Blu-ray Review: CHRISTMAS EVIL

CHRISTMAS EVIL
a.k.a. YOU BETTER WATCH OUT

Written & Directed by  Lewis Jackson
Distributed by Vinegar Syndrome

  I have to admit I had never heard of CHRISTMAS EVIL when it was sent to me for review.  I have seen what I thought was most all of these Christmas related horror films, but somehow this one has alluded me all these years.  I love Christmas themed horror movies for some reason.  I guess the vast differences in feelings you get from horrible things happening during what is normally one of, if not, the happiest times of the year just really works for me.  My favorite Christmas themed horror film has been SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT, but after viewing Vinegar Syndrome's release of CHRISTMAS EVIL, I think I have a new favorite!   Here is the plot synopsis from the Vinegar Syndrome website:

 When he was a boy, Harry idolized Santa Claus, but one Christmas Eve, he witnessed something horrifying that forever shattered his innocent understanding of Santa. Now an adult, Harry wants to embody the pure Santa Claus he grew up loving. He works at a toy factory and keeps records of who’s been naughty and nice, but the spirit of Christmas isn’t what it used to be and he can’t take it. So, garbed in his red suit, Harry decides that the only thing he can do is to become Santa himself and make all of the naughty townspeople pay…in blood!

  This is a film I will be sure to revisit over and over.  In fact, I think I have found me a new holiday tradition!  CHRISTMAS EVIL is a very well made film on all levels.  I found the acting to be great, especially from lead actor Brandon Maggart , who gives a great performance as a man who has some obvious mental issues!  His character keeps a list of all the neighborhood kids and writes down anytime he sees any of them do anything wrong.  Some of these lists are pretty funny and include such awful things such as "picks his nose" and "improper body hygiene"!  Ha!    The film has some dark comedy intertwined into it, but the film is mainly a straight horror flick, and a fine one at that!  Great camera work, great music, great acting.....CHRISTMAS EVIL has it all!

  I also must comment on the Blu-ray transfer of this film.  The picture quality is remarkable and if it weren't for the horrible clothes and big hair, I would have never believed this film was from the 80's.  The picture clarity was remarkable.  

Vinegar Syndrome has done an excellent job releasing Lewis Jackson’s cult favorite Christmas Evil newly restored in 4k and on blu-ray for the first time!  Special Features include the following:

+ Blu-ray & DVD Combo Pack | Region Free | DTS-HD Master Audio
+ Restored in 4k from 35mm archival elements
+ Commentary track with Lewis Jackson
+ Commentary track with Lewis Jackson & Brandon Maggart
+ Commentary track with Lewis Jackson & John Waters
+ Archival video interviews with Lewis Jackson & Brandon Maggart
+ Original theatrical trailer
+ Deleted scenes & screen tests
+ Storyboards & comment cards gallery


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD/Blu-ray Combo Pack