Buzz
Contrary to what the Hallmark Channel might imply, blending Christmas with spine-chilling stories is far from unusual. For generations in Britain, families would huddle by the fire, sharing eerie supernatural tales to combat the winter chill—a custom that faded but was later revived by Victorian-era writers like Charles Dickens and M.R. James. This tradition isn’t unique to Christianity; for centuries, across various cultures and religions, the long, dark nights of winter have been an ideal time to spook those closest to us. So, pour yourself a hot beverage, secure the doors, and queue up this selection of the finest Christmas horror films. And while you’re at it, maybe double-check the chimney before lighting a fire—just to be safe, especially if you’re unsure where dad has wandered off to...
Rare Exports (2010)
It’s no surprise that Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale comes highly recommended, as this Finnish film quickly became a modern holiday favorite after its release over a decade ago—though it’s a far cry from It’s a Wonderful Life. (But who knows what the future holds?) The story follows a government research team that foolishly disturbs an ancient burial mound, believed to house Joulupukki, a precursor to Santa Claus. Unlike the jolly gift-giver we know, Joulupukki shares more in common with Krampus, focusing on punishing the naughty rather than rewarding the nice. This darkly humorous, cynical winter tale is perfect for our times and culminates in an unforgettable finale. You can stream Rare Exports on Peacock, Tubi, Kanopy, AMC+, and Freevee or rent it on Prime Video.
Black Christmas (1974)
A pioneer in the slasher genre, this Bob Clark masterpiece remains one of the finest, thanks to its straightforward yet brilliantly executed plot and an exceptional ensemble cast (Margot Kidder, Olivia Hussey, Andrea Martin, John Saxon, Keir Dullea). Clark’s holiday film credentials are undeniable: after this chilling tale of a murderer targeting a sorority house during winter break, he directed the beloved holiday classic A Christmas Story years later. While the film’s elements may seem familiar now, it’s only because countless later movies borrowed from its innovative style, often with less terrifying outcomes. The two remakes (2006 and 2019) are decent but fall short of the original’s horrifying brilliance. You can stream Black Christmas on Prime Video, Peacock, Shudder, Kanopy, and Tubi.
It's a Wonderful Knife (2023)
High-concept ideas are always a draw, much like the timeless appeal of It's a Wonderful Life. As the title suggests, this film plays on a similar premise: Winnie (Jane Widdop), after a grueling year, finds herself on a bridge wishing she’d never existed. When her wish comes true, her town descends into chaos—not because of a lifetime of good deeds, but because she had previously exposed a serial killer known as the Angel (Justin Long). Without her, the killer has been free to wreak havoc, even rising to the position of mayor. A bloody, festive thrill. You can stream It's a Wonderful Knife on Shudder and AMC+ or rent it from Prime Video.
Adult Swim Yule Log (2022)
Remember the oddball viral sensation Too Many Cooks from a decade ago? Ever imagined if its creators could expand that chaotic energy into a full-length feature? Your curiosity is answered with Adult Swim Yule Log, a surreal horror-comedy by director Casper Kelly and Max. What begins as a cozy holiday fireplace loop quickly spirals into a tale of racism, generational pain, ritual sacrifices, a haunted Airbnb, and a demonic floating log. If 91 minutes isn’t enough, the unexpected follow-up, Yule Log 2: Branchin' Out, arrived this year.
Silent Night (2021)
Nell and Simon (Keira Knightley and Matthew Goode) kick off their annual Christmas party with Michael Bublé tunes, giving little hint of the grim reality ahead. Dressed to the nines and indulging the kids, the festive atmosphere masks a dark truth: an environmental disaster is unleashing a lethal gas worldwide. Their loved ones gather for a final celebration before taking government-provided pills to end their lives peacefully. Chaos ensues, blending bleak satire with dark humor (if you can stomach Christmas cheer paired with assisted suicide). You can stream Silent Night on Netflix or rent it from Prime Video.
