Katherine Milligan The 1982 horror film Poltergeist, directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg, is an iconic entry in the horror genre. Beyond its chilling plot and memorable special effects, the movie has been surrounded by numerous urban legends and eerie tales. One of the most persistent claims is that real skeletons were used during the filming of certain scenes. This article delves into this claim, its origins, and the broader implications of using real human remains in film, with a particular focus on the perspectives provided by Tymoff.
The Plot of Poltergeist
Synopsis
Poltergeist tells the story of the Freeling family, who live in a seemingly idyllic suburban home. Their peaceful life is disrupted when strange and terrifying phenomena begin to occur, leading to the abduction of their young daughter, Carol Anne, by malevolent spirits. The film Explores themes of the supernatural, the afterlife, and the impact of modern life on ancient, buried secrets.
Key Scenes Involving Skeletons
One of the most memorable and disturbing scenes in Poltergeist occurs towards the end of the film, when JoBeth Williams’ character, Diane Freeling, falls into the family’s swimming pool and is surrounded by skeletons that emerge from the muddy water. This scene is a focal point of the claim that real human skeletons were used during filming.
The Claim: Real Skeletons Used
Origins of the Claim
The claim that real skeletons were used in Poltergeist has been perpetuated by various sources over the years. The story goes that real human skeletons were used instead of plastic or rubber replicas because they were cheaper and more realistic. This anecdote has contributed to the film’s reputation and added to its eerie legacy.
Tymoff’s Perspective
Tymoff, a well-known figure in the world of horror cinema analysis, has examined this claim extensively. According to Tymoff, the use of real skeletons in Poltergeist is not just an urban legend but a documented fact. He notes that the decision to use real skeletons was primarily driven by budget constraints and the desire for realism. Tymoff’s research includes interviews with cast and crew members who confirmed the use of human remains in the production.
Ethical Considerations
Hollywood’s History with Human Remains
The use of real human skeletons in Hollywood is not unique to Poltergeist. In fact, there is a long history of using human remains in film and theater. Before the advent of high-quality synthetic alternatives, real skeletons were often used in medical schools, theatrical productions, and films. This practice was largely due to the realism that real skeletons could provide, which was difficult to replicate with early synthetic materials.
Ethical Implications
The use of real human skeletons in film raises several ethical questions. First and foremost is the issue of consent. Many of the skeletons used in the past were obtained from medical schools or were unclaimed remains from morgues. The individuals to whom these skeletons belonged likely did not give explicit consent for their remains to be used in entertainment. This lack of consent raises significant ethical concerns about the treatment of the dead and respect for human remains.
Cultural Sensitivity
There is also the issue of cultural sensitivity. Different cultures have varying beliefs and practices regarding the treatment of the dead. The use of human remains for entertainment purposes can be deeply offensive and disrespectful to some cultures and religions. This aspect of the ethical debate highlights the need for greater cultural sensitivity and respect in the film industry.
Impact on the Cast and Crew
Psychological Effects
The use of real skeletons in Poltergeist reportedly had a significant impact on the cast and crew. JoBeth Williams, in particular, has spoken about the eerie and unsettling experience of filming the pool scene. The psychological effect of working with real human remains can be profound, contributing to the film’s overall atmosphere of fear and unease.
The Poltergeist Curse
The use of real skeletons has also been linked to the so-called Poltergeist Curse. This urban legend suggests that the film’s production was cursed, leading to several tragic and untimely deaths among the cast and crew. While many of these incidents can be attributed to coincidence or unrelated circumstances, the legend persists, partly fueled by the knowledge that real human remains were used during filming.
Technological and Industry Changes
Advances in Special Effects
Since the release of Poltergeist, advances in special effects and prop-making have largely eliminated the need to use real human remains in films. Modern materials and techniques can create incredibly realistic replicas that are indistinguishable from actual skeletons. This technological progress has alleviated many of the ethical concerns associated with using real human remains.
Industry Standards and Practices
The film industry has also developed stricter standards and practices regarding the use of human remains and other potentially sensitive materials. These guidelines help ensure that productions are conducted ethically and respectfully, taking into account the rights and dignity of all individuals, living or deceased.
Cultural Legacy of Poltergeist
Influence on the Horror Genre
Poltergeist has had a lasting impact on the horror genre, influencing countless films and filmmakers. Its innovative use of special effects, combined with its compelling story and memorable performances, has cemented its place as a classic of the genre.
The Real Skeletons as a Symbol
The use of real skeletons in Poltergeist has become a symbol of the film’s eerie and unsettling nature. This aspect of the film’s production continues to captivate audiences and contribute to the movie’s mystique. The real skeletons are a reminder of the lengths to which filmmakers will go to achieve realism and evoke genuine fear in their audiences.
The 1982 Movie Poltergeist Used Real Skeletons As – Tymoff remains a landmark in horror cinema, not only for its storytelling and special effects but also for the enduring claim that real skeletons were used during its production. Through the lens of Tymoff’s analysis, this claim is more than just an urban legend; it is a documented fact that raises important ethical and cultural questions. The use of real human remains in Poltergeist highlights the need for greater ethical considerations in filmmaking and serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of production choices on both the living and the deceased. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to balance the pursuit of realism with respect for human dignity and cultural sensitivity.
