Why Horror Movies Extend Beyond Halloween: Exploring Scary Settings in Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Other Holidays

"Gremlins" transformed a innocent Christmas holiday into a picturesque setting for exaggerated killings. "My Bloody Valentine" transformed the infatuation with hearts on February 14 into a disturbingly literal idea.

This November, horror master Eli Roth will bring his own version of Thanksgiving with a new horror film, featuring a murderer dressed as a Pilgrim who prefers disemboweling innocent townsfolk over carving turkeys.

Horror films set during the holiday season have developed into their own distinct subgenre, amidst a saturated field of animated classics and comedic escapades, with one exception: the body count exceeds the number of presents beneath the tree. These holiday horror movies encompass a range of styles, from gritty slashers with sinister undertones, such as the influential "Black Christmas" from 1974, to supernatural thrillers with a campy twist (as seen in 2015's "Krampus," featuring malevolent gingerbread men). Additionally, there are gruesome grindhouse offerings like "Thanksgiving," which, as hinted by its red-band trailer, culminates in the horrifying spectacle of a woman being roasted alive in an oven.

Nell Verlaque in "Thanksgiving," 2023.

Courtesy of Tristar Pictures

Upon their release, many beloved holiday horror films sparked controversy. Critics argued that they were excessively violent, harmful to children, or simply offensive to those who preferred a more cheerful holiday experience. However, these films have since achieved classic status, captivating audiences who find happy endings less compelling, even during the merriest time of the year.

According to George Mihalka, the Canadian filmmaker responsible for the influential 1981 movie "My Bloody Valentine" and a documentary exploring the legacy of "Black Christmas," holiday horror is effective and gratifying because it subverts the typical cheerful and heartwarming elements associated with the holiday season.

He said that the familiar becomes threatening and the known turns into terrifying unknown.

Certain viewers may find pleasure in taking a break from the typical cheerful holiday content, such as the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade or "It's a Wonderful Life," and instead indulge in a more disturbing experience. After the holiday horror on the screen concludes, these viewers can go back to their gift exchanges and festive gatherings, unless they find comfort in continuing to watch horror, as pointed out by Mihalka.

"For others, it reminds them of the horror of actually having to visit relatives for the holidays," Mihalka said.

Horror subverts holiday tropes with gruesome aplomb

According to Matthew DuPée, a filmmaker and author of "A Scary Little Christmas: A History of Yuletide Horror Film, 1972-2020," most Americans have a connection to holiday traditions. The significance of family, home, and unity during the cold holiday season is highlighted in a lot of holiday entertainment, both on and offscreen.

DuPée states that holiday horror films are successful for the same reason that emotional holiday movies are. Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas already create an "emotional foundation." Consequently, films set during these cherished holidays don't need to explain why a murderous rampage during a holiday party is disturbing or why it is particularly heartbreaking when Krampus punishes children for their lack of hope.

Emjay Anthony in "Krampus," 2015.

According to DuPée, holiday horror films, particularly the superior ones, effectively enhance the viewer's social intimacy, completely subverting everything we cherish about the holiday season, thereby setting the ideal atmosphere for fear and horror.

The "Adult Swim Yule Log" from last year offers a unique take on the traditional fireplace scene commonly associated with the holiday season. While it initially appears harmless, the video gradually reveals a secluded cabin, creating an eerie atmosphere that transitions into a tale of violent chaos.

Holiday-themed horror is particularly controversial due to the inherent sacrosanct nature of its iconic elements, including innocent children in cozy pajamas, snowmen, and Santa Claus. The 1984 film "Silent Night, Deadly Night" faced intense criticism even before its release. Its portrayal of a killer wearing a Santa suit, who goes on to decapitate teenagers and influences orphans to commit similar acts, resulted in the movie being swiftly removed from theaters. The provocative advertisements featuring a murderous St. Nick wielding an axe sparked outrage among parents and terrified children, as reported by the Hollywood Reporter.

"Silent Night, Deadly Night" resonated with audiences who enjoy holiday content that takes a darker approach. This resulted in the creation of multiple sequels and a 2012 remake featuring Malcolm McDowell. According to DuPée, the appeal of the film comes from subverting traditional holiday elements and transforming them into something menacing and horrifying.

Holiday horror knows holidays arent always merry and bright

Holiday horror acknowledges a harsh reality about the holiday season: It can be highly stressful and emotionally distressing for individuals whose recollections of the holidays are not filled with nostalgia or adorned with festive decorations.

Alexandra West, an author of multiple books on horror films and co-host of the "Faculty of Horror" podcast, pointed out the draining nature of constantly encountering scenes filled with happiness, togetherness, and love. She emphasized that infusing these holidays with elements of horror provides a much-needed antidote and, in certain instances, a means of respite.

Olivia Hussey in "Black Christmas," 1974.

RGR Collection/Alamy Stock Photo

Horror movies delve into the dark side of holidays, shedding light on the underlying cultural values. Mihalka's "My Bloody Valentine" portrays a group of young people yearning to host a romantic party in a mine, while simultaneously critiquing the commercialization of the holiday by portraying the wealthy characters as the villains. In "Black Christmas," the final girl's friends are systematically picked off in the safety of a sorority house, with a disorganized police force leaving her alone to face a grim Christmas party, devoid of hope for survival. Even "Gremlins" criticizes American consumerist culture and the country's tendency to exert control over the unknown.

According to West, horror movies offer an alternative narrative that doesn't neatly tie up loose ends, exploring complex and messy relationships with a touch of bloodiness. These stories feel more genuine than the idealized expectations imposed by Hollywood.

That is why fans of horror, like West, may choose to indulge in "Black Christmas" on a chilly December night instead of opting for the more sweet and cheerful holiday classics. The genre of horror is both unsettling and thrilling, repulsive and enlightening. According to DuPée, it can even serve as a refreshing diversion from the overwhelming festive atmosphere during the holiday season.