If you’re searching for the cast of Dear Santa, this whimsical holiday film offers a lineup as quirky as its premise.
Directed by Bobby Farrelly, Dear Santa (2024) spins a tale of holiday mischief when a young boy’s letter to Santa accidentally lands with Satan.
Featuring Jack Black in a devilishly fun role, this new Santa movie is already making waves on Paramount+.
Let’s dive into the standout stars of the Dear Santa movie cast who bring this chaotic Christmas caper to life.
Who’s in the Cast of Dear Santa?
The Dear Santa cast boasts a blend of comedic heavyweights, rising talent, and even a Grammy-winning artist (yes, Post Malone). Here’s a breakdown:
Jack Black as Satan/Santa Claus
Jack Black shines as the misunderstood devil himself, playing Satan with his signature mix of humor and energy.
Dressed in burgundy leather and armed with lines like, “Every time a grown man sharts himself, a demon earns its horns,” Black dominates the screen.
His performance as the central figure in this Jack Black Christmas movie is what makes the film a memorable addition to holiday streaming.
Robert Timothy Smith as Liam Turner
At the heart of Dear Santa is Liam Turner, played by the talented newcomer Robert Timothy Smith.
His portrayal of a dyslexic sixth-grader caught in a deal with Satan adds emotional weight to the story.
Liam’s arc—from shy to confident—anchors the chaos surrounding the Dear Santa cast, making it relatable and heartfelt.
Keegan-Michael Key as Dr. Finkleman
Keegan-Michael Key lends his comedic genius as Liam’s concerned child psychologist, Dr. Finkleman.
Though underutilised, Key’s role brings subtle humor to the narrative. His moments with Liam add a grounded perspective amidst the film’s fantasy.
Brianne Howey and Hayes MacArthur as Molly and Bill Turner
As Liam’s parents, Brianne Howey and Hayes MacArthur juggle grief, marital strain, and the bizarre presence of Satan in their son’s life.
Their performances deepen the story, providing touching moments that balance the hilarity.
Post Malone as Himself
The Dear Santa movie cast takes an unexpected turn with Post Malone, who makes a splashy cameo as himself.
This concert scene, set up by Satan as part of Liam’s three wishes, adds a modern, pop culture flair to the new Santa movie. It’s a surprising yet delightful inclusion.
Supporting Cast: Emma and Gibby
Kai Cech plays Emma, Liam’s crush, while Jaden Carson Baker shines as Gibby, his loyal but awkward best friend.
Together, they form a dynamic trio, bringing humour and heart to this holiday tale
The Plot: A Letter Mix-Up with Hellish Consequences
The movie follows Liam, a meek sixth-grader grappling with dyslexia, grief, and middle-school crushes.
After writing a Christmas wishlist to Santa and accidentally addressing it to “Satan,” the boy finds himself face-to-face with the Prince of Darkness.
Instead of revealing the truth, Satan grants Liam three wishes in exchange for his soul.
From a Post Malone concert to fixing Gibby’s overbite, the film takes viewers on a whirlwind of chaotic yet heartfelt moments.
But as with any deal involving Satan, things quickly spiral out of control.
Between a subplot about Liam’s deceased brother and his parents’ rocky marriage, the film awkwardly juggles slapstick humor and emotional depth.
Why Jack Black’s Satan Steals the Show
Jack Black as Satan might sound like a Christmas fever dream, but his performance elevates Dear Santa.
His deep growl (a nod to Jack Nicholson?) and offbeat delivery turn clunky jokes into laugh-out-loud moments.
Whether he’s dispensing dubious life advice or wreaking havoc on Liam’s obnoxious teacher, Black’s energy is infectious.
If you’re streaming this movie for any reason, it’s to watch him have the time of his life.
Production Tidbits: Where and How This Chaos Came Together
Filmed in Atlanta and Decatur, Georgia, Dear Santa transformed local landmarks into festive backdrops, including an outdoor Christmas festival at Decatur Square.
The production faced challenges, including a halt during the 2023 actors’ strike, but wrapped just in time for its November 2024 release.
This marks the Farrelly brothers’ return to Christmas comedies, with Bobby Farrelly directing and Peter Farrelly co-writing alongside Ricky Blitt.
For Jack Black, it’s his second holiday film after The Holiday (2006) and a reunion with the Farrellys since Shallow Hal (2001).
Reception: Critics and Fans Weigh In
The film’s reviews are, let’s say, spirited. With a 24% score on Rotten Tomatoes, critics slammed its uneven tone and odd mix of kid-friendly humour and adult themes.
Yet, some praised Black’s performance as the film’s saving grace. The RogerEbert.com review cheekily noted, “This is not the cultural wave-maker it could’ve been—but it’s certainly a ride.”
Is Dear Santa Destined for Holiday Longevity?
While Dear Santa might not dethrone Elf or Home Alone, it carves out a niche for viewers craving unconventional holiday fare.
Its bizarre premise and memorable cast make it a contender for cult status, even if it’s not a critical darling. Plus, Jack Black as Satan? That’s holiday iconography in the making.
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