With Halloween past and Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, it’s time to get ourselves in the Christmas spirit, and what better way than popping in “Arthur Christmas”? Despite a lot of the holiday movie clichés, “Arthur Christmas” still has enough charm and holiday spirit to warm your heart and bring a tear to your eye.
“Arthur Christmas” is the story of the Claus family as they make their way around the world on Christmas Eve to deliver presents to all of the children of the world. After Santa is almost seen by a child, a present is accidently lost in the shuffle. Now, with the fear of a child missing out on their Christmas present, Arthur, the youngest Claus, sets out with Grandpa Claus, a wrapping elf, in the original sleigh to make sure that the magic of Christmas and Santa Claus stays alive.
I think what I liked the most about “Arthur Christmas” is the originality of the story. The fact that Santa Claus isn’t one person but a mantle passed down from generation to generation is fun, as is the main conflict between Steve, the elder of Santa’s sons, and Santa himself. Steve believes that this is the year he takes up the mantle of jolly Saint Nick, but much to his chagrin, Santa decides he’s still fit to do the job. I also thought Arthur was the perfect hero for the story despite being very cliché. While he's clumsy, Arthur still has more than enough heart to make up for it.
What made the characters so likeable were the voices behind the screen. James McAvoy was perfect for Arthur. He brought such sincerity to Arthur and will make you want to cheer for him to succeed. Hugh Laurie was great as Arthur’s older brother, Steve. He wanted so badly to be the new Santa, but his rapport with children was less than stellar. Bill Nighy had to be next best next to McAvoy. Grandsanta was hilarious and reminded me so much of my own grandpa, so it helped me relate more to the character.
While there were so many great things about this movie, I have to say that the predictability keeps it from being really great. I could see every twist a turn a mile away, and the moment of doubt that our hero has seemed too forced and short. However, “Arthur Christmas” is a fun and heartwarming holiday movie that is fun for the kids and adults alike.
The Blu-ray release has a few fun special features that are fun for the whole family. They include "Un-Wrapping Arthur Christmas," "Elf Recruitment Video" and progression reels.
Film: 4 Yaps Extras: 3 Yaps
 [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tk-WZSqIGQ&w=560&h=315]