Christmas Evil (1980)
John Waters hailed Christmas Evil as “the greatest Christmas movie ever made,” and his endorsement is hard to ignore (he even provided a commentary track available on DVD and Blu-ray). The film opens with a young boy witnessing his mother’s scandalous encounter with Santa, sparking a lifelong fixation on the jolly figure and a mission to judge who’s naughty or nice. Amid over-the-top deaths and biting social commentary, the movie builds to a truly unhinged finale. You can stream Christmas Evil on Tubi, Vudu, and The Roku Channel.
Gremlins (1984)
During the mid-1980s, Gremlins merchandise—dolls, action figures, and storybooks—flooded the market, which is both bizarre and a stark commentary on consumer culture, considering the film’s violent and horrifying content. Imagine kids gathering to watch a movie where monstrous creatures meet gruesome ends in blenders and microwaves, and a character recounts the traumatic discovery of her father’s body in the chimney on Christmas. Yet, amidst the chaos, there’s a peculiar charm, including a memorable caroling scene. Delightful, indeed! You can stream Gremlins on Max or rent it from Prime Video.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
Silent Night, Deadly Night isn’t revolutionary—it follows a boy who witnesses his parents’ murder by a Santa-clad killer and later becomes a Santa-themed murderer himself. While not the first Christmas horror film, its release during the Reagan era sparked controversy, leading to boycotts and censorship, which ironically boosted its popularity. As a slasher, it’s solid, even slightly above average, with a subtle critique of consumerism. It’s a fascinating cultural relic, though the sequels are skippable, except for the hilariously bad second installment, which reuses 40 minutes of the original. The fifth film, featuring Mickey Rooney (who famously denounced the first), is another oddity. You can rent Silent Night, Deadly Night on Prime Video.
The Lodge (2019)
The Lodge delves into the unsettling tale of a stepmother unraveling mentally, offering a somber twist on Christmas horror. While some prefer lighthearted holiday fare, others revel in the stark, wintry gloom—both tastes are valid! Riley Keough shines as a woman marrying into a family with two resentful children still grieving their mother’s tragic death. Stranded in a remote cabin brimming with eerie religious symbols, the kids exploit her troubled past, pushing her to the brink. This is far from a festive Christmas tale. You can stream The Lodge on Kanopy or rent it from Prime Video.
Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)
For a lighter take...zombies! This unexpected blend of High School Musical and Shaun of the Dead follows Anna, a Scottish teen focused on her high school’s Christmas show, oblivious to the zombie outbreak around her. A quirky mix of genres, it delivers gory fun and unexpected holiday warmth. You can stream Anna and the Apocalypse on Tubi, Pluto TV, and Shudder or rent it from Prime Video.
The Advent Calendar (2021)
A woman receives a stunning yet sinister advent calendar from a Munich market, complete with dire warnings: break the rules, and you’ll die. This German-inspired nightmare is packed with surreal visuals and wild concepts. While not flawless, it’s a thrilling ride, and the cursed calendar is a standout prop.
A quick note: while the film earns credit for featuring a disabled protagonist (not necessarily a hero), it casts a non-disabled actor, and the character’s main goal is to walk and dance without assistance—a somewhat outdated portrayal. You can stream The Advent Calendar on AMC+ and Shudder or rent it on Prime Video.
Alien Raiders (2008)
Don’t let the terrible title fool you—it sounds like a bargain-bin Redbox pick, but it’s far better. On Christmas Eve, masked intruders take over a grocery store, holding hostages for reasons tied to extraterrestrial threats. Surprisingly well-acted and with decent effects, this low-budget gem offers a Christmas-themed action fix reminiscent of Die Hard. You can stream Alien Raiders on Prime Video.
