Mr. St. Nick

I normally wouldn't bother writing a review for a made for TV movie, but I got stuck watching while at home for Christmas. Christmas movies are supposed to be kind of cliched, they have to be because Christmas has become a cliche to most people. This movie took that idea and ran with it.

First you have the reluctant Santa Claus, which has only been done a few dozen times in recent years. Then there is the rich man falling in love with the hired help, coupled into man being engaged to one woman only to realize it was a mistake and that he is really in love with girl-come-lately. Then add some cookie-cutter characters, like the proper butler giving sage advice. Or how about that the hired help has a mystery son. I say mystery son because it is never explained if the son is from a bad marriage, out-of marriage, widowed, etc. At least I don't remember it being explained. I won't even go into the goofy cop, the swindling best friend, incredibly sappy happy ending, etc.

I think there are people in the world who would relish a movie like this, but if cliches, and telegraphed plot twists turn your stomach, then avoid this movie.

Another redo to St. Nick. Now there's a new Father Christmas every century. No, really. And as the 20th Century makes way for the 21st, the outgoing Santa XX prepares to turn the toy making/delivery business to his son, Santa XXI. No, really. Like many other movies about Santa's family, the heir doesn't want the job for some reason.

Santa Jr. (or 21st) prefers to dance the Conga in Miami Beach, and chase girls. He's a millionaire, and finds a girl to get hitched with that his parents immediately recognize is a gold digger. Bet you didn't expect that to happen. There's also a cute but feisty new cook working for him. "The magic of Santa" starts to transfer to the new St. Nick, setting up more silliness. Pretty routine stuff, headed exactly where you expect it to go. Not really for smaller kids; some of this will confuse them. But has its moments for Mom and Dad if they're looking for a harmless comedy. The cast is pleasant and make things fun; the story is innocent and good natured. A good movie for a stay in night.

BEWARE OF FALSE REVIEWS & REVIEWERS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW TO THEIR NAME. NOW WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE MOVIE. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THE FILM . I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 HOLIDAY FILMS. I HAVE NO AGENDA.

In this film Santa Claus (Charles Durning) wants to pass the torch to his reluctant son (Kelsey Grammar) who would rather stay in Miami and enjoy the nightlife.

Kelsey Grammar is miscast. He still seems to be channeling Frasier. He is also 20-25 years too old for the part. Had this been play by a younger actor the film would of been better. Kelsey doesn't come across as sincere. He seems to be "going through the motions" but he gives his "Santa" know soul and zero depth.

The actors that do the most with very little are Ana Ortiz and Lupe Ontiveros.

This film is family safe but in reality kids will hate this more than adults. The same story should be re-worked and cast appropriately. Charles Durning and Katherine Hepburn are wonderful.

Kelsey Grammar plays Nicholas 21 which means that he's in line for the throne of Santa Claus. His father Nicholas 20 (played by Charles Durning) is losing his jollies and his powers that made him Santa Claus. For him, it's a job that he loves with a passion. For Junior, he's postponed taking over for years. Finally, the time has come for him to take his father's place in the family business. Katherine Helmond is fantastic as the mother and wife, Queen Carlotta. Brian Bedford plays, Jasper, who is Nick Jr.'s confidante and knows all about the family secrets. Anyway, Nick 21 must fine Mrs. Claus but he gets caught up with a blonde weather girl who is really shallow and vain. Of course, this film is meant to be about Christmas, sharing, generosity, and miracles. It's not the best film but it's decent enough for the family and for kids.

There was no mystery son. Danny was the Grandson of Lorena's Aunt.

I really enjoyed this. I can watch Kelsey Grammar in anything, but I found that I couldn't take my eyes off Katherine Helmund. She was 74 when she made this and was so beautiful. Her bone structure is exquisite and no amount of money can replicate that. Her costumes and hair were a delight. She looked every inch a queen.

The plot may have been thin but it was still enjoyable and despite it turning out to be a scam I thought the idea behind MrStNick.com was brilliant.

Peace and goodwill to everyone.