Behind the Scenes of Poltergeist: Insights from JoBeth Williams

The making of the iconic horror film Poltergeist revealed fascinating anecdotes shared by lead actress JoBeth Williams. Reflecting on her experience, she highlighted the blend of creativity and unexpected challenges that characterized the production process. Notably, Williams discussed her initial hesitation to accept the role until learning that Steven Spielberg was producing the project.

Williams, who portrayed Diane Freeling, was drawn to the script’s strong family dynamics and the presence of powerful female characters, including Dr. Lesh and Tangina, played by Zelda Rubinstein. She recalled how Tobe Hooper, known for his work on The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, directed the film, although Spielberg was often present on set while preparing for E.T..

The film’s unique approach to storytelling included improvisational elements, which contributed to a genuine family atmosphere. Williams noted that moments of levity often emerged, with her co-stars, including Craig T. Nelson, engaging in spontaneous humor. Young actress Heather O’Rourke, who played Carol Anne, impressed Williams with her emotional intuition, often mirroring her reactions during intense scenes.

One standout moment in Poltergeist occurs when Diane Freeling finds chairs inexplicably stacked on a table. This effect was achieved through meticulous planning and teamwork, with crew members swiftly swapping chairs in a single, uninterrupted take. Williams humorously recalled trying to maintain her composure amidst the chaos.

As the film delved into supernatural themes, Williams faced more than just acting challenges. She described a harrowing scene where she was pulled across a ceiling by an unseen force, filmed on a rotating set known as a gimbal. The cameraman, Dennis, struggled with motion sickness during these sequences, highlighting the physical demands of the production.

In a chilling revelation, Williams learned that the skeletons used in a pivotal pool scene were real. She expressed disbelief at this fact, stating, “Had I known the skeletons were real, I’d have been even more disgusted.” At the time, her primary concern was the lights and fans generating wind effects, fearing an accident might occur during filming.

The production of Poltergeist also faced scrutiny from the film ratings board. Initially rated PG, a scene where Williams’s character picks at her face was deemed too intense, prompting a potential R rating. Spielberg’s negotiation ultimately preserved the film’s general audience status.

Williams’s experience on set extended beyond her initial role. She recalled additional footage shot for a scene involving her character’s makeup. Despite challenges, including a mistaken application of prosthetics, she navigated the complex production process with resilience and a sense of humor.

As the film celebrates its legacy, Williams’s journey continues with her upcoming film, Not Without Hope, set to premiere on December 12, 2023. Her reflections offer a unique glimpse into the making of a horror classic, showcasing the dedication and creativity that brought Poltergeist to life.