Once a duo that would have sparked excitement, Jack Black’s collaboration with the Farrelly brothers in “Dear Santa” seems to have slipped quietly into the streaming sphere on Paramount+. Released on a Monday with minimal marketing, the film appears to have been lost in the shuffle, not generating the buzz one might expect from a project featuring such notable names.
Directed by Bobby Farrelly and co-written by Peter Farrelly, “Dear Santa” tells the story of a dyslexic sixth grader named Liam, portrayed by Robert Timothy Smith, who continues to believe in Santa Claus and writes him a letter every year. However, a comedic mishap occurs when Liam accidentally sends a letter addressed to “Satan,” which leads to an encounter with Jack Black portraying a horned version of the infamous figure. The film attempts to balance a light-hearted take on childhood and a heavier theme of dealing with grief, but it struggles to effectively blend these elements.
Criticism of the film centers around its confusion over target audience and tone. It seems to be caught between trying to entertain children while also incorporating elements better suited for adult comedy, leading to an awkward, disjointed narrative. The relationship between Liam and the character of Satan presents another area of concern, lacking the depth one might expect from a story involving selling one’s soul for wishes.
Despite its shortcomings, including an extended cameo by Post Malone that seems out of place, “Dear Santa” could have potential moments of humor. Jack Black’s infectious energy shines through, yet many scenes feel rhythmically mismatched, alienating the younger audience it’s intended for. With the film’s overall lack of genuine comedy or sweetness, it appears unlikely to resonate with viewers in this holiday season or beyond.
As “Dear Santa” finds its home on Paramount+, it serves as a reminder of the challenges in creating engaging content for family audiences. It’s hopeful that future endeavors will take the lessons learned from this experience to craft stories that truly resonate with children and their families, ensuring that comedy can be both entertaining and meaningful.
For viewers who are seeking content for family movie nights, perhaps this film could open doors to discussions about expectations and storytelling, even if it does miss the mark in execution.