Christmas is a time of year associated with presents, good cheer, and depending on ones state of mind, a great deal of gore, scares and psychos. There’s just something about the jolly holiday season that makes for an excellent juxtaposition with the horror genre. There have been plenty of mash-ups and slasher flicks that take place around Christmas, and while most have schlocky, B-movie qualities (which is no bad thing), there are some real diamonds in the rough. Here’s our less-than-definitive list of the best Christmas horror movies!
Santa's Slay (2004)
Before diving into the truly innovative films, there's a some cinematic fluff to sift through. Enter a movie with a rather straightforward premise: "Santa's Slay." Here, Santa Claus takes an unexpected turn as the offspring of Satan, spiraling into a rampage where no one, whether naughty or nice, is spared from his lethal spree.
The methods and execution of Santa's mayhem take on an appropriately absurd tone and while it never quite plunges into the depths of B-movie absurdity, there's enough entertaining zaniness to cleanse the palate of the traditional sugary Christmas stalwarts. Worth noting that Santa himself is portrayed by none other than former WWE (or WCW if you want to be picky) superstar Bill Goldberg, adding a curious twist to the chaotic holiday tale.
Jack Frost (1996)
During the heyday of Blockbuster, the perilous mix-up between two starkly contrasting films named "Jack Frost" was a common pitfall. One, a children's tale starring Michael Keaton, and the other, a horror flick unleashed a year earlier, demanded careful scrutiny before selecting a rental.
This version of "Jack Frost" operates on a similar principle to "The Gingerdead Man" by embracing the most ludicrous concept imaginable and wholeheartedly running with it. Brace yourself, for your cognitive faculties might just liquefy quicker than Frosty on a balmy spring afternoon. Yet, depending on your cinematic taste buds, this concoction might induce a chuckle or two.
Also, does anyone remember the holographic VHS cover...? Amazing.
Better Watch Out (2017)
Ok, enough silliness as we move on to a great movie. The horror genre is teeming with stories centered around babysitters, yet "Better Watch Out" takes an intriguing leap beyond the standard tropes. Here, a babysitter is defends the kids under her care from menacing home invaders.
Honestly, the less I divulge about the film, the more its surprises will resonate. Contrary to its seemingly straightforward premise, this underrated gem conceals a cleverness that defies expectations. "Better Watch Out" beckons with an inventive edge, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a tale that gleefully upends the anticipated beats of the genre. Consequently, it's a movie that tantalizes with unexpected twists and an air of mystery. This inherent ability to transcend the conventional and weave a tapestry of suspense makes "Better Watch Out" a must-watch.
Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)
"Rare Exports" stands as a testament to cinematic peculiarity. Unearthing the remains of Santa Claus in a Scandinavian town sets off an unsettling chain of events, with the town's children mysteriously vanishing. The film weaves together strands of horror and deadpan comedy, into a memorable and quite original Christmas horror.
In the realm of horror, tales revolving around a malevolent Santa Claus aren't uncommon yet, the film strides into uncharted territory, effortlessly capturing the essence of the peculiar and the uncanny. This film doesn't just touch upon the macabre; it fashions a unique narrative that transcends the predictable, delivering an experience that defies expectations.
"Rare Exports" isn't just another entry in the trove of evil Santa tales—it's the definitive standout, carving its own distinct place in the unconventional horror films.
Gremlins (1984)
"Gremlins" stands as a masterful blend of horror and Christmas cheer, encapsulating the essence of both genres with finesse. Seamlessly combining chills and laughs, this film culminates in a heartwarming embrace of the holiday spirit.
At its core, "Gremlins" is a riotous celebration of the bizarre—a creature feature that traverses the realms of horror and comedy with delightful agility. Yet, beneath its whimsical facade lies its commentary on American consumerism. It cleverly weaves this social critique into its narrative fabric, elevating the film beyond mere entertainment.
The movie strikes a delicate balance, offering just the right dose of fright to send shivers down your spine while leaving you craving more. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to captivate audiences, urging them to revisit the chaotic world of mischievous Gremlins time and time again. And the sequel is great too!
