Poltergeist, the known horror film from 1982 helmed by Tobe Hooper and brought to life by Steven Spielberg, is famous for its plot and cutting-edge visual effects. Yet a disturbing revelation about what happened off-camera has troubled fans and movie experts for years; actual human skeletons were used in scenes of the movie. This discovery not only gives a twist to the film but also sparks important moral dilemmas.
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The Notorious Pool Sequence
A. Eerie moment, in the film Poltergeist, showcases Diane Freeling, portrayed by JoBeth Williams, getting dragged into a rain-soaked pool. Amid her efforts to escape, skeletons start surfacing from the water, resulting in a spine-chilling sight. It was eventually disclosed that these skeletons were not props but actual human bones. Williams herself did not know this detail while shooting and only found out about it while expressing her unease and astonishment in interviews. (ScoopByte) (Sirler).
Why Use Real Skeletons?
The decision to use real skeletons was primarily driven by practicality and budget constraints. At the time, acquiring real human skeletons from medical supply companies was cheaper than creating high-quality fake ones. Special effects artist Craig Reardon confirmed that the production team used 13 real skeletons, which were then dressed up with makeup and props to appear as decomposed bodies (GeekTyrant) (Crunch Bar).
Ethical and Cultural Implications
The use of real skeletons in Poltergeist has sparked significant ethical debates. Critics argue that using human remains for entertainment is deeply disrespectful and raises questions about consent and the treatment of the deceased. This practice, while more common in the past, would likely face substantial backlash and legal hurdles today (ScoopByte).
The “Poltergeist Curse”
Adding to the film’s eerie legacy is the so-called “Poltergeist Curse.” This legend suggests that the use of real skeletons led to a series of unfortunate and tragic events affecting the cast and crew. Notably, two young actresses, Dominique Dunne (Dana Freeling) and Heather O’Rourke (Carol Anne Freeling), died under tragic circumstances shortly after the film’s release. While many dismiss the curse as superstition, the coincidences have fueled speculation and myth-making around the film (ScoopByte) (Crunch Bar).
Impact on Horror Cinema
The use of skeletons in the movie Poltergeist has had a significant influence on the horror film industry, impacting how movies are made and how viewers perceive them. It highlights the dedication of filmmakers to authenticity and sheds light on the repercussions of their decisions. This event has led to regulations and ethical reflections in filmmaking, with technological advancements like CGI and special effects diminishing the reliance on real human bones (GeekTyrant) (Crunch Bar).
Contemplating the Impact of Poltergeist
In light of its production decisions, Poltergeist stands out as a piece in the realm of horror movies. The inclusion of skeletons brings a sense of dread to the film, contributing to its revered status as a beloved classic. This particular element of the movie remains a subject of interest and discussion for both fans of horror and scholars in the field of cinema. (Sirler) (Crunch Bar).
To sum up, incorporating skeletons in Poltergeist adds a layer to the horror movie genre, showcasing the intricate balance between genuineness, moral values, and narrative. Understanding this fact enriches our understanding of the film’s impact. It underscores the significance of ethical reflections when striving for artistic authenticity.
FAQs
What is the 1982 movie Poltergeist about?
Poltergeist is a horror film about a suburban family whose home is haunted by evil ghosts that abduct their youngest daughter, Carol Anne. The family battles these supernatural forces to rescue her.
Is it true that real skeletons were used in the movie Poltergeist?
Yes, it’s true. The production team used real human skeletons in several scenes, most notably in the pool scene where skeletons emerge from the water.
Why were real skeletons used in the movie Poltergeist?
Real skeletons were used because they were cheaper and more readily available than high-quality fake ones. They were purchased from medical supply companies and used to add realism to the scenes.
What is the “Poltergeist Curse”?
The “Poltergeist Curse” refers to the series of unfortunate and tragic events that occurred the film’s cast and crew, including the untimely deaths of actresses Dominique Dunne and Heather O’Rourke. Some believe these events are linked to the use of real skeletons in the film, though this remains speculative.
How did the use of real skeletons affect the film’s legacy?
The use of real skeletons has added a layer of macabre fascination to Poltergeist. It has sparked ethical debates and contributed to the film’s status as a cult classic with a legendary, if unsettling, backstory.
Are real skeletons still used in movies today?
The use of real skeletons in films is now largely obsolete due to ethical concerns and advancements in special effects technology, such as CGI, which allow filmmakers to create realistic effects without using human remains.
