Jack Black’s collaboration with the Farrelly brothers in the new family comedy “Dear Santa” has been met with little fanfare, quietly released on Paramount+ with minimal marketing. This film seems caught in a limbo between a children’s movie and an adult comedy, failing to resonate with its intended audience.
Directed by Bobby Farrelly and co-written with Peter Farrelly, “Dear Santa” follows a dyslexic sixth grader named Liam, who still holds on to the magic of Christmas by sending a letter to Santa. However, in a humorous twist related to his dyslexia, Liam mistakenly addresses the letter to “Satan.” Responding to this mix-up is a whimsical, bearded Jack Black, who embodies a seemingly friendly and tormenting character that creates an odd dynamic with Liam. This contradictory tone presents a challenge for the film, leaving viewers unsure of its intended approach.
Much of the narrative draws parallels to the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series, introducing comedic elements, such as Liam’s crush on a classmate named Emma and an antagonistic teacher who gets comedic payback from “Satan.” However, critics note a lack of authenticity in the portrayal of middle school dynamics, arguing that the film does not accurately capture the experiences of 11-year-olds today.
Despite featuring notable performances, including a wasted opportunity with Keegan-Michael Key as a child psychologist, “Dear Santa” falters in delivering both humor and heart. Its blend of bizarre humor—like a random Post Malone cameo—adds to the film’s confusion rather than providing entertainment.
Ultimately, while Jack Black’s enthusiasm shines through, “Dear Santa” may not leave a lasting impression on families looking for holiday cheer, as its awkward comedic beats and implausible scenarios detract from the overall experience.
Looking forward, the film serves as a reminder of the challenges of capturing the spirit of childhood and holiday joy. With a more focused approach to character development and humor, future projects could fare better in connecting with audiences. As families continue to seek engaging content, there remains hope that filmmakers will adapt and create stories that genuinely resonate with both children and their parents.