The Santa Clause - A Movie Review

I just heard something on the roof! Do you think it could be Santa?

The Santa Clause was unwrapped into theaters in 1994. One night, Scott Calvin and his son hear a noise on the roof. Accidentally scaring the real Santa off the roof, now Scott finds himself in the magical position of being Santa Claus. How will this new identity change his life?

I cannot remember the first time I saw The Santa Clause, but if I could, I would like to go back and watch my reaction to when Santa plummets off the roof. The Santa Clause is a funny, endearing, and a strong film that holds an important meaning about Christmas and embracing your inner child.

Without Tim Allen’s incredible comedic timing, The Santa Clause would not be what it is without him. Portraying a man who tends to be selfish, and yet trying to do the right thing, Allen succeeds in strong character growth. He has the best reactions especially when he begins to change into Santa Claus in the latter half of the movie.

Eric Lloyd was impressive as the young Charlie. Lloyd was a great actor responding to the drama with a mix of child curiosity, innocence, and maturity. Charlie is a great character to look up to. Lloyd did a nice job capturing the emotion and finding his inner kid again.

The relationship between Scott and Charlie is the core of The Santa Clause. Their scenes together are heartwarming as they bond and get to know each other again. I always find myself smiling every time I watch this movie when they’re talking to each other. Allen and Lloyd had a genuine father and son bond that carried out in their scenes together.

Wendy Crewson and Judge Reinhold’s roles are a mix of comedy and doing what is best for Charlie. They have lost their Christmas spirit due to not getting what they wanted as kids. Reinhold was great as the bug-eyed child-psychologist who Scott liked to take a jab at every now and then.

One aspect of this film that has grown on me over time is the subplot about divorce. The Santa Clause trilogy a great example for younger audiences with divorced parents because although everything may not be the same, together you can figure out how to move forward.

Other talents include David Krummholtz, Larry Brandenberg, Mary Gross, Judith Scott, a memorable scene with Paige Tamada, and an appearance by the late Peter Boyle. The entire kid ensemble of elves did a nice job working around Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. Keep your eyes open because the elves are hidden in some of the crowd scenes in the movie.

John Pasquin’s captured beautiful detail for The Santa Clause. The entire scene at the North Pole is eye-catching filled with bright colors. The special effects were quite impressive for the time. My favorite special effects scene is the moment where Scott’s white mustache instantly grows back on his face after shaving.

One detail that has always confused me was how the adults don’t believe in Santa. Seeing how Santa does exist in this universe, how do they think all the presents appear on Christmas morning? That part could have been explained better. And unless it’s Scott still getting used to his position as Santa, he does his root when everyone in the town is awake!

Everything about The Santa Clause is beautiful and I believe that this film captures the spiritual essence to never let go of your inner child. The Santa Clause is a comedic and heartwarming Christmas classic.