Opened: December 2, 2022

Directed by: Tommy Wirkola

Starring: David Harbour, John Leguizamo, Alex Hassell, Alexis Louder, Edi Patterson, Cam Gigandet, Leah Brady, Brendan Fletcher, André Eriksen, Alexander Elliot & Beverly D’Angelo

Imagine finding out that Santa actually exists and is pretty good at wielding a sledgehammer to kill people on the naughty list. In this bizarrely satisfying new action Christmas classic, Santa does just that.

Jason Lightstone (Alex Hassell) brings his daughter Trudy (Leah Brady) and estranged wife Linda (Alexis Louder) to his Gertrude’s (Beverly D’Angelo) house for Christmas. When a man calling himself Scrooge (John Leguizamo) threatens the wealthy family, Trudy enlists Santa’s (David Harbour) help in saving her family.

On paper, this plot could sound like many holiday films. But making Harbour an angry, drunk Santa and employing tons of weapons, this movie is one you won’t forget. Though, it takes a while to get started and it feels like Santa’s role could’ve been more intense.

Final say: “You better watch out” takes on a new meaning. ★★★☆☆