Okay, I will start off with the cons first. The story is very predictable and uneven, and there is an anti-climatic ending that really does detract from the fun the film does have. The film also suffers from the direction needing a much harder edge. However, my biggest con was that the messages about commercialising Christmas being evil felt misplaced. Despite its flaws, it is a mildly enjoyable family film, even if it did mean it is my least favourite of the three movies. The film visually is quite possibly the most colourful of the three, the special effects with the exception of the reindeer who look as though they have been stuffed were above average, and the cinematography is nice. There are some good laughs mostly from Jack Frost and the Experimental Elf, and the acting was amiable. While generously underplaying, Tim Allen once again does a good job as Santa, and Ann-Margaret and Alan Arkin in particular do well as his in-laws. But it is Martin Short who steals the film, in a wonderfully wacky portrayal of the villain Jack Frost, and I have to say the makeup on it was superbly done. And the soundtrack is cool, and the songs featured are sung with unusual gusto. Plus, the cameos from Mother Nature, Sandman and Father Time(the late Peter Boyle) are inspired. The film, and I am not sure whether this is good or bad, also is very suagry sweet. All in all, not bad, but my least favourite of the Santa Clause movies. 6/10 Bethany Cox
151 Reviews
Lost most of its charm
SnoopyStyle20 December 2013
Pregnant Mrs. Claus (Elizabeth Mitchell) is almost due, and she wishes for human contact. So Santa (Tim Allen) decides to bring her parents (Ann-Margret, Alan Arkin) to the North Pole along with Santa's ex and her family (Judge Reinhold, Wendy Crewson, Liliana Mumy). Meanwhile, the Counsel of Legendary Figures is to judge Jack Frost (Martin Short) for all his wrongdoings. Santa decides to help out by letting him work as one of his helpers. Only Jack Frost schemes to take over Christmas by using the Escape Clause.
The charms of the previous two installments are mostly gone. When North Pole gets remade into Canada, it just emphasized how fake it all is. In the other two, Tim Allen is running around trying to hide his identity from people who love him. In this one, the only people who don't know is Ann-Margret and Alan Arkin. They don't really love him, and there isn't that joy of discovery. That charm isn't here this time around.
Also Bernard the Elf (David Krumholtz) isn't here this time. Curtis (Spencer Breslin) is now the head elf. The movie misses Bernard's attitude and energy. Although it's cute to see Abigail Breslin as one of the little elves. As for Jack Frost, he's alright as the bad guy but he's not funny. In fact, this movie isn't funny. There is a lack of joy. The only one with the wonder and excitement in her eyes is Liliana Mumy. Aside from her, there is too much tension. This movie just doesn't have the same feel.
The charms of the previous two installments are mostly gone. When North Pole gets remade into Canada, it just emphasized how fake it all is. In the other two, Tim Allen is running around trying to hide his identity from people who love him. In this one, the only people who don't know is Ann-Margret and Alan Arkin. They don't really love him, and there isn't that joy of discovery. That charm isn't here this time around.
Also Bernard the Elf (David Krumholtz) isn't here this time. Curtis (Spencer Breslin) is now the head elf. The movie misses Bernard's attitude and energy. Although it's cute to see Abigail Breslin as one of the little elves. As for Jack Frost, he's alright as the bad guy but he's not funny. In fact, this movie isn't funny. There is a lack of joy. The only one with the wonder and excitement in her eyes is Liliana Mumy. Aside from her, there is too much tension. This movie just doesn't have the same feel.
Just what we expected
tttbone14 November 2006
Took the kids to see this and they loved it. I didn't have high expectations but was entertained and got the predictable feel good, happy ending. I agree with others that it was a couple notches better than the second movie. All and all, a good way to kick off the holiday movie season.
Other notes of interest: The actress playing Mrs. Clause is on the T.V. show Lost now. That took a little getting used to. Martin Short did a nice job as Jack Frost. The blooper reel at the end of the movie is pretty lame. Not funny at all. Plus, when the bloopers are literally shown 3 seconds after the end of the movie, it takes away from the movie itself. The kids are still smiling and in a magical place then "poof", magic is over here are the actors messing up their lines. It's like seeing Peter Pan on stage and right after the show, they show you all the wires that were used to make him fly. Save the bloopers for the DVD.
Other notes of interest: The actress playing Mrs. Clause is on the T.V. show Lost now. That took a little getting used to. Martin Short did a nice job as Jack Frost. The blooper reel at the end of the movie is pretty lame. Not funny at all. Plus, when the bloopers are literally shown 3 seconds after the end of the movie, it takes away from the movie itself. The kids are still smiling and in a magical place then "poof", magic is over here are the actors messing up their lines. It's like seeing Peter Pan on stage and right after the show, they show you all the wires that were used to make him fly. Save the bloopers for the DVD.
