Poltergeist

The ending of Poltergeist reveals the full extent of the supernatural chaos plaguing the Freelings. As the spirits become more aggressive, skeletons buried beneath their house rise from the ground, shocking the family and viewers alike. These skeletons are actually real human remains, purchased from a medical supply company to add a chilling realism to the film’s terrifying scenes. The skeletons, representing those who were killed when the community of Cuesta Verde was built over an old cemetery, are a haunting reminder of the past buried beneath the neighborhood.

In the most intense moment, Diane Freeling is pulled into the muddy, corpse-filled pool during one of the film’s key scenes, as the spirits attempt to reclaim Carol Anne, who possesses a powerful spiritual connection. The spirits demanding to be heard and acknowledged are desperate to be released from their earthly ties. The use of real skeletons heightens the horror, making the scene more visceral and disturbing.

Ultimately, thanks to the psychic Tangina and the family’s bravery, the spirits are able to be guided into the afterlife, freeing Carol Anne and lifting the supernatural curse. The climax signifies a spiritual resolution: the ghosts, including “The Beast,” are laid to rest, and the house’s haunted chapter ends. The haunting legacy of the film’s production, with real human remains used in scenes, adds to the lingering mythos of Poltergeist and its famously cursed reputation. The film’s conclusion leaves viewers with a sense of both horror and relief, as the family finally escapes the supernatural torment that had threatened their lives.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:00