“If we can make it feel like a Hallmark romance in the middle of an 80s slasher film, that’s something new”: Rohan Campbell and Mike P Nelson on Silent Night, Deadly Night
Acclaimed filmmaker and director Mike P Nelson has adapted the original, controversial 1984 film of the same name, Silent Night, Deadly Night, into a modern horror genre story, reimagining the narrative with a deeper sense of human connection and undertones of both humour and romance.
Rohan Campbell steps into the role of Billy, who, as a child, witnessed the murder of both his parents by a serial killer dressed as Santa. Sent to various foster care homes throughout his childhood, he suffered horrific abuse at the hands of his carers and in retribution for the trauma of his past, he starts to execute various killing sprees wearing his own Santa suits and spurred on by an imaginary sidekick called Charlie.
After relocating to a small town and attempting a new life for himself, he secures a job in a local gift shop where he meets Pamela (Rudy Modine) and the two of them become emotionally and romantically entangled as they face their demons together. With a retro music score from Canadian composers Blitz/Berlin, this violent slasher film offers viewers a rollercoaster of twists and turns, but most of all uncovers what first caused the blood-soaked massacres and emotional outbursts.
The Upcoming had the pleasure of speaking to Nelson about why he wanted to bring this story back to screen, the cast he wanted to tell this story and why there’s room left to tell more of this macabre tale.
We spoke to Campbell about taking on this role, how he prepared for the character and the chemistry he had working with Modine. He also talked about his love for the horror genre and the brilliant script for this new remake from Nelson.
Ezelle Alblas
Silent Night, Deadly Night is released nationwide on 12th December 2025.
Watch the trailer for Silent Night, Deadly Night here:
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