Once Upon a Time at Christmas

Once Upon a Time at Christmas is a 2017 horror thriller, directed by Paul Tanter. The movie stars Simon Phillips, Justin Gordon, and Yana Gold. The film is set in the festive season, but don't let its Christmas charm fool you; this is a Christmas story with a dark, thrilling twist.

The narrative unfolds in the small, tranquil town of Woodbridge, New York. Every year, the town's residents look forward to the holiday season with a sense of anticipation, cheerfulness, and community spirit. However, this year is markedly different. As December 2017 rolls around, the town finds itself caught in a blood-curling wave of terror, with a series of brutal, ruthless murders shocking the Woodbridge community.

Simon Phillips, known for his roles in films like "Age of the Living Dead" and "The Last Scout," delivers a riveting performance as Santa Claus. However, his portrayal is far removed from the conventional, jovial image of Santa. Instead, Phillips’ Santa is a sadistic killer, spreading fear instead of joy, terror in place of gifts.

He is accompanied by Mrs. Claus, played with striking intensity by Yana Gold. Together, they form a sinister duo, who rather than spreading cheer, embark on a chilling killing spree. They keep the local law enforcement on their toes with their unpredictable and terrifyingly calculated assault, killing a resident each day.

The mystery deepens as the local police force, represented by Sheriff Mitchell (Justin Gordon) and Deputy Jordan (Laurel Thomas), endeavours to bring an end to this horrifying mayhem. As every day of December brings a new victim, they must work against the clock to solve the riddle and apprehend the ice-cold killers.

Simon Phillips, apart from delivering an engaging performance, also works as a writer on Once Upon a Time at Christmas. He weaves a taut narrative that successfully intertwines classic horror with the holiday season. The unsettling juxtaposition of the joyous Christmas season with brutal violence heightens the viewer's engagement while maintaining a consistent sense of dread.

However, amidst the tension and terror, the film doesn't completely lose itself in horror. Elements of mystery and suspense are scattered throughout the narrative as the police race against time to solve the puzzle before more lives are lost. Director Paul Tanter does an excellent job of maintaining a balance between the different genres, ensuring the movie doesn't skid into being just a stereotypical slasher film.

The performances, combined with the director's deft narrative treatment, contribute significantly to creating an engrossing ambiance. Simon Phillips, in particular, stands out with his chilling portrayal of the unhinged Santa Claus. He truly embodies the terrifying nature of his character, creating a sense of constant unease. Yana Gold also delivers a strong performance, perfectly complimenting her co-star. Justin Gordon's respectable representation of the law adds another layer of tension and seriousness to the film.

Once Upon a Time at Christmas incorporates a distinct visual style that adds to the overall eerie atmosphere. The juxtaposition of festive Christmas lights with grim, blood-soaked scenes creates an anticipatory tension in every frame. This visually unsettling contrast, combined with a haunting musical score, serves to keep the viewers on the edge of their seat.

In essence, Once Upon a Time at Christmas subverts the traditionally happy and family-oriented holiday season and presents a unique, thrilling horror movie. Through its blend of fast-paced storytelling, striking performances, and suspenseful elements - it's a distinctive take on the holiday horror subgenre. While not for the faint-hearted, this film is a must-watch for those seeking an unconventional Christmas flick or those with a penchant for nail-biting thrillers. The film reminds us, in its own twisted way, that not everything wrapped in Christmas lights and tinsel is filled with joy and goodwill.