Krampus (2015) Review
‘Krampus’ is available for purchase on all VOD platforms as well as physical Blu-Ray/DVD. For the best viewing experience, be sure to purchase Scream Factory’s latest 4K UHD upgrade, Krampus: The Naughty Cut; the perfect gift for the Krampus fanatics in your lives.
In 2015, writer/director Michael Doughtery (Godzilla: King of the Monsters) released his Yuletide horror film ‘Krampus’ to the masses. Receiving mostly positive reviews upon its release, this tale became an instant modern holiday horror classic amongst fans and myself. Riding the success of his previous holiday horror film Trick R’ Treat, the violence and gore for Krampus is tamer but the fright and silliness from his previous entry is still very present here. Presenting awe-inspiring visuals, impeccable creature designs, an enjoyable cast of characters, and Doughtery’s signature dark humor, it’s surprising we’ve yet to receive a sequel. With the holidays fast approaching and the bitter chill of winter coursing through the air, what better time to revisit this Christmas masterpiece?
Retail Killed the Christmas Star….
While most children’s letters to Santa consist of the a-typical toys and the latest tech and fashion trends; our protagonist Max (Emjay Anthony) has a more selfless request to share a nostalgic Christmas with his family reminiscent of years past. Shortly after his Uncle Howard (David Koechner from ‘Anchorman‘), Aunt Linda (Allison Tolman), their infant Crissy (Sage Hunefeld) and remaining children Howard Jr. (Maverick Flack), sisters Jordan (Queenie Samuel) and Stevie (LoLo Owen) and Great Aunt Dorothy (late Conchata Ferrell remembered famously as Berta in CBS’ ‘Two and a Half Men‘) arrive after a long day’s travel, tensions soon ensue. Dorothy is constantly complaining on the quality of the food even though Max’s mother Sarah (lovingly portrayed by academy award nominee Toni Collette; ‘Hereditary‘ and ‘Velvet Buzzsaw’) had been slaving away all day in the kitchen prior to their arrival. Howard almost immediately begins showboating his superiority complex and toxic masculinity to Max’s father Tom (played by Adam Scott of ‘Parks and Recreation’ fame) from the moment he walks in the house. Additionally, Jordan and Stevie purposefully embarrass Max at dinner by reciting his private letter to Santa in front of everyone. This sparks an emotional scuffle amongst the kids, and in a fit of rage Max shreds his only wish and tosses the remaining bits of the torn letter out of his bedroom window. Unfortunately for Max and his family, these actions summon not jolly Saint Nicolas but rather, a more sinister shadow and counterpart to the big man dressed in red. In order for Max and his family to survive this unholy night of terror, it’s imperative they set aside their differences and come together, otherwise their souls will be dragged to hell, suffering eternal damnation.
Visually, ‘Krampus’ is beautifully shot as Doughtery is able to capture the chaotic nature that falls on Christmas, but also, the magic bestowed upon it. The production design is flawless as festive decorations fill the screen with their blinking-colored lights, Christmas music blares from radio speakers, and pristine mounds of glistening snow cover the streets. Doughtery also takes lengths to showcase the insanity of holiday shopping in the films chaotic title sequence. Max and his family are clad in winter clothing, showing their slight enthusiasm for the approaching holiday. In grandiose fashion, Krampus christens his arrival into town with an unnatural blizzard, plaguing them in a dreary winter wonderland. You feel the intensity of the cold as our characters struggle bundling for warmth.
Santa Claus ISN’T coming to town
Draped in large red and white robes akin to Saint Nicolas, large, pointed horns curling above his head, the clattering of his massive cloven black hooves booming on rooftops, his face adorned with a mockery of the children’s beloved holiday figure; Krampus has arrived. Time has certainly been kind to Krampus, as 7 years later the character design is still remarkable. Standing close to 7 feet tall, his presence is especially imposing due to his hulking size and rough exterior. For as colossal as Krampus is, it still surprises me just how agile his character is able to swiftly move about. His laugh echoes in twisted delight as his grotesque tongue whips about, echoing his unapologetic personality; for he is there to punish. Whenever on screen, he steals the show as his presence is awe-striking.
