Opened: December 4, 2015

Directed by: Michael Dougherty

Starring: Emjay Anthony, Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner, Allison Tolman, Krista Stadler, Conchata Ferrell, Stefanie LaVie Owen, Lolo Owen, Queenie Samuel, Maverick Flack, Mark Atkin, Sage Hunefeld, Leith Towers, Curtis Vowell & Luke Hawker 

Based on real Austo-Bavarian folklore, Krampus has little holiday cheer and is more of a Christmas warning.

Max Engel (Emjay Anthony) is tired of his fighting family who are more focused on themselves than others at Christmastime. When he rips up his letter to Santa wishing for a nicer family, Krampus (Luke Hawker) – Santa’s shadow – comes to punish the household.

This is definitely going to develop a cult following over the years. Normally one wouldn’t mix horror and Christmas, but this film does it so well with evil minions and over-the-top effects. Its adult cast is composed of amazing talent with Adam Scott, David Koechner and Toni Collette taking leads.

At its core is a message to love those around you while you’re together and nothing could be truer around the holidays.

Final say: An entertaining change for the season. ★★★★☆