The 1982 horror movie Poltergeist is known for its spooky storyline and special effects that were ahead of its time. However, a lesser-known fact about the film is that real human skeletons were used during the production. This revelation has sparked ethical, legal, and philosophical questions about the use of real human remains in the entertainment industry.
According to several sources, including Snopes.com and Screen Rant, the skeletons used in the movie were purchased from a medical supply company. JoBeth Williams, one of the lead actresses in the film, was reportedly not aware that real skeletons were used in the scene until after she finished shooting it. The use of real human remains in the movie has raised concerns about the treatment of deceased individuals and the impact it may have on their families.
Despite the controversy surrounding the use of real human skeletons in Poltergeist, the film remains a classic in the horror genre. However, it serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical considerations in the entertainment industry and the need for transparency in the use of props and special effects.
Overview of Poltergeist (1982)
Poltergeist is a 1982 American supernatural horror film that was directed by Tobe Hooper and written by Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais, and Mark Victor. The story revolves around a suburban family whose home is invaded by malevolent ghosts that abduct their youngest daughter, Carol Anne.
The film stars JoBeth Williams, Craig T. Nelson, and Beatrice Straight, and was produced by Spielberg and Frank Marshall. Poltergeist was a commercial success, grossing over $76 million in the United States alone, and was nominated for three Academy Awards.
The movie was praised for its special effects, particularly the use of practical effects to create the supernatural occurrences. However, it was also surrounded by controversy due to the use of real human skeletons in a scene that involved the characters falling into a swimming pool that was revealed to be a burial ground. The use of real skeletons has become an infamous footnote in the movie’s history, contributing to its legacy as a film that pushed boundaries, both in terms of storytelling and behind-the-scenes choices.
Despite the controversy, Poltergeist remains a classic of the horror genre and a favourite among fans of the supernatural. Its impact on the genre can still be felt today, with many modern horror films drawing inspiration from its themes and techniques.
Production Details
Use of Real Skeletons
The 1982 movie Poltergeist has been the subject of controversy for its use of real human skeletons during production. The decision to use real skeletons was made by director Tobe Hooper, who wanted to achieve a level of authenticity in the film’s special effects that could not be achieved with artificial skeletons. The skeletons were reportedly obtained from a medical supply company and were used in the scene where the character Diane (played by JoBeth Williams) falls into a pool of skeletons.
The use of real skeletons in Poltergeist has raised ethical concerns in the film industry. While the practice was not illegal at the time, it has since been banned by the Screen Actors Guild and other industry organizations. The controversy surrounding the use of real skeletons in Poltergeist has led to increased scrutiny of the use of human remains in film and television production.
Filming Techniques
In addition to the use of real skeletons, Poltergeist also employed a number of other innovative filming techniques. The film’s special effects were created using a combination of practical effects, such as puppetry and animatronics, and optical effects, such as matte paintings and rear projection. The use of these techniques helped to create the film’s iconic visual style and contributed to its lasting popularity.
Poltergeist was also notable for its use of sound design. The film’s sound effects were created using a combination of practical effects, such as slamming doors and breaking glass, and electronic effects, such as synthesizers and sound effects libraries. The use of these techniques helped to create the film’s eerie atmosphere and contributed to its status as a classic of the horror genre.
Overall, Poltergeist’s innovative use of special effects and sound design, combined with its controversial use of real human skeletons, have contributed to its enduring popularity and status as a landmark of horror cinema.
Cultural Impact
Horror Genre Influence
The use of real human skeletons in the film Poltergeist has had a lasting impact on the horror genre. The realistic portrayal of death and the macabre has become a staple of horror films, and the use of real skeletons has been emulated in other productions. However, the controversy surrounding the use of real skeletons has also led to increased scrutiny and ethical considerations in the film industry.
Public Reaction to Skeletons
The public reaction to the use of real human skeletons in Poltergeist was mixed. While some viewers were disturbed and outraged by the use of real human remains, others were fascinated by the authenticity of the film. The controversy surrounding the use of real skeletons also sparked a wider discussion about the ethics of using human remains in film and other forms of media.
