Best Christmas Horror Movies (And Where to Watch Them)

As a horror enthusiast with over two decades of movie-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that the list you’ve compiled is nothing short of a festive feast for fans of chills and thrills! From the modern take on Krampus to the remake of Silent Night, there’s something here for every horror aficionado.

Among the countless Christmas films available, some feel authentic while others can seem overly sweet. However, just like there are numerous holiday movies intended to bring laughter, there have been almost as many designed to scare. Some fail, some succeed, but the following list showcases the successful scary Christmas films.

The significant financial triumph at the box office for “Terrifier 3” (now accessible for digital rental) underscores that there remains an audience for this uniquely gruesome holiday movie genre. And why not? Not everyone spends their time eagerly anticipating the annual viewings of “Elf” or “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”, and even those who do might appreciate a balance of seasonal scares.

Here are some of the best Christmas horror movies out there – and where you can watch them.

Black Christmas (1974)

Among the films often recognized for initiating the slasher film category, we have “Psycho” and “Peeping Tom,” both released in 1960. Following them was Tobe Hooper’s “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” and John Carpenter’s “Halloween.” Notably, between “Psycho” and “Texas Chain Saw Massacre,” there was Bob Clark’s “Black Christmas,” a film that equally deserves recognition alongside “Psycho” or “Halloween,” which are usually cited the most.

Featuring Olivia Hussey from “Romeo and Juliet” and Margot Kidder known for her role as Lois Lane in “Superman”, this chilling sorority house horror film stands out as one of the most unnerving movies ever produced, a tribute to the multifaceted skillset of director Bob Clark, who additionally helmed the beloved holiday movie “A Christmas Story“. With an abundance of nerve-wracking phone calls instead of extensive gore, it’s a study in perfecting suspense.

You can stream Black Christmas on Amazon Prime Video, Tubi or Peacock.

Gremlins (1984)

Due to Steven Spielberg’s involvement and a PG rating, it’s no wonder that many children have been exposed to Joe Dante’s Gremlins over the years. What might be more surprising is just how much this movie has left its mark on them. A creatively terrifying blend of horror and comedy, it’s considered one of the best films from 1984 – though it certainly doesn’t meet today’s standards for a PG-rated movie.

To put it simply, “Gremlins” was one of two films produced in 1984 that introduced the PG-13 rating, the other being “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”. It’s an excellent choice for children who aren’t too scared, serving as a good introduction to horror movies. As they grow older, they will appreciate the film’s humor even more. Remarkably, despite its quality, “Gremlins” hasn’t received a remake or sequel, given its impressive pacing, stellar cast, and creative monster designs.

You can stream Gremlins on Max.

Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)

Let’s be clear: “Silent Night, Deadly Night” isn’t suitable for all viewers. However, if you’re an enthusiast of Art the Clown, this controversial cult favorite might just appeal to you. In fact, Art the Clown’s psychotic portrayal of Santa Claus seems almost tame in comparison.

For anyone who enjoys this movie, don’t forget to watch “Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 “, the initial sequel out of four. It isn’t excellent by any stretch, but it’s undeniably one of the craziest films ever created. Most of it is reused footage from the original film, which can be safely skipped without remorse. However, the third-act rampage in a neighborhood, known as the origin of the “Garbage Day!” meme, is an extraordinary spectacle worth seeing.

You can rent Silent Night, Deadly Night on Amazon or Apple TV.

Night of the Comet (1984)

As a film enthusiast, I must say that the unconventional genre fusion of “Night of the Comet” is simply remarkable, boasting a flair that sets it apart. This movie, oddly enough, can be categorized as one of the quirkier Christmas horror films out there. But wait, there’s more! It’s also a Christmas sci-fi flick…and a Christmas comedy! Although it might not wear its holiday influence as boldly as other movies on this list, make no mistake, it does indeed unfold during the festive season.

The storyline focuses on sisters Reggie and Sam Belmont, who are among the last survivors on Earth after a peculiar comet has just passed by. Those who ventured outside to witness the comet were turned into dust, while those who stayed indoors have transformed into zombies. Fortunately for the sisters, they managed to remain inside. Unfortunately, they now face threats from the undead and suspicious government scientists, along with stock boys of questionable nature. The film offers a blend of chilling moments and a generally humorous atmosphere that makes it memorable, but it’s the outstanding performances by Catherine Mary Stewart and Kelli Maroney that truly elevate it.

