Young boy Max (a fine and likable portrayal by Emjay Anthony) has become so disillusioned about the Noel season that he inadvertently summons evil ancient spirit Krampus (Luke Hawker in a gnarly animatronic suit) and his equally wicked minions to terrorize his dysfunctional family around Christmastime.
Director Michael Dougherty, who also co-wrote the twisted and witty script with Todd Casey and Zach Shields, keeps the enjoyable story moving along at a quick pace, takes time to develop the colorful and distinctive characters, milks plenty of laughs from the wickedly funny sense of pitch-black humor, ably crafts a strong feeling of isolation and vulnerability (the family are trapped inside their home by a fierce blizzard), generates a considerable amount of suspense, maintains a deliciously dark, yet playful tone throughout, stages the attack set pieces with skill and flair, and tops everything off with a surprising downbeat ending. Moreover, it's acted with zest by an enthusiastic cast: Adam Scott as meek workaholic dad Tom, Toni Collette as harried mother Sarah, Stefania LaVie Owen as the snippy Beth, Krista Stadler as wise and kindly grandmother Omi, Conchata Farrell as the sarcastic Aunt Dorothy, Allison Tolman as the mousy Linda, David Koechner as the crude uncle Howard, and Maverick Flack as the boorish Howie Jr. Kudos are also in order for Jules O'Loughlin's sharp widescreen cinematography, the dynamic shuddery score by Douglas Pipes, and the nifty practical special effects. Best of all, this movie even comes complete with a pertinent central message about the bitter spiritual price one must pay for giving up on the true spirit of the Christmas holiday. Good ghoulish fun.
Director Michael Dougherty, who also co-wrote the twisted and witty script with Todd Casey and Zach Shields, keeps the enjoyable story moving along at a quick pace, takes time to develop the colorful and distinctive characters, milks plenty of laughs from the wickedly funny sense of pitch-black humor, ably crafts a strong feeling of isolation and vulnerability (the family are trapped inside their home by a fierce blizzard), generates a considerable amount of suspense, maintains a deliciously dark, yet playful tone throughout, stages the attack set pieces with skill and flair, and tops everything off with a surprising downbeat ending. Moreover, it's acted with zest by an enthusiastic cast: Adam Scott as meek workaholic dad Tom, Toni Collette as harried mother Sarah, Stefania LaVie Owen as the snippy Beth, Krista Stadler as wise and kindly grandmother Omi, Conchata Farrell as the sarcastic Aunt Dorothy, Allison Tolman as the mousy Linda, David Koechner as the crude uncle Howard, and Maverick Flack as the boorish Howie Jr. Kudos are also in order for Jules O'Loughlin's sharp widescreen cinematography, the dynamic shuddery score by Douglas Pipes, and the nifty practical special effects. Best of all, this movie even comes complete with a pertinent central message about the bitter spiritual price one must pay for giving up on the true spirit of the Christmas holiday. Good ghoulish fun.