Review of Don't Open Till Christmas (1984) by Jason D — 13 Apr 2009

Don't Open Till Christmas is the U.K.'s answer to Silent Night, Deadly Night (though both were made the same year) about a sadistic serial killer who goes around London killing off everyone dressed as Santa Claus (as well as random folks towards the end of the film).

It's up to two Scotland Yard detectives (one of whom may be the killer) and a couple who have just lost a relative to the slayings (one of them may be the killer as well). While the story and plot is pretty wooden and dumb at times, we are treated to a high body count.

The killings aren't anything special, but most of them are carried out in a surprisingly gory and violent way. Kudos to the filmmakers for definitely keeping my interest in that department, not to mention the brief model shoot scene where a model show off her pretty hot body and titties.

Aside from several small and semi-established British actors and actresses, cult figure Caroline Munro (Maniac, The Abominable Dr. Phibes) makes a bizarre cameo as herself singing at some concert. Kinda odd.

Going back to the body count again, another plus is the list of victims. All I'll say is no one is safe, which made for a pleasant (and fairly bleak) ending, just like I like 'em! Not bad, heavily dated, but I was amused.