Movies and TV

Krampus, derived from Alpine folklore, has emerged as a popular character in modern film and television, particularly within the horror genre. He is depicted as a horned, demonic creature, often with cloven hooves and a long tongue, who punishes misbehaving children during the Christmas season. Unlike Santa Claus who rewards good behavior, Krampus serves as his dark counterpart.

His cinematic portrayals vary. Some films, like the 2015 horror-comedy "Krampus," present him as a monstrous being leading a group of sinister Christmas-themed creatures to terrorize a dysfunctional family who lost their holiday spirit. In other depictions, Krampus may be more of a boogeyman figure, a legend invoked to frighten children into obedience.

While Krampus's specific powers and origins differ across adaptations, his core purpose remains consistent: to punish the wicked and remind audiences of the darker side of Christmas tradition. His appearance in film and TV reflects a growing interest in exploring the less sanitized aspects of holiday mythology, providing a chilling counterpoint to the traditional holiday cheer.