Uncut Diamonds

Keeping with the theme, the next Christmas entry on the list of cinematic gifts is “Gremlins.” A bona fide 1980s classic, it unapologetically wears its holiday tag—despite being a little bit of everything: part comedy, part horror, and wholly entertaining. That genre-blending quality is precisely what has earned it enduring cult status.

To Be or Not To Be A Christmas Film

There is, of course, an ongoing debate about what truly qualifies a film as a holiday offering, and “Gremlins” is frequently cited in that conversation. The story does not revolve around the traditional hallmarks of Christmas—there are no elves, snowmen, Santa Claus, or Nativity scenes. Yet the film is unmistakably rooted in the season. The entire narrative is set in motion by a Christmas gift, and that moment becomes the catalyst for everything that follows. It is the framework, the context, and the spark. So if Gremlins is not a traditional Christmas film, it is unquestionably a holiday one.

Breaking The Rules

This is the story of a Mogwai—or more accurately, of a young man who comes into possession of one. The creature is irresistibly cute and deceptively gentle, but its care comes with very specific rules. The Mogwai is not meant to be a casual gift, and its original owner makes that clear, refusing to sell it out of concern for the responsibility it requires and the consequences of ignoring those conditions. Still, curiosity and entitlement prevail. While the owner is distracted, the creature is purchased illegally from his grandson and taken home as a Christmas present. On the surface, it doesn’t seem disastrous, especially since the rules are technically passed along. In practice, however, they are not taken seriously—and that negligence proves catastrophic. What follows is the eruption of the creatures the film is aptly named for: the Gremlins.

The Festive Fun of Gremlins

‘Gremlins” is a thoroughly entertaining watch, clocking in at just under two hours. It is one of those films that leaves an imprint—you don’t easily forget it. The message is clear, and while the practical effects unmistakably reflect their era, they remain effective and oddly charming. This is not a film remembered for its sentimentality, but rather for its boldness. It marked a moment when something unconventional was offered during the holiday season, and the gamble paid off.

A Holiday With Teeth

At its core, “Gremlins” is a cautionary tale about responsibility and consequence. Actions matter, and some consequences are far-reaching and irreversible. There is also an unspoken warning about gift-giving itself: not every gift is meant for everyone. Wisdom matters. The film’s most poignant moment comes at the end, during a conversation between the Mogwai’s original owner and the grandfather—a moment that crystallizes the entire message:

“You do with mogwai what your society has done with all of nature’s gifts. You do not understand.”

That line lands with lasting weight.

For those looking for a holiday film with an edge—a mix of fun, chaos, and horror-comedy—”Gremlins” remains a fitting and memorable addition to the seasonal lineup.