Christmas is supposed to be a time of joy, peace and goodwill. But for some folks in the small town of Bailey Downs, it turns into something much less festive.
Movie Review: A Christmas Horror Story (2015) – A Festive Fright-Fest
Introduction
“A Christmas Horror Story,” directed by Grant Harvey, Steven Hoban, and Brett Sullivan, is a 2015 anthology horror film that blends the festive cheer of Christmas with spine-chilling terror. Featuring William Shatner as a radio DJ who ties the tales together, this film offers a unique and thrilling take on holiday-themed horror. In this review, we explore the captivating elements of “A Christmas Horror Story” and provide details on where you can stream it in the United States.
Plot Overview
“A Christmas Horror Story” interweaves four chilling tales set on Christmas Eve:
- A High School Investigation: A group of students ventures into their school’s basement to investigate a mysterious murder that happened a year prior, only to encounter a malevolent spirit.
- Family in Peril: A family’s trip to cut down a Christmas tree turns deadly when their young son goes missing and returns with a sinister change in behavior.
- Krampus Unleashed: A family feud leads to the summoning of Krampus, the demonic anti-Santa, who wreaks havoc on a dysfunctional family.
- Santa’s Battle: Santa Claus himself must face off against zombie elves in a bloody showdown at the North Pole.
William Shatner’s character, DJ Dan, provides commentary and continuity between the stories, adding a layer of dark humor and cohesiveness to the anthology.
Visuals and Cinematography
The film’s direction by Grant Harvey, Steven Hoban, and Brett Sullivan effectively captures the contrasting atmospheres of festive cheer and horror. The cinematography by Gavin Smith employs a mix of warm, festive lighting and eerie, shadowy visuals to create a unique aesthetic that enhances the horror elements. The special effects, particularly the design of Krampus and the zombie elves, are well-executed and add to the film’s unsettling charm.
Performances
William Shatner’s performance as DJ Dan provides a humorous and engaging thread throughout the film, anchoring the disparate stories with his charismatic presence. The ensemble cast, including Zoé De Grand Maison, Alex Ozerov, Amy Forsyth, and George Buza as Santa Claus, deliver strong performances that bring the horror and tension of each tale to life. Their portrayals balance the fine line between festive fun and genuine terror.
Themes and Interpretation
“A Christmas Horror Story” explores themes of holiday traditions turned sinister, the dark side of human nature, and the supernatural elements lurking beneath the surface of Christmas cheer. The film delves into the idea of facing one’s fears during a time typically associated with joy and celebration. Each story examines different aspects of fear, guilt, and redemption, providing a multifaceted look at the horror genre through a holiday lens.
Streaming Availability in the U.S.
As of 2024, “A Christmas Horror Story” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States. You can watch “A Christmas Horror Story” on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Shudder
- Tubi (free with ads)
For those who prefer renting or purchasing, the film can be found on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies
- YouTube
- Vudu
Conclusion
“A Christmas Horror Story” is a unique and thrilling holiday-themed horror anthology that blends festive cheer with chilling terror. With engaging performances, particularly from William Shatner, and effective direction from Grant Harvey, Steven Hoban, and Brett Sullivan, the film provides an entertaining and eerie viewing experience. Whether you’re streaming it for the first time or revisiting its twisted tales, “A Christmas Horror Story” offers a compelling and spooky cinematic journey into the dark side of the holiday season.
