The Farrelly brothers, widely recognized for their work in films such as 'There’s Something About Mary' and 'Dumb and Dumber', ventured in Christmas-themed film terrain with their latest release, 'Dear Santa'. Released on Paramount+, the film centers on an 11-year-old dyslexic boy, Liam, who mistakenly writes a letter to Satan instead of Santa. Jack Black, in his inaugural collaboration with the Farrellys since 2001’s 'Shallow Hall', portrays Satan, who, bearing the appearance of horns and a burgundy leather-and-fur outfit, grants Liam three wishes while having an ulterior motive of stealing the boy’s soul.
Jack Black's comedic portrayal of Satan, delivering growly barbs, is considered a major highlight of the film. Special appearances by stars such as Keegan-Michael Key and Post Malone add to the film's appeal for a younger demographic. Despite involving a string of complex subplots and inevitable moments of bathroom humor, the film has decent jokes well-placed into the screenplay, co-written by Peter Farrelly and Ricky Blitt.
'Dear Santa', while being categorized as 'forgettable holiday fare' due to its emotional ending, is anticipated to join the ranks of quintessential annual holiday movies available for streaming. The film likely aims to cash in on the perennial popularity of the Christmas theme as successfully executed by legendary authors like Charles Dickens.
