Must-Watch Holiday films: Gremlins

Few holiday-set films blend our collective love of horror, comedy, and festive charm as seamlessly as Gremlins. What begins as a cozy Christmas story about a young man receiving an unusual pet from a strange traveler, quickly unravels into gleeful chaos when the creature’s mischievous offspring wreak havoc on a small town. With Joe Dante’s direction and Steven Spielberg’s guiding hand as executive producer, Gremlins remains one of the most memorable—and delightfully odd—holiday classics.

How It Came Together

The story originated from writer Chris Columbus, whose script blended creature-feature influences with suburban American life. Spielberg saw potential in its eccentric tone and brought Joe Dante on board, whose background in horror-comedy (e.g., The Howling) made him a perfect fit.

The iconic Mogwai and Gremlins were created using advanced puppetry for the time. Dozens of puppets were designed, each with mechanical facial features, requiring multiple puppeteers to operate them in sync. Gizmo’s cute design was intentionally crafted to contrast the Gremlins’ chaotic mayhem, creating a tonal balance that defines the film.

Jerry Goldsmith’s score added another layer of personality, with a mischievous theme that instantly signals trouble the moment the Gremlins hit the screen. The film’s playful and edgy tone also led to the creation of the PG-13 rating, as its mix of family-friendly storytelling and horror elements pushed boundaries for the era.

Why It’s a Special Watch

Gremlins stands out because it refuses to fit neatly into one category. It’s a Christmas movie, a monster movie, and a satire of consumer culture—all wrapped in the glow of holiday lights. Its practical effects give it uncanny charm that's missing from many modern films. The comedic timing also keeps the darker moments feeling more fun than scary.

At its core, the movie explores responsibility and the unintended consequences of ignoring important rules—especially simple ones like "don’t feed them after midnight." But beyond the themes, Gremlins is wild ride, filled with memorable scenes, quotable lines, and a unique holiday vibe that appeals to both nostalgic adults and new viewers.