Michelle Trachtenberg

A Vancouver-filmed horror remake that opens in theatres Christmas Day is more unwelcome than the proverbial lump of coal for some U.S. religious groups.

Black Christmas, released by Dimension Films and aimed at teen audiences, promises "the ultimate slay ride."

Some groups think the release date should be changed. They include Liberty Counsel, a non-profit organization committed to upholding traditional family values, according to its website.

"To have a movie that emphasizes murder and mayhem at Christmas, a time of celebration and joy around the world seems to be ill-founded," said group founder Mathew Staver.

The film centres on a sorority house where girls are stalked by a mysterious killer named Billy as the holiday nears. It stars Michelle Trachtenberg.

Jennifer Giroux of the group Operation Just Say Merry Christmas said that among the things she was appalled at was the use of Silent Night in the movie’s trailer.

"It’s not enough to ignore and omit Christmas, but now it has to be offended, insulted and desecrated," she said. "Our most sacred holiday, actually a holy day, is being assaulted."

In a statement, Dimension Films defended the timing, saying, "There is a long tradition of releasing horror movies during the holiday season as counter-programing to the more regular yuletide fare."

The original was shot in Toronto and released in 1974, achieving a growing cult following through the years. It was directed by Bob Clark, who would later go on to helm the longtime Canadian box office champ Porky’s.

The first Black Christmas featured Olivia Hussey, Margot Kidder and Andrea Martin.

Martin also appears in the remake, in a different role.