Overall, the cultural impact of the use of real skeletons in Poltergeist has been significant. While the controversy surrounding the film has led to increased ethical considerations in the film industry, the use of real skeletons has also become a hallmark of the horror genre.
Controversies and Myths
Cast and Crew Reactions
The use of real human skeletons in the 1982 movie Poltergeist has been a controversial topic for many years. While some members of the cast and crew were reportedly uncomfortable with the use of real remains, others have stated that they were unaware of the use of human bones during filming.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, actor Craig T. Nelson, who played the lead role in the film, stated that he was not aware of the use of real skeletons during filming. However, he did express his discomfort with the idea, saying “I don’t think it’s right to use real bones, it’s disrespectful.”
On the other hand, special effects artist Craig Reardon, who worked on the film, has defended the use of real skeletons, stating that it was a common practice in the film industry at the time. He also emphasized that the bones were obtained legally and with respect for the deceased.
Urban Legends
The use of real human skeletons in Poltergeist has also spawned a number of urban legends and myths over the years. One such myth is that the cast and crew were cursed as a result of using the real bones.
While there is no evidence to support this claim, it has persisted in popular culture. Another myth is that the skeletons used in the film were cursed or haunted, and that their use led to strange occurrences on set.
Again, there is no evidence to support these claims, and they are likely the result of exaggerated rumors and speculation. Nonetheless, the controversy surrounding the use of real human remains in Poltergeist has made it a topic of fascination for horror movie fans and film historians alike.
Ethical Considerations
The use of real human skeletons in the 1982 movie “Poltergeist” has raised ethical questions about the use of human remains as props in the film industry. At the time, there were no clear regulations or standards in place regarding the use of human remains. Budgetary constraints drove the decision to use real skeletons, but it has opened up a Pandora’s box of ethical considerations that still resonate today.
The movie’s use of real human skeletons has been a topic of debate and controversy for decades. Some argue that the use of real human remains is disrespectful and violates the dignity of the deceased. Others argue that it is a common practice in the film industry and that the skeletons were obtained ethically.
The ethical considerations surrounding the use of real human skeletons in “Poltergeist” are complex. On one hand, the use of real human remains can add a sense of realism to a movie. On the other hand, it can be seen as a violation of the deceased’s dignity and disrespectful to their memory.
In recent years, there have been efforts to regulate the use of human remains in the film industry. The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) has established guidelines for the use of human remains in movies. These guidelines require that filmmakers obtain written consent from the deceased’s next of kin before using their remains in a movie.
Overall, the use of real human skeletons in “Poltergeist” raises important ethical considerations about the use of human remains in the film industry. While there are arguments for and against the practice, it is clear that there needs to be more regulation and oversight to ensure that the dignity of the deceased is respected.
Legacy and Influence on Cinema
Despite the controversies surrounding the use of real human skeletons in the production of “Poltergeist,” the film remains a classic in the horror genre. Its influence on cinema can be seen in various ways.
Firstly, “Poltergeist” set a new standard for horror films with its groundbreaking special effects and use of practical effects. The film’s use of animatronics and puppetry in creating the ghostly apparitions was a significant departure from the typical use of makeup and prosthetics in horror films at the time. Its success in this area has inspired many filmmakers to push the boundaries of special effects in horror movies.
Secondly, “Poltergeist” paved the way for a new wave of haunted house films. The film’s storyline of a family being terrorized by malevolent spirits in their home has been replicated in numerous films since its release. The concept has been used in various ways, from the found footage style of “Paranormal Activity” to the psychological horror of “The Babadook.”
Lastly, “Poltergeist” has left a lasting impact on pop culture. The film’s iconic line, “They’re here,” has become a staple in horror movie references. The film’s legacy has also been recognized through its inclusion in various “best of” lists, as well as its remakes and sequels.
In conclusion, “Poltergeist” may have faced controversy during its production, but its impact on cinema cannot be denied. The film’s influence on special effects, haunted house films, and pop culture has solidified its place in the horror genre.
