Name: I Believe in Santa
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Released: 2022-12-14T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Christina Moore, John Ducey, Violet McGraw, Sachin Bhatt, Lateefah Holder

The moment Tom, played by John Ducey, grins like a child on Christmas morning while confessing he still believes in Santa Claus, I Believe in Santa shifts from a standard romantic comedy into something more peculiar. Directed by Alex Ranarivelo, this 2022 Netflix holiday offering stars Christina Moore as Lisa, a single mom who finds herself torn between her growing feelings for Tom and the sheer absurdity of his festive fervor.

The film’s central premise—a grown man’s unshakable belief in Santa—is ripe with comedic potential. Ducey leans into the role with earnest enthusiasm, delivering a performance that’s equal parts charming and cringe-worthy. His wide-eyed sincerity when discussing Santa Claus or his childlike delight at decorating the Christmas tree makes for some genuinely funny moments. One standout scene is Tom’s impromptu visit to a local toy store, where he excitedly points out the latest gadgets as if he were a kid on a sugar rush. Ducey’s physical comedy, from his exaggerated expressions to his bouncy gait, adds a layer of absurdity that keeps the audience engaged.

Moore, meanwhile, balances skepticism and affection as Lisa, though her reactions sometimes feel more exasperated than genuinely amused. Her performance is solid but lacks the nuanced emotional range that could have elevated the character beyond the typical rom-com trope of the pragmatic woman. Moore’s scenes with Ducey are entertaining, but their chemistry feels strained at times, making it difficult to fully invest in their romantic arc.

The supporting cast, including Violet McGraw as Lisa’s daughter Ella and Sachin Bhatt as Tom’s best friend Assan, add depth to the story. McGraw’s scenes with Ducey are particularly touching, showcasing a believable bond between a father figure and a child. One memorable moment is when Tom and Ella build a gingerbread house together, their shared laughter and playful banter highlighting the film’s heartwarming potential. Bhatt’s performance as Assan provides some of the film’s best comedic relief, particularly in scenes where he tries to rationalize Tom’s belief in Santa with increasingly absurd theories.

The film also benefits from its festive atmosphere, enhanced by a soundtrack featuring covers of classic Christmas songs like “O Christmas Tree” and “Jingle Bells.” The music adds a layer of nostalgia that complements the holiday setting, creating an immersive experience for viewers. However, the film’s pacing and structure are its downfall. The first half of the film is devoted to establishing Lisa and Tom’s budding romance, which feels familiar and formulaic. Once the Santa revelation hits, the story struggles to find a consistent tone, vacillating between heartwarming moments and forced humor.

Some jokes fall flat, and the conflict between Lisa’s practicality and Tom’s whimsy isn’t explored as deeply as it could be. The film also misses opportunities to delve into more meaningful themes. While it touches on the importance of maintaining childhood wonder, it never fully commits to a coherent message about faith, love, or the holiday spirit. The resolution feels rushed, with Lisa’s change of heart coming across as convenient rather than earned.

Comparisons to other holiday rom-coms are inevitable, and I Believe in Santa falls short in several areas. Films like The Holiday (2006) and Love Actually (2003) manage to balance humor and heart with a more nuanced exploration of their themes. In contrast, I Believe in Santa feels overly simplistic, relying too heavily on its central gimmick without delving deeper into the emotional complexities of its characters.

The film’s target audience is clearly families and fans of lighthearted holiday fare. Those looking for a thought-provoking exploration of love and belief may find it lacking, but viewers who enjoy straightforward, feel-good comedies will likely find some enjoyment in its festive antics. The film’s visual style is unremarkable, with standard cinematography that doesn’t particularly stand out. Ranarivelo’s direction is competent but uninspired, failing to elevate the material beyond the typical rom-com formula.

Ultimately, I Believe in Santa is a mixed bag. It has moments of genuine charm and humor, thanks largely to Ducey’s performance and the film’s festive atmosphere.