Grumpy Old Santa

Enjoyable film set in small-town East Texas. I rank it a couple of notches above the Hallmark/Lifetime Christmas movies, for a couple of reasons: first, this film carries the authenticity of being shot on location, and nicely conveys the atmosphere and quirkiness that small towns have. Friendships are key, but grudges are also held. (My parents are both from small towns, and I can tell you that memories there are long.)

Second, unlike most Hallmark type films, "GoS" doesn't ignore the religious basis of Christmas in favor of lights and decorations. The main character's best friend is a pastor and we get not one but two Christmas Eve services in the course of the film. (The company producing the film is "Ichthys," which should provide a clue.)

I hope you like bowling, because there are lots and lots of bowling scenes in this film. Much of the plot, in fact, takes place at the town's bowling alley. The acting overall is slightly hammy, though I think Glenn Morshower does a good job as the main character coping with a major life change. In particular, I liked the detail in the scenes set after the breakup of his marriage that show him living in a trailer instead of his former home; no reference is made to this in the script, but the point is made if you look for it.

Kimberly Williams, in the role of the first wife who is the instigator of the plot, is stuck with a somewhat thankless role but does her best with it.

Overall, would recommend. If you're looking for a light Christmas movie with some romance, give this a try.

Enjoyed this film quite a bit, it wasn't over the top with theatrics, it was a simple good family comedy that had me and my wife laughing, plus it being a local east Texas shot film is pretty awesome too. Tons of great moments throughout this film from beginning to end. The acting through most of the film was pretty well done, in some parts it did seem some what like a soap opera than a film. Crew did well because the visuals look great.

All around there were some places that I felt could have used more attention to make it look better visually but none the less it was still great. 7/10 .....

Very recommended. My wife and I really enjoyed it tonight. Lightheaded, fun, happy, and funny. Very well done. A great evening movie to watch to un-plug. High quality. Cast is super talented. Story line keeps you guessing. Very unique. Lots of fun surprises.

It is easily " Netflix" level quality. We liked the local small town theme in Texas. The cast was extremely talented. And to have it all around a simple theme of bowling was well written. Many story lines kept us guessing how the movie would play out. We were actually surprised by the ending! All in all, super entertaining. We were happy we watched it. 👍👍

I like the actors and actresses in this movie but the movie itself was horrible. I paid $1.99 to watch it. Wasn't worth it. Potential was there I think. I just don't know what to say other than do not watch it. At least don't pay to watch it. I mean heck I even like watching the hallmark Christmas movies but this movie............no. There was maybe a chuckle or two but that's it. I kept falling asleep to it and had to be woken up. Why did I continue to watch it you might ask. Well, I'm just one of those people that has to see the movie through no matter what. So, I did. Should have stayed asleep. Sorry. But no, don't watch it.

"Grumpy Old Santa" is a heartwarming movie that I would give a solid 10 out of 10 stars, especially for a 10-year-old to enjoy. The reason I loved it so much is because it touches on real-life situations, just like how people's feelings and relationships can change over time.

The story revolves around a husband who works away at an oil rig while his wife, after 30 years of marriage, starts feeling lonely and not romantically in love anymore. She leaves him, and five years later, returns with a new boyfriend, which makes her husband move on with his best friend's younger sister. This leads to some jealousy and drama, but ultimately, it's a tale of forgiveness and rekindling relationships.

The best friend, who also happens to be the local priest, adds a lot of funny and cheesy dad humor to the mix. He, along with the husband, goes fishing regularly, making their friendship an important part of the story.

The movie also centers around a bowling competition to raise funds for local underprivileged kids during Thanksgiving and Christmas, emphasizing the importance of community and giving back. It's a film that teaches us about life's ups and downs while delivering a heartwarming message of forgiveness and the value of coming together as a community during the holiday season. A great movie for a 10-year-old to watch and enjoy!