The Rule of Jenny Pen: A Fantastic Fest Review
The opening night film of Fantastic Fest 2024, The Rule of Jenny Pen, takes viewers on a twisted journey into the depths of dementia and madness. Directed by James Ashcroft, this New Zealand thriller garnered critical acclaim and accolades, including best director for Ashcroft and best actor for star Geoffrey Rush. Set primarily within the confines of the Royal Pine Mews care home, the film immerses audiences in a world where the horrors of aging and mental decline are front and center.
The storyline revolves around a group of patients at the care home, each battling their own demons of dementia and physical limitations. However, one patient stands out for his viciousness and cruelty – Dave Crealy, portrayed with chilling intensity by John Lithgow. Crealy’s reign of terror goes unnoticed by the staff, as he uses a plastic doll head named Jenny Pen to carry out his malevolent acts under the cover of darkness.
The heart of the film lies in the captivating performances of Rush and Lithgow, who engage in a twisted pas de deux that is both mesmerizing and disturbing. Rush plays a once-arrogant judge named Stefan, whose stroke lands him in the care home, facing the harsh realities of his declining health. As Stefan becomes the target of Dave’s torment, a battle of wills ensues between the two men, with Lithgow delivering a powerhouse performance that showcases his range as an actor.
Director James Ashcroft, known for his work on previous thrillers like Coming Home in the Dark, infuses The Rule of Jenny Pen with a sense of unease and uncertainty. Through distorted sound effects, off-kilter camera angles, and closeups, Ashcroft keeps viewers on edge, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. While the film’s visuals and sound design enhance its madhouse vibes, the narrative falls short of fully exploring the complexities of its characters and their motivations.
Despite its narrative shortcomings, The Rule of Jenny Pen remains a compelling watch, thanks to the powerhouse performances of Rush and Lithgow. The film delves into themes of power, madness, and the fragility of the human mind, leaving audiences questioning the thin line between sanity and insanity. As Rush and Lithgow command the screen with their intensity and depth, viewers are taken on a dark and twisted journey that lingers long after the credits roll.
In conclusion, The Rule of Jenny Pen is a testament to the power of veteran actors to elevate a film with their talent and commitment. While the narrative may falter at times, the performances of Rush and Lithgow shine through, making this thriller a must-see for fans of psychological horror and intense character-driven storytelling. As Fantastic Fest continues to showcase boundary-pushing cinema, The Rule of Jenny Pen stands out as a standout entry that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
