I watched Dear Santa and I liked it. 3/5
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Dear Santa is a bizarre holiday cocktail that mixes Christmas cheer with dark fantasy, absurd comedy, and a surprising dose of heart. Directed by Bobby Farrelly and led by Jack Black’s devilishly funny performance, the film is a chaotic mashup that doesn’t always work but manages to deliver enough laughs and charm to make it worth a look for fans of its irreverent premise.
A Wildly Ambitious Concept
The film follows Liam Turner, a dyslexic sixth-grader who accidentally summons Satan instead of Santa while writing his Christmas wishlist. From there, the plot spirals into an over-the-top series of events involving magical wishes, a Post Malone concert, and a surprisingly touching subplot about family reconciliation. It’s an undeniably original premise, but the execution often feels uneven. The humor swings wildly between clever and cringeworthy, and the tone struggles to balance its comedic absurdity with the darker undercurrents of its story.
Jack Black Saves the Day (and the Movie)
Jack Black is easily the film’s highlight, bringing his trademark manic energy and impeccable comedic timing to the role of Satan. Whether he’s growling out ridiculous one-liners or wreaking havoc in Liam’s life with mischievous glee, Black is clearly having a blast—and his enthusiasm is infectious. He manages to elevate even the weaker moments of the script, making Satan oddly likable despite his morally questionable antics.
Robert Timothy Smith also deserves credit for his earnest performance as Liam, effectively capturing the character’s vulnerability and awkward charm. Jaden Carson Baker is likable as Liam’s loyal friend Gibby, and Brianne Howey and Hayes MacArthur bring surprising warmth to the roles of Liam’s struggling parents.
Hits and Misses in the Comedy Department
The humor in Dear Santa is a mixed bag. Some moments—like Satan showing up at a school dance or orchestrating a chaotic concert scene—are laugh-out-loud funny, thanks largely to Black’s comedic genius. Other jokes, however, land with a thud, relying too heavily on crude humor or tired slapstick. The script’s attempts at heartfelt moments occasionally feel forced, though a few scenes (such as the parents’ reconciliation and the twist ending involving Liam’s brother) manage to hit an emotional note.
A Festive but Flawed Production
Visually, the film is a step above your average holiday fare, with colorful set designs and some amusing visual gags (Satan’s tacky motel room is a standout). However, the pacing is inconsistent, with the second act dragging as the film juggles multiple subplots that don’t all pay off. The resolution is rushed, leaving some plot threads (like Liam’s relationship with Emma) feeling underdeveloped.
Rupert Gregson-Williams’ score provides a festive backdrop, but it’s often overshadowed by the chaotic energy of the film. The inclusion of Post Malone—both as a performer and as a plot device—is as random as it is amusing, adding to the movie’s anything-goes vibe.
Final Thoughts
Dear Santa is a messy, uneven, and frequently ridiculous holiday comedy, but it’s also strangely endearing. Jack Black’s standout performance and the film’s sheer audacity help it rise above its flaws, making it an entertaining—if not entirely successful—addition to the Christmas movie lineup.
For those willing to embrace its chaotic spirit and offbeat humor, Dear Santa offers a fun, unconventional holiday viewing experience. Just don’t expect it to become a Christmas classic anytime soon.