John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush Clash in Chilling Trailer for ‘The Rule of Jenny Pen

The official trailer for The Rule of Jenny Pen has dropped, and it promises a tense, unsettling showdown between two legendary actors: John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush. Directed by James Ashcroft, the psychological thriller is set to hit theaters on March 7 before streaming on Shudder. The film, which premiered at Fantastic Fest, is based on Owen Marshall’s short story of the same name and explores the dark dynamics of power and manipulation in a retirement home.

The Plot: A Deadly Game of Control

John Lithgow stars as Dave Crealy, a tyrannical resident of a retirement home who terrorizes his fellow residents with a sadistic game called “The Rule of Jenny Pen.” At the center of his cruelty is a dementia doll, which he wields as a tool of psychological torment. Geoffrey Rush plays Judge Stefan Mortensen, an arrogant and partially paralyzed man who becomes Crealy’s primary target after suffering a near-fatal stroke.

The trailer opens with Crealy ominously asking, “Who rules?” as he holds the eerie doll. Mortensen, bedridden and vulnerable, is subjected to Crealy’s relentless mind games. Despite his pleas for help, the staff turns a blind eye, leaving Mortensen to confront Crealy on his own. The tension escalates as Mortensen resolves to end Crealy’s reign of terror, setting the stage for a deadly conflict.

A Unique Take on Bullying

Director James Ashcroft describes The Rule of Jenny Pen as a story that shifts the concept of bullying from the schoolyard to the retirement home. In a director’s statement, Ashcroft explained, “As a father of three, I’m ever aware of the prospect of bullying in my children’s lives. But I’d never considered it as something that my aging parents might face in the twilight stages of their lives.”

This fresh perspective adds a layer of poignancy to the film, highlighting the vulnerability of the elderly and the often-overlooked dynamics of power and control in care facilities. The film delves into themes of isolation, resilience, and the human capacity for cruelty, making it a thought-provoking addition to the psychological thriller genre.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

John Lithgow (known for Dexter, The Crown) delivers a chilling performance as the menacing Dave Crealy. Lithgow’s ability to portray complex, morally ambiguous characters shines through in this role, as he balances charm and menace with unsettling ease.

Geoffrey Rush (famous for Shine, Pirates of the Caribbean) brings depth and intensity to the role of Judge Stefan Mortensen. Rush’s portrayal of a once-powerful man reduced to vulnerability is both heartbreaking and compelling.

The film is co-written by Eli Kent and James Ashcroft, with Ashcroft also directing. Their collaboration brings a sharp, nuanced script to life, blending psychological tension with moments of dark humor.

Produced by Catherine Fitzgerald and Orlando Stewart, the film boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Lithgow, Rush, and Shudder’s Samuel Zimmerman.

A Dark and Atmospheric Thriller

The trailer sets a foreboding tone, with its eerie visuals and unsettling score. The retirement home, typically a place of care and comfort, is transformed into a claustrophobic battleground where psychological warfare reigns. Lithgow’s portrayal of Crealy is both menacing and unnervingly charismatic, while Rush’s Mortensen embodies resilience and desperation.

The use of the dementia doll as a symbol of control adds a layer of psychological horror to the film. The doll, a seemingly innocent object, becomes a tool of manipulation and fear, reflecting the fragility of the human mind and the ease with which it can be exploited.

Release Details

The Rule of Jenny Pen will premiere in theaters on March 7, followed by its streaming debut on Shudder. The film’s unique premise and powerhouse performances make it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and horror. Its exploration of themes like aging, power, and vulnerability ensures that it will resonate with a wide audience.

Critical Reception and Festival Buzz

The film premiered at Fantastic Fest, where it received positive reviews for its gripping narrative and standout performances. Critics praised Ashcroft’s direction and the chemistry between Lithgow and Rush, noting that their on-screen clash is both intense and emotionally charged. The film’s ability to balance psychological tension with moments of dark humor has been highlighted as one of its strengths.

Final Thoughts

With its gripping narrative, stellar cast, and thought-provoking themes, The Rule of Jenny Pen is poised to be one of the most talked-about films of the year. John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush’s on-screen clash promises to be a masterclass in tension and drama, offering audiences a haunting exploration of power, vulnerability, and the human psyche.

As the film prepares for its theatrical release, it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of psychological thrillers to captivate and unsettle. Whether you’re a fan of horror, drama, or character-driven stories, The Rule of Jenny Pen is a film that demands attention.