There was a time when the prospect of Jack Black collaborating with the Farrelly brothers for a family comedy would have drawn significant attention, but that moment has passed. Many might not even know that Bobby Farrelly’s film “Dear Santa” was quietly released on Paramount+ with minimal promotion. This lack of marketing could stem from the film’s mixed identity, as it straddles the line between a children’s movie and an adult comedy, leaving it feeling disconnected from modern audiences—particularly middle schoolers.
“Dear Santa,” co-written by Peter Farrelly and directed by Bobby Farrelly, centers on a sixth grader named Liam, portrayed by Robert Timothy Smith, who struggles with dyslexia and still believes in Santa. An unfortunate mix-up leads him to address his letter to “Satan,” eliciting a response from Jack Black, who plays a comically bearded version of the devil. The film struggles with its tone, unable to balance its darker themes with more juvenile humor, resulting in an inconsistent narrative.
The plot follows Liam as he navigates school life, dealing with a crush on a girl named Emma and interactions with his classmates, while also facing a challenging teacher. His parents, played by Brianne Howey and Hayes MacArthur, grow concerned when Liam’s antics lead them to think he truly believes he’s corresponding with Satan, prompting them to seek help from a psychologist portrayed by Keegan-Michael Key. However, this subplot comes across as manipulative rather than heartfelt, and the film suffers from a lack of authenticity in its portrayal of pre-teens.
Despite some entertaining moments, including Jack Black’s inherent charm and a brief appearance by Post Malone, “Dear Santa” fails to resonate with its target audience. The film’s inability to connect with the realities of being a child in 2024 results in an experience that is both forgettable and lacking in warmth.
Despite its shortcomings, “Dear Santa” provides an opportunity for reflection on how films can better represent the experiences of young audiences. As we approach the holiday season, it serves as a reminder for creators to consider the perspectives and realities of today’s youth to foster more engaging and relatable content.
Currently available on Paramount+, “Dear Santa” may not find a lasting place in holiday traditions but could spark conversations about the importance of authenticity in filmmaking.