Stream Night of the Comet for free with ads on The Roku Channel and Pluto TV.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Is it debatable to categorize “The Nightmare Before Christmas” as an authentic horror film? Indeed, but it leans more towards horror than “Hocus Pocus“. As for family-friendly films with a touch of horror, Henry Selick’s masterpiece is one of the best options available.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but express my admiration for this masterpiece that, despite being created in 1993, feels just as captivating and impressive in the 2020s. For all Tim Burton fans out there, especially those who cherish his work on films like Edward Scissorhands and Beetlejuice, this film is a true gem, showcasing the distinct mark of its producer and story writer. What’s more, with a runtime of only 76 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for keeping the kids engaged during movie time, giving adults plenty of opportunity to cook dinner (assuming we can resist watching it alongside them!).

Stream The Nightmare Before Christmas on Disney+.

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)

In a class of its own, the Finnish horror-comedy movie titled “Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale” stands out. The plot revolves around a research team who venture to drill a fell in search of ancient Sami artifacts. Their activities are observed by a duo of young boys, with one boy mysteriously vanishing as hundreds of reindeer are presumed to have been killed by a wolf. The remaining boy, Pietari, stumbles upon his father’s wolf trap having ensnared a thin, naked old man instead. However, when they bring the seemingly deceased man into their warmth in the father’s workshop, they find that he’s miraculously alive.

Regrettably for them, he’s also an elf working for Santa Claus, but this isn’t your typical jolly old Saint Nick. Instead, he’s the menacing, horned, and potentially violent type, thawing out in a hangar as a rapidly melting ice block. Blending humor with horror, Rare Exports is a film that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish, offering various layers of enjoyment.

Stream Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale on Peacock and Pluto TV.

Silent Night (2012)

2012’s “Silent Night” isn’t associated with John Woo’s action movie starring Joel Kinnaman from 2023. Instead, it’s a reinterpretation of the 1984 slasher film “Silent Night, Deadly Night”. Despite being as good as any movie in its series could be, it maintains the tradition of being excessive and gruesome. However, compared to the original, it offers a more coherent and self-aware narrative.

In essence, the remake of “Silent Night” largely departs from the original’s structure that relies heavily on flashbacks. However, it maintains the essential character of the killer’s identity. It effectively manages to be chilling when required, avoiding a repetitive slasher feel. Critics found it commendable, particularly appreciating Jamie King’s stellar performance in the lead role. “Silent Night” may not be high art, but it serves as an excellent pairing for a double feature with the 2009 release of “My Bloody Valentine 3D“, coincidentally also starring Jamie King.

Stream Silent Night for free with ads on Tubi or Hulu.

Krampus (2015)

Films such as “Krampus” – produced by large studios like Universal Pictures – are not common, making them a delightful exception. This grimly humorous horror film boasts impressive monster designs, from the chilling gingerbread men with snapping teeth to the terrifying Der Klown. Directed by Michael Dougherty, it’s a widely appealing modern minor classic that revels in its unique identity. The family dynamics in the movie are also convincingly tumultuous, particularly due to standout performances from Toni Collette, Allison Tolman, and the late Conchata Ferrell, best known for her role on “Two and a Half Men.

Michael Dougherty directed Krampus following his work on 2007’s Trick ‘r Treat, and despite not quite matching the brilliance of that cult-favorite, it’s clear why he was chosen for Godzilla: King of the Monsters in the Monsterverse mash. This film demonstrates an impressive level of world-building given its limited runtime and budget, but what truly sets Krampus apart is the unity of vision among all involved – both on-screen and off – regarding the movie’s tone. Achieving this balance across multiple genres throughout the storyline is quite remarkable. Furthermore, the film doesn’t shy away from taking risks, particularly when it comes to killing off likable characters played by well-liked actors (not all characters in the film are endearing). The final scene of the movie serves as a powerful emotional blow, much like a bitter lump of coal instead of the traditional sweet treat.

Stream Krampus on Max.

2024-11-29 21:10