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.

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!

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!!!!

This was a fun film to watch. Lots of very cool action scenes. Very well produced. Great range of emotions. Written very well. The acting was nicely do e. Good cinematography. Amazing choices with the locations. Whats really funny is that I could watch this film anytime of year. Watch out Christmas Story, watch out Elf, watch out Its a Wonderful Life, watch out Grinch, watch out every Christmas flick ever...The Big Gift will give you a run for your money. And what is most impressive is that I have it on good authority that this film was produced on a shoestring budget. When you see all of the work put into this and the locations used...i enjoyed it thoroughly. I think you will too.

With so many Christmas movies being made every year this one stands out. There are giveaways that the budget is low, but that didn't stop me from being entertained. The story was very creative and the resourcefulness of the production really stood out. Even the fight scenes were impressive, very Jackie Chan like. I was also surprised at how many locations this film had, from a scene in Leavenworth, Washington to Moab, Utah. They really take you on a journey. There is a great mixture of humor and heart. You can tell this was made with love. It might not be for everyone, but it's definitely worth a watch.