Nom de code: Rouge

This isn't a flawless movie; some of the CGI and character designs are terrible (e.g. The Krampus cantina scene); the tone is an inconsistent mix of earnestness and moderately profane PG-13 snark; and the conclusion is predictable (as it is with virtually every Christmas movie, to be fair.) Nevertheless it has enough strange notions along the way that it's entertaining in spite of its flaws. The worldbuilding is inventive and the story combines Icelandic, Alpine and Nordic traditions in satisfying ways. The acting is decent. The protagonists are well-developed and they're just barely sympathetic enough that their redemptions are rewarding. Some of the dialogue is deceptively sharp. Overall the movie isn't trying to be anything other than unconventional bombastic fun and it mostly succeeds.

This isn't a future classic or reinvention of a genre but it is enjoyable, quirky and affable. I'm perplexed by the overwhelmingly negative critical response; but having gone into it with low expectations because of same I was pleasantly surprised.

If you want to watch a movie on Friday evening and eat popcorn, after a long week and just be entertained, this is the movie to watch. After the movie you can go home or to a bar, and you start your rest of the evening in a good mood, changed over from work week. It is not an oscar film, it is entertaining movie and it does it's job as entertainment increbly well. Best movie experience for last couple of months.

The writing does not take itself too seriously, but someone has read the script and gone over it to make it decent. None of the jokes are embarrassing or too cheap. There are some obvious jokes, but they are not overplayed. The characters are believable, I would make the same choices in these situations. The magic is using ruleset and isn't just blanket solution. I don't expect characters to have too much depth, but they have sides that I didn't expect and found fascinating.

It seems that critics have totally missed what this movie is and for who it is for.

Just watched this at the cinema on release day. I actually enjoyed the movie. It's not my favourite Christmas film by any stretch but I enjoyed watching something a little bit different but still had lots of Christmas magic within.

It's very much an action/adventure/Christmas film all rolled into one. The storyline centres on the main characters quest to locate and return Santa Clause after he is kidnapped. Lots of adventure and jokes along the way. Some hit and some miss!

Like all Christmas films of this nature, just enjoy it for what it is. These types of movies should never be about real life but just immerse yourself for 2 hours in a world of action and magic.

Overall, a solid 7 out of 10 for me. Not the best or worst film I've seen but for this time of year it is certainly one I'd recommend.

But as I always say, don't worry about reviews! Everyone will see the same thing differently. Go and make your own mind up.

Don't go into this movie expecting a perfect plot or deep storytelling. However, if you're looking for an action-packed Christmas film with interesting holiday lore, cool characters, and fun gimmicks, it's worth checking out. While some character development feels lacking, the acting is solid overall and there are some genuinely funny moments if you're in the right mood. The movie blends Christmas magic with intense action sequences in an entertaining way, even though some parts of the story might feel unrealistic

Despite its flaws, it succeeds in delivering festive fun with a darker twist, making it an enjoyable watch for those who don't mind their holiday cheer mixed with some mayhem.

I watched Red One yesterday, and I really enjoyed it. I thought it would be kind of trashy , but it was well made. It felt like what you'd get if Marvel made a Christmas movie-full of action, humor, and holiday spirit. The cast brought a lot of energy, and Kiernan Shipka stood out as the evil witch;

That said, the characters didn't have much depth, and the movie had this odd mix of feeling like a kids' film that isn't really for kids. Dwayne Johnson's character as E. L. F was a quite fun fit. This movie was giving my boyfriend and me plenty of laughs throughout. Overall, it was wholesome, light, and fun.

I wouldn't rush to see it in theaters, but it's perfect for a cozy night on the couch. If you're looking for a feel-good Christmas movie to watch at home, I'd definitely recommend it.