If you're bored of watching the same Christmas classics every year, mix things up by streaming one of these thrilling holiday films. With options ranging from dark comedies to slasher movies to mysteries to even some romances, there's something on this list for everyone!
1. Krampus (2015)
The holiday season is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but ancient European folklore warns of Krampus, a horned beast who punishes naughty children at Christmastime. Dysfunctional family squabbling robs young Max (Emjay Anthony) of his festive spirit, unleashing the wrath of the fearsome demon Krampus. As Krampus lays siege to the Engel home, mom (Toni Collette), pop (Adam Scott), sister (Stefania LaVie Owen), and brother must band together to save themselves from a monstrous fate.
2. Rare Exports (2010)
A young boy named Pietari and his friend Juuso think a secret mountain drilling project near their home in northern Finland has uncovered the tomb of Santa Claus. However, this is not the jolly St. Nick of legend, but rather a monstrous, evil Santa. When Pietari's father captures an old man in his wolf trap, the man may hold information on why reindeer are being slaughtered and children are disappearing.
3. Gremlins (1984)
A gadget salesman searching for a unique present for his son finds one in a store located in Chinatown. The shopkeeper is unwilling to sell him the `mogwai' but relents with the warning to never expose it to bright light, water, or feed it after midnight. All of these things happen and as a result, a gang of gremlins decide to wreak havoc on the town on Christmas Eve.
4. Black Christmas (1974)
Winter break has started, and Jess (Olivia Hussey) and Barb (Margot Kidder), sorority sisters, receive lewd phone calls from an unknown person. At first, Barb participates in the banter, but she quickly quits when the caller becomes aggressive. Claire (Lynne Griffin), Barb's friend, goes missing from the sorority house next, and soon after a local adolescent girl is murdered. The deaths lead the girls to believe that a serial killer might be behind them. Little do they know that the culprit is closer than they think.
5. The Santa Stakeout (2020)
Posing as newlyweds, two police detectives investigate recent holiday party heists and subsequently get caught up in the Christmas spirit while keeping an eye on their prime suspect.
6. Better Watch Out (2017)
Ashley is minding 12-year-old Luke at the Lerner's suburban home during the holidays when unwelcome intruders show up, and she must take quick action to protect both herself and Luke. What follows is a bloody, suspenseful night of terror that leads to an unexpected ending.
7. The Night Before (2015)
Three friends set out on the ultimate Christmas Eve adventure in New York City: Ethan (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), Isaac (Seth Rogen), and Chris (Anthony Mackie). As they navigate bars and parties in search of the perfect holiday experience, they must also confront their own anxieties and fears if they are to make it through the night unscathed.
Any one of these films is sure to put a spine-tingling spin on your holiday movie marathon this season! Whether you prefer horror, comedy, or thrillers, there's an option on this list that is sure to liven up your holiday festivities. So grab the popcorn, dim the lights and get ready for a thrilling holiday night in!
Looking for a Holiday Mystery Night Out?
Immerse yourself in a live holiday-themed murder mystery train ride in Fort Myers through 12/24. Enjoy a delicious five-course meal, themed cocktails (available for purchase), and fun for the whole family–all while trying to solve the case! Seats are filling up fast, so book yours today. A brand new show is also airing on the 28th. Don't miss out!