The 1982 horror classic Poltergeist, directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg, is renowned for its chilling storyline, eerie special effects, and unsettling supernatural occurrences. While its impact on the horror genre is undeniable, there is an unsettling fact that adds to the film’s mystique: Poltergeist used real skeletons as part of its production. This revelation, which surfaced over time, has become a subject of intrigue, raising questions about the ethics of filmmaking and the price of horror. In this article, we will delve into the truth behind this claim, explore how it came to light, and reflect on its significance within the context of the film’s production.
The Rise of Poltergeist
Released in 1982, Poltergeist tells the story of the Freeling family, whose suburban home becomes the epicenter of a terrifying supernatural event. The family’s young daughter, Carol Anne, becomes the target of an evil entity that communicates through their television set, leading to a series of disturbing and terrifying events. The movie combined cutting-edge special effects with a gripping narrative, becoming a massive hit both commercially and critically.
Directed by Tobe Hooper, who was known for his work on The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Poltergeist was produced by Steven Spielberg, who was at the height of his fame following the success of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. The movie’s blend of horror and the supernatural helped define an era of filmmaking, and its haunting imagery continues to resonate with audiences.
The Claim: Real Skeletons on Set
One of the most infamous and chilling pieces of trivia associated with Poltergeist is the claim that real skeletons were used as props in several scenes. The most prominent example comes from a sequence in which the Freeling family’s swimming pool is overtaken by skeletal remains. In the scene, the pool becomes a grotesque burial ground where the skeletal remains of long-dead individuals emerge from the water. It’s this sequence that has sparked the controversy surrounding the use of real human skeletons during the making of the film.
Initially, the filmmakers and actors denied the use of real skeletons, opting to use high-quality props made of plastic or other synthetic materials. However, as time went on, the truth emerged—real skeletons were indeed used in the swimming pool scene. According to actress JoBeth Williams, who portrayed the mother in the film, the skeletons were surprisingly convincing, but they were also undeniably real. It was later revealed that the production team had acquired the skeletons from a medical supply company, which sold authentic human remains.
The Ethical Dilemma: Real Skeletons in Filmmaking
The revelation that real skeletons were used in Poltergeist raised several ethical questions. Why would filmmakers opt to use real human remains instead of props? The reasons seem to be twofold: realism and cost. At the time, producing realistic-looking skeletons out of plastic or resin was not as easy as it is today. Real skeletons were considered by some to be more convincing in terms of their anatomical accuracy. Moreover, purchasing these remains was cheaper than creating realistic replicas, especially for a film with a large budget and a tight production schedule.
While the decision to use real skeletons may have been driven by practicality, it did not go unnoticed. In the years following the release of Poltergeist, there were public outcries from both fans and ethical critics alike. Some saw the use of real skeletons as a violation of the dignity of the deceased, while others were concerned about the potential psychological impact on actors and crew members. After all, handling human remains—regardless of their age—can have an unsettling effect, both personally and professionally.
Behind the Scenes: The Filmmakers’ Response
After the truth came to light, the filmmakers involved with Poltergeist responded in various ways. Some members of the crew maintained that they were unaware that the skeletons were real, claiming they thought they were merely props made from high-quality materials. However, this explanation did little. To ease the concerns of those who found the use of human remains to be unethical.
In interviews, actress JoBeth Williams revealed that she was particularly disturbed by the situation. She recalled that, although she initially assumed the skeletons were fake, the reality hit when she learned they were real. This made her question the judgment of the filmmakers and the overall treatment of the subject matter. Despite this, Williams and other cast members continued with the production. Which in hindsight contributed to the eerie atmosphere of the film.
It is important to note that the use of real skeletons was not an isolated incident in Hollywood history. In the 1980s, it was not entirely uncommon for filmmakers to use authentic human remains in films. Medical supply companies often sold such items to the entertainment industry. However, the revelation about Poltergeist brought greater attention to the practice. Raising questions about the responsibilities of filmmakers when it comes to depicting human remains in their art.
The Impact on Poltergeist‘s Legacy
Despite the controversy surrounding using real skeletons, Poltergeist remains a beloved and influential horror film. It was praised for its groundbreaking special effects, its strong performances, and its ability to generate genuine scares. The film’s themes of family, and the supernatural. And the consequences of human actions have made it a standout in the horror genre.
However, the revelation that Poltergeist used real skeletons has added a layer of dark intrigue to its legacy. It is impossible to ignore the film’s most memorable scene. Which skeletons rise from the pool, was made. All the more disturbing by the knowledge that these were not merely props. For some viewers, this knowledge enhances the sense of unease that the film creates, while for others. It tarnishes the movie’s otherwise impressive craftsmanship.
In the years following the film’s release, several documentaries and behind-the-scenes featurettes have explored the making of Poltergeist. And the story of the real skeletons has become part of the film’s lore. It has been cited as one of the production’s more bizarre and unsettling aspects. Adding a layer of mystery to an already iconic film.
Conclusion: A Lingering Question
The truth about the real skeletons used. Poltergeist will likely continue to be a subject of fascination for years to come. While the film’s legacy as a horror classic remains secure. The controversy surrounding the use of real human remains adds a layer of complexity to its story. It serves as a reminder of the sometimes uncomfortable realities behind the scenes of filmmaking. Where the pursuit of realism and cost-efficiency can clash with ethical considerations.
Ultimately, the fact that Poltergeist used real skeletons as part of its production speaks. To the lengths, filmmakers will sometimes go to to create the most realistic and disturbing visuals. Whether this decision was justified or not is a matter of personal opinion. But it certainly adds to the film’s dark mystique. For those who have seen the movie, the knowledge of real skeletons. In the pool scene serves as a haunting reminder that sometimes, reality can be more unsettling than fiction. Visit my site for more information World Wave Mag.