Show notes
This week we’re slicing into the 1988 classic Child’s Play, the slasher film that proved sometimes “an annoying little s***” in dungarees is all you need to launch one of the most resilient horror icons in cinema.We dive into how creator Don Mancini managed to maintain incredible consistency and longevity by never retconning the crazy logic of the series. We discuss the creative clashes between Mancini and director Tom Holland (not the one who wears spandex), the legendary vocal work of one Brad Dourif, and how Catherine Hicks and Alex Vincent survived the most chaotic breakfast ever put to film. Plus, we marvel at the practical effects of Kevin Yagher, proving that an animatronic doll is infinitely more terrifying than any modern CGI.We also dig into the wild rumour that Gary Oldman was once considered for the voice of the slasher doll and how Fiona Dourif eventually joined the family business by playing her dad.What to expect from this episode:Find out how Sarah got Dan to watch the entire Chucky franchise way back before season 1.We discuss the ADHD breakfast from hell at great length.The mystery of the “peddler” and why buying an animatronic doll in a 1980s back alley for $30 is a total steal.Why Brad Dourif’s maniacal giggle adds two weeks to Sarah’s lifespan every time she hears it.The tension-filled car reveal where Chris Sarandon finally realises size really doesn’t matter when a doll has a knife.A look at the practical effects that allowed a Good Guy Doll to progressively look more human and haggard.The surprising revelation that legendary critic Roger Ebert gave this slasher film a thumbs up.We debate whether the “child prison” sanatorium had a ball pit and individual mini pizzas for its pint-sized inmates.Why “burnt to a crisp chucky” remains one of the coolest looking villains in horror movies.This season has eight episodes, concluding September 21stWould you like to see the full lineup for season 16? The only place you can see it is on Patreon but you don’t need to be a paying member. Sign up for a free membership and get access to the lineup.If you’re a fan of the show and want more content, check out our £3.00 a month tier on Patreon where we release our end of season wrap shows and 2 reviews of brand new movies every month. Plus you’ll get access to our back catalogue from 2023 onwards.Enjoy the show but can’t support us financially? We get it. You could submit a review on the podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Or if you listen on Spotify and you haven’t given us a five-star rating yet, what are ye waiting for? It’s easy.If you’ve done some or all of that and still want to do more, we would love it if you tell a friend about the show. Or come find us on social media:Instagram | TikTok | Threads | YouTube

