Christmas films don’t have to be completely saccharine sweet, we’ll have you know - despite it being the most popular formula this time of year.
There are some of you out there that just ‘loathe’ the notion of a festive movie that follows the familiar cinematic tropes; it’s either a boy and girl fall in love, separate but somehow get back together for Christmas, or a family coming together and realising the importance of the season.
But what about something a little more, dare we say it, “transgressive?” “Nasty?” Dare we say it, quite anti-Christmas in its execution? Then perhaps we can be of service this year.
Be it a controversial ‘80s slasher that led to a huge moral panic upon its release, to a classic piece of nasty British horror, we’ve compiled 13 ‘alternative’ Christmas films that you can stream this year.
Be warned though - some of these are not suitable for all the family, despite former WCW World Champion Bill Goldberg starring in one of our irreverent offerings.

5. A Christmas Horror Story (Prime Video)
This anthology film features four interwoven holiday horror tales, including Krampus attacking a family and zombie elves at the North Pole. A twisted take on traditional holiday cheer. | Image Entertainment

6. Violent Night (Netflix)
n this over-the-top action flick, Santa Claus himself takes on a group of mercenaries threatening a family’s Christmas. Think Die Hard, but with Santa in the lead role - and played by 'Stranger Things' actor David Harbour. | Universal Pictures

7. Terrifier 3 (Amazon Video)
Art the Clown is back, and this time he’s wreaking havoc during the holiday season. Expect buckets of gore and a very, very disturbing scene involving Santa Claus, among other horrific set piece. | Cineverse

8. Santa's Slay (Plex)
Wrestler Bill Goldberg stars as Santa—a demonic figure on a Christmas killing spree. This horror-comedy is as ridiculous as it sounds, but it’s also wickedly entertaining. | Lionsgate