The 1982 Movie Poltergeist Used Real Skeletons As – Tymoff – Yes, the 1982 movie Poltergeist used real human skeletons during the filming of some of its scenes. This surprising fact has been widely discussed and often shocks fans of the film. The use of real skeletons instead of props has contributed to the film’s eerie atmosphere and has sparked numerous urban legends and discussions about the alleged curse surrounding the Poltergeist franchise.
Poltergeist, released in 1982 and directed by Tobe Hooper with Steven Spielberg as producer, stands as a classic horror film celebrated for its chilling storyline and impressive special effects of the era. The movie follows the Freeling family as they endure terrifying paranormal activities in their suburban home, which was built on the site of a former cemetery. This use of real skeletons adds a layer of real-life creepiness to the already terrifying film.
Why Were Real Skeletons Used in Poltergeist?
The decision to use real skeletons in Poltergeist was primarily driven by practicality and cost-effectiveness. At the time, using real skeletons was cheaper and easier than creating realistic-looking fake skeletons. In the 1980s, special effects were not as advanced as they are today, and crafting convincing fake skeletons would have been much more expensive. The movie industry commonly used real human skeletons sourced from medical supply companies, and the practice was not as controversial or unusual as it would be today.
Special effects artist Craig Reardon, who worked on Poltergeist, confirmed in interviews that the skeletons used in the film were real. In particular, the famous scene where actress JoBeth Williams’ character falls into a pool filled with skeletons is one of the most notable instances of this practice. The skeletons were indeed real, and Williams was reportedly unaware of this fact during the filming of the scene.
The Impact on the Cast and Crew
The use of real skeletons in Poltergeist had a significant impact on the cast, particularly JoBeth Williams. She later expressed her discomfort upon learning the truth, as she had not been informed that the skeletons were real during filming. This revelation added a new layer of horror to her performance, as she realized she had been in close contact with real human remains.
There have been various stories and rumors about how this decision affected the cast and crew, with some attributing the alleged Poltergeist curse to the use of real skeletons. The so-called curse refers to the tragic deaths of several cast members, including young actress Heather O’Rourke and Dominique Dunne, who were involved in the franchise. While there’s no evidence directly linking these events to the use of real skeletons, the eerie coincidence has fueled speculation and urban legends for decades.
The Poltergeist Curse: Fact or Fiction?
The Poltergeist curse is one of the most enduring legends in Hollywood, fueled by the untimely deaths of several cast members. Heather O’Rourke, who played Carol Anne, died at the age of 12 due to medical complications, while Dominique Dunne, who played her older sister, was tragically murdered shortly after the film’s release. These incidents, along with others associated with the Poltergeist series, have led many to believe that the films were cursed.
However, many industry professionals and skeptics argue that these tragedies are mere coincidences rather than the result of a supernatural curse. Nonetheless, the story of the curse persists, amplified by the knowledge that real skeletons were used in the original film. This detail adds a morbid authenticity to the haunting narrative of Poltergeist and keeps the legend alive in popular culture.
The Ethics of Using Real Skeletons in Films
The practice of using real human remains in films, such as in Poltergeist, raises ethical questions. While it was a common practice in the past, modern standards have shifted significantly. Today, using real human remains in movies would likely be met with public outrage and ethical concerns. The respect for the deceased and their families is now a priority, and technological advancements allow filmmakers to create highly realistic props without resorting to real skeletons.
In the 1980s, the use of real skeletons was not uncommon in Hollywood. Typically, filmmakers sourced the skeletons from medical suppliers who provided human remains for educational and research purposes. Over time, however, the industry has moved away from this practice due to ethical concerns and advancements in special effects that make it unnecessary.
How Poltergeist Influenced Future Horror Films
The legacy of Poltergeist extends beyond its story and special effects; it set a precedent for realism and authenticity in horror films. The decision to use real skeletons, while controversial, contributed to the film’s chilling atmosphere and has influenced how filmmakers approach horror. The realism achieved in Poltergeist helped set a standard for practical effects in the genre, pushing other filmmakers to consider how authenticity impacts the audience’s experience.
While modern horror films rarely use real human remains, the emphasis on creating a believable atmosphere and authentic props remains. Directors and special effects artists continue to draw inspiration from the practical effects used in Poltergeist, ensuring that the film’s legacy endures in the horror genre.
Conclusion: The 1982 Movie Poltergeist Used Real Skeletons As – Tymoff
Poltergeist remains a classic horror film, not just for its storyline but also for the eerie real-life details that surround its production. The use of real skeletons in the 1982 movie is a fascinating yet unsettling part of its legacy, contributing to the ongoing fascination and myths surrounding the film. Although the ethics of using real skeletons are questioned today, Poltergeist continues to have a profound impact on the horror genre and its audience, preserving its story and myths for new generations of fans.
This guide provided insights into the history, impact, and ethical considerations surrounding the use of real skeletons in Poltergeist. If you’re a fan of horror films or curious about the behind-the-scenes decisions that shaped this iconic movie, the true story of Poltergeist offers a chilling glimpse into the lengths filmmakers once went to achieve realism in their work.
FAQs: The 1982 Movie Poltergeist Used Real Skeletons As – Tymoff
Did They Use Real Skeletons in Poltergeist?
Yes, the 1982 movie Poltergeist used real human skeletons, especially in the infamous pool scene.
Did Indiana Jones Use Real Skeletons?
No, Indiana Jones movies did not use real skeletons. The skeletons in those films were props created specifically for the scenes.
Were Real Skeletons Used in Poltergeist Reddit?
Yes, discussions on Reddit confirm that Poltergeist used real skeletons, a detail that has since become widely known among fans and horror enthusiasts
Is Poltergeist Based Off a Real Story?
No, Poltergeist is not based on a true story. The film is a fictional horror story created by Steven Spielberg and Tobe Hooper.
What Horror Movie Used Real Human Skeletons?
Besides Poltergeist, other films like The House on Haunted Hill (1959) also used real human skeletons.
Was the Skeleton in the Pool in the Movie Poltergeist?
Yes, the skeletons in the pool scene in Poltergeist were real human skeletons, which added to the film’s eerie authenticity.
