AC18: Random Movie Review - Krampus

Funny how in the USA this is rated PG-13 which for us UK folk would be rated 12. But you know all these age rating systems work differently across the world. I just find it surprising that a horror film (because let's face it, this is a horror in nearly every way) would be given quite a low rating. But here in the UK, it got a more appropriate 15 rating. Christmas as we all know is normally a joyful time for people to spend quality time together, enjoy a good meal and open lots of presents and watch plenty of TV. But then there are people who spend Christmas differently and people who despise it completely. Which brings us to this film which is unlike any typical Christmas film out there. Based on the ancient European folklore creature of the same name, this film is going to be something truly different to the norm. But it's not the first horror set around Christmas. No sir. So let's take a look shall we:

The film begins by doing the one thing many Christmas films fail to accomplish in 90 or more minutes; setting the tone for the film the right way. We then cut to the dysfunctional but prosperous Engel family as they gather for the holiday. Among them is a boy called Max (played by Emjay Anthony) who is the only one that still believes in Santa and hopes for the day when his family can just all get along. But with many relatives over being quite rude and not really feeling the festive spirit, he too becomes this as he rips up and throws out his letter to Santa. What follows is a blizzard that causes the electricity to go out and a lot of demonic characters led by the titular Krampus (played by Luke Hawker) coming to terrorize the family, forcing them to come together to get out of this crazy night.

Most horror films set around Christmas tend to not have that big of a budget and often look cheaply made. But with this film, you got big names in it and clever animation styles used such as stop motion and CGI. Its a very well-made film overall that is different to your usual Christmas film, and it works really well as a "play it too safe" comedy horror. I personally enjoyed it and maybe you will too. 8/10