KRAMPUS (2015)

Krampus (2015)

Summary: When his dysfunctional family clashes over the holidays, young Max is disillusioned and turns his back on Christmas. Little does he know, this lack of festive spirit has unleashed the wrath of Krampus: a demonic force of ancient evil intent on punishing non-believers. All hell breaks loose as beloved holiday icons take on a monstrous life of their own, laying siege to the fractured family's home and forcing them to fight for each other if they hope to survive.

For anyone who might not be familiar with the legend of Krampus, it is a german folktale about the “shadow of St. Nick.” Krampus is supposed to be a horned figure who shows up during the Christmas season. While St. Nick rewards the good kids, Krampus punishes the bad ones. Stories vary about he deals out that punishment. Some stories say he is the one who leaves coal and bad gifts, some stories say he beats the kids. The most common stories say that Krampus takes the kids with him. The first time I really took an interest in Krampus was when he was featured in a season 3 episode of Grimm. I was intrigued and read up on the story about more.

The minimal knowledge I have on the subject is what really sparked my interest in wanting to see this movie and also helped me to realize one of the strongest traits of it. It actually did a very good job at portraying the legend. Krampus shows up to punish a family who has abandoned the Christmas spirit. He is aided by some of the most evil Christmas toys I have ever seen.

Krampus is technically classified as a comedy/horror. With a cast consisting of Adam Scott (Parks & Recreation), David Koechner (Anchorman), Conchata Ferrell (Two and a Half Men), it was obvious that this movie was going to lean more towards the comedy aspect and it didn't despite. It has a very sarcastic overtone and uses the comic relief in just the right spots to make it enjoyable but not overdoing to the point where it just gets painful to watch. Majority of the cast, not just the characters I mentioned, have a very strong comedic background and they did a great job here.

You clearly shouldn't go into this movie expecting it to be the best horror movie of the year. It is dark and does have a few shock moments but it wasn't scary. That being said, I wouldn't recommend replacing the Christmas Story marathon with this.

If I had to add any negativity to this review, it would be Krampus himself. His profile and silhouette are spot on. He's huge, big horns, hooves; leaves for a very intimidating looking character. However, the few times we actually get to see his face, he looks like the Ice King from Adventure Time.

That small fact aside, this is definitely a movie worth watching. In fact, this will be added to my list of Christmas time movies that I watch every year. Granted, this one will have to be watched when the kids are asleep, but it will be watched none the less. Get away from the seriousness, relieve some of the stress of the upcoming holidays, and treat yourself to a little bit of fun, you won't be disappointed.

                         reviewed by Bobby