In one of the most underrated movies in Horror, Trish Jenner (Gina Philips) and her brother Darry (Justin Long) take a ride through the country in hopes of arriving home safe during spring break. Little do they realize something evil stalks the travelers, and they’re about to meet it face to face. This week, my Women Who Wow Wednesday series focuses its crosshairs on the reluctant hero Trish Jenner of the movie Jeepers Creepers.
It starts with the siblings witnessing a possible crime and the story escalates from there. Released in late August of 2001 with a budget of $10 Million and directed by Victor Salva, the movie went on to make almost $60 Million worldwide. Yet, not only did most critics pan it, the film is not a Horror fan favorite either.
Although for a third of the movie Trish appears as a self-centered sister, her character shines once her brother returns in shock after having explored a hole in the ground. Her “keep it together” phrase comes in handy with every passing moment Darry losses touch with reality. Instead of fear, which her brother shows without restraint, her strength lies in remaining calm regardless of what is going on around her.
The turning point in her character comes when she gets behind the wheel of her busted up collector car and decides to take matters in her own hands. Gone is the apprehensive, smart aleck. In its place, an action hero takes control to save the day. One of the best lines of the movie goes something like this:
Darry: Is he dead?
Trish: They never are.
Trish then proceeds to run over whatever’s been chasing them for the length of the film several times before her brother says, “Enough.” Nothing quite like a character who’s had enough of a situation to let her inhibitions run wild.
As much as Trish fulfills the role of a Doubting Thomas, in the later half, she makes it clear her only intention is to protect her and her brother from harm’s way. As much as she complains, throws sarcastic remarks or hides her emotion, she is very much a woman as any woman could be—but stronger. Her instincts guide her in times of peril. When everyone else runs away, she remains firm in her stance against the unknown.
And it’s that firmness in resolve that makes her someone to admire.
Have you seen Jeepers Creepers? What did you think of Trish Jenner?
Looking to God 
I loved this movie since the first time it came out.
What really got me was the relationship between the brother and his sister..it kind of reminded me of my younger brother and I..but with out the crazy Jeepers Creepers guy. lol
One of my favourite films, there is also a sequel with strong women in it, and it’s a great sequel at that.
I have never seen this film, but Trish sounds like a great character. Love the line you highlighted.
Trish is the not so secret star. Without her, this would perhaps just be an average horror movie. ‘Is he dead?!’ – ‘They never are.’ is a classic. 😉
I enjoyed this movie as well, so thanks for reminding me of it, and her. 🙂
I love this movie, it’s actually one of my favorites!
Mine as well, Melissa!
I love that line ‘Is he dead?’ ‘They never are.’
I have always loved horror films, from slasher t psychological to sci-fi. I can be a harsh critic. But I love this movie. It’s very scary, an interesting villain, and has characters that are beyond the one-dimensional types we often see in a lot of mainstream horror. Ever since Alien, I’ve loved horror films where the hero is a woman. I loved the character of aTrish & the actress who played her.
I think you have an opportunity to flesh out the “doubting Thomas” concept and her character’s changes throughout the film. Idk why it wasn’t a bigger hit w/critics because it’s not just a simple slasher flick. It’s why people watch it every time it’s on cable…which they do. Everyone I know who likes horror enjoys this film.
I’ve liked this movie too since it first came out. Every so often I’ll pop it in and get transported into the world. Trish is a great character!
I saw Jeepers Creepers for the first time about a year ago, I’m a big chicken so when it comes to scary movies just about anything will frighten me. I did like Trish and felt that she embodied the more logical braver side of myself while watching the movie.
I think Trish is the calm force in the wind everyone wants in their corner!
Definitely, as silly as it is, if there is a strong girl in a horror movie I feel less scared, terrified but not deathly so… 🙂
Excellent post, glad you highlighted this character.