It’s never too early to get into the festive spirit. A Christmas-themed horror movie has found recent success on Netflix, proving that holiday-centric horrors can deliver a unique thrill. Movies like Black Christmas and Gremlins have been captivating audiences with their genre-bending appeal for decades, skillfully combining festive wonder with terrifying thrills.
Krampus is particularly intriguing, inspired by the folklore figure who rewards well-behaved children and punishes the naughty during the holiday season. This Michael Dougherty-directed film, which brims with B-movie charm, surprisingly offers viewers some holiday chills even in July.
Krampus Is A Top 10 Hit On Netflix
This 2015 Christmas Horror Did Well At The Box Office
Recent streaming figures reveal Krampus as a top 10 hit on Netflix, showcasing that audiences aren’t just tuning in for festive frights in December. With an impressive cast featuring Adam Scott, Toni Collette, and David Koechner, this tale of a dysfunctional family facing a supernatural demon revamps a European legend for a modern audience.
Krampus received mixed reviews upon its 2015 release but earned over $61 million at the box office against a modest $15 million budget, solidifying its status as a financial success. Coming from Dougherty, who has a knack for seasonal horrors following his cult favorite anthology film Trick ‘r Treat from 2007, Krampus expertly merges domestic comedy with genuine folk traditions from Germany and Austria.
Emjay Anthony delivers a standout performance as Max, the young boy who still believes in Santa but inadvertently unleashes the festive demon upon his home. Krampus entwines family drama with genuine scares, amplifying its watchability during any season.
Our Take On Krampus
A Solid Festive Horror
Krampus stands as a remarkable entry in the evolving canon of Yuletide genre films, unafraid to explore darker themes than many other comedy horrors. For those who favor scares over laughs, Krampus leans heavily into the horror aspect, transforming the Engel family’s dream Christmas into a true nightmare.
This unique approach, which veers beyond the usual trappings of Christmas comedy horrors, allows Krampus to explore a captivating folk legend, enhancing its overall appeal. It’s no wonder Netflix viewers continue to flock to the film during summer, as a solid horror movie retains its fright no matter the season.
Sources: FlixPatrol, Box Office Mojo