Better than I thought
flafan35 November 2006
I just got back from seeing this movie and I have to say it was pretty good. I didn't go to the theater with high hopes, however, so it was easy to meet my expectations. We loved the other 2 movies and had to finish the trilogy! This one could be titled Santa gets a midlife crisis--the plot is based on Scott's frustration over having so many responsibilities and not enough time with his family. There are some disappointments; of course, Bernard isn't in it and we all love him; just one line with no explanation tells us he must be gone. Also, Santa doesn't seem himself; yes, he's frustrated, but you don't see the excitement he had before. And,the plot gets resolved so close to the ending that you still haven't processed it, and the credits are rolling! But if you liked the other movies, go see this one; it's not as action packed, it's a little sappy, but it's clean fun and you'll laugh if you let yourself!
Just remember that it's not Shakespeare, it's just a Christmas movie. Go and have some fun! Enjoy the Canada subplot, eh?
Just remember that it's not Shakespeare, it's just a Christmas movie. Go and have some fun! Enjoy the Canada subplot, eh?
Major let down :(
sharla_j4 November 2006
I had great hopes for this movie...none of which were fulfilled. My family and I enjoyed the first two Santa Clause movies, but this was a major let down. Sad, too, because it had great potential. I enjoy Martin Short, and think he was well cast in the role of Jack Frost. However, the writing and editing were so disjointed, and it seemed like there were too many subplots going on for any one story line or character to get any substantial development.
Unless you have kids who are dying to see this, I would skip it altogether or wait for it to come out on DVD. I definitely wouldn't spend another $20 to go see it.
Unless you have kids who are dying to see this, I would skip it altogether or wait for it to come out on DVD. I definitely wouldn't spend another $20 to go see it.
The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause
Toronto8518 December 2012
Santa Claus is up against an evil Jack Frost in "The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause". Scott Calvin/Santa Claus is preparing for another Christmas at the North Pole when a mischievous Jack Frost (Martin Short) has plans to take over his place as the head of Christmas. Jack Frost finds a clause in Santa's contract that he uses to become Santa, a whole bunch of nonsense happens in the middle frame, and finally it's a battle between the two for the title of Santa Claus. Who will win? I think that's pretty obvious.
Boy, this third film in the series was a real letdown. I didn't enjoy the second Santa Clause as much as the first, but even it had more going for it than this. The problem with this one was really the characters, I disliked about 70% of them. Carol's parents are absolute fools. When they come for a visit, Carol and her hubby Santa lead them to believe that the North Pole is actually Canada and that all Canadians are just really short people ... and here's the thing ... they actually believe it. Just a complete dumbing down of characters. Curtis the Elf is more annoying than he was in the second film, the little girl Lucy (who has really taken over Charlie's role as the "cute kid") is really irritating at times, and Jack Frost himself is a very blah villain who really just adds nothing to the movie.
I was a teenager when I watched Santa Clause 3 the first time, and during it I was wondering what I would've thought of it as a young child. I don't think as a 6-10 year old that this would've really engaged me or interested as much as the original "The Santa Clause" did to be honest. What really put me off was that this third film basically ignored Scott's son Charlie and just threw in Neil and Laura's daughter Lucy in his place (which did not work for me at all). The characters were lame, the Canada jokes were hokey and The Santa Clause 3 just wasn't that good at all.
4/10
Boy, this third film in the series was a real letdown. I didn't enjoy the second Santa Clause as much as the first, but even it had more going for it than this. The problem with this one was really the characters, I disliked about 70% of them. Carol's parents are absolute fools. When they come for a visit, Carol and her hubby Santa lead them to believe that the North Pole is actually Canada and that all Canadians are just really short people ... and here's the thing ... they actually believe it. Just a complete dumbing down of characters. Curtis the Elf is more annoying than he was in the second film, the little girl Lucy (who has really taken over Charlie's role as the "cute kid") is really irritating at times, and Jack Frost himself is a very blah villain who really just adds nothing to the movie.
I was a teenager when I watched Santa Clause 3 the first time, and during it I was wondering what I would've thought of it as a young child. I don't think as a 6-10 year old that this would've really engaged me or interested as much as the original "The Santa Clause" did to be honest. What really put me off was that this third film basically ignored Scott's son Charlie and just threw in Neil and Laura's daughter Lucy in his place (which did not work for me at all). The characters were lame, the Canada jokes were hokey and The Santa Clause 3 just wasn't that good at all.
4/10
Jack Frost nipping at your script.