Thankfully, Krampus isn’t the only character with a fearsome appearance, as his evil elves and twisted animated toys receive ample care equivalent to their master. Drawing inspiration from pagan/folkloric background, these maniacal elves first appear disguised as snowmen mysteriously appearing in Max’s front yard Christmas Eve morning, inching closer to the house ever so slightly with each passing hour. Once their surprise attack springs into action, we see them fully cloaked in dark soot-stained furs with intricately detailed wooden masks and carrying makeshift tribal spears. Whereas Santa’s elves are merry helpers, Krampus’ are anything but, acting more as slaves. His “cheerful” toys are no exception. Consisting of ravaging teddy bears, ghastly noel angles, and buzzsaw wielding robots, each toy feels craftly designed, providing their own unique flare and deadly purpose. One toy that’s remained a favorite of mine in particular happens to be their unofficial mascot and Krampus’ own twisted transport; his hideously cute jack-in-the box. Masquerading first as an innocent child’s toy only to later reveal its gaping mouth and rows of gnashing teeth capable of swallowing multiple victims whole.
‘Krampus’ lasting success can also be attributed to the characters Doughtery brings with his script, as well as the brilliant performances provided by each actor. Krista Stadler is wonderful as Omi, Max’s softhearted grandmother who’s experienced this holiday demon in her past. Scott and Collette’s’ Tom and Sarah exemplify what nurturing parents should be; comforting Max during times of weakness, while acting as the families selflessly fierce protectors. Emjay, however, really shines in this movie with his portrayal of Max. He’s able to convey the emotional stresses we see Max struggles with throughout. At first, Max seems hopeful this will be different than his past few have been. As the night unfolds, that hope quickly fades and shifts to anger. Anger then transcends to fear then guilt for the curse he’s mistakenly brought upon his family up until the final act in which Max finally confronts his demon head-on, accepting responsibility with fearless fervor.
Checked Twice: The Naughty List
‘Krampus’ succeeds in many areas; however, it has its mild issues. For as much as I appreciate Doughtery’s dark humor, there are times where I feel it’s overused in this script taking away from the horror. In a scene paying homage to 1984’s ‘Gremlins‘, rather than fiendish green creatures, we instead see poorly animated CGI gingerbread men that are more of an annoying nuisance than actual threats. This is especially disappointing given the films primary use of practical effects. Koechner’s Uncle Howard and Ferrell’s Aunt Dorothy, though equally hilarious and provide a hand in protecting the family, ultimately feel as the film’s comedic reliefs to me. Max’s sister Beth (Stefania LaVie Owen) feels as though she was only included to fill the role of disinterested snotty sister. Not to say actress Stefania’s performance is bad, it’s not, her character is simply under used which provides lack of development. Those expecting to unwrap a carnage candy cane for the holiday season may be disappointed due to the films more family-friendly PG-13 rating. With his use of meticulous camera placement and expertise with lighting and shadows, Doughtery trades in the gore for jump scares through tension building.
A Beloved Demon of Christmas Past
Throughout the years since its release, ‘Krampus’ has been in my yearly Christmas film rotation for obvious reasons; relatable characters, time lasting practical effects, enthralling cinematography and an impactful surprise twist. At first glance, it may appear as if Doughtery has a disdain for Christmas but, with each revisit, it’s made clearer the respect he has for the holiday. Though a fun chaotic sleigh ride filled with horrific creatures, Krampus is a story told with love reminding its audience the true spirit of Christmas is not the lavish gifts but showing our loved ones the same care and cherishment. Doughtery further establishes his mastery of comedic horror with ‘Krampus‘, providing plenty of sacks of laughs and scary presents worthy of being a yearly tradition for any family.
Be sure to check HauntedMTL all month long for more holiday horror related content, including our ’12 Nightmares of Christmas’. 12 spine-tingling holiday themed short horror stories written by us, including yours truly, dropping every day starting December 12th, leading to Christmas day.
(4 / 5)
Movies n TV
You’ll Have a Bloody Good Time with this Eternal (2004) Health Tip
When Raymond Pope’s wife disappears, he follows the trail. But each lead points him to the Eternal beauty of Elizabeth Kane.
