Silent Night, Deadly Night, one of many slasher films that were prominent throughout the 1980s, might never have achieved widespread notoriety and recognition had it not been for the outrage from protesters who heavily objected to Santa Claus, a beloved holiday figure, being tied to such a violent film. Theaters were picketed by outraged parents and even Gene Siskel remarked that the filmmakers were profiting from “blood money.” As was the case with the PMRC hearings held the same decade regarding the lyrical themes of many musical artists, the controversy only piqued public curiosity. Thanks to the advent of home video, Silent Night, Deadly Night was soon viewed by anyone who had a penchant for horror films and access to a VCR.
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