WEDNESDAY 22 April
Rule of Jennyh Pen
Directed by James Ashcroft
2024 | R16 | 1 hour 45 mins | NZ | English
Doors open at 6:30pm.
Screening starts at 7pm sharp.
The Rule of Jenny Pen is a chilling New Zealand psychological horror directed by James Ashcroft, based on the short story by Owen Marshall. The film follows Stefan Mortensen, an elderly judge played by Geoffrey Rush, whose life is abruptly upended after a stroke leaves him partially immobile and confined to a care home. Struggling to adjust and determined to regain his independence, Stefan instead finds himself drawn into a deeply unsettling environment.
Within the home, a sinister presence lurks in the form of fellow resident Dave Crealy (John Lithgow), who presents as harmless by day but terrorises other residents by night. Through intimidation, manipulation, and psychological torment—often involving a grotesque hand puppet named Jenny Pen—Crealy maintains a quiet but absolute control over those around him. As Stefan attempts to expose the abuse, he finds himself increasingly isolated, disbelieved, and targeted.
As the tension escalates, Stefan must confront both his own physical limitations and the growing threat within the home. What unfolds is a disturbing exploration of power, vulnerability, and resistance, set against the claustrophobic backdrop of institutional care. Unnerving and thought-provoking, The Rule of Jenny Pen delivers a uniquely local take on psychological horror that lingers long after the final scene.
Producer: Catherine Fitzgerald and Orlando Steward
Screenplay: Eli Kent
Music: John Gibson
Cinematography: Matt Henley
Cast: John Lithgow, Geoffery Rush, George Henare