Rarely does a sequel match the quality of the original, but so isn’t the case with the Michael Lembeck directed family holiday film “The Santa Clause 2.”
A follow up to the 1994 classic, “The Santa Clause 2” continues in real time. Eight years have now passed and the original cast has all evolved in their lives as such.
Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) has flawlessly moved into the role of Santa Claus. Where we last saw him an inexperienced rookie in the original movie, Calvin now runs the North Pole with the efficiency and affections of a prophet. He’s well loved by his elves and the children of the world alike, mentioned consistently as one of the best Santa’s ever.
We see Calvin’s son Charlie (Eric Lloyd), once an eight year old Christmas loving tot, now a rebellious teenager who is constantly in trouble at school, drawing the ire of the new principal (Elizabeth Mitchell) and unspeakably landing on Santa’s Naughty List.
A wrinkle is exposed when Santa discovers a requirement that he get married, comically referred to as the ‘Mrs. Clause.’ Scott Calvin must now return from the festivities of the North Pole, with a mere 28 days until Christmas Eve – the deadline to find Miss Right.
“The Santa Clause 2” is funny, sappy, and overly predictable, and we are all the better for it. Its a great family movie and fits perfectly into the holiday season.
Tim Allen is again marvelous in his dual role, and its nice to see the character of Scott Calvin now fully transitioned into the job of Santa Claus, and his family back home completely aware of his true identity. Wendy Crewson and Judge Reinhold reprise roles from the original with a perfect topping of comedy included. As Scott loses weight and becomes normal looking back home, Reinhold’s character Dr. Neal asks is he’s using slimfast, to which Scott replies “you have no idea.”
The story features plots on two fronts, with Scott attempting to find a wife (one hysterical scene shows him on a bad date with a Christmas obsessed Molly Shannon) and a tyrannical impostor Santa hijacking control of the North Pole, complete with a garrison of toy soldiers.
While equally comical, the scenes with Tim Allen are easily the best. One of the most touching scenes in any holiday film comes when Scott uses his Christmas magic to spice up a holiday party. I can’t picture anyone except Tim Allen having such success with the role.
Elizabeth Mitchell is a great new addition as principal Newman, who is perfectly cute and equally hard nosed and feared in her administrative role. And Mitchell doesn’t shy away from the humor of the movies straight man. “Look into my eyes.” She dares one trouble making student. “What do you see?” “Its dark, and its cold.” The boy replies, to which Newman nods and responds “Its your future.”
Another bright spot from the original returns in the form of David Krumholtz as Bernard, the Head Elf. Krumholtz is funny and likable, and an integral part of the success of the franchise. While Bernard is perfect, I found the character of Curtis the elf somewhat un-needed and frankly annoying.
“The Santa Clause 2” does the unthinkable; its a competent and well made sequel that closes out just as good as the original.
by – Matt Christopher
