THERE’S SOMETHING IN THE BARN
Cert
15★★★ In cinemas and on digital download now
In Kiran Shah’s long career, he’s been an Ewok in Star Wars, played lots of hobbits, been a scale double for Christopher Reeves’ Superman (in the far-away flying bits), and Tilda Swinton’s sidekick in The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe.
Now, the 4ft 1in star deservedly takes centre stage as the “something” lurking in the shadows of this comedy horror’s Scandinavian barn.
But before the chills begin, we get a sprinkling of fish-out-of-water comedy as a very American family, Bill (Martin Starr), his wife Carol (Amrita Acharia) and two teenagers from his first marriage, arrive in Norway as the locals prepare to do whatever Norwegians do at Christmas.
Bill (basically Chevy Chase from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation in a different daft hat) is well-meaning, chatty, and an utter buffoon. He’s just inherited a farm from his uncle and plans to turn its ancient barn into a plush Airbnb apartment.
The only snag is the “something” spotted
by his curious son Lucas (Townes Bunner).
Turns out it’s a nisse – or a barn elf – and it’s in no mood for loud Californians hanging garish decorations.
According to local folklore, barn elves hate bright light, noise and change. If farmers are respectful, they will perform chores while the humans sleep.
Get on their tiny nerves and you can only hope you will live to regret it. So throwing a loud Yuletide party in the barn and blathering on about interior design are not smart moves. Shah’s elf goes postal. He also lets out a piercing scream which invites scores of his little mates to run amok as the film turns into Gremlins.
It’s gory but never that scary. Still, this Christmas rampage is an amusing way to kick off the festive season.