Jennifer Fox’s ‘Ruth’s Ghosts’: A Supernatural Series Addressing Women’s Rights

Jennifer Fox, after her success with “The Tale,” is launching her first narrative series, “Ruth’s Ghosts,” at Series Mania. This six-episode supernatural thriller critically addresses women’s rights through a family’s struggle set in a dystopian future. Selected for its relevance, the series highlights the importance of international collaboration in storytelling, especially on political issues.

Jennifer Fox, renowned for her Sundance hit “The Tale,” is set to unveil her first narrative fiction series, “Ruth’s Ghosts,” at Series Mania in Lille. This six-episode supernatural thriller is rooted in a poignant real-life scenario, inspired by family and legal conflicts emerging in a near-future authoritarian U.S. Fox’s project will be presented at the Co-Pro Pitching Sessions, alongside other noteworthy titles, highlighting its bold and necessary storytelling.

“Ruth’s Ghosts” was selected after garnering attention at the Berlinale Series Market’s Co-Pro Series. The series, which is described as a multifaceted exploration of a family caught in political and religious discord, shines a light on urgent societal issues, such as women’s reproductive rights under duress. Fox delves into a complex narrative where Ruth, an evangelical lawyer, fights her daughter Naomi for custody over Liv, a teenager faced with an unwanted pregnancy.

Fox articulated, “Ruth’s Ghosts is a high-stakes supernatural thriller that explores a deeply relevant global issue through the intimate lens of a family divided by opposing political and religious beliefs.” She emphasizes its relevance, especially as individual freedoms dwindle, targeting women’s hard-won rights. Laurence Herszberg of Series Mania appropriately described the project as a necessary call to action.

“Ruth’s Ghosts” is a collaboration between Fox and notable producers Tara Grace and Jana Lotze, with the project aimed at international co-production. They recognize a shift in dynamics, where European collaboration on such politically charged content is becoming increasingly essential. As Grace notes, the landscape for political storytelling in the U.S. has changed dramatically, making this project timely and vital.

In a conversation with Fox, she reflected on how “Ruth’s Ghosts” diverges from her previous memoir-style work. It relays the idea that the past and present coexist, evidenced by the haunting figure of Madame Restell, who embodies themes of history repeating itself. This narrative aims to engage audiences profoundly with its contemporary relevance and historical context.

Addressing the ongoing trauma faced by women, Fox highlights the systemic issues surrounding bodily autonomy. She hopes to underscore the pervasive trauma impact many women experience, particularly as the struggle for reproductive rights resurfaces, echoing historical battles for autonomy. Through this series, Fox aspires to evoke a deeper understanding of how past realities continue to shape the present.

Jennifer Fox’s upcoming series “Ruth’s Ghosts” blends supernatural elements with critical social issues, particularly women’s reproductive rights. Set against the backdrop of a dystopian future, the story explores a family divided by differing beliefs, reflecting current societal tensions. With significant backing and recognition from Series Mania, this project seeks not only to entertain but to provoke thought and action regarding fundamental freedoms.

Original Source: variety.com