🪶 Story & Synopsis
Dear Santa Movie is a heartwarming romantic drama directed by Jason Priestley that follows the story of Crystal Carruthers, played by Amy Acker, a frivolous thirty-year-old woman living off her wealthy parents’ money. When her parents threaten to cut her off unless she changes her lifestyle by Christmas, Crystal stumbles upon a Dear Santa letter written by Olivia, a seven-year-old girl wishing for a new wife for her widowed father.
Touched by Olivia’s innocent plea, Crystal embarks on a journey to find the girl and her father, hoping to become their Christmas miracle. As Crystal immerses herself in this mission, she undergoes a transformation, realizing the true meaning of love, family, and selflessness.
Set against the backdrop of the ‘Operation Santa’ Program by the United States Postal Service, the film captures the essence of Christmas magic and the power of spreading joy and kindness. Through Operation Santa, the public can adopt letters to Santa and fulfill children’s wishes, showcasing the generosity and goodwill of people during the holiday season.
Dear Santa beautifully intertwines Crystal’s personal journey of growth and self-discovery with the larger theme of spreading happiness and hope during Christmas. With stellar performances by Amy Acker, David Haydn-Jones, and Emma Duke, the film delivers a poignant and uplifting narrative that will warm the hearts of audiences worldwide.
As Crystal navigates her own challenges and embraces the spirit of giving, viewers are invited to reflect on how small acts of kindness can make a significant impact and brighten the lives of others. Dear Santa is a timeless tale of love, redemption, and the joy of making a difference, reminding us all of the true magic of the holiday season.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Amy Acker, David Haydn-Jones, Patrick Creery, Gina Holden, James Dugan, Margherita Donato, Brooklynn Proulx, James D. Hopkin, Bob Irvine
Movie Casting:
Actor | Role |
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Amy Acker | Crystal |
David Haydn-Jones | Derek |
Emma Duke | Olivia |
Gina Holden | Derek’s Girlfriend |
Brooklynn Proulx | Sharla |
Patrick Creery | Pete Kennedy |
James Dugan | Frank McCourt |
Margherita Donato | Kim |
Paulina Chmielecka | Saleswoman |
James D. Hopkin | Norman Lockhart |
Kristina Elliott | Jennifer |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Imagine a world where Santa’s mailbox isn’t just filled with toy requests but also heartfelt pleas for love and happiness. That’s the whimsical premise of “Dear Santa,” a movie that combines the magic of Christmas with the power of human connection.
In this delightful Hallmark film, we follow a young woman who stumbles upon a letter to Santa from a little girl asking for a new wife for her widowed father. Touched by the sincerity of the request, our protagonist sets out on a mission to bring joy and love to this deserving family.
The movie beautifully captures the essence of generosity and selflessness during the holiday season. It reminds us that sometimes, all it takes is one small act of kindness to transform someone’s life. As we witness the characters navigate love, loss, and newfound hope, we can’t help but be drawn into their heartwarming journey.
Acting and Characters:
- Amy Acker shines in her role as she portrays the transformation of a New York City socialite into a compassionate advocate for the homeless. Her portrayal adds depth and sincerity to the character’s evolution.
- The chemistry between the lead characters is palpable, pulling at our heartstrings as they navigate their burgeoning relationship amidst holiday cheer.
Direction and Cinematography:
- The director skillfully captures the essence of Christmas magic through enchanting visuals that transport us into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
- The use of cozy settings and snowy landscapes enhances the movie’s warm and inviting atmosphere, making us feel like we’re right there celebrating alongside the characters.
Production Design and Score:
- The production design immerses us in a world adorned with yuletide charm, from quaint Christmas markets to beautifully decorated homes that evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder.
- The score complements each scene perfectly, evoking emotions ranging from joy to melancholy as we follow the characters on their emotional journey.
Special Effects and Editing:
- While not heavy on special effects, subtle touches enhance certain magical moments in the film, adding an extra layer of charm to the storytelling.
