Krampus

[projekktor id=’22239′]

Krampus is a horror-comedy written and directed by Michael Dougherty (Trick ‘r Treat). The film stars Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner, Allison Tolman, Conchata Ferrell, and Emjay Anthony.

The holiday season is the most magical time of the year, but there is another, darker Christmas legend whose shadow over pop culture is growing. Ancient folklore warns of Krampus, a myth that has been traced back centuries throughout European cultures. A horned beast who captures disobedient children for Christmas, Krampus is part merry, part monster. Santa rewards the nice; Krampus punishes the naughty. Santa brings laughter and joy; Krampus unleashes darkness and mayhem. Santa gives presents; Krampus takes souls.

“The same way that Americans send out Christmas cards, Europeans have this rich tradition of sending out Krampus cards,” Dougherty explains. “I was shown these beautiful illustrations of this creature called Krampus, who stole children, and images of people cowering in fear. Still, they had such a fun, mischievous quality, similar to our Halloween. I found that appealing because it made Christmas more enjoyable to know that there was this dark, mischievous side to the holiday that we Americans didn’t have yet. It was lurking in the shadows waiting to be rediscovered.”

Krampus is rated 14A.