Since U Didn't Axe Me: "Child's Play" (1988) Review

It's Andy Barclay's birthday, and he really wants a Good Guys doll. To his surprise, his mom actually buys one for him, but that's not the only surprise he'll get! Andy's Good Guys doll is possessed by Charles Lee Ray, a serial killer who has transferred his soul into the doll. Can Andy convince his mom that the doll is alive before Chucky takes over his own soul?

"Child's Play" is a 1988 horror film written by Don Mancini, John Lafia, and Tom Holland and directed by Tom Holland. Starring Alex Vincent (Andy Barclay), Catherine Hicks (Karen Barclay), Chris Sarandon (Mike Norris), Dina Manoff (Maggie Peterson), and Brad Dourif as the voice of Chucky. "Child's Play" uses a small ensemble cast and modest budget to evoke big scares while keeping the viewer on the edge of their seats.

Every first entry in a horror franchise is a reluctant effort, and this film is no different. Despite this obstacle, "Child's Play" manages to reel (get it?!) the viewer in with a mysterious and intense first and second act, and a satisfying conclusion that would set the standard for the franchise's subsequent sequels.

A very young Alex Vincent portrays Andy Barclay, our main protagonist, and he does the best he can as a child actor. There are some moments where he struggles with his lines, but that's expected--he does a decent job in the film. Catherine Hicks, Andy's mom, gives a good performance here as well, and she's believable as a mom who is trying to protect her child. The highlight of "Child's Play" is of course, Brad Dourif's ire-fueled role as the murderous, foul-mouthed Chucky.

There isn't much to nitpick about with "Child's Play" because most aspects of the film (except for the effects) are concise and simple. The plot is creative, but it's streamlined enough that the viewer never gets bored watching the film. "Child's Play" stands out amongst other horror films because of its long lead into the reveal of Chucky. There aren't many thrillers these days that can pull that off, and you can feel the rubber band of a plot stretch out only to snap when Chucky comes to life--it's excellent!

Finally, the special effects in "Child's Play" look great for 1988. Kevin Yagher did an outstanding job with the Chucky doll, and his work would only improve with the next films in the series. A stunt double was used for the more complicated action shots with Chucky, but I suppose that can be forgiven--it was the 80s.

If you're looking for a taut and scary horror flick, definitely check out the original "Child's Play." It may not seem fit into the realm of a slasher film, but once the mystery is unravelled--in classic fashion--the movie shows its true colors, and then things get really good!

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