Shock Value: The Filmmakers Behind ‘The Haunting of Pennhurst’ Talk Horror, Disability, and Care

In a recent interview with the International Documentary Association, the creative team behind the documentary The Haunting of Pennhurst discussed the complexities of intertwining horror with themes of disability and care. The film, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, offers a unique perspective on the infamous Pennhurst Asylum, a site that has transitioned from a notorious institution to a haunted attraction and museum dedicated to disability history.

Multi-disciplinary artist Nathan R. Stenberg described the project as a "horror film about care," indicating a deliberate effort to confront the dark history associated with Pennhurst. Alongside Stenberg, fellow interdisciplinary artist Katarina Poljak and filmmaker Mike Attie, known for his work on In Country, collaborated on this project to present both an archival and vérité exploration of the asylum.

Located in Spring City, Pennsylvania, Pennhurst has garnered attention for its visceral haunted attractions. However, what sets this documentary apart is the involvement of disabled individuals in the production of these attractions. The majority of the performers, referred to as "haunters," are themselves disabled, with Autumn Werner, the museum director, serving as a key figure in the film. Werner is not only a guide but also a volunteer trainer and makeup artist, highlighting the empowerment of those who have historically been marginalized.

The filmmakers aim to reshape the narrative surrounding Pennhurst, transforming a place once known for its ableist policies into a space for education and advocacy. They hope to ensure that the oppressive practices of the past are not repeated, using the documentary as a platform for awareness and change.

The interview reveals the challenges the directors faced in crafting a film that honors the history of Pennhurst while also engaging with its current role as a site of preservation financed by fear. The documentary seeks to bridge the gap between horror and care, inviting viewers to reflect on the implications of both the asylum's past and its present.

While the film has been met with interest, Paranormal Country has not confirmed the details surrounding its reception or the broader impact of its themes on audiences. The Haunting of Pennhurst stands as a provocative exploration of how spaces of trauma can be reimagined and repurposed, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who have been affected by the institution's legacy.