Common Sense Media Review
By Jeffrey M. Anderson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gory killer doll/slasher reboot is unexpectedly fun.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Child's Play (2019)
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 38 parent reviews
Parents say that while this movie presents a mix of horror and dark humor, opinions vary widely on its appropriateness for younger audiences; some find it entertaining with life lessons, while others are concerned about its graphic violence and language, deeming it unsuitable for children. Viewers note that although it diverges significantly from the original in terms of plot and tone, it could still be enjoyable as an action-comedy, but many experienced fans are disappointed by its overall execution and character development.
- violence concerns
- humor mixed
- generational remake
- mixed reviews
- character issues
- age recommendations
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 101 kid reviews
Kids say that the reboot is extremely violent and gory, often being described as more entertaining and darker than the original film, with graphic scenes involving bloodshed and intense language. However, many reviewers caution that it is definitely not suitable for children under 17 due to its excessive violence, sexual innuendos, and overall gruesome content, despite some finding it funny and enjoyable as a modern horror movie.
- graphic violence
- not for kids
- intense language
- dark humor
- entertaining reboot
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In CHILD'S PLAY, a Vietnamese factory worker is fired, but not before he can finish building a "Buddi" doll -- and remove all of its safety protocols. Meanwhile, in the United States, lonely Andy Barclay (Gabriel Bateman), who has a hearing impairment, and his single mom, Karen (Aubrey Plaza), have recently moved to a new town. When a defective Buddi doll is returned to the store where Karen works, she decides to give it to Andy. Named "Chucky" (voiced by Mark Hamill), the doll immediately starts acting oddly, promising lifelong friendship with Andy and showing animosity toward Andy's nasty cat and toward Karen's not-so-nice boyfriend. But at least Chucky helps Andy make some new friends: Pugg (Ty Consiglio) and Falyn (Beatrice Kitsos). But then the killings start, and a neighboring police detective, Mike Norris (Brian Tyree Henry), begins investigating.
Is It Any Good?
This reboot of the infamous "killer doll" slasher series bases its story in a good, much simpler idea that increases the emotional stakes. It then incorporates human characters with fresh doses of humor and pathos. The original Child's Play (1988) and all of its six sequels hinged on the idea of a mad killer's soul being magically transferred to a regular Chucky doll and making it try to kill everyone, while the new film is more focused on the doll longing to be friends with Andy. It's a small distinction, but Andy's regret as he tries to destroy his toy is quite affecting. (Weirdly, it echoes some of the themes in Steven Spielberg's A.I. Artificial Intelligence.)
Meanwhile, Plaza and Henry, as well as the young actors, manage to bring subtle humor to their roles, as well as real-world weight. There are actually consequences here. Hamill, who's best known as Luke Skywalker -- but is also excellent as the voice of the Joker in many Batman animated cartoons and video games -- brings a sweet, sinister tone to Chucky; perhaps he's a bit confused and angry, rather than just homicidal. The movie's pace is light and quick, and the effects seem to be largely practical; the killings are bloody but clever. A drawback is the nasty Shane character, who's shown to be nothing but a jerk and "deserves" his gruesome murder. The department store showdown also gets a little over-the-top. But otherwise, this Child's Play is actually a fun romp.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Child's Play's violence. How much blood and gore is shown? How did you react? Shock? Laughter? How did the movie achieve this effect?
How scary is the movie? What's the appeal of horror movies?
Why is Chucky so compelling as a character? How does this reboot compare to the previous Chucky movies?
Have you ever had difficulty with your friends? How did you resolve the situation?
What is the relationship between Andy and his mother like? Is she a good mom? How does it compare to your real-life relationships?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 21, 2019
- On DVD or streaming : September 24, 2019
- Cast : Aubrey Plaza , Mark Hamill , Brian Tyree Henry
- Director : Lars Klevberg
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Bisexual Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : United Artists
- Genre : Horror
- Topics : STEM ( AI ) , Family Stories ( Moms , Single Parents ) , Friendship , Fantasy ( Monsters )
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : bloody horror violence, and language throughout
- Last updated : December 25, 2025
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