The final chapter of the Conjuring franchise, The Conjuring: Last Rites, is on its way it will cover another fascinating real-life case: the Smurl haunting. This is a case that once received national attention and remains one of the most well-known instances of haunting in the state of Pennsylvania.
Ahead of The Conjuring 4, here is a breakdown of the real-life incidents that inspired the movie.
Is The Conjuring: Last Rites based on a true story, and what is it?
Yes, The Conjuring: Last Rites is based on a true story. It will adapt the alleged haunting of the Smurl family, which the Warrens investigated in 1986. A popular case with many followers, the movie will depict the real story and add some dramatization, as was done in previous installments, which were also inspired by real events.
Jack and Janet Smurl moved into a duplex on Chase Street in West Pittston, Pennsylvania, in August 1973. Jack’s parents also moved into the duplex eventually, and the couple later welcomed twins. Things were normal until 1985, when the Smurls began to experience a range of supernatural activities, from loud noises to foul odors and unexplained screams.
They also claimed to have witnessed their German shepherd being slammed against a wall and their daughter being pushed down a stairwell. After two failed exorcisms, the family decided to share their story with the public in the hopes of getting help. Their case ultimately reached the Warrens in 1986.
The Warrens claimed that four spirits inhabited the house. These included a demon, an elderly woman, a young girl, and a man. According to the Warrens, the demon was using the three other spirits to torment the family.
Eventually, the spirits were cast out with the help of a nearby church pastor, Rev. Joseph Adonizio. There have been conflicting reports since then. The next resident of the house claimed they never experienced anything supernatural.
The Conjuring: Last Rites will likely add some drama to the story and aims to deliver a thrilling final chapter. The movie premieres on September 5, 2025.
