JoBlo Steps in for a Violent Night as Santa Claus

Last Updated on February 8, 2023

Violent Night was one of this fan’s best moviegoing experiences from last year (read our review). The latest from filmmaker Tommy Wirkola is a gleeful, funny, brutal, and shockingly sweet modern take on a familiar formula. And it all works. The film includes David Harbour in a role tailor-made for him as a badass Santa Claus. Then there is John Leguizamo, Beverly D’Angelo, Alexis Louder, and the terrific Leah Brady. The cast collected is perfection.

Harbour’s take on kick-ass Claus is a rollicking good time. One of the best moments in the bloody action flick is when Santa disposes of several members of an Extraction Team. It’s a viciously intense scene that features one of the most excellent weapons in any movie, a candy cane. And yes, that thing is sharp with some help from old St. Nick and his teeth. It’s a wild experience to watch made all the more engaging with the Bryan Adams Christmas tune, “Christmas Time.” It’s a thrill, but it’s also pretty cool to get to be a part of the action.

JoBlo recently had the opportunity to step into Santa’s shoes – more like his jacket – and dispatch baddies. And it all took place on Soundstage 3 at Universal Studios. All thanks to the ridiculously awesome gang at 87eleven Action Design and Universal Home Video. I jumped at the chance. We were invited, along with a small group of Santa-in-training journalists, to learn some stunts, swing a sledge hammer, and have a bit of fun. Saying this was a blast is an understatement. It was getting to train with Mike Chat and the fantastic stunt performers that put me back in the holiday spirit.

Violent Night brings joy to the world, and it is currently available on Digital, Blu-ray, and DVD. And for my money, it’s a must-have. If you’ve yet to experience it, I highly recommend you bring a little Christmas cheer to your life for a watch. HO HO HO, and away we go!