- The editing maintains a smooth pace throughout, allowing viewers to stay engaged in the narrative without unnecessary distractions or lulls in momentum.
Binge-watching Tip: Grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up in your coziest blanket, and let yourself be whisked away by the heartwarming tale of “Dear Santa.” It’s the perfect feel-good movie marathon for those chilly winter nights!
As you watch “Dear Santa,” you can’t help but reflect on your own capacity for kindness and generosity. The film serves as a gentle reminder that even small gestures can have a significant impact on those around us. So why not take a page out of Santa’s book this holiday season and spread some love wherever you go?
In conclusion, “Dear Santa” is like receiving an unexpected gift – it warms your heart, brings a smile to your face, and leaves you with that fuzzy feeling inside. So grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones around, and let this charming Christmas tale envelop you in its magic.
Rating: 8/10
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Sweet storyline | Meandering and unfocused at times |
Heartwarming Christmas theme | Somewhat predictable plot |
Great character acting | Lacks depth in character development |
Emotional moments | Slightly slow-paced |
Shows the importance of kindness and generosity | Some characters come across as unreasonable |
Feedback
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Dear Santa - Full Movie - YouTube
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Dear Santa (TV Movie 2011) - IMDb
SPONSOREDA young woman from a privileged life falls for a soup-kitchen owner after discovering a Dear Santa letter written by his 7-year-old daughter.A young woman from a privileged life falls for a soup-kitchen owner after discovering a Dear Santa letter written by his 7-year-old daughter.A young woman from a privileged life falls for a soup-kitchen owner after discovering a Dear Santa letter written by his 7-year-old daughter.SPONSORED
Photos
SPONSOREDPaulina ‘Miel’ Chmielecka
- Saleswoman
- (as Paulina Chmielecka)
Dave El Wray
- Soup Kitchen Grizz
- (uncredited)
Kristina Elliott
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Dear Santa (2011 film) - Wikipedia
Dear Santa(2011 film)
Dear Santa Genre Romantic drama Written by Barbara Kymlicka Directed by Jason Priestley Starring - Amy Acker
- David Haydn-Jones
- Emma Duke
Theme music composer Mitch Lee Country of origin Canada Original language English Production Producers - Michael Frislev
- Chad Oakes
Cinematography Dave Vernerey Editor Bridget Durnford Running time 90 minutes Production companies - Nomadic Pictures
- ITV Studios America
Budget CAD 3,950,000 Original release Network Lifetime Release November 26, 2011 Dear Santais a 2011 Canadian romantic drama television film directed by Jason Priestley and starring Amy Acker, David Haydn-Jones, and Emma Duke. Written by Barbara Kymlicka, the film is about a young woman struggling to get serious about her life who finds a letter to Santa from a seven-year-old girl asking for a new wife for her widowed father and decides to bring happiness to their lives. The film first aired on the Lifetime television network on November 26, 2011.
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Dear Santa - IMDb
SPONSORED
Dear Santa
A young boy who, in writing his yearly note to Santa, mixes up the letters and sends it to Satan instead.A young boy who, in writing his yearly note to Santa, mixes up the letters and sends it to Satan instead.A young boy who, in writing his yearly note to Santa, mixes up the letters and sends it to Satan instead.SPONSOREDJonathan Kase Bennett
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In “Dear Santa,” director Dana Nachman beautifully captures the heartwarming essence of the holiday season through the lens of the US Postal Service’s Operation Santa program. The film showcases the magic and joy of answering children’s letters to Santa, especially those from less fortunate backgrounds.
The documentary introduces us to a diverse group of children expressing their beliefs about Santa and sharing their heartfelt wishes, ranging from simple gifts for their families to whimsical requests like a rainbow dragon in a Wonder Woman outfit. The regional differences in the children’s wish lists, such as electronics from New York kids and surfboards from California kids, add a charming touch to the narrative.
