“Violent Night”: A Wildly Unrefined Christmas Ride

In a season dominated by holiday cheer and wholesome traditions, Violent Night strides in like a Viking swinging a battle axe, shaking up the yuletide movie formula in a way that’s both absurd and oddly captivating. Directed by Tommy Wirkola, this darkly comedic thriller takes the beloved figure of Santa Claus and throws him headfirst into a chaotic hostage situation, blending Christmas kitsch with Die Hard-style action and Deadpool-esque humour. While the movie’s writing leaves much to be desired, its willingness to embrace its outrageous premise makes it a surprisingly fun ride for those seeking a break from Hallmark holiday…