The Rule of Jenny Pen is a psychological horror-thriller directed by James Ashcroft. The film is based on a short story by Owen Marshall and follows Stefan Mortensen (Geoffrey Rush), a former judge who, after suffering a stroke, moves into an assisted living facility.
There, he meets Dave Crealy (John Lithgow), a resident who terrorizes others using a disturbing doll named Jenny Pen. The film explores themes of power, vulnerability, and the hidden horrors within care facilities. The Rule of Jenny Pen has been screened at festivals such as Fantastic Fest and Sitges Film Festival and is set for a March 7, 2025 release.
Where Was The Rule of Jenny Pen Filmed?
Filming for The Rule of Jenny Pen took place in New Zealand, with locations chosen to create an eerie and immersive atmosphere. Here are some locations where The Rule of Jenny Pen was filmed in New Zealand.
Taupō, New Zealand
Some scenes were filmed in Taupō, a town known for its scenic landscapes and geothermal activity. The quiet and isolated nature of the area likely contributed to the film’s unsettling tone.
Taupō is a captivating town situated in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of outdoor activities. The town is nestled on the shores of Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake. This vast lake, formed by a supervolcanic eruption, offers a plethora of water-based activities, including sailing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
Wellington, New Zealand
New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, was another key filming location. The city’s mix of historic and modern architecture may have been used to depict the assisted living facility and other essential settings in the film.
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant and dynamic city known for its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and lively atmosphere. Wellington is the political heart of New Zealand, home to the nation’s Parliament and government institutions. It’s often considered New Zealand’s cultural capital, boasting a thriving arts scene, numerous museums, and a diverse range of entertainment options.
Notable cultural attractions include Te Papa Tongarewa, the Museum of New Zealand, and a variety of theaters and galleries.
Lower Hutt, New Zealand
Filming also took place in Lower Hutt, a city near Wellington. This area is often used for film productions due to its versatile locations, making it an ideal setting for scenes requiring both urban and institutional environments.
Lower Hutt is a city located in the Wellington Region of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s an important part of the Wellington metropolitan area. Lower Hutt is one of the four cities that make up the greater Wellington urban area.
When Did the Filming of The Rule of Jenny Pen Take Place?
Filming for The Rule of Jenny Pen took place in 2023. During production, the film’s author, Owen Marshall, made a cameo appearance as an extra in a courtroom scene.
Official Trailer
FAQs-
Q: Where Was The Rule of Jenny Pen Filmed?
A: The Rule of Jenny Pen was filmed in multiple locations in New Zealand including, Taupō, Wellington, and Lower Hutt.
Q: What is The Rule of Jenny Pen about?
A: The film follows a former judge recovering from a stroke who moves into an assisted living facility, where he discovers that another resident, using a sinister doll, is terrorizing the elderly.
Q: Who stars in The Rule of Jenny Pen?
A: The film stars Geoffrey Rush as Stefan Mortensen and John Lithgow as Dave Crealy.
Q: Who directed The Rule of Jenny Pen?
A: The movie was directed by James Ashcroft.
Q: When will The Rule of Jenny Pen be released?
A: The film is scheduled for release on March 7, 2025.