As the countdown to Christmas unfolds, volunteers, including a special program called Santa’s Special Forces, work tirelessly to ensure every letter gets adopted and every wish gets fulfilled. The film highlights the profound impact of one small act of kindness, as seen through the eyes of a volunteer who was once a recipient of such generosity himself. His story exemplifies how a single gift can bring magic not only to the recipient but also to those involved in making it happen.
Throughout the movie, themes of empathy, community, and the joy of giving take center stage. From a classroom adopting a letter to fulfill a child’s wish to volunteers paying it forward after receiving help post-Hurricane Sandy, “Dear Santa” emphasizes the power of generosity and the importance of coming together to make dreams a reality.
With its blend of tears, laughter, and chills, “Dear Santa” is a poignant reminder of the true spirit of the holiday season and the joy that comes from selflessly giving to others. The film beautifully captures the essence of kindness, inclusion, and the magic of spreading joy during the most wonderful time of the year.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-PG
Age Rating and Parental Guide:
Age Rating:
Dear Santa movie is rated PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) for some thematic elements and mild language.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that Dear Santa is a heartwarming holiday romcom that is generally suitable for all ages, but some scenes may require parental guidance:
- Sex & Nudity: The movie contains some mild sexual innuendo. The lead male character is described as “edible.” However, there are no explicit sexual scenes or nudity.
- Violence & Gore: There is no violence or gore in the movie. It focuses on heartwarming and feel-good moments.
- Profanity: Mild language is used occasionally throughout the film, but there are no strong profanities or explicit language.
- Thematic Elements: The movie revolves around themes of love, kindness, and the holiday spirit. It highlights the importance of giving and sharing during the festive season.
Overall, Dear Santa is a wholesome and uplifting movie that families can enjoy together during the holiday season.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
streaming service | extra information |
---|---|
Amazon Prime Video | Currently you are able to watch Dear Santa streaming on Amazon Prime Video. |
fuboTV | Currently you are able to watch Dear Santa streaming on fuboTV. |
Peacock | Currently you are able to watch Dear Santa streaming on Peacock. |
Hallmark Movies Now Amazon Channel | Currently you are able to watch Dear Santa streaming on Hallmark Movies Now Amazon Channel. |
Hallmark Movies Now Apple TV Channel | Currently you are able to watch Dear Santa streaming on Hallmark Movies Now Apple TV Channel. |
The Roku Channel | Currently you can watch Dear Santa for free with ads on The Roku Channel. |
VUDU Free | Currently you can watch Dear Santa for free with ads on VUDU Free. |
Tubi TV | Currently you can watch Dear Santa for free with ads on Tubi TV. |
Crackle | Currently you can watch Dear Santa for free with ads on Crackle. |
Pluto TV | Currently you can watch Dear Santa for free with ads on Pluto TV. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
A young woman from a privileged life falls for a soup-kitchen owner after discovering a Dear Santa letter written by his 7-year-old daughter.
Crystal Carruthers (Amy Acker) is a frivolous thirty-year-old woman drifting through life shopping with her wealthy parents' money.
One day, Crystal discovers a letter to Santa Claus from a seven-year-old girl, Olivia (Emma Duke), asking him to send her widowed father a new wife for Christmas.
Inspired by the young girl's hopeful letter, she decides to seek them out in the hopes of making herself their gift from Santa.
Crystal remains determined to make something of herself, despite the obstacles that stand in her way, and she begins to throw herself into her work at the soup kitchen.
At a party in Derek's house, Crystal leaves her handbag in the bathroom, where it's discovered by Jillian, who finds Olivia's letter to Santa.
When she shows Derek the letter, he confronts Crystal and calls her a liar.
In the interim, Crystal has received a $10,000 check from her parents, their final payment to support her.
She decides to use it to pay the bank to keep the soup kitchen open.
Soon after, Derek arrives at the soup kitchen prepared to close it down when he learns that someone paid the back rent.
He goes home and discovers that Olivia is missing.
