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As winter takes hold, stores across North America echo with the familiar strains of Christmas carols, and Hallmark releases its annual wave of sentimental, predictable movies designed to sustain the holiday spirit until December 25th. While some revel in this magical time, viewing the world through a lens of kindness and generosity, there are others who find Christmas to be a burdensome season. They feel judged for their differences, criticized for their financial status, or simply annoyed by the overwhelming commercialism and societal expectations.
For those who identify with the latter group, traditional Christmas movies are far from appealing. However, there’s still a range of films tailored for those who’d rather sleep through December than endure another rendition of “Jingle Bells.” Here’s a glimpse of what’s available for those with a penchant for less conventional holiday fare.
Update December 13, 2023: To enhance your holiday season, this article has been refreshed with additional movie recommendations that deviate from the typical festive offerings, along with information on where each title is currently available for streaming.
Sponsered English Shortfilm Playlist
12 Best Anti-Christmas Movies to Watch If You Hate the Holidays
Black Christmas (1974)
The plot of Black Christmas is straightforward: a sorority house is haunted by a killer lurking in the attic. The movie adopts a slice-of-life approach, portraying the daily lives of the young women in the house, which intensifies the suspense as they receive disturbing phone calls from the killer. The tension peaks when Olivia Hussey finds herself alone in the house.
Why it stands out: Before creating the iconic A Christmas Story, director Bob Clark crafted this chilling film, a psychological precursor to the slasher genre. Black Christmas is a mix of vulgarity, humor, and bleakness, making it ideal for those who resent the saccharine cheer of the holiday season. Despite being remade multiple times, the original is recommended, available for streaming on Peacock.
Tangerine (2015)
Tangerine, a 2015 indie film directed by Sean Baker, offers a unique perspective on the holiday season by focusing on underpaid sex workers in Los Angeles. Unlike typical Christmas movies featuring wealthy families, Tangerine portrays a gritty reality where characters struggle to survive in a community born out of necessity. The film skillfully captures the griminess of everyday life, balancing moments of fun, occasional depression, and peculiar optimism without being overtly heavy-handed. If you’re seeking a raw and realistic portrayal that challenges the traditional festive narrative, Tangerine provides a stark and unfiltered look at the struggles people face during the holiday season. You can watch it on Showtime.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
Silent Night, Deadly Night stands out due to its unique exploration of the psychological impact of Christian ideologies and the concept that Santa can be both a giver of gifts and a dispenser of punishment. While it falls into the category of a dark and exploitative slasher film, its subtext distinguishes it from others in the genre. The movie has been remade, adding to its enduring appeal.
This film earns its spot on the list because it goes beyond the typical Christmas horror movie that merely uses the holiday as a backdrop or employs festive imagery without meaningful substance. Many Christmas horror movies are abundant, but Silent Night, Deadly Night stands out for its thematic depth and exploration of the psychological aspects of Christmas traditions. If you’re looking for a unique and thought-provoking holiday horror experience, this film is worth considering.
Bad Santa (2003)
Similar to “Tangerine,” the comedy “Bad Santa” explores the darker side of Christmas, featuring an irritable, abusive thief who prefers drowning himself in alcohol over donning another Santa suit to rob a department store. He embodies everything contrary to the holiday’s ideals—selfishness, cruelty, pettiness, and criminal behavior—yet paradoxically emerges as the film’s hero.
While one might argue that he experiences a Christmas revelation by the conclusion, it’s essential to note that this character discovers purpose through violent means, such as beating up bullying teenagers. His interpretation of the Christmas spirit is as twisted and debauched as his overall lifestyle. “Bad Santa” provides a refreshing deviation from the traditional holiday narrative, knocking Christmas off its pedestal, but it doesn’t lack a certain heart, concluding with a somewhat happy ending. Available for streaming on Paramount+.
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
Shane Black, known for his knack for subversive holiday films, ensured that his directorial debut became a distinctive Christmas classic. The story follows Harry Lockhart, a small-time thief who accidentally finds himself in Hollywood, securing a role in an action movie and becoming entangled in a real murder mystery. Alongside private eye Perry van Shrike and childhood sweetheart Harmony Lane, Harry, despite his lack of acting skills, must uncover the criminals behind the crime.
What sets it apart is its departure from traditional Christmas themes of snow and cheer, transporting the audience to sunny California. The comedic chemistry between Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer enhances the intentionally absurd plot twists crafted by director Shane Black. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang offers a neo-noir experience without the typical sentimental Christmas cheesiness. Available for rent on Apple TV.
In Bruges (2008)
After a perilous job takes an unexpectedly humorous turn, two hitmen, Ray (played by Colin Farrell) and Ken (portrayed by Brendan Gleeson), find themselves on the run and forced to lay low in the unassuming city of Bruges, Belgium. While Ray despises the surroundings, Ken discovers beauty in its simplicity. Their friendship unfolds amidst encounters with tourists, locals, and Americans, leading to life-changing experiences.
