Unveiling ‘The Rule of Jenny Pen’: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Movie Review by Roger Ebert

Horror movies often use older actors to shock us, and “The Rule of Jenny Pen” definitely fits that mold. While it mainly focuses on male characters, it still explores the unsettling aspects of aging. The film features well-known stars John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush, both in their golden years, playing intense roles that highlight the challenges of getting older. There’s even a scene where Lithgow joyfully sings a children’s song, which is oddly creepy given his age.

But don’t be fooled; this movie is not just about fun and games. “Jenny Pen” dives into serious issues like medical neglect, elder abuse, and the trauma of sexual violence against both the young and the elderly. The film’s stunning visuals and artistic direction create a vibe reminiscent of Ari Aster’s work, particularly with a shocking scene where an old man spontaneously catches fire at the start.

The director, James Ashcroft, aims for a playful yet unsettling tone, much like Aster’s style. At times, “Jenny Pen” grips you, making you want to watch but also want to look away. Unfortunately, the shifting between dark comedy and disturbing moments doesn’t always blend well, which can leave viewers feeling uneasy without the thrilling satisfaction they might expect.

In the film, Lithgow and Rush play contrasting characters. Stefan, portrayed by Rush, is a stern New Zealand judge left wheelchair-bound after a stroke early on. He seems isolated, with little regard for his fellow nursing home residents or the staff. On the other hand, Lithgow’s character, Dave, is eccentric and poses a real threat to those around him. He rules over the nursing home, intimidating his housemates and manipulating the staff to get his way. If they don’t comply with his demands, the consequences can be dire.

The scenes where Dave bullies other residents are unsettling, showcasing the darker side of power dynamics among the vulnerable. However, the film also tries to squeeze humor from these uncomfortable moments, blurring the line between a nightmare and a joke. As Stefan’s health deteriorates, it becomes harder to sympathize with him, despite his sufferings, which leads to a chaotic and cartoonish showdown between the two characters.

A big draw of the film is Lithgow’s performance. He’s captivating as he transforms from a typically warm actor to a wildly evil presence, complete with an unsettling baby doll puppet. While his New Zealand accent may not hit the mark, he delivers an entertaining performance that enhances the film’s campy nature. Yet viewers are left questioning if this is a serious horror story, or just comedic fun.

The film indulges in silly themes, such as a fixation on bodily functions, while also trying to retain emotional depth. For example, a scene where a retired footballer attempts a traditional dance adds a layer of seriousness. Balancing these elements can be tricky, but “Jenny Pen” manages to strike the right notes, even if the film sometimes suffers from a long runtime and uneven tone. Ultimately, it succeeds in delivering an irregular yet engaging experience that’s worth watching.