This Not-So-Perfect but Charming Remake Is the Perfect Slasher to Watch Before Christmas
When you're craving thrills and warm emotions just before Christmas, this unique hybrid is a must-see.
The iconic Santa Claus-costumed killer returns to Christmas screens. This remake of the 1984 slasher Silent Night, Deadly Night reimagines the holiday icon as a maniac, an idea that caused controversy when the original film was released.
Director Mike P. Nelson, known for his work on the Wrong Turn franchise, did more than just remake an old horror film, he created something new.
The result is a unique hybrid that can easily be called the perfect pre-Christmas movie – simultaneously gory and touching.
What Is 'Silent Night, Deadly Night' About?
Little Billy witnessed the brutal murder of his parents by a man dressed as Santa Claus. Years later, he is a lonely wanderer trying to start a new life in a small town.
He finds work in a souvenir shop and begins a romantic relationship with its owner, Pam, who is hot-tempered yet charming. However, every December, an inner voice compels Billy to put on a Santa suit and go hunting.
His victims, though, are not innocent bystanders but true villains – murderers and swindlers.
'Silent Night, Deadly Night' Masterfully Blends Old-School Slasher With Romantic Comedy
The remake's greatest achievement is its surprising and daring blend of genres. Mike P. Nelson alternates between sweet scenes of budding romance and episodes of grotesque, yet inventive, violence.
One minute, viewers are enchanted by the awkward encounters between Billy and Pam, and the next, they're watching the main character, dressed as Santa, dispatch another villain. This play on contrasts creates a unique and sometimes hilarious rhythm.
Billy's character is a cross between Dexter and Santa Claus, and his internal dialogue evokes the relationship between Venom and Eddie Brock, but in a darker, Christmassy setting.
Although Not Without Flaws, 'Silent Night, Deadly Night' Is a Respectful & Inventive Remake of a Classic
Silent Night, Deadly Night isn't a radical reimagining. Instead, it carefully adapts the essence of the original for a modern audience while nodding to fans of the iconic 80s slasher film.
Instead of the story of a psychopath broken by a religious upbringing, we get the story of a traumatized yet determined man trying to find peace.
The balance between rom-com and horror becomes precarious toward the end, and the pacing suffers, failing to build to an explosive conclusion. The movie gets stuck somewhere in the middle, failing to achieve the original's genre-defying audacity.
However, Silent Night, Deadly Night avoids the fate of a soulless, mass-produced remake. It's a respectful yet bold dialogue with the classics.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Silent Night, Deadly Night'?
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Silent Night, Deadly Night has 84% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the movie has a score of 6.2/10.
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On Letterboxd, Silent Night, Deadly Night scored 3.1/5.0.
Where to Watch 'Silent Night, Deadly Night'?
Silent Night, Deadly Night is currently playing in theaters.