Eternal (2004) is a horror thriller written and directed by Wilhelm Liebenberg and Federico Sanchez. This R-rated film stars Caroline Néron, Victoria Sanchez, Conrad Pla, and Ilona Elkin. As of this review, it is available for Amazon Prime members with renting options from Spectrum on Demand.
When Raymond Pope’s (Conrad Pla) wife disappears, he’s swept into the mystery of Elizabeth Kane (Caroline Néron). As his investigation becomes increasingly bizarre, bodies pile up and point to Raymond Pope. Will he clear his name, or will this bloody rampage drown him?
What I Like about Eternal
While all of the performances add to the film, Eternal thrives on the charisma and mystique of Caroline Néron’s Elizabeth. She enchants her targets, lowering their defenses until that final moment.
Conrad Pla’s Raymond Pope also requires a delicate approach to succeed. The sleazy and hypocritical detective seems genuinely concerned for his wife (at least initially) and sells that concern. While far from an easy character to root for, the audience understands him and the danger he faces.
There’s a heavy erotic thriller angle that Eternal delivers on. I’ll linger on this point in later sections, but it certainly knows how to build tension within a single scene or between characters. These moments don’t feel forced, and while they often target a male audience, interesting dynamics rise above general exploitative content, if only slightly.
This seems to be a passion project between the creators, Wilhelm Liebenberg and Federico Sanchez. This passion lingers in the moments to deliver something unique, if not without its flaws. The film doesn’t hold back, a point that fluctuates between negative and positive depending on the situation. Regardless, it holds a charm in that commitment that’s hard to replicate without passion behind the scenes.
Tired Tropes and Triggers
The film labels itself as “Inspired by True Events,” which only relates to the general discussion of Elizabeth Báthory. It’s also worth mentioning that, much like Vlad Dracula, her story remains heavily dominated by modern interpretations. I won’t pretend to hold exclusive knowledge of these historical figures, but cultural interpretation reduces realism. The claim means little to nothing.
The predatory queer trope applies to Eternal, with little complexity to challenge the point as the violence often targets women. It’s important to note that Elizabeth acts as a femme fatale in general, but the targets remain clear. However, this film did earn a moment of recognition from the Glitter Awards (a clip was used in 2006), which might suggest the standout performance of Caroline Néron’s Elizabeth earns back some goodwill.
What I Dislike about Eternal
The erotic thriller holds a stigma that Eternal doesn’t challenge. Elizabeth remains a clear femme fatale with a slightly supernatural twist. While the performance executes this character perfectly, viewers likely know if this remains an interest or a tired cliche for themselves.
While most of Raymond’s acts make sense for the character, I hold issue with the end. Without going into too many details, he is asked to do one thing to protect himself and does the opposite for no reason. Perhaps this indicates supernatural influence, but such a claim lingers in headcanon.
The film ends ambiguously, which hardly seems fitting given the evidence and weakens the overall film. A definitive ending, or something moderately more definitive, would strengthen Eternal.
Final Thoughts
Eternal’s major obstacle in executing its erotic thriller is that of tired tropes in the modern era. If one looks past these dated points, there’s a haunting thriller that can meet moments of excellence. The plot falls short in many areas towards the end of the film. Ultimately, if a vampire-esque thriller interests you, Eternal certainly adds its perception to the niche but in a familiar form.
(3.5 / 5)
Movies n TV
When “The Demon of Cults” Delivers Your Brand of Evil
The assessors investigate “The Demon of Cults,” the seventh episode of Evil, created by Michelle King and Robert King.
“The Demon of Cults” is the seventh episode of Evil, created by Michelle King and Robert King. The central cast includes Katja Herbers, Mike Colter, Aasif Mandvi, Michael Emerson, Christine Lahti, and Andrea Martin. As of this review, it’s available through Netflix and Paramount+ and its add-ons.
The assessors investigate a cult. David (Mike Colter) struggles to keep his commitment to the Entity as they test his morality. Kristen (Katja Herbers) learns some unsettling plans for her family. Ben (Aasif Mandvi) spends an evening with a friend and meets a divine figure. Dr. Boggs (Kurt Fuller) begins a spiritual journey to write a novel.
