The Rule of Jenny Pen is a highly anticipated psychological horror film set for release on March 7, 2025. Directed by James Ashcroft and based on a short story by Owen Marshall, the film features acclaimed actors John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush in leading roles. The film has garnered significant attention following its screenings at the Sitges Film Festival in October 2024 and Fantastic Fest in September 2024.
In The Rule of Jenny Pen, Geoffrey Rush plays Stefan Mortensen, a judge who has suffered a stroke that paralyzed half of his body. Confined within the bleak walls of a nursing home, Mortensen struggles to adapt to his new life, battling feelings of hopelessness and denial. However, his sense of normalcy shatters upon meeting a disturbed resident named Dave Crealy, portrayed by John Lithgow. Crealy, a deranged individual who communicates through a baby doll hand puppet, introduces Mortensen to a terrifying game rooted in twisted rules known as The Rule of Jenny Pen.
The game initially seems innocuous, drawing the appearance of a playful activity for children. Yet, as Mortensen quickly discovers, Crealy’s rules are a thin veil for underlying malevolence. The elderly residents of the nursing home become unwitting targets of Crealy’s cruelty, as he resorts to psychological torment and terror. There are whispers among the residents of individuals disappearing when they defy the eccentric rules, engendering a palpable sense of dread.
Faced with his own physical limitations, Rush’s character, Stefan, feels an urgent compulsion to combat the madness that is taking root around him. Drawing from his experience as a judge, he begins to unravel the sinister intentions of Crealy and confronts the reality that his survival might hinge on outsmarting a man trapped in his own mental labyrinth. As the struggle unfolds, the stakes rise in an intense battle between Mortensen’s will to survive and Crealy’s unyielding cruelty.
The portrayal of Stefan by Geoffrey Rush adds a profound depth to the film, capturing the character’s inner turmoil as he confronts both external threats and his own vulnerabilities. Lithgow’s performance as the villainous Crealy is equally compelling, bringing a chilling charisma that intensifies the film’s atmosphere. As audiences eagerly anticipate the film’s release, the stark contrasts between Rush’s fragile state and Lithgow’s imposing presence create a dynamic tension, ensuring viewers remain on the edge of their seats.
The film was primarily shot in Taupō, Wellington, and Lower Hutt, New Zealand, which provides a haunting backdrop that complements its eerie narrative. Director Ashcroft has delved into heavy themes such as bullying, albeit set within the seemingly peaceful confines of a retirement community. This thematic exploration adds an unsettling layer to the storyline, prompting viewers to reflect on the sometimes-overlooked dynamics within such environments.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ashcroft emphasized how real-life experiences and societal issues serve as a foundation for understanding the unfolding horror, weaving a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. The film’s trailer paints a vivid picture of the psychological dread that characterizes The Rule of Jenny Pen; it showcases playful moments that rapidly morph into scenes of terror, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
The excitement is palpable as fans delve into the trailer, witnessing glimpses of Crealy’s manipulation and Mortensen’s growing recognition of the looming danger. The tension escalates as these two characters are thrust into a confrontation that will ultimately challenge Mortensen’s willpower and courage.
Geoffrey Rush’s performance is set to anchor the film, providing a poignant portrayal of a man grappling with fear, isolation, and the need for survival. As the film approaches its release date, audiences can only speculate about the shocking twists that lie ahead in The Rule of Jenny Pen. Fans eager for more updates and insights on this chilling horror flick should stay tuned as the release date draws near.
