Dear Santa (2024) – Complete Review

Synopsis

Dear Santa brings a unique spin to holiday cinema, combining the whimsical charm of Christmas with devilish horror-comedy. Directed by Bobby Farrelly, the movie takes a daring leap into a chaotic blend of laughter, fright, and festive mischief. While the premise is undeniably intriguing—a boy’s innocent spelling mistake turning Santa into Satan—the execution feels uneven at times.

Jack Black Steals the Show

Jack Black, as the mischievous and devilish anti-Santa, is the highlight of the film. His comedic timing, paired with his knack for theatrical chaos, keeps the movie lively even in its duller moments. Black’s exaggerated antics are both hilarious and unsettling, creating a character that feels equally at home in a horror flick and a holiday comedy.

Robert Timothy Smith, playing the young boy whose wish triggers the chaos, delivers a heartfelt performance. His innocence and determination to fix his mistake serve as the emotional core of the movie. Keegan-Michael Key, as the exasperated family patriarch, adds a touch of comedic relatability, though his screen time feels underutilized.

A Genre-Bending Rollercoaster

The movie struggles to maintain a consistent tone, oscillating between slapstick comedy, family drama, and moments of genuine horror. While this genre-blending approach is ambitious, it occasionally leaves the audience unsure of what to feel. Some scenes lean heavily into absurd humor, while others try to evoke the tension of a supernatural thriller, creating a disjointed narrative.

The comedic moments land well, particularly during Jack Black’s interactions with the unsuspecting family. However, the horror elements feel forced, often clashing with the otherwise lighthearted tone.

Visuals and Holiday Spirit

Visually, Dear Santa offers a delightful contrast between festive holiday cheer and eerie supernatural effects. The production design cleverly juxtaposes Christmas lights and decorations with dark, menacing undertones. However, the special effects, while serviceable, occasionally veer into campy territory, detracting from the intended impact.

The film does succeed in capturing the essence of Christmas—family, forgiveness, and the magic of the season—even if it’s delivered through a bizarre and chaotic lens.