Christmas-themed movies have become so common that it seems filmmakers view them as guaranteed money makers. This year, the Farrelly brothers join the trend with their latest comedy, “Dear Santa,” directed by Bobby Farrelly, which premiered on Paramount+. While it’s unlikely to be celebrated alongside their classics like “There’s Something About Mary” and “Dumb and Dumber,” it looks set to become a regular addition to holiday movie marathons, right alongside turkey and eggnog.
The film revolves around an 11-year-old boy with dyslexia who mistakenly sends a letter to Satan instead of Santa due to a mix-up with the letter placement. This clever premise showcases the potential for comedy, allowing for a whimsical exploration of the holiday season’s themes.
Jack Black stars as Satan, marking his first collaboration with the Farrelly brothers since “Shallow Hal” in 2001. His character appears in the bedroom of Liam (Robert Timothy Smith), the bespectacled boy who believed he was writing to Santa. Instead of revealing the truth right away, Satan offers Liam three wishes, hoping to trick him into giving up his soul.
The plot thickens as Liam wishes for the attention of his crush, Emma (Kai Cech), leading to an extravagant night at a Post Malone concert, which caters to the teen audience. However, the storyline soon gets complicated with subplots that involve friendship, family concerns, and misunderstandings.
Jack Black’s performance is a standout, with his comedic energy bringing life to the script. His portrayal of Satan echoes a late-period Jack Nicholson with its deep growl, making even the film’s weaker jokes more enjoyable through his animated delivery. Co-written by Peter Farrelly and Ricky Blitt, the screenplay features a blend of humor, including some amusing pop culture references and the inevitable bathroom jokes that have become a staple in family comedies.
Despite its shortcomings and a somewhat clichéd ending typical of holiday films, “Dear Santa” is likely to find a lasting home on streaming services, echoing the sentiment that even the most ordinary holiday tales can still connect with audiences. After all, if a literary giant like Charles Dickens could craft a Christmas story for a quick profit, it is only fitting that today’s filmmakers continue this tradition.
With a light-hearted premise and a fun, comedic touch from Black, “Dear Santa” offers a fresh take on the holiday movie landscape, appealing to both kids and adults. It’s a reminder that holiday films, even if not critically acclaimed, can still bring joy and laughter during the festive season.