As the snow falls and the holiday lights twinkle, it’s time to spice up your Christmas movie marathon with a collection of films that veer away from the traditional tales of joy and goodwill. Forget the sugary sweetness of classic holiday films; this list dives into the world of adult Christmas movies that pack a punch. From action-packed thrillers to dark comedies, these films are sure to leave you questioning the conventional festive narrative. Let’s unwrap the naughty list and explore 10 adult Christmas movies that redefine holiday cinema.
Die Hard
Let’s kick things off with a debate that’s been raging for years – is “Die Hard” a Christmas movie? While it may not feature elves or Santa Claus, this action-packed thriller set during a Christmas party has become a holiday staple for many. Bruce Willis’s iconic performance as John McClane and the unforgettable catchphrase “Yippee-ki-yay, motherf*****” make this a must-watch for those who like their Christmas with a side of explosions. A classic adult Christmas movie.
Violent Night
Next up is Violent Night. For those who prefer their Christmas movies on the darker side, “Violent Night” offers a chilling twist on the holiday season. This horror film follows a group of unsuspecting people who find themselves trapped in a remote cabin on Christmas Eve, facing a deadly threat. As the snow falls outside, tension rises inside, creating a perfect storm of suspense and horror. The Home Alone of adult Christmas movies.
Bad Santa
If you’re in the mood for some raunchy humor and a less-than-jolly Santa, “Bad Santa” is the perfect choice. Billy Bob Thornton stars as Willie T. Stokes, a conman who poses as a department store Santa to pull off a heist. Filled with irreverent humor and a healthy dose of holiday cynicism, this dark comedy is a refreshing departure from the typical Christmas fare. Nothing says adult Christmas movie like Bad Santa.
Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale
If you’re looking for something from outside of the US, hailing from Finland, “Rare Exports” takes a unique approach to the Santa Claus mythos. In this dark fantasy-horror film, a young boy named Pietari and his father discover the dark secret behind the real Santa Claus. The film combines folklore, horror, and a touch of black comedy to create a truly one-of-a-kind Christmas experience
Krampus
But if you’re looking for something scary,venture into the realm of holiday horror with “Krampus,” a film that brings the ancient European legend of the horned Christmas demon to life. When a dysfunctional family’s bickering during Christmas unleashes the wrath of Krampus, they must fight to survive a nightmarish Yuletide. This film is a perfect blend of horror and dark comedy, reminding us that the consequences of being naughty can be far more terrifying than a lump of coal.
The Night Before
However, comedy fans will love “The Night Before.” “The Night Before” is a Christmas comedy film that follows three lifelong friends—Ethan, Isaac, and Chris—portrayed by Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie, respectively. The trio embarks on an annual tradition of celebrating Christmas Eve together in New York City. However, as they approach adulthood, they decide that this will be their final Christmas Eve hurrah. The friends set out for a night of wild and outrageous festivities, navigating a series of humorous and unexpected events throughout the city. Along the way, they encounter eccentric characters, indulge in festive revelry, and reflect on the importance of their enduring friendship. The film blends adult-themed humor, heartwarming moments, and a dose of holiday spirit, making it a comedic and heartfelt addition to the Christmas movie genre.
The Ref
“The Ref” is a dark comedy that unfolds on Christmas Eve. The story follows Gus, a cat burglar played by Denis Leary, who inadvertently becomes entangled with a bickering and dysfunctional couple, Caroline and Lloyd Chasseur, portrayed by Judy Davis and Kevin Spacey. In an unexpected turn of events, Gus takes the couple hostage, seeking refuge after a botched heist. As tensions rise and the couple’s marital issues come to the forefront, Gus finds himself playing an unwitting mediator in their dysfunctional relationship. The film combines elements of crime, comedy, and holiday chaos, offering a humorous and irreverent take on the challenges of family dynamics during the festive season.
Gremlins
“Gremlins” is a classic 1984 dark fantasy-comedy directed by Joe Dante. The story begins when a young man named Billy receives a unique and adorable creature called a Mogwai named Gizmo as a Christmas gift from his father. However, there are three crucial rules to follow: keep it away from bright lights, especially sunlight, never get it wet, and never, ever feed it after midnight.
When these rules are accidentally broken, Gizmo multiplies, spawning mischievous and malevolent creatures known as Gremlins. Chaos ensues as the small town of Kingston Falls experiences a series of comedic and destructive events orchestrated by the mischievous Gremlins. The film balances humor, horror, and holiday charm, offering a unique blend of dark fantasy and Christmas spirit. “Gremlins” has become a beloved cult classic for its mix of horror, comedy, and inventive storytelling.
Scrooged
“The Ice Harvest” is a neo-noir crime comedy directed by Harold Ramis and released in 2005. The film is set in Wichita, Kansas, on Christmas Eve and follows Charlie Arglist, portrayed by John Cusack, a lawyer with dubious ethics.
Charlie, along with his accomplice Vic Cavanaugh (played by Billy Bob Thornton), embezzles money from a local mob boss. However, their plans quickly go awry as a snowstorm blankets the city, complicating their escape. As the night unfolds, Charlie finds himself entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and unexpected alliances. The movie combines elements of crime, dark humor, and suspense, providing a chilly and noir-infused backdrop for a holiday-themed caper. “The Ice Harvest” is known for its atmospheric setting and the interplay of crime and comedy during the Christmas season.
Conclusion
This holiday season, break away from the conventional and venture into the realm of adult Christmas movies that offer a unique perspective on the festive season. From explosive action to dark comedy and holiday horror, these films are sure to add a twist to your traditional Christmas movie lineup. So, grab some popcorn, pour yourself a festive beverage, and get ready to unwrap a cinematic stocking filled with the naughty and nice of adult holiday entertainment.
