Nato – Gremlins (1984)
Classifying Gremlins as a horror movie may irk some people, as Joe Dante’s masterful creature-feature exhibits far too much yuletide fun to elicit true horror, but evil little monsters invading a small town surely classifies as pure genre work in my book. It’s no Black Christmas, that’s for sure, but that’s also why the Steven Spielberg produced classic is a perfect introduction for younger audiences into all the wonders horror exhibits. It’s not all decapitations and terrifying stories – there’s plenty of raucous fun to be had as well!
Sure, Gremlins sports a PG rating and is headed by squeaky-clean characters like Zach Galligan’s Billy Peltzer, assuring family-friendly material, but it’s the gremlins themselves who become hilarious pranksters that younger audiences will get a hoot out of. As the gremlins multiply and mutate into their mischievous forms, food throwing and general chaos become a constant on screen, always accompanied by their iconic cackling. Children will absolutely love watching these puppets acting out some rather witty slapstick comedy, but older audiences will equally enjoy every referential minute of more mature humor as the gremlins take over a bar and get even more vicious. Chris Columbus’ script strikes a wickedly addicting blend of immature comedy and whimsical storytelling that’s easily appreciated through all generations, bringing families together as the gremlins attempt to tear others apart.
Oh, and what about Gizmo, voiced by none other than Howie Mandel?! Gizmo has since become one of the most iconic faces in horror since appearing in Gremlins, and that’s because nothing gets more adorable than a fuzzy Mogwai in a Santa hat. Wait, yes it does, a fuzzy Mogwai driving a car! Gizmo is the unlikeliest of heroes who strikes a heartwarming bond with Billy, not only teaching children the importance of obeying the rules, but also owning up to your actions. Gizmo is a legend, and he’s a perfect introduction for the youngest of horror fans.
The best Christmas gift horror parents can give their children this year is a viewing of Gremlins while everyone patiently awaits Santa’s arrival, the first creature feature any budding horror fan should experience!
