Cast
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Vince Vaughn
as Fred Claus
Paul Giamatti
as Nick (Santa) Claus
John Michael Higgins
as Willie
Miranda Richardson
as Annette Claus
Rachel Weisz
as Wanda Blinkowski
Kathy Bates
as Mother Claus
Trevor Peacock
as Papa Claus
Ludacris
as DJ Donnie
Elizabeth Banks
as Charlene
Jeremy Swift
as Bob Elf
Elizabeth Berrington
as Linda Elf
Kevin Spacey
as Clyde Archibald Northcutt
Rio Hackford
as Leon
Bobb'e J. Thompson
as Samuel 'Slam' Gibbons
Allan Corduner
as Dr. Goldfarb
Crew
Director
- David Dobkin
Producer
- Joel Silver
- Jessie Nelson
- David Dobkin
Reviews
John Chard
Fred Claus (2007)
Saving Christmas and Building Bridges.
It does exactly what it says on the Xmas Movie Tin. Poorly received by the critics and equally unsupported by the internet hordes, Fred Claus may be guilty of sentimentality, but for those in need of a pick me up during yuletide then it delivers the requisite smiles to faces.
Vince Vaughn is Fred, brother of Santa (Paul Giamatti), who has grown up resenting his elder brother. When Fred is in desperate need of cash he gets in touch with Santa to ask for a big loan, Santa will oblige if Fred comes up to the North Pole to work for it. Anger, mirth and bonding does follow as Fred causes mayhem among the elves and finds himself pitched in the middle of a nefarious plan being hatched by Clyde Archibald Northcutt (Kevin Spacey).
Not all the gags work but there are some genuinely funny moments, while the romantic threads are a touch too twee. Yet this wears its Xmas movie heart firmly on its red clothed sleeve, and there's nothing wrong with that. 7/10
Dec 28, 2014
Kamurai
Decent watch at best, probably won't watch again, but can recommend for off-brand holiday movies.
While I like watching Vince Vaughn beat up Santa Claus as much as the next person, I'm not a big Vince Vaughn fan. I'd rather see what Paul Giamotti can do with the Santa role, honestly.
Kevin Spacey, being very much himself, is awful, or his character is, and a story needs a good villain. Being a whiny spoiled kid in an adult body doesn't really do it for me, especially in a Santa setting.
Jan 21, 2021
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Fred Claus examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director David Dobkin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2007, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Fred Claus took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $100.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fred Claus shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Return of the Jedi, which focuses more on action than character development, Fred Claus offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Salvador (Puig Antich) and Memoirs of a Geisha explore similar territory, Fred Claus stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 9, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 55m
- Budget: $100,000,000
- Revenue: $97,800,000
