Ranking The Best And Worst Movie Santas
Jingle bells are in the air as Christmas movies play all December long. Sure, finding love under the mistletoe is great, but so is watching Santa’s antics as he prepares for Christmas time. We’ve seen so many movie Santa’s ranging from dark to hearfelt takes. Are these movie Santas on your naughty or nice list? Pop Culture Planet contributor Paola Cardenas ranks the best and worst movie Santas.
17. Dashing Through The Snow
Dashing Through The Snow follows Eddie Garrick (Ludacris), a social worker who hates Christmas. While spending some quality time with his holiday loving daughter Charlotte (Madison Skye Validum), he goes next door to feed the neighbor's cat... and spots Santa (Lil Rel Howery) stuck in the chimney.
Howery’s portrayal is entertaining at times when he keeps Charlotte’s imagination alive and adds to her curiosity with his own stories from The North Pole. However, he adds so many confusing rules that it creates an erratic narrative. His jokes and quirks feel over the top in a way that only children would enjoy. Commend the effort in portraying a Black Santa, but the script and silliness is awkward and overshadows that.
Join their mission to take down some bad guys with Dashing Through The Snow on Disney+.
16. A Christmas Story
Mall Santas are always a huge hit for the kids, especially when they’re kind. That’s not the case for this mall Santa when Ralphie arrives in A Christmas Story.
He’s kind of brutal to Ralphie when he pushes him down the slide with his foot. He’s also concerned with just doing business and doesn’t spread any of that joyous cheer. He has a small role, but doesn’t advance the story much.
15. Fred Claus
Following the story of Vince Vaughn as Fred Claus and his highly successful brother Nicholas Claus, the movie is lack-luster among critics. Paul Giamatti portrays an interesting kind of Santa who has sleep apnea, is scraggly looking, and kind of sad.
The stress of being Santa Claus gets to him in all aspects, especially his physical characteristics. It does add a sort of human touch to the character, but it lacks the joy, the whimsical, and the magic of Christmas.
14. Bad Santa
In Bad Santa, Santa Claus is played by Billy Bob Thornton — and it's important to note that this portrayal is deliberately unconventional. Instead of the traditional jolly figure, he's a foul-mouthed, cynical, and generally inappropriate character who uses his position as a mall Santa for less-than-savory activities.
It’s an edgy portrayal and completely subverts the holiday movie formula by offering a dark comedic take for those who enjoy some more chaotic characters.
Bad Santa is on PlutoTv and Paramount+.
13. The Nightmare Before Christmas
In The Nightmare Before Christmas, Jack Skellington is having an identity crisis and explores the portal to Christmas. He becomes so fascinated with something new, bright, and cheerful that he wants to become Santa! Voiced by Edward Ivory, Santa Claus, also known as Sandy Claws, is portrayed in a unique and whimsical way.
This version of Santa is distinctive for the animated and fantastical qualities he possesses. He’s a bit cranky as he’s been kidnapped by Lock, Shock, and Barrel, and thrown into Oogie Boogie’s lair. He scolds Jack about trying to take over a holiday that isn’t his, yet reassures him that Christmas can still be saved. He also notes that Sally is the “only one who makes any sense around this insane asylum.”
Enjoy the spooky and jolly worlds of The Nightmare Before Christmas on Disney+.
12. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Words cannot express how much of a classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is as a stop-motion film. But one thing about Santa is that he’s quick to judge Rudolph for his glowing nose despite being a great reindeer. It’s only when Rudolph saves the missing reindeers before Christmas Eve that Santa has a change of heart.
From there, he starts to appreciate the unique qualities of each individual and finds a place for all the misfit toys. This turnaround moment embodies the typical spirit of Christmas we all grew up on. Santa is meant to be a positive and charming character for all to enjoy.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer is on Prime Video.
11. Rise Of The Guardians
Ever wonder what Santa would be like if he was Russian? Well, that’s what you get in Rise Of The Guardians. He’s grumpy, he doesn’t understand sarcasm, he’s heroic, and voiced by Alec Baldwin.
His complexities actually offer a fresh insight into the world of these guardians dedicated to protecting children. He does come off rash in some instances like accusing Jack when Baby Tooth goes missing. But, overall, he’s just a tattooed warrior with lots of kindness to give.
Unlock the immortal guardians in Rise Of The Guardians on Paramount+.
10. The Naughty Nine
Like the title explains, Andy (Winslow Fegley) realizes he’s on the naughty list after not receiving a gift from Santa. He rounds up other naughty kids to get the presents they desperately want. After getting caught in the heist, Andy is brought to confess to Santa (Danny Glover).
Glover’s Santa is intimidating, but rightfully so, as the message of the film is that you can choose to be the person you want to be everyday. As long as you correct the mistakes, you can be a good person. We don’t see much of Santa until the end of the film during this earnest speech and recruiting The Naughty Nine for a future mission. However, these short moments drive home a family friendly message.
Meet The Naughty Nine on Disney+.
9. The Polar Express
All aboard! Hero Boy is a skeptic when it comes to Santa’s existence, but agrees to go on The Polar Express train to see if Santa is actually real. Arriving at the North Pole, Hero Boy is picked out by Santa to receive the first gift of Christmas, a silver bell.
