Roadside Killer A Very Special Black Christmas
Okay, so, picture this: Christmas. Twinkling lights, family cheer... and a deranged serial killer stalking sorority sisters. Yeah, we're talking about Black Christmas (1974) and the kinda-sorta-remake Roadside Killer.
It’s messed up. It’s campy. It’s the perfect antidote to saccharine holiday movies. Ready to dive in?
The OG: Black Christmas (1974)
This ain't your grandma's Christmas movie. Black Christmas practically invented the slasher flick! Think creepy phone calls, unsettling POV shots, and a killer who's way too comfortable in the attic.
Must Read
What makes it so good? The atmosphere is genuinely unsettling. You feel like you're right there in the sorority house, creeping around in the dark. And the phone calls? They're pure nightmare fuel. Seriously, how many times can you hear "Agnes, it's me Billy!" before you lose it?
Plus, it boasts a fantastic cast. Olivia Hussey (yes, that Olivia Hussey from Romeo and Juliet) stars as Jess, the strong-willed sorority girl who suspects something is very, very wrong. She's no damsel in distress. She fights back!
Fun fact: Black Christmas was filmed in Toronto, and that snowy Canadian landscape adds to the chilling vibe. Who knew Canada could be so scary?
The ending? Let's just say it's bleak. And ambiguous. It leaves you with a lingering sense of unease that's way more effective than buckets of gore. Though, let's be real, there is some gore. It's a slasher, after all! It's a cult classic for a reason. A low-budget masterpiece, and a surprisingly influential one. It set the stage for Halloween and countless other slashers.
Why is it fun? It’s a whodunit with a creepy Christmas twist! Plus, the killer's motivations are... well, they're up for debate. Is it madness? Is it childhood trauma? It's all part of the fun.
The "Spiritual Remake": Roadside Killer (2017) (AKA Black Christmas, again!)
Okay, Roadside Killer (originally released as Black Christmas - confusing, right?) takes the basic premise of the original – sorority sisters stalked during the holidays – and gives it a modern, feminist spin. It tries at least.
This version is definitely more graphic. More blood, more guts. But it also tries to tackle themes of female empowerment and toxic masculinity. It's... ambitious.
Is it as good as the original? Most people say no. It definitely lacks the atmosphere and suspense of the 1974 film. But it's still an interesting watch, especially if you're a fan of slasher flicks and enjoy a bit of social commentary with your scares.
So, what's the deal with the name? Well, it was originally called Black Christmas. Then, someone realized there was already a movie called Black Christmas. Hence, Roadside Killer. Makes sense, right? Sort of. It got retitled, but shares the name with two other Black Christmas films. The naming is very confusing.
One thing Roadside Killer does well is update the story for a modern audience. The killer's motives are tied to contemporary issues, like rape culture and online harassment. It's a bit on the nose, but it's a refreshing take on the slasher genre. It tries to be. It honestly really really tries.
It also adds some supernatural elements, which some people love and others hate. Let’s just say things get... weird.
Why is it fun? It's a slasher movie with a message! Plus, it’s always interesting to see how filmmakers try to reinvent a classic. Even if they don’t quite succeed.
The Verdict
Both Black Christmas (1974) and Roadside Killer (2017) offer a fun, if twisted, alternative to traditional Christmas fare. The original is a masterclass in suspense and atmosphere, while the remake tries (hard!) to update the story for a modern audience. Both films deliver the goods. (if by goods you like blood, screaming, and terror).
So, this holiday season, ditch the Hallmark movies and give Black Christmas a try. Just maybe lock the doors and check the attic first. You never know what (or who) might be lurking up there!
And if you are feeling brave, dive into Roadside Killer. Just remember: keep an open mind... and maybe a pillow to hide behind. Happy Holidays... and happy screaming!