1984 was a killer of a year for horror movies (pun intended) with the release of Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter, Gremlins and A Nightmare on Elm Street, but there was also the Christmas-themed slasher Silent Night, Deadly Night which is now seeing a Blu-ray release.
The controversial slasher was banned from cinemas upon its release after parents complained the movie was unethical in having Santa Claus being a killer – not actually knowing that the movie is about a psychologically disturbed man dressed as Santa and not Saint Nick himself. Legendary character actor Mickey Rooney publicly stated that the filmmakers should be ashamed of themselves. He would later star in Silent Night, Deadly Night 5: The Toy Maker.
Silent Night, Deadly Night would spawn 4 sequels including Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 – which is know around the Internet for the “Garbage Day” meme. The film was also remade in 2012 titled Silent Night.
This Blu-Ray release celebrates the 30th anniversary of Silent Night, Deadly Night and marks the first time the movie has been released on the format. No word yet on a UK release, but Arrow Films released a comprehensive DVD of the movie in 2009 which was the first time the movie was seen on these shores since it was banned by the BBFC.
After his parents are murdered, a young tormented teenager goes on a murderous rampage dressed as Santa, due to his stay at an orphanage where he was abused by the Mother Superior.
Silent Night, Deadly Night hits Blu-ray shelves on September 16th 2014.
Originally published June 24, 2014. Updated April 12, 2018.
