When one conjures up thoughts of Christmas, bloody murder and gore are not the first things that come to mind. There is nothing sweet or magical about such musings. However, winter wonderland backdrops and sugar-coated themes are no longer the only things that inspire mirth. With the advent of the festive slasher, things have changed. And who says change isn’t a good thing?

Bob Clark transformed the game with his 1974 film Black Christmas. Not only was Clark’s film a new artistic rendering for holiday features it was a predecessor in many forms. Some may not know much about Clark’s holiday slasher, as it’s not everybody’s cup of tea. But indeed, filmgoers are familiar with Clark’s other holiday favorite making the director a real pioneer in creating Christmas classics across genres. Clark would also become known for his other Christmas classic, A Christmas Story starring Peter Billingsley as the unforgettable Ralphie.

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Nevertheless, the director’s rendering of Black Christmas would set up a genre of bloody festive entertainment for years to come. And over the years, the holidays have not been without a few festive slashers, including Silent Night, Deadly Night, Santa’s Slay, Krampus, Don’t Open Till Christmas, and Saint. And given the continued development of such content, it is undeniable that this niche genre has a massive fandom. And as a highlight for these fans is the news of the release of the newest holiday hack and slash. Fans can now relish in delight that there is yet another film to pique their interest, Christmas Bloody Christmas.

In a few days, viewers can catch Santa with his brand-new bag, a hankering for murder. Unfortunately, this Santa is a bit far from the North Pole. And assuredly, he is no holly jolly old elf. And viewers shouldn’t expect to see the rotund bringer of cheer. This “neo-soaked” metal Claus slashes his way through his victims. Here is what to expect for viewers who want to see Santa in an entirely new holiday scape.

Christmas Bloody Christmas: The Plot

Christmas Bloody Christmas is the tale of a robotic Santa with an unstoppable desire to draw blood. Unfortunately, it is a young owner of a record store who finds out this Christmas is going to be a particularly hard one. And there are so many lessons to learn in one fateful night. Not all surprises are great, and holiday magic can sometimes go haywire. But most importantly, best-laid plans must often be thrown out the window.

Because in what is reminiscent of a bad nightmare, a nearby store’s Robo Santa comes alive, intending to kill everything in sight. Now it’s up to Tori to take Santa down, although it’s the last thing she wishes to do. As the synopsis states, “she’s forced into a battle for survival.”

Christmas Bloody Christmas: The Cast & Crew

     RLJE Films

The cast consists of a few recognizable names but also some fresher faces, which gives viewers something to look toward. Riley Dandy will play the titular character Toni Tooms. Abraham Benrubi, whom many may recognize from his role in Bosch as Rodney Belk or his variable voice-over projects, will play dear robotic Saint Nick. Jeff Daniel Phillips of The Munsters and Westworld will step into the shoes of Sheriff Monroe. Jeffrey Gardner fulfills the role of Monroe’s colleague, officer Smith. Other cast members include Sam Delich, Jonah Ray, and Dora Madison.

Joe Begos is the writer, producer, and director of the film. This project becomes the fifth of his full-feature works that he’s had the privilege of directing. And Christmas Bloody Christmas follows the 2019 release of his action horror film VFW. Begos is not unlike other creatives who have followed their passion to the box office. And he’s not shy about sharing those things which have ignited his dreams since his youth. In fact, the impending release of his inspired work has the creative giddy. Christmas Bloody Christmas is a dream come true for the passionate creator.

As the director told Bloody Disgusting:

It honestly reads as a horror nerd’s dream. Hopefully, it plays out as one as well.

“Since I was a young kid, I’ve dreamed of making a crazy holiday horror movie unlike any other. And that dream also extends to a no-holds-barred killer robot flick. But never did I imagine I could make them the same movie.”

Release Date

Christmas Bloody Christmas is set to debut on December 9, 2022. However, it will only be shown in select theaters. So for viewers preferring to see how a no-good Saint Nick gets down on the big screen, check local listings for showings to catch the action near you. However, for those who wish to see the flick in the comfort of their own home, there is no need to worry. The holiday horror will also premiere on Shudder simultaneously.