Christmas films don’t have to be completely saccharine sweet, we’ll have you know - despite it being the most popular formula this time of year.
There are some of you out there that just ‘loathe’ the notion of a festive movie that follows the familiar cinematic tropes; it’s either a boy and girl fall in love, separate but somehow get back together for Christmas, or a family coming together and realising the importance of the season.
But what about something a little more, dare we say it, “transgressive?” “Nasty?” Dare we say it, quite anti-Christmas in its execution? Then perhaps we can be of service this year.
Be it a controversial ‘80s slasher that led to a huge moral panic upon its release, to a classic piece of nasty British horror, we’ve compiled 13 ‘alternative’ Christmas films that you can stream this year.
Be warned though - some of these are not suitable for all the family, despite former WCW World Champion Bill Goldberg starring in one of our irreverent offerings.
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1. Krampus (Sky Cinema)
When a dysfunctional family loses their Christmas spirit, they unwittingly summon Krampus, a terrifying demon who punishes the naughty. Equal parts horror and holiday satire, this chilling flick puts a dark spin on festive traditions featuring acting talents such as Toni Collette and Adam Scott. | Legendary Pictures
2. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale
A young boy and his father discover a secret that Santa isn’t who we thought he was—and he’s very dangerous. This Finnish cult favourite blends folklore, horror, and dark comedy, making it a perfect anti-Christmas tale. | Oscilloscope Laboratories
3. Silent Night, Deadly Night (Shudder)
A man traumatized by childhood events goes on a rampage dressed as Santa Claus. This controversial ‘80s slasher film explores the dark side of Christmas with shocking kills and over-the-top camp. | TriStar Pictures
4. Black Christmas (MUBI)
Widely considered the first slasher movie, this 1974 classic follows a group of sorority sisters as they’re terrorized by mysterious phone calls and gruesome murders over the holidays. Its snowy backdrop makes the horror all the more chilling. | Ambassador Film Distributors
5. A Christmas Horror Story (Prime Video)
This anthology film features four interwoven holiday horror tales, including Krampus attacking a family and zombie elves at the North Pole. A twisted take on traditional holiday cheer. | Image Entertainment
6. Violent Night (Netflix)
n this over-the-top action flick, Santa Claus himself takes on a group of mercenaries threatening a family’s Christmas. Think Die Hard, but with Santa in the lead role - and played by 'Stranger Things' actor David Harbour. | Universal Pictures