Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Krampus

film

Krampus

2015

When his dysfunctional family clashes over the holidays, young Max is disillusioned and turns his back on Christmas. Little does he know, this lack of festive spirit has unleashed the wrath of Krampus: a demonic force of ancient evil intent on punishing non-believers.

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? PG-13 horror includes repeated supernatural attacks, frightening creatures, implied killings and abductions, a child endangered and thrown into a fiery pit, grim imagery, and sustained suspense. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age15+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes5/5
  • Death of a character4/5
  • Violence4/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Positive messages3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Focus on holiday gifting and commercial stress, which is used as a narrative device.

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Characters are abducted by demonic entities, with implied fates of being taken to a fiery underworld.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Includes some creature-related injuries, but often kept just off-screen or stylized in a horror-comedy fashion.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Frequent use of moderate profanity and heated arguments between family members.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

References to Christmas and seasonal traditions, but the focus is on folklore rather than faith.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Minor mention of a teenage character having a boyfriend.

Frightening scenes5/5
Why this rating?

High tension, jump scares, and disturbing designs of toys and creatures intended to frighten.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Brief, mild innuendo typical of a PG-13 comedy.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Adults drink alcohol incidentally during the family holiday gathering; substance use is minor, not central, and no drug or youth use is indicated.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Frequent creature attacks, supernatural mayhem, and characters being abducted or dragged under snow.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist must face supernatural terror to attempt to save his family.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Inventive and imaginative designs for the horror creatures and their macabre toys.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Represents an ensemble family unit with varying temperaments, though lacking significant diversity in broader demographics.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Brief introduction to the Krampus figure from Austro-Bavarian folklore.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is contrasted with the family's initial dysfunction; the shift toward cooperation is a plot point.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes the importance of family, gratitude, and maintaining hope, even during difficult times.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are flawed, but the protagonist eventually shows growth and self-sacrifice.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Krampus would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Krampus, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to watch or buy

As an Amazon Associate, Dickens & Rumi may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating