Violent Night Review

Violent Night is a film which comes directed by Tommy Wirkola who some may know as the director of Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (2013). This film stars David Harbour, John Leguizamo and Leah Brady.

This film was one that I thought might be fun to see. This isn’t your typical heartwarming Christmas movie, it’s an action comedy. Essentially about a bunch of bad guys who are trying to rob a wealthy family on Christmas Eve, when their plans are interrupted by Santa who is there that night trying to deliver some presents.

The concept of this film is a strange mix, it likely will appeal the most to audiences that love films like John Wick. If you’re in this group of people that love action movies and are looking for something a little fun this Christmas, then this might be of interest.

This isn’t necessarily on the same level as a John Wick movie, it’s much lighter. I found the action elements to be entertaining. The director didn’t make Santa out to be a martial arts or weapons specialist, to begin with, the character was just a drunk Santa. He at times just kind of winged fights and got through in a funny way. This was fun.

However, things change with the character as the film progresses. There is an odd backstory they put into the Santa character where they tell you at one point that he was once a Viking warrior. I found this to be a bit jarring because then all of a sudden he becomes quite the fighter, easily taking down enemies like they’re nothing. It’s silly really.

The actors here were okay. David Harbour who plays Santa did a fine job and he was funny when he needed to be. John Leguizamo was a decent enough villain.

Overall this is a film I’d recommend seeing in the cinema before Christmas this year because if you wait until it’s available to buy on Blu-Ray, Christmas will be gone. It’s a fun time-waster film that you might have a good time with this week. I thought it was all a bit silly but that doesn’t mean it’s bad. It’s actually very entertaining to watch. If you’re looking for an action comedy Christmas movie then this one is for you this week!