| The first entry in the popular Chucky series is the best in the franchise, and did boffo box-office, due in part to an effective ad campaign.
A mother gives her son a 'Chucky' character doll for his birthday. Unfortunately, the doll is possessed by the spirit of a serial killer. Soon, Chucky is on a murderous rampage...and it looks like he's unstoppable.
So what does Child's Play have that Devil Doll (1936), Magic (1978) or Trilogy of Terror (1975) don't?
Absolutely nothing. Except, the name of the game is timing, and Child's Play has that typical, late '80s wisecracking, smartass attitude that dumbed down audiences seem to love.
Yes, we're being too highbrow here. But if the primary objective of a horror film is to scare, Child's Play proved ineffectual for us: it's blustery, gassy comedy that might thrill, but it never truly chills.
Still, there are some decent actors here, and there's a swell scene where Mom discovers Chucky is alive. We suppose we should be thankful there haven't been 9 sequels made....(only 4...gulp).
But note to Chucky: Talky Tina (from the original Twilight Zone) wants her residuals!
Followed by Child's Play 2 (1990), Child's Play 3 (1991), Bride of Chucky (1998), and Seed of Chucky (2004).
Lord help us, please make them stop.
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