The holiday season has taken on a deadly twist with the release of several horror films just in time for Christmas. Cineverse and Bloody Disgusting are thrilled to host 'A Very Special Terrifier Christmas,' featuring Art the Clown’s official 'Eulogy Log' on SCREAMBOX, alongside the nationwide re-release of the thrilling 'Terrifier 3.' The film has broken records, becoming the highest-grossing unrated movie ever, and fans can catch it back on the big screen across the U.S. for a limited engagement starting Christmas Eve through Christmas Day.
Filmmaker Damien Leone himself is delivering the opening, and moviegoers will also get to see exclusive clips from 'ART ATTACK,' the behind-the-scenes documentary set to release next year. 'Terrifier 3' continues the chilling saga, with Sienna and her brother grappling with their traumatic experiences as they prepare for the holiday season, only to find themselves back under Art's gruesome shadow. It stars David Howard Thornton as Art, along with Lauren Lavera and Elliott Fullam, promising blood-soaked holiday cheer.
Already notorious for its over-the-top gore, 'Terrifier 3' features some unimaginable kills, so much so it’s finding its way onto lists reviewing the most shocking horror moments of 2024. Part of the appeal lies within its creativity; hard-core horror fans are relishing the extreme violence depicted. Some of 2024's standout horrific moments have delighted fans, with 'Longlegs' featuring astonishing special effects and drives home the darker themes of its narrative.
Even beyond 'Terrifier 3,' the horror genre has unveiled some memorable moments, especially with films like 'MaXXXine' and 'Alien: Romulus.' For example, 'Alien: Romulus' takes one of the most innocent characters, Kay, and presents her with the harrowing choice of saving herself or her unborn child; how could viewers not feel engaged?
This mash-up horror experience isn’t all about grim tales, as the festive period has also introduced the light-hearted yet twisted 'Babygirl,' starring Nicole Kidman, aimed at taking back female pleasure during the holidays. Dubbed as the unhinged Christmas film 'Eyes Wide Shut' should have been, it presents Romy, Kidman’s new character, as the head of her own tech company grappling with her desires amid holiday chaos. Romy expresses interest toward intern Samuel, leading to comical yet risqué situations as she embarks on uninhibited escapades.
Directed by Halina Reijn, 'Babygirl' contrasts sharply with Kubrick's focus on somberness by infusing fun and playfulness instead. The film provides sharp cultural commentary exploring female empowerment, sexual liberation and the absurdity of societal expectations. Kidman's character climbs beyond mere desires, embracing her identity as Romy voraciously explores her wants without any societal hang-ups.
Both 'Terrifier 3' and 'Babygirl' tap directly onto the zeitgeist of horror and womanhood during the holidays. Fans are rushing to see these films, leaving social media abuzz with reactions. Countless film enthusiasts revel at the dark humor and clever writing displayed throughout 'Babygirl,' labeling it as one of the must-watch films of the season.
Adding more to the buzz, Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal in the horror remake 'Nosferatu' has sparked intrigue, especially with humorous tidbits spilling from promotional interviews. Notably, Hoult revealed he received 'Count Orlok’s prosthetic penis' as parting gift from director Robert Eggers, which he framed before prematurely breaking it, leading to amusing reactions all around.
The excitement around all these films underlines the vibrant and thrilling possibilities of the holiday horror genre. From intentionally crafted gore and dark humor, audiences are left yearning for more unique takes on classic themes during this festive season. It seems the combination of blood, unexpected surprises, and engaging narratives are proving to be strong contenders among moviegoers seeking alternative holiday entertainment.
With Christmas Day upon us, horror aficionados now have the ultimate holiday lineup: films offering thrills, laughter, and perhaps, just as much, introspection. The mingling of traditional holiday themes with macabre storytelling elevates the genre and provides something fresh for all types of viewers. Fittingly, as families sit around their trees exchanging gifts and fun, horror is right there to remind them, no matter how sweet the season might feel, darkness lurks beneath – and it’s worth watching!