What sets “In Bruges” apart is the exceptional chemistry between Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, who deliver their most memorable performances. Ray’s explosive temperament contrasts with Ken’s gentle curiosity, creating a captivating dynamic. The film’s hypnotic dialogue and the presence of unpredictable characters, such as the eccentric twins, contribute to the surreal atmosphere. The juxtaposition of Bruges’ picturesque and illuminated cityscape with Ray’s disdain adds an intriguing layer to the story. Overall, “In Bruges” feels like a surreal dream, making it a must-watch. Available for streaming on DIRECTV.
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Violent Night (2022)
In the recent action comedy “Violent Night,” directed by Tommy Wirkola, a wealthy family’s home is targeted by a lethal team of mercenaries on Christmas Eve. The narrative takes a twist when a mysterious inebriated individual, who claims to be Santa Claus, steps up to thwart the attackers using increasingly aggressive methods. As Claus employs his unique skill set, the kidnapped family begins to question the traditional, benevolent image of Santa.
Earning its status as a contemporary holiday classic, “Violent Night” playfully pays homage to the iconic “Die Hard.” David Harbour delivers a standout performance as the gritty and unpredictable St. Nick, engaging in intense action sequences set to a festive Christmas soundtrack. The film’s departure from the typical sentimental holiday theme offers a wild and exhilarating experience, transforming Santa’s character into a force of R-rated mayhem. In contrast to nostalgic tropes, “Violent Night” presents a script filled with mature-themed chaos, making it a bold and unconventional choice for holiday viewing. Available for streaming on Prime Video.
Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
“Eyes Wide Shut” follows the nocturnal odyssey of Dr. Bill Hartford in an exploration of a clandestine underground club where erotic rituals unfold. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, this film stands as one of the most notable anti-Christmas movies. Kubrick, known for his distinctive style, transforms the holiday into a surreal dreamscape characterized by lust, danger, and decay. Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, whose on-screen marriage mirrors their real-life relationship on the rocks, contribute to the film’s portrayal of a turbulent union. The opulent production design and disconcerting score peel away the facade of their relationship, presenting a narrative more intoxicating than festive eggnog. You can rent it on Apple TV.
Gremlins (1984)
The 1984 film “Gremlins” directed by Joe Dante earns its spot as a great anti-Christmas movie due to its deceptive appearance as cute family entertainment, mirroring the way the titular creatures initially seem harmless. However, as the plot unfolds, the film transforms into a menacing horror with a dark sense of humor, paralleling the gremlins’ evolution into mischievous pranksters reveling in chaos.
What sets it apart as an anti-Christmas film is its exploration of the holiday’s hypocritical core. Using a visual metaphor, the movie shreds away the superficial elements to expose the cruel and wrong aspects underneath. Additionally, the film portrays a group of anarchists destroying decorations and causing mayhem, tapping into a relatable impulse for those who despise the holiday season. For those seeking an alternative holiday movie experience, “Gremlins” is available for streaming on Max.
Krampus (2015)
Directed by Michael Dougherty, known for the underrated holiday gem Trick ‘r Treat, Krampus makes its stance on the holidays clear right from the start. The film kicks off with slow-motion scenes of aggressive Black Friday shoppers trampling over each other in a quest for the best gifts, set to Bing Crosby’s rendition of “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” Taking a cynical perspective, Krampus suggests that the original spirit of goodwill and cheer associated with the holidays has become a thing of the past.
What makes Krampus stand out is its anti-Christmas theme, presenting Krampus as the literal opposite of Santa Claus. Despite its joyfully macabre tone, the film hasn’t yet gained the status of a modern holiday classic, and the reasons for this oversight remain a mystery. Krampus unfolds by punishing characters for their greed, employing a mix of fun and scary monsters to mete out justice with a sense of delight. It’s as if Miracle on 34th Street took a dark turn for the sadistic crowd. The movie is available for streaming on Tru TV.
Brazil (1985)
Brazil, directed by the innovative Terry Gilliam, not only rejects the Christmas spirit but challenges modernity on multiple fronts. Set in a dystopian world saturated with toxic air and dominated by a bureaucratic regime, the film portrays a reality where intrusion into homes, arbitrary kidnappings, and coerced paperwork are the norm, all concealed under a facade of normalcy.
What distinguishes Brazil is its protagonist’s profound disillusionment with this nightmarish existence. Driven to the brink, he escapes into dreams of chivalry and romance, convinced that they transcend mere imagination. Yet, harsh reality prevails, revealing a nihilistic world where the prospect of lobotomy is preferable to the horrors of waking life. Despite its grim themes, Brazil captivates with its darkly humorous satire and mind-bending visuals, making it a film that challenges and distorts conventional perceptions. Available for rental on Apple TV.
Christmas Vacation (1989)
The inclusion of “Christmas Vacation” on this list might be controversial, but it is considered one of the best anti-Christmas movies. The film portrays a narrative where Clark Griswold’s pursuit of the perfect Christmas for his family reveals that, for them, the superficial aspects of the holiday hold more significance than the true spirit of togetherness. While the movie attempts to insert a lesson about family and love towards the end, this revelation only occurs after Clark successfully persuades his boss to reinstate Christmas bonuses, suggesting that money resolves his problems and changes his perspective. In essence, “Christmas Vacation” is seen as a critique of the holiday season, exposing and satirizing the misplaced priorities associated with it. The film is available for streaming on Hulu and Max.
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