Okay, Let's Talk About Child's Play (the OG, of Course)

Alright, so I finally got around to revisiting the original Child's Play (1988). I know, I know, what took me so long? But honestly, I’ve been on such a deep dive into directors' filmographies (currently working through Cronenberg's early stuff - shivers), sometimes the classics get pushed to the back burner. I didn't even know who directed this one, just checked and it's Tom Holland (not Spider-Man, obviously). Seems like he mostly did TV after this, interesting. Anyway, the movie itself... it's way better than I remembered. I was expecting something a little cheesier, but it actually held up really well. The practical effects are fantastic for the time, and Chucky is genuinely creepy! That scene where he first comes alive in Andy's apartment, and you just see those little eyes darting around... gave me the creeps even now. Brad Dourif's voice work is, of course, iconic (I can't imagine anyone else doing Chucky's voice!). I think what I appreciated the most was the grounded feel of the first half or so - it just feels like your average family dealing with... well, not an average doll, heh. I do think the believability stretched a little thin toward the end, especially with the whole voodoo transfer stuff getting cranked up to eleven. But honestly, I'm willing to forgive it because the core concept is so strong. Plus, the performances are solid all around. Catherine Hicks as Andy's mom is great; she really sells the desperation and belief in her son when everyone else thinks she's nuts. Overall, I'd say it's a solid entry into the horror canon. I wouldn't call it a horror "masterpiece" or anything, but it's a really fun and surprisingly effective watch. Just makes me wonder how his other stuff is, maybe I'll check out Fright Night sometime!