smh.com.au
The Rule of Jenny Pen Ma": Understaffing in Nursing Homes Exposes Elderly to Abuse
The Rule of Jenny Pen Ma," a 115-minute psychological thriller released in March 20, stars Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow in a New Zealand nursing home where understaffing allows a bully to terrorize residents, highlighting systemic issues within the care system.
- How does the film utilize the contrast between the two main characters to explore themes of power and vulnerability?
- The film uses the setting of an understaffed nursing home to explore the dynamics of bullying and power imbalance. The contrast between the remorseless judge and the sadistic bully, both lacking empathy, creates a compelling narrative. The lack of staff support emphasizes systemic issues within the care system.
- What are the key issues highlighted by "The Rule of Jenny Pen Ma" regarding the care of elderly residents in nursing homes?
- The Rule of Jenny Pen Ma," a psychological thriller set in a New Zealand nursing home, stars Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow. Rush plays a judge recovering from a stroke who witnesses Lithgow's character, a sadistic bully, terrorizing fellow residents. The film highlights the critical issue of understaffing in care homes, as the night shift is eliminated, leaving residents vulnerable.
- What potential impact could this film have on public awareness of and policy changes related to understaffing and patient safety in care homes?
- The film's depiction of an understaffed nursing home and the resulting vulnerability of residents could spark important conversations about care standards and systemic improvements needed in the industry. The focus on the psychological aspects of bullying suggests broader themes of unchecked power and the failure of systems to protect the vulnerable.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the acting performances of Rush and Lithgow, positioning them as the central focus. The headline highlights Rush's comeback, drawing attention to his personal narrative. The review prioritizes the actors' duel, potentially overshadowing other aspects of the film's plot or themes. This could influence the audience to focus more on the acting than on the broader social commentary the movie might offer.
Language Bias
The language used is mostly neutral and descriptive. However, terms like "macabre," "sadistic," and "sinister" used to describe the film and characters carry negative connotations and could influence reader perception. More neutral alternatives might include "dark," "unpleasant," or "mysterious.
Bias by Omission
The review focuses heavily on the performances of Rush and Lithgow, neglecting a thorough examination of the nursing home's operational issues and staff conduct. The statement that the home 'has done away with the night shift altogether' is presented as a simple fact, without further exploration of its implications or whether this is typical of such facilities. This omission limits a full understanding of the context surrounding Crealey's actions and the vulnerability of the residents.
Sustainable Development Goals
The movie depicts a nursing home with significant staff shortages and inadequate care, leading to the neglect and endangerment of residents. This highlights the challenges in ensuring access to quality healthcare and safe environments for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.