A new psychological horror film, The Rule of Jenny Pen, is set to hit theaters on March 7, 2025, with a streaming release on Shudder later in the year. Directed by James Ashcroft (Coming Home in the Dark), the film stars Geoffrey Rush as Judge Stefan Mortensen, a retired legal authority struggling with partial paralysis after a stroke. His new reality takes a disturbing turn when he crosses paths with John Lithgow’s character, Dave Crealy, a fellow resident in his retirement home who has an unsettling obsession with a sinister puppet named Jenny Pen.
The story follows Mortensen as he becomes increasingly unnerved by Crealy’s manipulative behavior and the growing sense of dread surrounding the puppet. When the staff dismiss his concerns, Mortensen decides to take matters into his own hands, setting up an intense psychological battle between the two men.
A teaser trailer for The Rule of Jenny Pen was recently released, showcasing the film’s unsettling atmosphere and psychological tension. The movie has already earned high praise, with horror legend Stephen King calling it “one of the best movies I’ve seen this year.”
Ashcroft, known for his ability to craft unnerving, character-driven horror, is teaming up with producer Mike Minogue (Wellington Paranormal) to bring this eerie story to life. The film promises a slow-burning, suspenseful experience with a focus on mind games and psychological terror rather than traditional jump scares.
With Lithgow and Rush leading the cast, The Rule of Jenny Pen is shaping up to be one of 2025’s must-watch horror films. Fans of psychological thrillers and atmospheric horror will want to keep this one on their radar. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches.