Fred Claus

by

Fred Claus

When Fred Claus’ little brother was born, he promised to be the best big brother he could be. But that began to prove difficult, as little Nicholas was always showing him up. Nicholas was always giving and jolly. Their mother constantly said to Fred, “Why can’t you be more like your brother?” So as time went on, Fred grew more bitter towards Nicholas and the rest of his family. Though, when Fred gets into trouble, he calls his brother to help him out. But Nicholas (Santa) gives an ultimatum. He has to come work at the North Pole for a few days. But, unbeknownst to Fred, an inspector has come to the North Pole too. And he has the power to shut down Santa and Christmas altogether.

Trouble and highjinks ensue when Fred begins working at Santa’s workshop. Fred is well-meaning, but disaster always seems to follow him. Vince Vaughn plays the same character he usually does, but this is probably the tamest, cleanest role he’s done so far. Paul Giamatti, of course, plays a wonderful Santa Claus. Though the waxy, prosthetic hands were a bit much and bothered me throughout the movie. Kathy Bates and Kevin Spacey both have fantastic roles as Mom and the villainous inspector, consecutively.

While the story was very predictable, so is every other family Christmas movie. And I’m a sucker for cute Christmas movies. And this one had enough laughs that most everyone should enjoy. My favorite scene was when Fred goes to a “Brothers Anonymous” meeting, where Sylvester Stallone’s brother, Bill Clinton’s brother, and Stephen Baldwin are all there complaining about their more famous brothers. Sibling rivalry at it’s best.

14 thoughts on “Fred Claus”

  2. Vince Vaughn and Paul Giamati are two of my favorite actors. Vince Vaughn just cracks me up! Every time I see the scene on TV where he is dancing with the elves, I start laughing! I have to see this movie!

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  8. I’m so glad you liked this movie! I’ll definitely splurge on a babysitter and treat myself to a night at the movies when it comes here. The big bonus for me will be not having to share my popcorn & Coke!

  11. the movie is out today! woohoo! anyways…i’ve read some reviews and it wasn’t good so i am kinda skeptical but now i am pumped up again to watch it. i can’t wait to see the adorable elves on the big screen since i’ve been following them on the Elf Tour on zannel.com/fredclaus. i think it is awesome that they are doing a elf tour across the US. thanks for the review!

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