What I Like About “The Demon of Cults”
As the brief description above should indicate, Ben endures a lot in this episode. From comedic scenes to genuinely intense moments, Aasif Mandvi delivers a performance that adapts to the plot. His chemistry with a new character (Gia Crovatin’s Renee) also deserves praise as it drives his subplot in the episode.
Brian d’Arcy James’ Victor LeConte returns, bringing this eerie character to life again. While his motives become more comprehensible, his methods continue to create division. As his motives unfold and methods become darker, it upsets many characters.
The last performance to focus on is Gia Crovatin’s Renee. She plays a foil to Ben, showing an intelligent character who blends her spiritual beliefs with her scientific knowledge. This character supposedly appears in “The Demon of Sex,” making a direct claim of this in the episode, but didn’t physically appear in “The Demon of Sex.” Renee makes a lasting impression through her charisma and chemistry with Ben.
This episode returns to a few points of the RSM Fertility plotline. While it doesn’t satisfy lingering questions, it does enough to show Evil hasn’t dropped the plotline entirely. The implications hit Kristen particularly hard as it directly relates to her family.
While the last few episodes hold a haunting beginning or end, “The Demon of Cults” excels in the middle of its narrative. Not every moment earns the level of haunting its viewers, but those moments stand out.
Tired Tropes and Triggers
A running motif of the episode follows the processes of cult indoctrination and deprogramming. “The Demon of Cults” doesn’t dive deep into this material but remains a key element to many plotlines. It also briefly mentions Qanon, broadening the cultish focus to one beyond spirituality.
“The Demon of Cults” remains a bloodier episode of Evil, bringing out a truly exceptional scene to those squeamish at the sight. It’s not particularly gory, focusing more on the liquid spectacle, but a point worth referencing.
While not shown, an animal sacrifice supposedly occurs. The viewer doesn’t see the exact moment of this act but does see the leading moment and results. A character confirms the sacrifice shortly after, leaving little ambiguity.
What I Dislike About “The Demon of Cults”
“The Demon of Cults” doesn’t unpack Ben’s suffering in this episode. From addressing some of his childhood trauma to navigating the unclear motives of the cult, Ben doesn’t get the opportunity to dive into these plot points with much depth. Some of these elements will earn later focus but little follow-through.
It’s never directly shown how the Entity comes to know the events they know. Some points are observation and spying, but others require a level of intuition that needs some explanation. Future revelations might add a potential theory, but these points remain headcanon without confirmation.
Final Thoughts
“The Demon of Cults” explores the evils of indoctrination and the trial of deprogramming. While some elements are underdeveloped or lightly touched on, the episode still possesses some moments that haunt the viewer. While it’s far from the most haunting episode, it does provide lingering points for the show to follow and an exceptional ending to tie everything together.
(3 / 5)
Movies n TV
A Taste of Cosmic and Occult Horror, or Messiah of Evil
Arletty searches for her estranged father in a remote town, witnessing illogical events that only grow stranger in Messiah of Evil.
Messiah of Evil (1974) is a Lovecraftian horror film written and directed by Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz. This R-rated horror film stars Michael Greer, Marianna Hill, Joy Bang, and Anitra Ford. As of this review, the film is available on Tubi TV, Hoopla, Shudder, AMC+, Screambox and much more.
Arletty (Marianna Hill) searches for her estranged father in a remote town, witnessing illogical events that only grow stranger. After meeting Thom (Michael Greer), a bizarre artist, and his female companions (Joy Bank as Toni and Anitra Ford as Laura), she finds moderately normal help against the growing madness. But as the forces against them grow, madness seems a blissful peace.
What I Like about Messiah of Evil
There’s a Lovecraftian focus on this occult horror, following many aspects that distinguish H.P. Lovecraft from the Cosmic Horror genre he inspired. Specifically, the town feels straight out of one of his stories, with locals openly hostile and awkward to outsiders.
There’s a continued eeriness to the scenes that beats with the allure of Lovecraft. At times, this doesn’t inherently yield logical sense, but the growing strangeness fits the film’s reality.
