In Kyra Gardner's feature documentary debut, we stroll down memory lane with the people who brought the infamous killer doll onto our screens and into our hearts. 

 

Key figures such as Don Mancini, Brad and Fiona Dourif, Jennifer Tilly, Thomas Vincent, and many more, give us a rundown of each Child's Play movie in the franchise and what it was like to work on them. While they reminisce on the family aspect of the crew, Gardner takes a moment to highlight her unique perspective. As the daughter of the franchise's current Special Effects Supervisor, Tony Gardner, she grew up with these dolls in her house, making Chucky feel almost like a little sibling in a way. 

 

There are some really cool visuals weaved throughout. Starting with the adorable animated opening credits sequence along with kitschy personalized lower thirds. The VHS tapes being popped into the VCR as they move down the list of Child's Play movies had my 90s kid heart fluttering. My favorite part, however, being the closeup clips of a Chucky outfit being made by hand. They add flair between the segments, signifying the importance of Chucky's practical design and legacy. All of this creative fun makes me excited to see where this takes Gardner in future filmmaking ventures. 

 

This is honestly probably one of the most wholesome documentaries I've seen in a while. It feels like such a gift to the fans as well as a love letter to the franchise filmmakers. If you're a Chucky fan, this is a must see. And even if you're not, Living with Chucky still a fun little joy ride.