Better Watch Out (2016)
While not groundbreaking, Better Watch Out delivers a twisted premise and standout performances from Olivia DeJonge as babysitter Ashley and Levi Miller as her 12-year-old charge, Luke. Luke’s infatuation with Ashley leads to a night of chaos when a supposed home invasion takes a darker, more unexpected turn. You can stream Better Watch Out on Peacock, Tubi, and Pluto TV or rent it from Prime Video.
Dial Code Santa Claus (1989)
Also titled Deadly Games, Game Over, and originally 3615 code Père Noël, this French film masterfully combines holiday charm with genuine terror. It follows a tech-savvy child attempting to reach Santa but instead connecting with a killer determined to infiltrate the boy’s luxurious home. Often compared to a horror version of Home Alone, director René Manzor even threatened a plagiarism lawsuit against Chris Columbus over the similarities. You can stream Dial Code Santa Claus on Shudder.
The Legend of Hell House (1973)
While the holiday theme is subtle, this film centers on paranormal investigators exploring a murderer’s home just before Christmas, only to be terrorized by violent spirits. A timeless haunted house story with a festive twist. You can rent The Legend of Hell House from Prime Video.
I Trapped the Devil (2019)
Drawing parallels to Charles Beaumont’s “The Howling Man” (famously adapted for Twilight Zone), I Trapped the Devil follows Matt and Karen as they visit Matt’s unstable brother, Steve, during the holidays. Alarmed by his erratic behavior, they uncover a padlocked basement containing a man Steve insists is the devil himself. While the plot struggles to fully sustain its runtime, it remains a gripping and stylish Christmas-themed mystery. You can stream I Trapped the Devil on AMC+ and Shudder or rent it from Prime Video.
Pooka! (2018)
A bizarre new Christmas toy, Pooka, takes center stage—a temperamental doll that kids adore but behaves unpredictably. When an out-of-work actor (Nyasha Hatendi) lands a job promoting the toy in a giant Pooka suit, things spiral into surreal chaos. Director Nacho Vigalondo (Colossal, Timecrimes) delivers a wild, twisted take on A Christmas Carol. You can stream Pooka! on Hulu.
Blood Beat (1983)
Blood Beat is a baffling yet mesmerizing cult classic. A young couple returns home for the holidays, only to face a samurai ghost (or something similar) on a killing spree, accompanied by a hypnotic synth score. Psychic elements add to the confusion, but the film’s striking visuals and eerie tone make it a unique experience. Best enjoyed with peppermint edibles—if you’re brave enough. You can stream Blood Beat on Tubi and The Roku Channel.
Krampus (2015)
Standing out among recent films reviving eerie European folklore, Krampus is a horror-comedy reminiscent of Gremlins, featuring stunning creature designs by Weta Workshop. While not the darkest or bloodiest holiday horror, it’s a wildly entertaining ride, showcasing a family pursued by the titular demon through a nightmarish winter landscape. You can stream Krampus on Max and Peacock or rent it from Prime Video.
Santa's Slay (2005)
Ever considered how grueling Santa’s job truly is? Delivering gifts to billions of children in a single night is no small feat. The 1985 flop Santa Claus: The Movie suggests time stretches endlessly for Santa until his task is complete—a horrifying concept if you dwell on it. The 2005 cult favorite Santa's Slay takes this further, revealing Santa (played by wrestler Bill Goldberg) as a disgraced son of Satan, cursed with the role for 1,000 years after losing a bet. His time is finally up, and chaos ensues. You can stream Santa's Slay on Starz or rent it from Prime Video.
Violent Night (2022)
While leaning more toward action-comedy than pure horror, Violent Night delivers plenty of festive carnage for those seeking it. David Harbour, of Stranger Things fame, stars as a jaded Santa Claus who steps in to protect a wealthy family from a gang of killers with holiday-themed nicknames like "Mr. Scrooge." The film culminates in a Home Alone-style trap sequence, but with a far gorier and more realistic twist. Harbour shines as a world-weary Santa, adding a darkly humorous edge to the chaos. You can stream Violent Night on Starz or rent it from Prime Video.
