The 'Not-So-Critical' Critic: KRAMPUS

The 'Not-So-Critical' Critic: 

on KRAMPUS (2015, 98 minutes, PG-13)

The Quick of It -

This was a guilty pleasure for sure.  KRAMPUS could be described as A CHRISTMAS STORY and CHRISTMAS VACATION have a run-in with GREMLINS, said with a Tim Burton flair.  A boy wished his Christmases could be as they once were and be rid of the family madness... and "someone" happened to be listening.

Writer-director Michael Dougherty, his only other feature length credit as a director being TRICK 'R TREAT, put together a fantastic Christmas tale that will be told through the ages (why a PG-13 rating rather than an R).  Visually, KRAMPUS was a haunting winter wonderland filled with fiendish pleasures.  The soundtrack by Douglas Pipes was a perfect blend to touch on the silly and dramatic moments, enhancing the overall tone of the setting, with sounds of bells, chains, and choirs chanting to create a macabre aural experience. 

The elements of a strong satirical-horror flick were in place.  This lovingly-dysfunctional family consisted of comedic stereotypes headed by a German matriarch to relate the lore, and the formula worked to highlight the punishments they deserved.  His Highness of Santa's darkside, surrounded by his impish minions, made for a great villain with devilish tricks.  I am still not sure if I'm sold on their interpretation of his facial design but it was effective.  Overall, this was an entertaining movie and I will add it to the growing list of holiday viewing, next to ELF and DIE HARD.

Grade: B+