With a unique twist in the horror genre, Jenny Penn's Rules emerges as a psychological thriller that unfolds in the unsettling realm of nursing homes. Released in cinemas on March 21, 2025, New Zealand films capture the often overlooked fears associated with aging and neglect within these facilities, making them the perfect backdrop for fear.
The film tells the story of a paranoid patient named Dave Creeley, brought to life by veteran John Lithgow. He adopts a baby doll called Jenny Penn to instill fear among his fellow inhabitants. On the other side of the conflict is Stefan Mortensen. Geoffrey Rush is an unfortunate judge whose stroke leads him to the scope of a nursing home. As the plot thickens, Stephen realizes he is facing Dave, and his actions are not checked by indifferent nursing staff.
It is an approach to fear that distinguishes Jenny Penn's rules from traditional horror films. Instead of relying on excessive gore, the film takes away the unsettling atmosphere of nursing homes. The tension-filled scenes come not from bloodshed, but from the vulnerable reality that the character faces. One particularly tragic moment is when Dave yanking the catheter, causing an uneasy numbness that remains long after the scene passes.
The film also delves into the “Hugsporation” genre. Here, older characters live in roles that are normally reserved for youthful heroes and victims. Interactions between aging individuals create dynamics, revealing hostile relationships with one's body that reflect the broader social discomfort towards aging.
Jeffrey Rush shines in his portrayal of Stephen, embodying the character who initially appears to have been defeated by his situation. His journey to resolve from frustration reflects many struggles within the terror of old age. As the film progresses, Rush's performance is a powerful evidence of his willingness to confront his own fears, both internally and externally.
In contrast, Lithgow's portrayal of Dave is nothing but sensational. He injects life into the character, and Dave becomes a truly majestic figure, especially when he interacts with Doll Jenny Penn. Lighting serves as a crucial element of fear, ensuring that Jenny's hollows glow ominously in the darkness, amplifying the eerieness of their association.
Despite its strengths, Jenny Penn's Rules tackles a somewhat repetitive narrative structure. Much of the middle part of the film feels like a repetition of Dave's horror attitude. It's not until the third act that Stephen and his roommate Tony (played by George Hennare) decide to stand up to Dave and present a satisfying resolution that has earned him well after a long build-up.
The film ultimately reflects similarities of real-world neglect in elderly care facilities. The nursing staff's mild miss attitude towards Stephen's legitimate fear of Dave resonates with viewers and sheds light on systemic issues that are often unaware of. Viewers witness the frightening truth about how seniors can dodge themselves in the face of real danger.
Despite the cyclical plot and pacing issues, the film deserves recognition. The powerful performances by Rush and Lithgow, coupled with the uneasy fear drawn from the nursing home background, provide a fresh look at the psychological horror that sets you apart from others in the genre. For horror fans looking for something clear and thought-provoking, Jenny Penn's rules are worth the watch.
In conclusion, the film may not always break new ground in terms of narrative innovation, but it certainly opens up a compelling debate about the vulnerability of aging and the urgent need for compassionate care. With effective horror and Heartfelt performances blending, the film stands as a heart-pounding reminder of the battles that fought silently behind the walls of the nursing home.
