Cult of Chucky: The Good Guy returns

The Chucky franchise had been dormant for a long time, until series creator Don Mancini decided to bring back the beloved psychotic doll. Curse of Chucky, released in 2013, was a successful return to the horror roots of the series. Cult of Chucky is a enjoyable continuation, with quite a bit of fan service for long time followers.

The story follows Nica Pierce, survivor of Curse, who now is confined to a mental hospital, after being accused of the murders of her family. Fiona Dourif does a great job playing a character who is no longer sure of what she has seen is real. Dourif gives in a performance that makes the character feel more human than most slasher movies allow.

Andy Barclay also returns, who after years of abuse at the hands of the doll, is now on the offensive. It is amazing to see Alex Vincent return to the role he first played over 25 years ago. Vincent is highly entertaining, taking on an almost Dr. Loomis type role, hunting down the evil that has tormented him for years.

The returning villains are as entertaining as ever. Brad Dourif returns once more as the voice of Chucky, and as always, seems to be having the time of his life playing the role. Cult continues the trend of having Chucky back off the more over the top humor, and return to the more dark, sadistic Chucky of the first couple movies. Jennifer Tilly's Tiffany is as fun as ever, showing up from time to time to torment the heroes.

The plot itself, while overall interesting, does seem to be by movie's end, a bit much. The plot surrounding the titular Cult is a bit too Matrix Reloaded for more liking. Also, a bit nit-picky, but why does every single spell in this franchise have the same chant? If there is a difference at all between what is said, I have yet to notice it. Honestly, as a long term fan of the series, seeing the old cast reunion is a large part of the enjoyment factor of this film.

Special note should be given that Netflix carries the movie, however it is just the rated version. Not only does this cut some pretty solid gore, it also cuts out an after-credits scene. It is recommended to rent or buy the unrated cut if you intend to watch the film.

3/5 stars