When his dysfunctional family clashes over the holidays, young Max 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.
Practical Effects
Glorious puppetry and suits—no CGI overkill here.
Direction
Dougherty balances genuine dread with bleak holiday comedy.
Production
That snow-globe ending? Chef's kiss of twisted design.
Director
Michael Dougherty
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The Jack-in-the-Box monster required six puppeteers operating simultaneously through the floorboards.
Dougherty spent years developing this after Trick 'r Treat, wanting to give Christmas the same folkloric treatment Halloween gets. Krampus himself is played by creature actor Troy James in elaborate stilts and prosthetics.
US
