Best in Show: Scary Children's Toys (Pt. I of II)

Scary children's toys are nothing new for the horror industry. From classics to the modern day, dolls and assorted play things have instilled fear in adults everywhere. And, while some of the earliest films have struggled to stand the test of time without becoming comical, the trend continues to this day with films like Annabelle: Creation set to be released this summer. The fact is, horror movies and children's toys are intrinsically connected; showcasing just how disturbing some of society's recreational objects are. This week's list covers horror's scariest toys.

(Youtube.com)

10. Cymbal-Banging Monkey (Toy Story 3)

This blog is most definitely about horror movies, but the cymbal-clapping monkey featured in Toy Story 3 is the stuff of nightmares. The scene - featuring the bug-eyed monkey watching security cams - is nothing short of horrifying as his red-ringed eyes and insane clattering would traumatize even the most fearless child. I am so happy I waited to see this movie without children in the theater because I can only imagine the tears it caused. Disney should consider delving deeper into the horror genre, especially if this is the work it can create. 

(newscrusher.com)

9. Billy (Saw)

With a new Saw film right around the corner, acknowledging the iconic face of the franchise is only right. Billy is the type of scary doll that should definitely give pause to anyone believing in Jigsaw's sanity. What would ever possess this father to give his son something that is so visibly scary? Unlike other picks on this list, there is nothing salvageable or innocent in the face of this swirly-cheeked, tuxedo-wearing toy. Add on the later use of Billy as the face to Jigsaw's videos and traps, and this puppet easily becomes one of the scariest things to come out of the series.

(thecinophileblog.com)

8. Der Klown (Krampus)

While campy and fun, the Christmas horror hit, Krampus, offers plenty of jarring moments. From a crazed tree topper to the hoofed demon himself, there are moments of real horror in this otherwise over-the-top movie. Perhaps none are as scary as Der Klown, the jack-in-the-box creature central to kidnapping the film's family. The first time the big, nasty beast-toy opens his mouth is horrifying. It's like something out of a 80s horror movie but with effects meant for modern audiences, all culminating into something far more effective.

(villians.wikia.com)

7.  Brahms (The Boy) 

The Boy got a pretty bad wrap when it came out. Early reviews showed promise, but upon its full theatrical release, the Lauren Cohen-starring horror film took a sour turn. And, while I'd argue some criticisms are warranted, audiences seemed to overlook the very terrifying doll central to the movie. Brahms is a terrifyingly empty looking doll and the filmmakers do a terrific job elaborating on his mythology. From scattered shadows to movement across rooms, Cohen's character couldn't look away from him without feeling the absolute spin-tingling atmosphere and I felt no different. Brahms is scary. While the movie may have some faulty aspects, this toy certainly wasn't one of them.

(thegreenhead.com)

6. Talky Tina (The Twilight Zone)

The Twilight Zone can sometimes feel ancient next to some modern horror creations. While definitely scary for its time and still a cultural piece worth appreciating, the vast majority of the episodes haven't stood the test of time well. But, one episode in particular is an exception. For those looking to be scared, look no further than the 'Talking Doll' episode from the anthology series. Talky Tina has aged splendidly and even in it's black-and-white, 1960s glory it's still scary to this day. Easily one of the series most disturbing episodes, Talking Tina was ahead of its time - overtly opting to terrify the father, rather than the typical direction of the mother - and it works. This episode was simple, but effective in scaring its viewers and is definitely worth witnessing.