Review by Jon Donnis
"It's a Wonderful Knife" delivers a thrilling and blood-soaked spin on the classic Christmas film, presenting viewers with a unique combination of horror, comedy, and holiday cheer. Directed by Tyler MacIntyre and written by Michael Kennedy, the film manages to strike a delicate balance between gruesome kills and heartfelt moments, offering a fresh take on the beloved genre.
The plot follows Winnie Carruthers (Jane Widdop), who, a year after thwarting a psychotic killer on Christmas Eve, finds herself in an alternate reality after wishing she had never been born. In this nightmare parallel universe, Winnie discovers the dire consequences of her absence, with the killer returning to wreak havoc once again. To set things right, she teams up with the town misfit, portrayed by Justin Long, to identify the murderer and return to her own reality.
One of the film's standout features is its enthusiastic approach to holiday-themed horror-comedy. "It's a Wonderful Knife" skillfully weaves blood-spattered twists on traditional holiday movie tropes, creating a unique viewing experience that is both shocking and entertaining. Despite its horror elements, the film manages to capture the true spirit of Christmas, combining charm, blood, and a touch of angst in a way that feels surprisingly cohesive.
The cast, led by Jane Widdop as Winnie, Joel McHale as David Carruthers, and Justin Long as Henry Waters, delivers strong performances that enhance the film's overall appeal. Widdop, in particular, shines as the lead, successfully conveying the emotional weight of her character's journey through the gruesome and fantastical events.
While the film excels in delivering a captivating blend of horror and comedy, it may fall short for hardcore horror film enthusiasts seeking genuine scares. "It's a Wonderful Knife" prioritizes its holiday-themed narrative and character dynamics over relentless horror, making it more suitable for a broad audience that enjoys a mix of genres.
In summary, "It's a Wonderful Knife" is a must-watch for those who appreciate a horror film during the Christmas season. With an 8 out of 10 score, the film succeeds in offering a fresh perspective on the holiday genre, combining festive charm with blood-soaked excitement. Add this to your holiday viewing list for a unique and entertaining cinematic experience.
Out Now on Amazon at https://amzn.to/46Im8Eo
And Apple TV at https://apple.co/47JO6Ry
