Cult of Chucky (Don Mancini, 2017, Canada/USA)

Cult of Chucky is the seventh installment in the Child's Play franchise, and the latest so far to have the involvement of creator Don Mancini. The film largely continues with Curse of Chucky left off, and is similar in tone to that film, although it transplants the spooky house setting to a mental asylum. The film also brings back Fiona Dourif, Chucky's voice Brad Dourif's daughter, as the character of Nica Pierce. Not only that, but this film marks a notable return of Andy Barclay (Alex Vincent), the child from the first three films in the series. 

Cult of Chucky might be more appropriately called Club of Chucky, as this is the first film to feature multiple Chuckies. This was something that Don Mancini had wanted to introduce into the franchise much earlier, but he was unable to do so due to budget constraints. It is hard to view this film as an introduction to the series for casual fans. Unlike many other horror franchises, each Chucky film does seem to build on the mythology and lore of the franchise, bringing back older characters, including in this case Jennifer Tilly and the character Kyle from Child's Play 2.

Cult of Chucky is generally regarded positively by both fans and critics alike. While it is impossible to make a serious Child's Play film, the film as well as the former entry attempt to bring the series more back to its thriller roots, than the camp of Bride of Chucky and Seed of Chucky. It is a notable effort for a 30-year franchise and it is remarkable how much longevity the franchise has had up until this point. Cult of Chucky for us is a mid-tier entry into the franchise, and certainly not a low point for any fans of the series. 

6/10