Krampus: Origins (2018) (DVD REVIEW)
Directed By: Joseph Mbah
STARRING: Maria Olsen, Anna Harr, Amelia Haberman
RATED: UR/REGION: 1/Widescreen/NUMBER OF DISCS: 1 (DVD-r)
AVAILABLE FROM Uncork’d Entertainment
The first World War rages on when a group of American soldiers find a mysterious artifact that can summon the ancient evil of the Krampus. After the men are killed in action, the artifact is sent to the commanding officers widow who is a teacher at a small-town orphanage. The orphans accidentally summon the Krampus and the teacher, and her pupils are forced to battle this ancient evil.
Prepare to be disappointed, as “Krampus Origins” fails to evoke any of the chilling thrills or holiday magic associated with its mythological source. This prequel to the original “Krampus” falls short in almost every aspect, leaving audiences with a hollow and uninspired experience. Let’s start with the plot, or lack thereof. “Krampus Origins” attempts to explore the origins of the menacing Krampus folklore but fails to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative. The story meanders aimlessly, leaving viewers confused and disconnected. The lack of an intriguing plot makes it hard to engage emotionally with the characters, resulting in a lack of investment in their fates. The themes and tone of “Krampus Origins” are muddy at best. It attempts to explore concepts of good vs. evil and the consequences of one’s actions, but this potential quickly dissipates due to the film’s convoluted execution. The tone switches inconsistently between horror and a failed attempt at religious undertones, leaving audiences feeling disoriented and detached from the intended message.
Ultimately, “Krampus Origins” fails to evoke any genuine emotions. Its lackluster storytelling, underdeveloped characters, and uninspired direction make it a forgettable addition to the horror genre. Rather than leaving the audience feeling terrified or enthralled, this film leaves them feeling indifferent and disinterested. In conclusion, “Krampus Origins” sadly falls short of its potential. It lacks the ingenuity, compelling narrative, and captivating performances necessary to engage the audience. As I left the theater, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment. It’s a film that failed to resonate or make any lasting impact, leaving a void where a potentially chilling holiday horror experience should have been.
