The Big Gift

The Big Gift is a fun action comedy film with incredible set pieces and a great storyline. The film follows a devoted father (Chris) as he fueds with a beefed up, cigar smoking Santa for credit on his sons gift. The film looked and sounded incredible. The cinematography, sets & locations were all MANY steps above your average indie film. Not many other local indie films achieve set design of this level. The Big Gift is a really ambitious film that (more than) pulls off what Director Jarrod Crooks was setting out to accomplish. The film had tremendous characters. Both humorous and likable. It's clear from the beginning that the parents (Chris and Jen) will go incredible lengths for their son Everett. This film will appeal to families (not only in the Midwest) but across the globe. 10/10.

Have you ever watched a holiday movie and thought to yourself, this could use more martial arts involving Christmas lights and candy canes? Look no further, your movie is here.

Writer/director Jarrod Crooks stars as Chris, who crosses a beefed-up muscle-milk Santa, and hilarity ensues Equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and action-packed, this is a new holiday film you'll keep in your yearly Christmas movie rotation. Scott Brault also shines as the big man himself, Santa Claus, hellbent on claiming credit on every big gift given to children.

So what are you waiting for? Stop singing carols, heat up that jug of nog, sit back, and put on 'The Big Gift'!!

"Candy cane."

Christmas movies are tricky to make feel genuinely different and special, and this one accomplishes that with a very clever high-concept based on a relatable adult fear, mixed with some fantastic black comedy and action sequences with the style and creativity of a Jackie Chan vehicle. Writer/actor/director Jarrod Crooks and the rest of the cast and crew show how there is still room left for unique stories and achievable within limited means, making this a very inspiring achievement for all low-budget filmmakers.

If you want to see a funny, edgy, poignant, action-filled take on the Santa Clause mythology that showcases the talent and ingenuity of independent filmmakers in the Midwest, this film comes very highly recommended!

What a nice change to see a Christmas film that is completely different from the typical "girl and boy fall in love in small town" type of theme. Funny and engaging, The Big Gift will not leave you disappointed at the end. You would expect this quality of film to have a huge budget, it doesn't. But the film does NOT suffer from that detail. The film is clearly shot in multiple locations which adds to its attraction. The lesson learned by the lead character is one that resonates and might even bring a little tear to your eye at the end. The Big Gift should be put on your annual watch list for the holiday season. Sit back and enjoy this new classic.

A modern christmas classic. Brings you back to the golden era of family christmas movies and fun. Jarrod Crooks shines as an actor/director/writer. Pure fun. Amazing locations, action and adventure. There is nothing missing in this piece for it to be recognized as a yearly rewatch. As modern hollywood takes over we are fading away from core values slapstick wholehearted humor and quality setups, Jarrod Crooks's The big gift keeps to the core of what made movies a special activity in which you learn a bit about yourself while having some fun. Get your popcorn and some soda to open this gift!!!!