The Rewatchables: ‘Poltergeist’ Episode Summary

Episode: ‘Poltergeist’
Hosts: Bill Simmons and Van Lathan
Release Date: October 8, 2024
Podcast: The Rewatchables, The Ringer
Transcript Available: [Link to Rewatchables Page]

Introduction

In this episode of The Rewatchables, Bill Simmons and Van Lathan delve deep into the classic horror film Poltergeist. Released in 1982, Poltergeist has long been celebrated not only for its chilling narrative and groundbreaking special effects but also for the eerie series of unfortunate events that surrounded its production. This episode explores the film's cultural impact, its place within the horror genre of the late '70s and early '80s, and the notorious Poltergeist Curse.

The Golden Age of Horror (1978-1982)

Bill and Van begin by situating Poltergeist within the broader context of horror cinema during its release period. They highlight how the late '70s and early '80s were a transformative era for horror films, characterized by an exploration of deep-seated fears and the supernatural.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Inner Fears: The hosts discuss how films like Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Amityville Horror, Alien, The Shining, and The Thing tapped into fundamental fears such as the unknown within one's home, the psychological unraveling of familiar figures, and the terror of isolation.

• Cultural Reflection: Van Lathan remarks, "It conjured that really jumped out" (03:26), emphasizing how these movies reflected societal anxieties of the time.

Poltergeist – A Spielbergian Horror

The conversation shifts to Poltergeist itself, exploring its connection to Steven Spielberg and the distinctive elements that set it apart from other horror films of its time.

Key Insights:

• Spielberg's Influence: Although Spielberg didn't direct Poltergeist, his fingerprints are evident throughout the film. Van Lathan notes, "It feels like a Spielberg movie... There are a lot of Spielberg shots and touches" (15:32).

• Family-Centric Horror: The hosts appreciate how Poltergeist centers on a family's experience with the supernatural, blending heartwarming family dynamics with terrifying occurrences. Bill Simmons shares a personal anecdote, "My wife and I were watching... and we were talking about when it gets to the portal, which one of us would be the one that went in." (18:43).

• Character Analysis: Craig T. Nelson's portrayal of Steven Freeling is dissected, with Van Lathan suggesting that Nelson didn't fully embrace the villainous aspects of his character, potentially limiting his impact (21:03).

The Poltergeist Curse

One of the most gripping segments of the episode is the discussion of the Poltergeist Curse, a series of tragic and mysterious incidents that befell those involved in the film's production.

Details Covered:

• Tragic Losses: Dominic Dunn's daughter, Heather O'Rourke (who played Carol Ann), and actor Lou Perini all met untimely deaths shortly after the film's release. Bill Simmons states, "Dominic Dunn... and Heather O'Rourke... there's a whole bunch of weird shit going on" (22:00).

• Behind-the-Scenes Mysteries: The hosts explore various alleged supernatural occurrences during filming, such as Jo Beth Williams experiencing moving pictures after shooting scenes and Zelda Rubinstein's visions of her deceased dog shortly before its actual death (25:08, 26:03).

• Impact on Legacy: Van Lathan reflects on how the internet has transformed the Poltergeist legend from urban myth to widespread conspiracy theories, diminishing the mystique that once surrounded the curse (23:57, 24:20).

Cast and Characters

Poltergeist features a talented ensemble cast whose performances have left a lasting impression on audiences.

Highlights:

• Jo Beth Williams: Portrayed Diane Freeling with depth and resilience. Bill Simmons contemplates whether Williams deserved greater recognition, considering her pivotal role (20:28, 86:53).

• Craig T. Nelson: As the protective father, Nelson brings a nuanced portrayal that Bill feels could have been more villainous, potentially adding complexity to the character (21:08, 86:40).

• Zelda Rubinstein: Playing Tangina, Rubinstein's eccentric performance is both memorable and essential to the film's supernatural elements. Bill questions whether a different actress could have elevated the role further (64:47, 65:05).

• Child Actors: The young cast members, especially Heather O'Rourke as Carol Ann, delivered performances that were both innocent and haunting, contributing to the film's emotional core (86:40, 89:06).

Production Insights and Behind-the-Scenes Stories

Bill and Van uncover various anecdotes about the making of Poltergeist, shedding light on the collaborative yet tumultuous production process.

Stories Shared:

• Director's Role: Although Tobe Hooper directed the film, Spielberg's involvement was significant enough that many believe he effectively co-directed, leading to disputes with the Directors Guild of America (DGA) (15:32, 16:21).

• Casting Choices: The duo explores potential casting alternatives, including rumors that Shirley MacLaine was considered for Tangina and that Drew Barrymore was initially eyed for Carol Ann before landing her role in E.T. (69:05, 69:34).

• Technical Challenges: The hosts discuss the special effects techniques of the early '80s, noting how certain scenes, like the face-melting mirror effect, are both nostalgic and dated by today's standards (51:03, 61:00).

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The episode concludes by evaluating Poltergeist's enduring legacy in popular culture and its influence on subsequent horror films.

Discussion Points:

• Box Office Success: With a budget of $10.7 million, Poltergeist grossed over $21.7 million, making it the eighth biggest movie of 1982 and the only horror film in the top 35 that year (34:11).

• Iconic Scenes: Memorable moments like the TV's static noise (“They're here”) and the tree kidnapping the children have become staples in horror film lore, often referenced and parodied (36:28, 39:03).

• Memorabilia and Nostalgia: Bill and Van reminisce about iconic props from the movie, such as the Atari 2600 present in the Freeling household, symbolizing the film's deep integration into '80s culture (50:52, 85:21).

• Remakes and Reboots: They express disappointment in the Poltergeist remake, arguing that the original's unique blend of Spielbergian storytelling and horror elements has not been successfully replicated (63:21, 80:38).

Notable Quotes

• Bill Simmons: "Why does our daughter keep talking to the TV? What's happening here?" (05:58)

• Van Lathan: "Poltergeist took up a lot of cultural space in the '80s." (03:12)

• Bill Simmons: "They’re here. You’ve never done this before. You’re right. You go." (45:18)

Conclusion

Poltergeist remains a seminal film in the horror genre, blending family drama with supernatural terror under the influential eye of Steven Spielberg. Despite its troubled production and the tragic events that followed, the movie has secured its place in cinematic history. Bill Simmons and Van Lathan's exploration offers both nostalgic reflections and critical analysis, making it a must-listen for fans eager to understand why Poltergeist continues to haunt audiences decades later.

For more in-depth discussions and to listen to the full episode, visit The Rewatchables on The Ringer.