As someone deeply immersed in the lore of classic horror films, I’ve stumbled upon numerous spine-chilling stories behind the scenes.
One such tale that has always fascinated (and admittedly creeped out) horror fans is the revelation that the 1982 movie Poltergeist used real skeletons during its infamous pool scene. Let’s dive into the details and unravel the truth behind this macabre movie-making choice.
The Scene That Started the Rumors
For those who might need a refresher, Poltergeist is a supernatural horror film directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg. The story revolves around a suburban family whose home is haunted by malevolent ghosts.
One of the most iconic and terrifying scenes involves JoBeth Williams’ character, Diane, being dragged into a muddy, rain-soaked pool, where she encounters numerous skeletons popping up around her.
The Spine-Chilling Truth
The rumor that real skeletons were used in Poltergeist has been a topic of horror folklore for decades. According to various sources and interviews, this unsettling piece of trivia is indeed true.
JoBeth Williams herself confirmed that real skeletons were used because they were cheaper than plastic ones at the time.
Why Real Skeletons?
In the 1980s, obtaining real human skeletons was surprisingly cost-effective and not uncommon in the film industry.
Medical supply companies provided these skeletons, often used for educational purposes. The film’s special effects team decided to use real skeletons to achieve a more realistic look, not realizing the controversy it would spark years later.
The Legacy of Using Real Skeletons
The use of real skeletons has been cited by some as a possible cause for the so-called Poltergeist curse. Over the years, cast members and crew have experienced untimely deaths and strange occurrences, leading to speculation that the use of actual human remains brought bad luck to the film.
Ethical and Practical Considerations
Today, the idea of using real human remains in film is seen as highly unethical and inappropriate. Advances in special effects and prosthetics have eliminated the need for such practices, allowing filmmakers to create realistic scenes without resorting to real human remains.
Conclusion
The use of real skeletons in the 1982 movie Poltergeist adds an eerie layer to an already terrifying film. Whether or not you believe in the Poltergeist curse, this piece of Hollywood history is a fascinating, albeit morbid, example of the lengths to which filmmakers will go to achieve authenticity.
As a horror enthusiast, it’s stories like these that deepen my appreciation for the genre, reminding me that sometimes the scariest tales are the ones behind the scenes.
If you’re intrigued by the dark history of horror films, stay tuned for more deep dives into the eerie and extraordinary world of cinematic terror.
