Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thriller, and supernatural content, has announced its acquisition of The Rule of Jenny Pen, a chilling new feature directed by James Ashcroft and co-written by Eli Kent and Ashcroft. Starring legendary actors John Lithgow (Dexter, The Crown) and Geoffrey Rush (Pirates of the Caribbean, The King’s Speech), the film will premiere in North America, the UK, and Ireland on Shudder in 2025 following its world debut at Fantastic Fest 2024.
The Story Behind The Rule of Jenny Pen
In The Rule of Jenny Pen, we follow Judge Stefan Mortensen (Rush), a once-arrogant figure who suffers a near-fatal stroke, leaving him paralyzed and confined to a retirement home. Isolated and struggling to adjust, Mortensen’s life takes a dark turn when he encounters fellow resident Dave Crealy (Lithgow), a seemingly harmless man who secretly terrorizes the home with a sadistic game called “The Rule of Jenny Pen.” Crealy uses his dementia doll as a tool of cruelty, turning what seems like harmless pranks into disturbing and sinister acts. When Mortensen’s cries for help are ignored, he must take matters into his own hands to end Crealy’s reign of terror.
James Ashcroft’s Return
Ashcroft, whose debut film Coming Home in the Dark garnered critical acclaim after premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, shared his excitement about working on The Rule of Jenny Pen. “Working with two of my acting heroes, Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Partnering with Shudder and opening Fantastic Fest 2024 is just the stick of cinematic dynamite I wanted to launch this film into the world,” said Ashcroft.
A Powerhouse Cast and Production Team
In addition to Lithgow and Rush, The Rule of Jenny Pen boasts an incredible production team. Produced by Catherine Fitzgerald and Orlando Stewart, the film is executive produced by Ashcroft, Eli Kent, Lithgow, Rush, and Shudder’s Emily Gotto, Nicholas Lazo, and Samuel Zimmerman.
Shudder acquired the rights through a deal negotiated by Gotto, with Nick Ogiony representing the filmmakers for CAA. Ashcroft is repped by CAA and Grandview.