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Santa Claus

Play trailer 2:09 Poster for Santa Claus PG 1985 1h 47m Kids & Family Holiday Fantasy Play Trailer Watchlist
Watchlist Tomatometer Popcornmeter
22% Tomatometer 23 Reviews 68% Popcornmeter 10,000+ Ratings
In ancient times, a man named Claus (David Huddleston), who delivers toys in his small village, fulfills his destiny to become Santa Claus after meeting an expert toy-making elf, Patch (Dudley Moore), in the North Pole. In the present day, Santa Claus has become overwhelmed by his workload, and the disgruntled Patch flees the workshop to New York City. There, Patch unknowingly threatens the fate of Christmas by taking a job at a failing toy company run by a scheming businessman (John Lithgow).
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Santa Claus

Critics Reviews

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Kevin Maher The Times (UK) 11/28/2023
4/5
... The core of this spectacular 1980s fantasy from the producers Alexander and Ilya Salkind is a reimagining of their most famous franchise: Superman. Go to Full Review
Peter Bradshaw Guardian 11/25/2023
3/5
This is the filmic equivalent of the uneaten toffee left at the bottom of the Quality Street tin. Go to Full Review
Dolores Barclay Associated Press 10/22/2018
A holiday honey of a film for the entire family. Go to Full Review
Eddie Harrison film-authority.com 11/30/2023
1/5
…a traditional, seasonal hate-watch for ironists and bad-movie buffs the world over… Go to Full Review
Matt Brunson Film Frenzy 12/29/2018
1.5/4
The sets frequently look chintzy and cheap, with Santa's workshop bringing to mind a prison sweat shop as much as a toy factory. Go to Full Review
Brian Costello Common Sense Media 10/08/2013
2/5
Dated '80s holiday movie has smoking, product placement. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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TheMovieSearch R @TheMovieSearch Nov 30 The 1985 version of Santa Claus offers a refreshingly original take on the classic holiday tale. Unlike other adaptations, this film explores how Santa and Mrs. Claus become who they are, highlighting their relationship with the elves and the broader magical world. It’s a clever and imaginative approach that sets it apart from more conventional renditions, and it’s surprising that this version hasn’t been revisited or remade in recent decades. The screenplay is thoughtfully constructed, providing a cohesive story while effectively introducing the cast and developing each character. The interactions between the new Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves are handled with care, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative that maintains both charm and clarity throughout. The director does an excellent job of bringing the story to life, balancing whimsical fantasy with a structured plot that draws viewers into this unique vision of the North Pole. Compared to other versions—such as the comedic Tim Allen adaptation—this film presents a more heartfelt and imaginative approach to Santa’s origins, giving the story depth and personality. Visually, the film is a delight. The sets and costumes are colorful and inventive, immersing audiences in a North Pole that feels magical and lived-in. The special effects, while reflective of the 1980s, carry a charm that adds to the film’s nostalgic appeal rather than detracting from it. The elves are lively and memorable, contributing to the film’s playful energy without ever feeling one-dimensional. What truly stands out is the film’s heart. At its core, Santa Claus is about connection, generosity, and belief—themes that resonate regardless of age. The story isn’t just about the logistics of gift-giving; it’s about the bonds that make Santa’s world meaningful. These elements give the film emotional weight that elevates it above a simple holiday spectacle, making it both entertaining and enduring. Overall, the 1985 Santa Claus is a clever, well-crafted holiday film that still holds up today. Its originality, strong screenplay, thoughtful direction, and genuine heart make it a standout in the pantheon of Christmas movies. For anyone looking to experience a different, yet enduringly charming, take on Santa Claus, this version is highly recommended. See more Melissa T Nov 9 I watched this movie as a kid and it still gets me excited for Christmas. The lolly pops look so delicious to eat and Santa is so warm. This movie makes me feel good. See more Dec 27 I found the movie generally entertaining, just a slight bit confusing though. The timeline felt like it was everywhere, at the beginning you’d think the film was taking place in the 1800’s. Then, seemingly without explanation we are thrust right into the 80’s. I don’t know how to feel about that, but wasn’t that big of a deal to be fair. I love the first 2 Superman movies, and the overall plot structure is here. If you strip it down to its core ideas you’ll see how they are similar. I also found out that Santa is played by the big Lebowski himself, Dudley Moore. I knew I recognized his face from somewhere, it’s just that the beard was in the way. Overall I do think this movie was a bit janky in places, but for a holiday movie it does Santa Claus justice. 3.5/5 stars. See more Keaton K Dec 26 So much work put into it and it pays off See more Stephen R Dec 25 This is such an underrated movie. The critics are bland and wrong like usual. Such a great movie and for the date great special effects. Wonderful story and better than most of the “critics” liked movies. See more Aidan K Dec 20 one of the very best Christmas movies ever made. stunning set, brilliant effects . by far a must see Christmas movie See more Read all reviews
Santa Claus

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Movie Info

Synopsis In ancient times, a man named Claus (David Huddleston), who delivers toys in his small village, fulfills his destiny to become Santa Claus after meeting an expert toy-making elf, Patch (Dudley Moore), in the North Pole. In the present day, Santa Claus has become overwhelmed by his workload, and the disgruntled Patch flees the workshop to New York City. There, Patch unknowingly threatens the fate of Christmas by taking a job at a failing toy company run by a scheming businessman (John Lithgow).
Director
Jeannot Szwarc
Producer
Ilya Salkind, Pierre Spengler
Screenwriter
David Newman
Production Co
TriStar Pictures
Rating
PG
Genre
Kids & Family, Holiday, Fantasy
Original Language
English
Release Date (Streaming)
May 23, 2016
Box Office (Gross USA)
$23.6M
Runtime
1h 47m
Sound Mix
Surround
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