In “Violent Night,” get ready for a holiday season like no other. This action-packed film blends the festive cheer of Christmas with a heavy dose of violence and mayhem. David Harbour shines as a cynical Santa Claus, armed with a war hammer and a thirst for justice. As he confronts a gang of mercenaries and a troubled family, he brings a unique twist to the jolly old Saint Nick we know.
A Grizzled Santa Claus
David Harbour takes on the role of Santa Claus, but this is no ordinary Kris Kringle. With a beer in hand and a rough exterior, Harbour’s Claus is far from the traditional, cheerful character. Instead, he’s a Nordic warrior turned immortal gift giver with a disdain for modern-day customs like cash presents and Amazon deliveries. His sarcastic and cynical demeanor adds a fresh and entertaining twist to the beloved Christmas figure.
Christmas Joy and Gruesome Action
As Santa finds himself caught in the middle of a home invasion, he joins forces with a determined granddaughter, Trudy, to stop the villains and bring back the spirit of Christmas to the troubled family. Harbour’s portrayal of a Santa who takes matters into his own hands, using pool balls, darts, and other unconventional weapons to fend off the invaders, is a thrilling and gruesome spectacle. Watching him unleash his fury against the bad guys is one of the film’s highlights.
A Blend of Fun and Mundanity
While “Violent Night” delivers some adrenaline-pumping moments and dark humor, it stumbles when it shifts focus to the family drama, unnecessarily dragging down the pace. The villains, portrayed by John Leguizamo and his crew, fall flat in comparison to the captivating Santa. The film’s attempt to balance action and family dynamics sometimes results in a disconnect, diluting the otherwise fun and macabre experience.
A Mixed Christmas Gift
“Violent Night” offers a unique and violent take on the Christmas tale, led by David Harbour’s captivating performance as Santa Claus. The action sequences and dark humor provide thrilling entertainment, but the film struggles with its family drama elements, leaving viewers wanting more. While not a perfect gift, it still manages to be a serviceable option for those seeking a different kind of Christmas viewing.