Meanwhile, Crystal goes to the town Christmas tree and finds Olivia by the tree.
Just as she tells the girl that she found her letter to Santa, Derek arrives; apologizes to her, and the three embrace each other.
🤖Dear Santa Reddit Talks
General Overview
Dear Santa is an upcoming American Christmas comedy film directed by Bobby Farrelly and starring Jack Black and Keegan-Michael Key. The film follows a young boy who accidentally sends his Christmas letter to Satan instead of Santa. The film is set to be released in December 2024.
Reviews
Early reviews of the film have been mixed. Some critics have praised Black’s performance and the film’s heartwarming message, while others have criticized the film’s predictable plot and lack of originality.
Topics of Discussion
In addition to reviews, there has been a lot of discussion about the film on social media. Some of the topics that have been discussed include:
- The film’s message: Many people have praised the film’s message of hope and redemption.
- Black’s performance: Black has been praised for his performance in the film, with many critics saying that he is the best thing about the film.
- The film’s predictability: Some critics have criticized the film for being too predictable and lacking in originality.
- The film’s humor: The film’s humor has been described as being both heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny.
Overall, the film has generated a lot of buzz on social media. While some critics have criticized the film’s predictability and lack of originality, others have praised Black’s performance and the film’s heartwarming message.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/RedLetterMedia/comments/1858kik/dear_santa_ive_been_very_good_this_year_and_all_i/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/11s2ap9/jack_black_and_the_farrelly_brothers_reunite_for/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/tipofmytongue/comments/23pnst/tomt_movie_really_terrible_christmas_movie_about/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/boxoffice/comments/11s5jue/jack_black_to_star_in_paramount_comedy_dear_santa/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/boxoffice/comments/15ky9dq/paramount_has_a_significant_number_of_films_where/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dear Santa a Hallmark movie?
Yes, Dear Santa is a Hallmark movie. It captures the essence of feel-good movies and series, available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now.
What happens in Dear Santa?
Dear Santa follows the story of a young woman who discovers a letter to Santa from a seven-year-old girl asking for a new wife for her widowed father. The woman decides to bring happiness to their lives, leading to heartwarming and transformative moments.
Where was the movie Dear Santa filmed?
Dear Santa was filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, as well as in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The diverse locations contribute to the visual richness of the film.
Where can I watch the Dear Santa movie?
You can watch Dear Santa on various platforms including Apple TV, iTunes, Amazon Digital, Google Play, Hulu, Xfinity, SPECTRUM, and YouTube. The movie is easily accessible for viewers looking to enjoy this heartwarming tale.
What Christmas movie is about a soup kitchen?
Dear Santa portrays a Christmas movie storyline where a young woman from a privileged background falls for a soup-kitchen owner after discovering a Dear Santa letter written by his 7-year-old daughter. It delves into themes of love, compassion, and community.
What is the Santa movie in 2024?
The Santa movie in 2024 revolves around the original story of a man who, having lost his son, embraces the role of Santa, reunites with his love, and becomes a beacon of hope for all. It promises to be a heartwarming narrative of redemption and joy.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Noel (2004) : A heartwarming Christmas movie about a woman who crosses paths with five strangers during the holiday season.
- A Dad for Christmas (2006) : A story about a young boy’s wish to have a father for Christmas and the magical events that follow.
- A Christmas Visitor (2002) : A family is reunited and healed during the Christmas season by a mysterious visitor.
- A Cheerful Christmas (2019) : Follows the journey of a woman rediscovering the joy of Christmas with the help of a handsome stranger.
- Borrowed Hearts (1997) : A heartwarming tale of love and family dynamics during the holiday season.
- November Christmas : A touching story about a community coming together to help a young girl battling cancer experience Christmas in November.
- Holiday Spin : A heartwarming movie about love, family, and the magic of the holiday season.
- Yes Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus : An animated film based on the true story of a young girl’s letter to the editor of a newspaper about the existence of Santa Claus.