The Children stunningly plays to every parent’s worst nightmare, as an unseen force invades the security of their home, turning family members against one another as their kids become killers.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and snotty-nosed kids are full of turkey and chocolate, their hyperactivity mixed with tiredness and tantrums. Sound familiar? This 2008 festive horror is far more than just another Christmas in the trenches as director Tom Shankland takes Invasion of the Body Snatchers and adds a flurry of The Village of the Damned.
Elaine (Eva Birthistle), Jonah (Stephen Campbell Moore), and their kids arrive at a snow-covered country house. The reason for their trip is a joyous New Year celebration with their close family: Elaine’s sister Chloe (Rachel Shelley), brother-in-law Robbie (Jeremy Sheffield), and their kids.
Awaiting them is a freshly prepared meal, accompanied by plenty of wine and whiskey, as the festivities begin. However, it’s not long before Elaine and Jonah’s youngest child suffers a vomiting episode, his behaviour changing from a little cherub to an erratic and reclusive munchkin. But as this mysterious fever spreads to the other children, the festivities become ominous and deadly.
The Children stunningly plays to every parent’s worst nightmare, as an unseen force invades the security of their home, turning family members against one another as their kids become killers. It may not chart new ground, but it does offer genuinely creepy, assured horror as the festive celebrations become a nightmare with no escape.
Follow Us