Unraveling Darkness: The 7 Best Christmas Murder Mystery Movies

Embark on a chilling journey into the shadows of the holiday season as we unravel the suspenseful tapestry of Christmas murder mystery movies. In this curated list, we delve into the darker side of Yuletide cheer, exploring tales of intrigue, deception, and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

From classic whodunits to modern thrillers, each film offers a unique blend of festive spirit and spine-tingling mystery. Join us as we unwrap the secrets behind these Christmas murder mystery movies, promising you a holiday season filled with suspense, surprises, and cinematic thrills.

Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)

Overview

This cult classic takes a sinister turn on the traditional Christmas narrative, as a young man, traumatized by witnessing his parents’ murder on Christmas Eve, dons a Santa suit to embark on a murderous spree.

The juxtaposition of holiday cheer and horror in “Silent Night, Deadly Night” makes it a standout Christmas murder mystery and definitely deserves it’s place on this Christmas murder mystery movies list.

Plot Synopsis

As the body count rises, the film weaves a tale of psychological trauma and the blurred lines between good and evil during the festive season.

Interesting Fact

“Silent Night, Deadly Night” faced significant controversy upon release due to its dark portrayal of Santa Claus. The controversy, however, catapulted it into cult status.

Where Can I Watch Silent Night, Deadly Night?

“Silent Night, Deadly Night” is available for purchase, allowing you to own a digital copy, and can be acquired on various platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Video, and Sky Store.

If you prefer a more flexible viewing option, renting the film is also possible on Apple TV, Amazon Video, and Sky Store through their online rental services.

This diverse accessibility ensures that the unsettling tale of this cult classic Christmas murder mystery is easily within reach, providing viewers with the choice to either own it permanently or enjoy a one-time streaming experience.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

Overview

While not traditionally a Christmas film, this adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s bestselling novel features a gripping murder mystery set against the backdrop of the holiday season. The film follows investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they delve into a decades-old disappearance within a wealthy family.

Plot Synopsis

The intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, reveals the dark secrets lurking beneath the veneer of holiday festivities.

Interesting Fact

Director David Fincher’s meticulous attention to detail and the stellar performances of the cast contribute to the film’s critical acclaim and its inclusion in the Christmas murder mystery movies genre.

Where Can I Watch The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo?

Presently, the captivating mystery of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” is available for streaming on Netflix, including the ad-supported Netflix basic plan.

For those who prefer ownership, the film can be purchased on various platforms such as Microsoft Store, Rakuten TV, Chili, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Sky Store, Google Play Movies, and YouTube, allowing viewers to download a digital copy.

Additionally, if you’re inclined to experience the film on a temporary basis, renting “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” is an option. Chili, Microsoft Store, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Sky Store, and Rakuten TV, provide a plethora of choices for audiences to engage with this gripping Christmas murder mystery on their preferred streaming or purchase platforms.

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)

Overview

Set during the Christmas season in Los Angeles, this neo-noir comedy thriller follows a petty thief turned actor and a private detective as they get entangled in a murder investigation.

Shane Black’s witty and sharp dialogue adds a layer of humor to the suspenseful narrative.

Plot Synopsis

As the characters navigate a labyrinth of deception and crime, the film balances dark themes with humor, making it a unique entry in the Christmas murder mystery movies genre. What are your thoughts?

Interesting Fact

“Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” marked Robert Downey Jr.’s comeback and established a working relationship with director Shane Black, which later led to their collaboration on the “Iron Man” films.

Where Can I Watch Kiss Kiss Bang Bang?

“Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” is available for purchase, offering the opportunity to own a digital copy, and can be acquired on several platforms including Apple TV, Amazon Video, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube.

For those who prefer a more flexible viewing option, renting the film is also possible on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Rakuten TV through their online rental services.

This extensive accessibility ensures that the witty and suspenseful charm of “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” is easily within reach, providing viewers with the choice to either permanently own the film or enjoy a one-time streaming experience.

Murder on the Orient Express (1974)

Overview

Based on Agatha Christie’s classic novel, this film follows renowned detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder on the luxurious Orient Express during a Christmas journey. The star-studded cast and intricate plot make it a timeless Christmas murder mystery.

Plot Synopsis

Amidst the lavish holiday decorations, Poirot untangles a web of deceit and uncovers shocking truths about the passengers.

Interesting Fact

“Murder on the Orient Express” received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Ingrid Bergman’s supporting role, solidifying its place as a classic in the murder mystery movies genre.

Where Can I Watch Murder on the Orient Express?

Presently, the captivating mystery of “Murder on the Orient Express” is available for streaming on Disney Plus, providing a convenient platform for those eager to delve into this classic whodunit.

