The 1982 film “Poltergeist” has long been surrounded by rumors and urban legends, one of the most notorious being the claim that real skeletons were used during the production. While this assertion has been the subject of much speculation and debate, it does indeed hold some truth.
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In the climactic scene of “Poltergeist,” the character Diane Freeling, played by actress JoBeth Williams, falls into a pool that is revealed to be filled with skeletal remains. These bones were meant to represent the disturbed graves of a cemetery that had been relocated to make way for the housing development where the Freeling family resides.
Contrary to common filmmaking practice, where props and special effects are typically used to create such scenes, director Tobe Hooper opted to use real skeletons for authenticity. It’s reported that medical supply companies provided genuine human bones, as they were more cost-effective than manufacturing fake ones.
The Controversial Scene: Real Skeletons in “Poltergeist”
This decision sparked controversy and raised ethical concerns within the film industry and among audiences. While the use of real skeletons may have added a chilling realism to the scene, it also raised questions about the treatment of human remains and the potential disrespect shown to the deceased.
Over the years, cast and crew members have spoken out about their discomfort with the use of real skeletons in “Poltergeist.” JoBeth Williams, in particular, has recounted her unease during filming, stating that she was assured the skeletons were of the highest quality and ethically sourced. However, she has also expressed regret about her involvement in the scene.
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Legacy and Ongoing Debate: The Use of Real Skeletons in Film
In the decades since the release of “Poltergeist,” the controversy surrounding the use of real skeletons has only grown. While some defend the decision as a creative choice that added to the film’s eerie atmosphere, others condemn it as a disrespectful and unethical practice.
Regardless of one’s stance on the matter, the use of real skeletons in “Poltergeist” remains a haunting aspect of the film’s legacy. It serves as a reminder of the ethical considerations that must be taken into account when depicting death and the afterlife on screen, and it continues to spark debate among horror enthusiasts and filmmakers alike.