Yuletide cheer has come early this year with the first trailer for Krampus. Tackling the spirit of Halloween in his directorial debut, Trick ‘r Treat, Michael Dougherty’s long-awaited sophomore followup will arrive early December as a fun precursor to Christmas. Those who do not know the urban legend of the anti-Santa will soon remember his name if this trailer is any indication of the joy this film will bring this holiday season.

Black Christmas, Gremlins, and Jack Frost immediately come to mind when I think of Christmas horror movies. And it has been quite some time since we’ve had another stand out as a modern entry in the niche genre. From the witty banter across the dinner table between Adam Scott and David Koechner to the mysterious dark helpers, Krampus seems like it could become the next annual Christmas horror tradition.

Michael Dougherty did a wonderful job capturing the essence of Halloween in Trick ‘r Treat and I would figure he would approach Krampus with the same love and care for this new holiday horror. After he finishes Trick ‘r Treat 2, perhaps the next holiday he’ll take on is Easter or Valentine’s Day. I’m sure with his creativity Dougherty would be able to deliver.

Extended commentary:

• I’m excited to see what kind of villainous toys Krampus will bring.
• What’s Krampus’ deal? What’s his motivation to cause terror?
• Will Santa come to the rescue of this family?

Here’s the official plot synopsis of Krampus, courtesy of Legendary Pictures:

When his dysfunctional family clashes over the holidays, young Max (Emjay Anthony) is disillusioned and turns his back on Christmas. Little does he know, this lack of festive spirit has unleashed the wrath of Krampus: a demonic force of ancient evil intent on punishing non-believers.

All hell breaks loose as beloved holiday icons take on a monstrous life of their own, laying siege to the fractured family’s home and forcing them to fight for each other if they hope to survive.

Directed by Michael Dougherty, Krampus stars Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner, Allison Tolman, Conchata Ferrell, Stefania LaVie Owen, and Emjay Anthony, The film is set to arrive in theaters this December 4.

Source: Legendary Pictures