Their moment solidifies Hero Boy into a believer. I mean, if he has the power to do that, he has to be a great movie Santa! He’s kind, generous, and gives you all the cozy feels about Santa. Tom Hanks brings a captivating performance and a certain charm to the screen as Santa. Though the animation is not everyone’s favorite, I always remember loving this film and watching it during movie days at school.
Grab some hot chocolate to join Hero Boy as he hops on The Polar Express to meet Santa on Hulu and Max.
8. Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town
In a similar fashion, Santa Claus Is Comin To Town is lighthearted and endearing stop-motion film that follows a postman telling Santa’s story to the kids who send countless letters.
The special not only entertains with its delightful animation and catchy songs, but also reinforces the timeless values of kindness, generosity, and the joy of giving — qualities that have become synonymous with the spirit of Santa Claus. Overall, he is a symbol of hope, perseverance, positivity, and the magic of the season, making him a beloved and enduring character in the realm of holiday storytelling.
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town is on Prime Video.
7. Violent Night
When a rich family is taken hostage, it’s up to David Harbour as a jaded Santa Claus to save the day in Violent Night. He isn’t conventional by any means as he kills everyone on his extensive naughty list.
Trudy (Leah Brady) reaches his soft spot as she’s on his nice list and he’s determined to keep her safe, so armed with a hammer and his strength he’s ready to beat down the bad guys. It’s an action-packed film with some heartfelt moments in between to balance the naughty and nice side of Santa.
Fight off the criminals with Violent Night on Prime Video.
6. Klaus
In the animated film Klaus, Santa Claus is portrayed in a unique and heartwarming way. In this story, Santa begins as a reclusive toymaker named Klaus voiced by J.K. Simmons. The film provides a new take on the origin of Santa Claus and the tradition of gift-giving.
This character makes a notable transformation from a solitary figure to the embodiment of the joy of giving. The film explores themes of kindness, friendship, and the power of positive actions, making this Santa memorable. The animation and storytelling in Klaus contribute to a fresh and delightful portrayal of Santa, offering a new perspective on the beloved holiday figure.
Watch Klaus on Netflix.
5. The Christmas Chronicles
Kurt Russell as Santa in The Christmas Chronicles brings a modern and charismatic take on the character. He’s more energetic and adventurous which breaks away from the typical wise and grandfatherly depiction.
Russell’s humorous spirit presents Santa as a dynamic and engaging figure who goes on an exciting adventure with the main characters. He also brings in some rock ‘n’ roll vibes with a jailhouse performance, channeling some of that Elvis spirit. It’s a fresh and entertaining perspective that will appeal to a broad audience looking for an unconventional Santa.
The Christmas Chronicles is available on Netflix.
4. Elf
Although he’s not on screen for long in Elf, Ed Asner’s portrayal of Santa Claus is one that everyone remembers. I mean Buddy The Elf (Will Ferrell) gets as excited to see Santa as the little children do.
The interactions between Buddy and Santa emphasize the innocence and joy associated with Christmas. Asner captures the quintessential spirit of Santa perfectly and even his limited scenes contribute to the heartwarming and comedic elements of the film.
With that being said, scream “SANTAAAA!” with Elf on Hulu and Max.
3. The Santa Clause
When you think of Santa, you probably think of Tim Allen’s character in The Santa Clause. He brings a unique blend of humor and heart to the character, making Santa relatable to children and adults. His comedic timing adds a lighthearted touch to the film, creating an entertaining and engaging Santa Claus.
Furthermore, Allen's transformation into Santa throughout the movie — from a skeptical father to the embodiment of the holiday spirit — is well-executed. His journey adds depth to the character and the film benefits from the warmth and genuine affection Allen brings to the role.
The Santa Clause is streaming on Disney+, along with its spin-off series The Santa Clauses that continues the story.
2. How The Grinch Stole Christmas
In How The Grinch Stole Christmas, it’s Christmas time in Whoville and the only one not excited is the Grinch. In an attempt to prevent the Whos from celebrating, the Grinch decides to steal all their Christmas decorations and presents disguised as Santa.
Jim Carrey as The Grinch is one of the funniest and wackiest portrayals that remains a classic. The facial expressions and comedic timing make the film a staple to watch during Christmas time. With the help of Cindy Lou (Taylor Momsen), he undergoes a change of heart, realizing the true meaning of Christmas.
In this sense, the portrayal of Santa by the Grinch ultimately takes a positive turn as he learns the importance of love, community, and the holiday spirit. The narrative suggests redemption and transformation, emphasizing the potential for positive change, even for characters who initially seem misguided or "bad."
How The Grinch Stole Christmas is on FuboTV and Hulu.
1. Miracle On 34th Street
The epitome of a wise and caring Santa Claus is the one in Miracle on 34th Street, played by Edmund Gwenn. He’s as warm and kind as they come to be the beloved Christmas icon. Gwenn's performance is regarded as one of the best portrayals of Santa in cinematic history. He embodies the genuine spirit of Christmas, emphasizing generosity and the belief in the magical holiday.
What makes this Santa particularly good is his unwavering commitment to spreading joy and his ability to inspire belief in those around him, even in skeptical adults. His portrayal reflects the qualities traditionally associated with Santa Claus, making him a memorable character in the realm of holiday films.
Miracle on 34th St is on Hulu, Disney+, and Prime Video.
