Rating: ★★½☆☆ (2.5/5 Stars)
Released 11-25-2024
Watched 11-16-2024
Reviewed 12-12-2024
Watched on Paramount +
"You lucked out big time, dumbass. I’’m way better than Santa."
When it comes to holiday movies, viewers often seek a blend of heartfelt emotion, humor, and a touch of seasonal magic. Dear Santa delivers some of that festive charm but struggles to ascend to the ranks of holiday classics. This Paramount+ exclusive features Jack Black in a central role that adds comedic flavor, but the story itself feels undercooked, leaving the movie somewhere between amusing and forgettable.
The plot revolves around a young boy named Max (portrayed by a charmingly earnest newcomer) who writes a letter to Santa with a wish that accidentally sets off a chaotic chain of events. Jack Black, playing the grizzled yet hilariously reluctant Santa Claus, shoulders much of the film's comedic weight. His unique brand of humor—quirky, a little edgy, and sometimes downright absurd—elevates several scenes, bringing much-needed energy to the otherwise predictable narrative.
Supporting performances, including a warm portrayal by Rashida Jones as Max’s overworked single mom, add a layer of relatability. The child actors, though not extraordinary, are serviceable in their roles, capturing the innocence and curiosity that one would expect from a family holiday movie. Still, no amount of charm or chemistry among the cast can fully make up for the lackluster story.
Where Dear Santa falters most is in its narrative. The script tries to juggle too many themes—family, redemption, and belief in the holiday spirit—without giving any of them the depth they deserve. The story's premise has potential but falls into a series of clichés that fail to surprise or delight. Instead of fresh twists, the film leans heavily on predictable holiday tropes, which might be fine for younger viewers but will likely leave adults wanting more.
Visually, the movie provides the requisite sparkle of a Christmas film, with cozy, snow-laden scenes and a North Pole that looks straight out of a children’s book. Yet, the glossy exterior can't hide the fact that the movie lacks the emotional core needed to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, Dear Santa is an adequate way to pass a holiday afternoon, especially if you’re already subscribed to Paramount+. Jack Black’s comedic chops make it worth a one-time watch, but don’t expect a film that will become part of your annual holiday rotation. It’s cute, sure, but calling it a holiday classic would be a stretch.
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