Judith (Tracy Scoggins) is a police officer on a stakeout with her partner, Matt (Jeff Celentano). During their time in the car, it becomes evident that Judith and Matt are also in a romantic relationship. While they sit together, Judith shares that she has been having strange, unexplainable dreams. In these dreams, she sees two young boys playing cards while she sits nearby and observes them. During their conversation, Judith also reveals to Matt that she is pregnant, bringing them joy. Unfortunately, this happy news is short-lived.
While Judith and Matt attempt to conduct an arrest during a weapon exchange, Matt is brutally shot and soon dies at the scene, leaving Judith alone. The two criminals they were attempting to apprehend flee into a nearby toy store, Arcadia Toys, and split up, making it even harder for Judith to get justice. Although a significant challenge, Judith continues the hunt.
At the same time, a security guard working the night shift at Arcadia Toys makes a call to the local Chunky Chicken takeaway. On duty cooking various greasy meals is Mark (Bentley Mitchum), and he soon finds himself preparing a large meal delivery for Arcadia Toys, which he plans to deliver personally on his bike. Inside the toy store, one of the hiding criminals notices an unexplainable beam of light on the floor. Soon, it becomes clear that he is not alone; the toys around him awaken, taking on a murderous and evil persona.
Now Judith’s night has morphed into a bloody nightmare. She must now face off against two criminals while trapped in a toy store filled with demonic toys. Thankfully, Mark arrives at the store and also finds himself trapped inside with Judith, lending her support. Can the two of them work together to defeat this ultimate evil before it’s too late?
Demonic Toys is a horror film with a touch of comedy. The plot suggests that nothing should be taken too seriously, and the horror mainly stems from the toys themselves and their murderous tendencies. The comedic elements also arise from the demonic toys’ wild and loud personalities. Additionally, the film incorporates a minor thriller aspect, particularly surrounding the appearance of the demonic toys and the circumstances that bring them to life. The mystery of Judith’s strange dreams is another element of thrill that gradually unravels as the film progresses.
The film was directed by Peter Manoogian, whose other works in films include The Dungeonmaster (1984) and Arena (1989). For those who may not know, the film was released by Full Moon Features, an American independent motion picture production and distribution company founded by B-grade veteran Charles Band. Full Moon Features is well-known for titles such as Trancers, Dollman vs. Demonic Toys, The Gingerdead Man, and many more.
I loved the opening and the introduction to the demonic toys. However, the unexplainable reasons as to how they came to life needed to be more specific and transparent. Characters and motives are introduced well, including Judith, who is not only keen for revenge but also forced into a deadly and horrifying situation. It was also fun that her best support to contain the situation and survive was a delivery driver. I enjoyed the puppet work here, not to mention the design of each toy, including a cute bear with sharp monstrous teeth, a creepy-looking jack-in-the-box clown, and an evil robot toy cable of burning flesh.
Regarding the characters, the demonic toys are portrayed as childish and silly. While they do have some funny one-liners and puns, there are moments when their antics become annoying. The human characters vary in quality; however, Judith is the most likable, thanks to her determination and toughness as an undercover cop. As expected, most side characters are cheesy and poorly written, making them easy targets for the demonic toys. There isn’t anything terrifying in the horror aspect, but I must admit that the main story remains fun, even if it’s a bit mindless.
Overall, Demonic Toys delivers an entertaining blend of horror, mystery, and playful humour, bringing a unique concept to life with plenty of brainless fun. The visuals and puppet work surrounding the toys are impressive. However, while the playful and fun elements are enjoyable, the childlike attitude and puns can sometimes be annoying. Tracy Scoggins’ performance is a film highlight, and I found her character particularly engaging. The actress’s corny dialogue is easily forgivable in this context. Ultimately, this release from Full Moon Features is another success, and I’m eagerly looking forward to the next instalment, Dollman Vs. Demonic Toys!
Demonic Toys (1992) is Now Available on Blu-ray thanks to Umbrella Entertainment!
FILM SCORE: 6.0/10
Published: 4th December 2024
Written by: Peter Walkden
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