Insidious 7 (2025) Movie Review: A Haunting Return to The Further

The Insidious franchise has always been one of the cornerstones of supernatural horror cinema. With its gripping tension, chilling visuals, and a consistently unnerving atmosphere, the series has carved its place in the genre. Insidious 7 (2025), directed by Patrick Wilson, takes us deeper into the world of The Further—its darkest corners where nightmares manifest, and horrors lurk just beyond the veil of reality.

Plot Overview

The narrative picks up where the haunting events of the previous film left off. Josh Lambert (Patrick Wilson) is reluctantly pulled back into a terrifying world of ghosts and spirits as a wave of supernatural attacks begins spreading across the country. The disturbing force driving these events is an ancient entity that traps souls using human memories, and its influence has grown stronger since the infamous Red Door was first opened.

With the entity’s power intensifying, Josh is forced to reunite with his wife, Renai (Rose Byrne), and his mother, Lorraine (Vera Farmiga). They journey deeper into The Further than ever before. Elise Rainier (Lin Shaye), whose spirit lingers to warn them, reveals that their only hope lies in confronting this malignant force head-on—no matter the cost.

Performances and Direction

Patrick Wilson once again delivers a strong performance as Josh Lambert, a man burdened by guilt and fear, yet determined to save his family. His portrayal is filled with subtlety, capturing the inner torment that comes with being haunted by both real and psychological demons.

Vera Farmiga, as Lorraine, provides the emotional weight needed for the film. Her calm, composed demeanor is a counterbalance to the terrifying events unfolding around her. Both actors are in their element as they navigate the complexities of their characters’ relationships while contending with the supernatural forces at play.

Lin Shaye, as Elise, returns in a more ethereal, spectral role, which brings a fresh layer to her already established character. Her presence throughout the film, though minimal, feels incredibly potent as she serves as the group’s moral compass and source of wisdom.

Patrick Wilson’s direction shows a keen understanding of pacing and atmosphere. He masterfully builds tension, often leaving the audience in suspense before revealing the next terrifying vision from The Further. The jump scares, while abundant, don’t overwhelm the story, and the slow-burning dread that permeates the film helps to create a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll.

The Supernatural Elements

Where Insidious 7 truly excels is in its handling of supernatural horror. The Further is more vivid than ever, with new, twisted dimensions and horrors waiting to be discovered. The filmmakers expand on the mythology, taking viewers through darkened hallways, warped memories, and unsettling environments that seem to defy all logic and reason. The use of color and sound design enhances the otherworldly atmosphere, making every moment feel like a nightmarish dreamscape.

One of the standout aspects of the film is its portrayal of the ancient entity. Unlike previous antagonists in the series, this entity feels less like a traditional ghost and more like a manifestation of pure evil, using memories as its primary weapon. The way it manipulates time and space, creating memories that distort reality, adds a chilling layer of psychological horror to the supernatural thrills.

Conclusion

Insidious 7 is a worthy continuation of the series, delivering a fresh take on the familiar formula while expanding the mythology in meaningful ways. It is a film that balances its supernatural thrills with deep emotional stakes, anchored by strong performances and Wilson’s taut direction. The lingering questions from previous films are addressed, and the final confrontation in The Further is as disturbing and intense as anything the series has offered before.

For fans of the franchise, Insidious 7 will feel like a long-awaited return to the terrifying world of The Further—a place where the past never truly stays buried, and every memory is a doorway to unspeakable horror.