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- A woman arrives in a sleepy seaside town after receiving unsettling letters from her father, only to discover the town is under the influence of a strange cult that weeps tears of blood and hunger for human flesh
- From Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz, the writers of American Grafitti, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Howard the Duck, this dreamy and atmospheric film transposes the post-Night of the Living Dead zombie movie to a surreal small-town American setting, presented through gorgeous Techniscope visuals that echo the stylish European horror of Mario Bava and Hammer
- A true cult film, Messiah of Evil, which was also released as Dead People, has overcome distribution challenges to enjoy growing awareness and high acclaim after decades of word-of-mouth enthusiasm among horror cinema fans and critics around the world
- Hailed in 2003 by The British Film Institute as “a rare work of cinematic genius,” this occult tale comes from writer/director Willard Huyck, known for his work on such popular movies as American Graffiti, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, and of course, Howard the Duck
- Starring a bevy of 1970s eye candy, including Anitra Ford, Joy Bang, and Marianna Hill, Messiah of Evil is about a young woman (Hill) whose search for her missing father brings her to a strange seaside town under the influence of a mysterious cult
- A woman arrives in a sleepy seaside town after receiving unsettling letters from her father, only to discover the town is under the influence of a strange cult that weeps tears of blood and hunger for human flesh
- From Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz, the writers of American Grafitti, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Howard the Duck, this dreamy and atmospheric film transposes the post-Night of the Living Dead zombie movie to a surreal small-town American setting, presented through gorgeous Techniscope visuals that echo the stylish European horror of Mario Bava and Hammer
- A true cult film, Messiah of Evil, which was also released as Dead People, has overcome distribution challenges to enjoy growing awareness and high acclaim after decades of word-of-mouth enthusiasm among horror cinema fans and critics around the world
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I am a fan of the ghoulish, and there are plenty of ghoulish figures in Messiah of Evil. First, they linger in the shadows but are ever-present in the plot. As Messiah of Evil builds to its conclusion, these ghoulish forces surround the protagonists. They seem haunted and changed by the cosmic truths of the film.
It’s in this unsettling and creepy atmosphere that Messiah of Evil shines among other Lovecraftian works. Lovecraftian horror films often struggle to communicate this atmosphere, rarely diving into the madness that Messiah of Evil excels in.
Tired Tropes and Triggers
Gore seems the most obvious point to mention, along with body horror to some degree. While Messiah of Evil doesn’t linger in its gore, some moments challenge the squeamish. Some of these moments loosely qualify as body horror, but not nearly enough for fans of the genre.
One can make the case that some female characters are depicted as shallow. However, many characters follow a specific and familiar quirk for Lovecraftian films. The female characters earn an equivalent amount of development to their male counterparts, if shallow at times.
There is an awkward romance between Arletty and Thom. It’s reminiscent of the poorly executed lead romances that seem part of a studio checklist. However, the strange events and eeriness of the characters help make this decision more digestible.
What I Dislike about Messiah of Evil
These issues are more careful considerations for viewers to decide on. There’s a stilted awkwardness that remains a common acting choice for Lovecraftian films. This helps create an eerie atmosphere, but it’s a required taste.
The mystery does invite interest, but Messiah of Evil doesn’t build these mysteries with a desire to satisfy its viewers. Some mysteries get answers as soon as they are raised, and others end abruptly when the film refocuses its attention. There is one exception to this pattern, leading to the heart of the Lovecraftian horror. That mystery should take priority, but it doesn’t.
With a 1974 release date, Messiah of Evil remains a dated film in many ways. There’s something about the color pallet and cinematography that seems timeless, but it remains an older film. Don’t expect a modern design or expensive special effects.
Final Thoughts
Messiah of Evil brings to life the Lovecraftian horror so overlooked in films. While it’s far from perfect, the film shows the unraveling power Lovecraftian horror possesses. The greatest challenge in adapting Lovecraftian works is communicating the overwhelming unknowability of the cosmos. There are many moments where the viewer feels that unknowable madness. Messiah of Evil earns a place for fans of the Lovecraftian genre. (4 / 5)
