The Rule of Jenny Pen

Elderly judge Stefan Mortensen passes sentence in court but suddenly collapses due to a stroke. This unforeseen event ultimately leaves him partially immobile, drastically impacting the course of his life.

After his stroke, Stefan is moved to a care home where he faces a new reality. Here, he is surrounded by other residents, including a man named Howie, and is observed by a cat that residents believe to be an omen of death.

While outside the care home, Howie accidentally drops a cigarette, which ignites his clothing. Stefan witnesses this horrifying incident as Howie burns to death, leaving a profound impact on him.

Stefan shares a room with Tony Garfield, a former rugby player, but their peace is shattered by a bully named Dave Crealy. Dave terrorizes the residents, often visiting Stefan and Tony at night to menace them.

Dave uses a hand puppet named Jenny Pen to add a layer of psychological torment to his bullying. The puppet serves as a tool of manipulation, forcing the other residents to grovel in its presence.

Initially hopeful for recovery, Stefan begins to confront the harsh reality of his condition. As his health deteriorates, he struggles with despair, even attempting to drown himself in the bath.

In a moment of desperation, Stefan tries to take his own life by drowning in the bathtub. He panics and is ultimately saved by a care assistant, marking a pivotal turning point for him.

While exploring old staff photos in the care home, Stefan stumbles upon images revealing that Dave has been a resident there for decades. This discovery highlights Dave's long-standing role as a bully.

In a tragic turn of events, Dave leads an elderly woman named Joyce, who has dementia, out into the night. Later, Joyce is found dead in a puddle, deepening the sense of despair within the care home.

Stefan's courage inspires Tony to finally confront Dave, despite his initial fear. He performs a haka in the dining room, signaling a pivotal moment for the other residents in their struggle against tyranny.

Stefan and Tony devise a plan to lure Dave into an isolated laundry room where they intend to confront him. This marks a significant shift as the residents band together against their oppressor.

In the laundry room, Stefan and Tony successfully ambush Dave. They manage to overpower and smother him, effectively ending his reign of terror over the care home residents.

With Dave no longer a threat, peace is restored among the residents of the care home. The atmosphere shifts, providing a sense of relief and possibility for the survivors.

As things calm down in the care home, the ominous cat that used to symbolize death now takes a peculiar interest in Stefan. This change in behavior hints at newfound hope for his future.