Best Alternative Christmas Movies

Christmas is coming and the geese are getting fat – here is the Snacks Not Included guide to the best alternative Christmas movies. We are going to the deeper & darker side of Christmas movies. Say goodbye to the same old predictable storylines and cheesy holiday themes, and say hello to some of the most unconventional, unexpected, and downright weird Christmas films out there. From horror to comedy to indie dramas, these movies will add a unique twist to your holiday viewing experience.

Anna and the Apocalypse

Anna and the Apocalypse is a British horror comedy film that blends elements of Zombieland and Shaun of the Dead, with a unique Christmas twist. Set in a sleepy Scottish town, the movie follows Anna, a high school student who, along with her friends, must battle zombies that have taken over their town on Christmas Eve. With a blend of music, humour, and gore, this film is a unique and entertaining take on the zombie genre.

Black Christmas

This 1974 Canadian movie was the first slasher horror movie ever made and went on to inspire movies like Halloween & Friday 13th. Set in a sorority house that is terrorised by a killer. Get the 1974 version rather than the terrible 2006 version.

Children of Men

When you really deep it you see that Alfonso Cuaron’s first English language movie is basically a retelling of the nativity tale. It has the be one of the most underrated movies of the 00’s.

The City of Lost Children

City of Lost Children is a visually stunning French sci-fi fantasy film directed by Marc Caro and Jean-Pierre Jeunet, known for their work on the critically acclaimed film Amelie. The movie follows a scientist who kidnaps children to steal their dreams in the hopes of stopping the ageing process. From the opening scene with Santa, the film establishes its surreal and darkly whimsical tone. City of Lost Children is a mesmerising and unforgettable cinematic experience that will transport you to a world of fantasy and wonder.”

The Day of the Beast (Spanish: El día de la Bestia)

The Day of the Beast is a unique horror film that combines dark humour with the occult. A Catholic priest, a Black Metal enthusiast, and an Italian occult expert unite to perform as many sins as possible to prevent the birth of the Beast. But to do so, the priest must become an unrelenting sinner. This Spanish film is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys horror movies with a twist of humour.

Dead End

Dead End is a low budget cut of horror brilliance. It’s Christmas Eve. On his way to his in-laws with his family, Frank Harrington decides to try a shortcut, for the first time in 20 years. It turns out to be the biggest mistake of his life.

Die Hard

The Christmas movie of alternative Christmas movies. I watch this every Christmas Day without fail. If you don’t think this is a Christmas movie I’ll delete you from my Christmas card list.

Eastern Promises

This violent David Cronenberg movie about a midwife who tries to track down the family of a unknown woman who dies in labour at Christmas and ends up getting embroiled with the Russian mob. It’s really Christmassy in a violent Russian mob movie sort of way.

The French Connection

OK!!! This one isn’t super Christmassy, but its set around Christmas and is one of my favourite movies of all time and will mention it whenever I can. The scene where Gene Hackman chases down a criminal in a santa costume is proof its full of Christmas cheer.

Go

In this wild ride of a movie, Go takes us through the intertwined stories of drug use, raves, strippers, gambling, shootouts, cops, chases and much more on Christmas Eve. This black comedy is a rollercoaster of laughs and thrills. You won’t be able to look away as the characters make questionable decisions that lead them down a rabbit hole of chaos and adventure.

Inside (À l’intérieur)

We’re going to take you into those murky waters. In this intense French horror film, a heavily pregnant single mother finds herself alone on Christmas Eve, only to be stalked by a crazed killer who will stop at nothing to steal her unborn baby. With tension building from the opening scenes, Inside is a brutal and terrifying thrill ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Its up for a US remake from what I hear.

L.A Confidential

While not traditionally thought of as a Christmas movie, LA Confidential actually takes place during the holiday season in 1950s Los Angeles. This neo-noir crime thriller follows three cops as they investigate a series of interconnected crimes, including corruption and murder. The film’s Christmas setting is evident throughout, with decorations and festivities serving as a backdrop for the film’s darker elements. This unexpected blend of yuletide cheer and gritty crime drama makes LA Confidential a unique and compelling Christmas film.

Long Kiss Goodnight

Schoolteacher and single mother Samantha Caine lives an average suburban life until she begins having strange memories of unexplained violence and discovers that she has physical skills that she never imagined. Producer Shane Black centres many of his movies around Christmas and this no exception.

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale

Rare Exports is a darkly comedic Christmas tale that subverts the traditional image of Santa Claus. Set against the snowy backdrop of Finland, the film takes a sinister turn when a team of researchers uncover the truth about the real Santa Claus, who is nothing like the jolly, gift-giving figure we all know. When local children start disappearing, a young boy and his father find themselves caught up in a dangerous game of cat and mouse as they attempt to capture Santa and sell him to the highest bidder. But they soon discover that Santa’s elves are fiercely loyal and will stop at nothing to free their leader. With a perfect mix of horror, action, and humour, Rare Exports is a twisted Christmas tale that will leave you feeling both disturbed and entertained.

Silent Night, Deadly Night

Get ready for a different kind of Christmas spirit with “Silent Night, Deadly Night”, a holiday slasher film from the 80s. This movie is not for the faint of heart, as Santa is not the jolly old man we all know and love. Instead, he’s a killer on a mission to punish those who are naughty. With plenty of gore and scares, this movie is sure to give you a thrill during the holiday season. And be sure to watch the original 1984 version for the full experience, as the remakes just don’t quite measure up.

There you have it, the Snacks Not Included guide to the best alternative Christmas movies to watch this holiday season. These movies are sure to add some excitement to your holiday viewing. So grab some snacks, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy a unique and unconventional Christmas movie experience. If there’s anything you think we should add let us know.

Merry Christmas