds emotional depth for fans familiar with the Warrens’ legacy.
6. The Exorcist Homage
Jack Smurl’s possession includes a levitation scene above his bed, directly referencing Regan’s iconic levitation in The Exorcist (1973). This nod taps into classic horror imagery and showcases director Michael Chaves’ appreciation for genre history.
7. Poltergeist-Inspired Television Terror
Heather Smurl’s TV scene pays homage to Poltergeist (1982). The lighting, framing, and use of television static mirror the original film, where ghosts communicate through screens. Heather discovers disturbing images in her birthday footage, amplifying the supernatural tension.
8. The Shining’s Blood Flood
Lorraine encounters blood gushing from her kitchen sink, flooding the floor. This visually echoes the elevator blood scene from Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining (1980). The reference honors one of horror’s most memorable moments while maintaining its chilling effectiveness.
9. Jack Torrance Axe Reference
An axe-wielding ghost haunts the Smurl property, mirroring Jack Torrance’s descent into madness in The Shining. The farmer’s backstory involves axe murders of his family, reinforcing the parallel. This creates a familiar yet fresh scare for audiences.
10. James Wan’s Farewell Cameo
Franchise creator James Wan appears during Judy and Tony’s wedding scene. As the director of the first two Conjuring films and producer of later entries, his cameo serves as a symbolic farewell from the series’ founding father. The wedding also features performers from previous films, creating a sense of reunion.
11. Lorraine’s Locket and Its Dark Significance
Lorraine’s locket, a recurring object since the first film, plays a crucial role. In one scene, she pulls it from a sink, triggering a vision of blood overflow. The locket often signals dangers surrounding her daughter Judy, emphasizing its role as a link between maternal fears and dark forces.
Also Read: Patrick Wilson Surprises Fans at Atlanta Screening of ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’
