Cerebral Cinema: Santa’s Apprentice (2010)

8th OF December 2011

By Keeva Stratton

Director: Luc Vinciguerra

Starring: Shane Jacobson, Delta Goodrem, Magda Szubanski

Rated: G

Reviewer Rating: 4/5

Release: Currently showing in limited release

Film Review: Santa’s Apprentice (2010)

A Christmas film with nostalgia-imbued animation and a host of delightful Aussie accents is a welcome one indeed. Santa’s Apprentice tells the story of a maturing Santa Claus, who must recruit an apprentice to continue in his place when he retires. There are several criteria that must be met; for instance, the boy’s name must be Nicholas, he must be an orphan and must be pure of heart.

When Santa reluctantly agrees that his time is nearing an end, he recruits a young Sydney orphan named Nicholas, but remains reluctant to really take him under his wing—fearing that if he does, he himself will have no purpose. What results is an insightful tale that tells of so much more than your average romp in the snow.

There is a beautiful moral overtone to this story. Santa reminds us that elderly people often lose an important sense of self when they retire, and the important role that the young Nicholas plays in his life reflects the important role children play in keeping the elderly connected and engaged.

The Australian cast, with Shane Jacobson, Delta Goodrem and Magda Szubanski among them, provide a warm soundtrack that makes for a truly delightful Christmas film, able to be enjoyed by those of all ages. If you’re looking to get in the Christmas spirit from a home-grown perspective, you can’t help but be swept up by this beautiful, and indeed magical, tale.

For more information visit: http://www.santasapprentice.com.au/