That KRAMPUS (2015 - USA - Horror/Fantasy/Comedy/Drama) guy is scary, but oh so stylin' at the same time

 

Writer/director Michael Dougherty (TRICK OR TREAT, GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS, X2) had been wanting to make a Christmas themed horror movie since 2011. In 2015, his dream (nightmare?) was realized with KRAMPUS, a scarier-than-you'd-think Yuletide terror about the Engel family, a clan who have drited apart, but are trying to keep tradition alive by gathering for the holiday. We have the Dad and the Mom, the teenage daughter, the young son (Max, the character whose eyes we see the film through), the visiting hickish brother, and his brood, and the old country born "Oni", or grandmother.
When Max, who is still clinging to the belief of Santa Claus, is ridiculed for writing a letter to the Man in the North Pole, he, upset and embarrassed, tears up his correspondence. This awakens KRAMPUS, who comes to take his toll when the "Christmas spirit dies".

Sooner than you can say Night of the Living Ginger Bread Men, the Engel's are fighting for their lives against an army of dangerous cookies, maniacal toys, and a hulking folk legend who is out for their blood.

Shifting tones often, KRAMPUS delivers some truly scary scenes, while also maintaining the fun. Think GREMLINS, cranked up a few notches, and with more blood. Really good cast too, including Adam Scott (PIRANHA 3D, FLOWER), Toni Collette (THE SIXTH SENSE, HEREDITARY), David Koachner (THE OFFICE, ANCHORMAN), all delivering solid and believable performances amidst some batshit crazy stuff, then anchored wonderfully by Emjay Anthony (CHEF, JUNGLE BOOK, BAD MOMS), as the optimistic and sentimental young Max, who ultimately must save his family (those left, at least) from KRAMPUS and his hoarde of vicious Little Helpers.

Really cool stuff, with some great design and FX work. I look forward to the eventual TRICK OR TREAT 2 and any other Dougherty stuff, especially a continuation of his fable-esque takes on horror, and will definitely be watching KRAMPUS again next Christmas season.

- 8/10