Santa Claus, the jolly bringer of gifts, has a sinister side in these movies! Prepare for a wild ride through the sub-genre of killer Santa films, where the symbol of happiness turns deadly.
Violent Night (2022)
In a refreshing twist, this recent film portrays Santa as a hero. David Harbour plays the legendary figure, fighting to save a wealthy family from mercenaries. And he does it with style, including a memorable grenade kill and a witty one-liner. But here's where it gets controversial—is it okay to root for a killer, even if he's on the 'good' side?
Santa's Slay (2005)
Get ready for a ridiculous yet hilarious ride! Wrestler Goldberg plays Santa, but with a demonic twist. He's the Devil's son, and after a millennium of being jolly, he's back to his old ways. This over-the-top movie is a must-watch for those who love absurd humor.
Tales From The Crypt (1972 & 1989)
A double dose of terror! The 1972 movie and the 1989 TV show both feature a demented Santa. The HBO series version, with Larry Drake's portrayal, is a fan favorite. It's a classic tale of a woman getting her comeuppance from a killer Santa, and it's sure to keep you entertained.
Christmas Bloody Christmas (2022)
Introducing the world's first killer robot Santa! This movie takes the concept of 'bad Santa' to a whole new level. Imagine a decommissioned military robot, now a store Santa, going rogue. It's a unique and thrilling concept that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Christmas Evil (1980)
This film delves into the psyche of a killer Santa. Young Harry's childhood trauma involving Santa sets him on a dark path. As an adult, he snaps and starts punishing the 'naughty' in a deadly way. It's a chilling exploration of how a twisted mind can corrupt a beloved symbol.
Silent Night (2012)
A loose remake with a killer Santa, flamethrowers, and a wood chipper—what's not to love? This movie delivers on the gore and entertainment. Despite not living up to its predecessor, it's a fun addition to the sub-genre, especially with its over-the-top sheriff character.
Rare Exports (2010)
This Finnish film reveals the dark origin of mall Santas. An ancient evil Santa is unearthed, along with his helpers. It's a unique take on the mythos, showcasing the strange folklore surrounding these evil figures. And it's not your typical killer Santa story, which makes it all the more intriguing.
Deadly Games (1989)
A French film that's gained a cult following, it's a mix of Die Hard and Home Alone. A mall Santa, fired for slapping a child, finds himself in a battle with a tech-savvy kid. It's a thrilling cat-and-mouse game that will keep you guessing.
Saint (2010)
This Dutch film explores the dark side of St. Nicholas folklore. An evil bishop kidnaps children on a full moon, and only a teenager and a detective can stop him. It's a fascinating twist on the Santa legend, bringing ancient European traditions to life.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
The most famous killer Santa movie, this film sparked controversy! Protests led to its removal from theaters. It features a killer Santa duo and a shocking death scene involving deer antlers. And this is the part most people miss—is it morally wrong to enjoy these films, given the backlash they've received?
So, which of these killer Santa movies will you be adding to your watchlist? Do you think these films are just harmless fun, or do they cross a line? Share your thoughts and let's discuss!
