PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Next up on our list for The Blood in Snow Horror Film Festival is Once Upon A Time At Christmas. A someone who loves holiday horror films, I had high hopes for this one. Did it deliver?
Once Upon A Time At Christmas was directed by Paul Tanter and co-written written by himself along with Christopher Jolley and Simon Phillips. The cast stars Simon Phillips, Sayla de Goede, Brook Fletche, Jeff Ellenberger, Laurel Brady, and Barry Kennedy,
Official Synopsis:
In the twelve days leading up to Christmas, the residents of the snowy and isolated town of Woodridge are being murdered in a variety of gruesome ways by a psychotic Santa and Mrs Claus. While the small-town cops scramble to protect the townsfolk, the killings seem to center around one young woman who may be the final victim on Santa’s list. As the slaughter continues and the bodies pile up, it seems that nothing and no one may be able to stop the murderers before they complete their own deadly take on the twelve days of Christmas.
This was such a fun and creative horror film, way different than any other Christmas horror story that I’ve ever seen. It was bloody, deranged, mysterious, and full of Christmas cheer.
One of my favorite things about Once Upon A Time At Christmas was trying to figure out why Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause were going on a holiday rampage. What was their motive? Did they even have one? Either way, I loved their method of killing and the creativity that went behind it.
All of the characters were great. However, I had four favorites. Santa Clause, played by Simon Phillips, was one sadistic son of a bitch, yet I understood him. He’s definitely one of my new favorite evil Santas. Played by Sayla de Goede, Mrs. Claus reminded me so much of Harley Quinn… completely off her rocker, spewing a wicked laugh, and willing to do anything for her man.
I also loved the relationship between Sam Fullard (Jeff Ellenberger) and Sheriff Mitchell (Barry Kennedy). Throughout the film, they are working together to solve these horrendous crimes, all the while getting caught up in an unwanted game of cat and mouse. They never give up, despite the obstacles thrown at them, and they deliver a bit of comic relief during this epic bloodbath as well.
The ending was fun and packed full of chaos. It even left room for a possible sequel and I would totally watch it if that happened.
Final Thoughts:
Once Upon A Time At Christmas delivered on all aspects and is the perfect film to watch around this time of year. If you love holiday horror films, this one is for you!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2DE83x9_2o
