Dolls utilized in the supernatural are not new, but have gained a renewed interest due to the story of Annabelle and the TV series “Chucky.” Their background stories vary, some claim to be true, but they always garner a response from viewers. While Annabelle is indeed a real doll that is blamed for some scary instances, the movies take it to a whole other level by creating sequels of completely fictional events and even changing her overall look. Chucky is probably the most famous doll, possessed by a fictional serial killer seeking a human host via voodoo antics.

Throughout several sequels and an upcoming second season on television, he has been included in a much larger mythology and involved other memorable characters including his female counterpart, Tiffany. There are many other examples of supernatural dolls or puppets that can be explored, but one that isn’t as well known is Robert the Doll.

Travel Channel and Discovery+ are delving into this history with their latest entry of “Shock Docs” entitled THE CURSE OF ROBERT THE DOLL. The lore is similar to others like him where supposed accidents or extreme cases of bad luck occurred after interactions with Robert. The documentary succeeds more when discussing the history of the Otto family, residents of Key West who owned the doll after bringing it to Florida from Germany. The doll stayed in the family and we get to indulge in rumors of how the doll came to be possessed.

What falters and takes away any credibility are the reenactment sequences. While these would be effective in a Hollywood production, these supposedly true stories rely on jump scares and outrageous events that only the heavily intoxicated would believe. Some of the people interviewed are referred to as victims of Robert without providing any evidence to support these theories.

This may be a fun, late-night viewing, but only to be enjoyed if not taken seriously.

SHOCK DOCS: THE CURSE OF ROBERT THE DOLL premiered Friday, September 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Travel Channel and is streaming on discovery+.

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Jovy Skol

Jovy grew up loving all kinds of horror movies which is ironic because his parents hated them. CANDYMAN still scares the shit out of him and it doesn’t help that he lives in the Chicago suburbs. He loves venturing into lesser-known exploitation films of the 70s and being introduced to new movies. Along with movies, Jovy loves horror video-games and books, including comics. Some of his favorite franchises include SILENT HILL, A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET, and the RESIDENT EVIL games.

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