Once Upon a Time at Christmas
Performance & Direction: Once Upon a Time at Christmas Review
Last updated: February 3, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Once Upon a Time at Christmas (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Once Upon a Time at Christmas features a noteworthy lineup led by Simon Phillips . Supported by the likes of Sayla de Goede and Laurel Brady , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Once Upon a Time at Christmas
Quick Plot Summary: Once Upon a Time at Christmas is a Horror film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Once Upon a Time at Christmas
Ending Breakdown: Once Upon a Time at Christmas attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Once Upon a Time at Christmas reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Once Upon a Time at Christmas?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Once Upon a Time at Christmas
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Once Upon a Time at Christmas Online?
Streaming HubOnce Upon a Time at Christmas Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about Once Upon a Time at Christmas age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Once Upon a Time at Christmas is 97 minutes (1h 37m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.8/10, and global performance metrics, Once Upon a Time at Christmas is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2017 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Once Upon a Time at Christmas worth watching?
Once Upon a Time at Christmas is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 4.8/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Once Upon a Time at Christmas parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Once Upon a Time at Christmas identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Once Upon a Time at Christmas?
The total duration of Once Upon a Time at Christmas is 97 minutes, which is approximately 1h 37m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Once Upon a Time at Christmas
How Once Upon a Time at Christmas Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Once Upon a Time at Christmas
Every actor in this is **horrendous** with the one exception of the primary antagonist. And I guess if a horror movie should get any character right, it's that one. The Harley and Joker clone aspect is a little bit of a weird direction to go in, but I guess it's acceptable. _Final rating:★★ - Had some things that appeal to me, but a poor finished product._
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with Simon Phillips
View full filmography
Part of the Santa and Mrs Claus Christmas Massacre Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise