Matthew C. DuPée’s “A Scary Little Christmas: A History of Yuletide Horror Films, 1972-2020” is a celebratory and comprehensive guide. It is utterly essential for anyone fascinated by the peculiar, blood-soaked corner of cinema where holiday cheer meets horrific fear. This book is not a dry academic text. It is an enthusiastic sleigh-ride through five decades of Christmas-themed terror. It proves that sometimes, the best way to enjoy the holiday is with a little—or a lot—of gore.
The Definitive History of a Subversive Subgenre
What makes this book a must-read is its meticulous cataloging and passionate defense of a controversial subgenre. Yuletide horror, which gained notoriety with films like the deeply polarizing Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984), deliberately subverts the traditional images of warmth and goodwill. DuPée delves into the history of this trend. He traces its roots from early slashers like Silent Night, Bloody Night (1972) and Black Christmas (1974). He follows this lineage right up to modern offerings like Better Watch Out (2016).
The book covers a comprehensive 200+ titles. It gives each film its due with a blend of review, backstory, and analysis of its critical and fan reception. DuPée’s writing is praised for being accessible and fun. It actively avoids an overly dense academic tone. Yet, it provides thoughtful commentary and historical context. He embraces the full spectrum of the genre and gives credit to the masterpieces. He also acknowledges that sometimes, a movie is best enjoyed for its “cheese” and sheer audaciousness.
A Thematic Tour of Terror
The book’s structure is a gift in itself, organizing the cinematic offerings into thematic chapters that showcase the genre’s variety:
- Clausophobia: Psycho Santas: Examining the menacing, often axe-wielding figures who trade in presents for punishment, notably in films like Christmas Evil (1980).
- Yule Die: Christmas Slashers: The classic holiday murder-mystery format.
- Krampus, the Christmas Devil: Exploring the folkloric resurgence of the sinister European counterpart to Santa Claus.
- Stocking Snuffers: Santa’s Demented Little Helpers: A look at elves, mischievous creatures (like the Gremlins from 1984), and other terrifying toys.
Behind the Scenes and Under the Mistletoe 🎬
“A Scary Little Christmas” includes enlightening interviews with the people who brought these nightmares to life. This is one of its most valuable aspects. DuPée speaks with directors, producers, special effects artists, and actors. He offers readers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the challenges. He also shares the inspirations for working within this niche. These personal anecdotes inject a lively, personal touch into the history, often revealing the dedication and passion that went into even the most obscure productions.
An Essential Reference Guide 📚
For the hardcore genre enthusiast, “A Scary Little Christmas” is a treasure trove of information. It includes an annotated filmography and a generous selection of rare photographs. Promotional materials make it a fantastic reference. Fans will return to it season after season. It’s truly the definitive book on the subject. It celebrates the perverse joy of a cherished holiday tradition turned on its head. The book also affirms that the dark underbelly of Christmas is a compelling, ever-expanding part of film history.
Don’t forget to read the other blogs in my BASEMENT BOOK SHELF series. To add this book to your creepy library, click on the book cover below.