For those who wish to have a permanent digital copy, the movie is available for purchase on various platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Rakuten TV.

Alternatively, if you’re leaning towards a one-time viewing experience, the option to rent “Murder on the Orient Express” is accessible on Rakuten TV, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, and YouTube, making it effortless for viewers to choose their preferred method of enjoying this timeless murder mystery.

The Hateful Eight (2015)

Overview

Quentin Tarantino’s western mystery unfolds in a snowy Wyoming landscape on Christmas Eve. A group of strangers seeking refuge in a haberdashery becomes entangled in a tale of deception, betrayal, and murder.

Plot Synopsis

As tensions rise in the isolated setting, the characters must navigate a treacherous path to uncover the identity of the murderer among them.

Interesting Fact

“The Hateful Eight” features an ensemble cast delivering powerhouse performances, coupled with Tarantino’s signature storytelling style, making it a gripping and atmospheric Christmas murder mystery.

Where Can I Watch The Hateful Eight?

“The Hateful Eight” is available for purchase, providing the opportunity to own a digital copy, and can be acquired on various platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube.

For those seeking a more flexible viewing option, renting the film is also possible on Amazon Video, Rakuten TV, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube through their online rental services.

This diverse accessibility ensures that Quentin Tarantino’s gripping western mystery, “The Hateful Eight,” is easily within reach, offering viewers the choice to either permanently own the film or enjoy a one-time streaming experience.

Deadly Little Christmas (2009)

Overview

This independent horror film centers around a group of friends who discover an ancient book that brings a malevolent force to their Christmas celebration. The film blends the supernatural with murder mystery elements, creating a chilling holiday experience.

Plot Synopsis

As the friends succumb to the dark forces unleashed, a detective races against time to unravel the mystery and save them.

Interesting Fact

“Deadly Little Christmas” is known for its low-budget charm and inventive take on the Christmas horror subgenre, making it a hidden gem for fans of unconventional holiday films. Have you seen this Christmas murder mystery movie?

Where Can I Watch Deadly Little Christmas?

To the best of my knowledge, acquiring “Deadly Little Christmas” appears to be exclusive to purchasing it through Amazon. Regrettably, I couldn’t locate the movie on any streaming services at the moment. If you’re eager to experience this independent horror film, it seems that obtaining a copy through Amazon is the primary avenue currently available.

The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

Overview

While primarily a family-friendly adventure, there is no murder but “The Christmas Chronicles” includes a mystery element as two siblings team up with Santa Claus to save Christmas after accidentally crashing Santa’s sleigh.

What are your thoughts? Should this be allowed on this list of Christmas murder mystery movies when there is no murder involved? Let me know, I would love to hear from you.

Plot Synopsis

The film incorporates elements of mystery and suspense as the characters embark on a quest to retrieve Santa’s lost presents.

Interesting Fact

Kurt Russell’s portrayal of Santa Claus adds a unique charm to the film, and its blend of heartwarming moments and thrilling escapades makes it a delightful addition to the Christmas movie lineup.

Where Can I Watch The Christmas Chronicles?

At present, the delightful adventure of “The Christmas Chronicles” is accessible for streaming on Netflix, including the ad-supported Netflix basic plan. Whether you opt for the ad-free experience or don’t mind a few interruptions, this heartwarming holiday film offers a choice in viewing options for Netflix subscribers.

So, whether you’re enjoying the premium service or the basic plan with ads, the spirited journey of “The Christmas Chronicles” is just a click away.

Why Christmas Murder Mystery Movies?

Why should you add these Christmas murder mystery movies to your holiday watchlist? Beyond the tinsel and ornaments, they offer a fresh and thrilling perspective on the season. These films provide a break from traditional holiday fare, inviting viewers to experience the holidays in a way that challenges expectations and keeps them guessing until the final frame.

To immerse yourself in the darkness of Yuletide mysteries, you can find these films on various streaming platforms. Whether it’s revisiting a cult classic or discovering a hidden gem, these Christmas murder mystery movies promise a holiday season filled with suspense, excitement, and a touch of the macabre.

So, gather around, dim the lights, and let the holiday mysteries unfold in the comfort of your own home. Happy watching!

Did we miss any Christmas murder mystery movies off? Do you have a favourite murder mystery Christmas movie that we should add to this page? Get in touch and let us know.

The Christmas Movie Club

If you’re in the mood for a variety of Christmas movies and seeking options to watch them online for free, simply click on the image below to visit our Christmas movie page. There, you’ll discover a diverse selection of festive films that cater to different tastes and preferences, providing an array of options to enhance your holiday viewing experience.