Pjtaylor-96-13804425 December 2020
'The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006)' is a marked step down not only from the first entry in its franchise but also from the 2002 robo-Santa-starring sequel. The main issue is one of pace; the eponymous escape clause isn't invoked until just after halfway into the affair and the alternate reality it creates only lasts for a couple of scenes. The movie basically skips its second act by dragging out its first and rushing through its third. It's also just a little bit stale. Nobody really feels as though their hearts are in it and most of the franchise's core cast look a little worse for wear. It isn't bone-achingly boring and it will probably provide some passing entertainment to small children. It isn't engaging at all, though, and it feels like a bit of a chore. If this is your Christmas stocking filler, maybe you've been visited by Jack Frost instead of Saint Nick. 4/10
"Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause" is candy in every dimension of the word
japamo6 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I suspect the movie-going public generally loathes taking chances on upcoming movies. They want reliable, reassuring entertainment, preferably with an upbeat, if unrealistic, ending. Last Sunday, I suppose my parents and I had that hankering for that "cinematic comfort food" when we saw Tim Allen play the jovial, corpulent one for the third time. Overall, the movie fed us well, even if the food consisted of eye candy, ear candy, and tear candy.
The plot basically consists of Santa Allen juggling his expecting wife, her bemused parents (Ann-Margaret and Alan Arkin) who complain of insufficient family time, and the machinations of the devious original Cold Miser himself, Jack Frost (Martin Short). It's no surprise that Santa successfully keeps all the balls in the air, although it's also no surprise that he also almost loses his world because of Jack.
"Santa Clause 3" is cute, sweet, innocuous fun, with occasional flashes of jaded Christmas cynicism from Short and, to a lesser extent, from Arkin. For example, Short's conversion of the North Pole to a Vegas-like production had bite, even if it was a bit hackneyed. When Arkin pouts after Santa's (Scott Calvin's) daughter by his ex-wife and Judge Reinhold's psychiatrist character (whew!)defeats Jack with a literally warm hug, the audience guffawed. Another scene, where Scott is tricked into giving up Santahood by Frost and becomes corporate Scott Calvin again reminded me a little of Bill Murray's character in "Scrooged". However, the movie is ultimately geared to the little ones, on whom it seemed to work, because the theater I saw it in was full of very young children, and they kept quiet and still!
The movie gets the majority of its laughs from the emoting Short, the skeptical Arkin, and the sight gags like the yawning "Santa Fireplace". Allen wisely defers to them in the humor department, although he cuts loose in the hilarious outtakes at the movie's end. ("Mother Nature, can you thaw him out? Uhh, oops!")
If you are willing to leave your logical cynicism at the front door and bathe in the usual Christmas treacle, go see this movie. It will put you in both the shameless sentimental AND shameless commercial Christmas spirit.
The plot basically consists of Santa Allen juggling his expecting wife, her bemused parents (Ann-Margaret and Alan Arkin) who complain of insufficient family time, and the machinations of the devious original Cold Miser himself, Jack Frost (Martin Short). It's no surprise that Santa successfully keeps all the balls in the air, although it's also no surprise that he also almost loses his world because of Jack.
"Santa Clause 3" is cute, sweet, innocuous fun, with occasional flashes of jaded Christmas cynicism from Short and, to a lesser extent, from Arkin. For example, Short's conversion of the North Pole to a Vegas-like production had bite, even if it was a bit hackneyed. When Arkin pouts after Santa's (Scott Calvin's) daughter by his ex-wife and Judge Reinhold's psychiatrist character (whew!)defeats Jack with a literally warm hug, the audience guffawed. Another scene, where Scott is tricked into giving up Santahood by Frost and becomes corporate Scott Calvin again reminded me a little of Bill Murray's character in "Scrooged". However, the movie is ultimately geared to the little ones, on whom it seemed to work, because the theater I saw it in was full of very young children, and they kept quiet and still!
The movie gets the majority of its laughs from the emoting Short, the skeptical Arkin, and the sight gags like the yawning "Santa Fireplace". Allen wisely defers to them in the humor department, although he cuts loose in the hilarious outtakes at the movie's end. ("Mother Nature, can you thaw him out? Uhh, oops!")
If you are willing to leave your logical cynicism at the front door and bathe in the usual Christmas treacle, go see this movie. It will put you in both the shameless sentimental AND shameless commercial Christmas spirit.
The final clause
studioAT12 December 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Tim Allen and co return for one final outing as the modern day Santa and his extended family have to put up with Jack Frost trying to take over Christmas.
After the first two films in the series this third instalment was always going to have high standards to beat and although this is a good attempt it fails to do this.
I don't mind the 'It's a Wonderful Life' style scenario but feel that there is too much build up to Scott evoking the escape clause and not enough of him solving the problem.
Martin Short is on fine form as Frost and Allen shines again as Santa but some of the heart that was present in the first two outings seems to be missing. Reinhold and Crewson are reduced to extended cameos and David Krumholtz's absence as Bernard is noticeable.
Overall this is a decent film to conclude the trilogy but it remains the weakest link in what is overall a fine set of films. My advice though would be to buy the box set of these films because there are magical moments to be found in each one.
After the first two films in the series this third instalment was always going to have high standards to beat and although this is a good attempt it fails to do this.
I don't mind the 'It's a Wonderful Life' style scenario but feel that there is too much build up to Scott evoking the escape clause and not enough of him solving the problem.
Martin Short is on fine form as Frost and Allen shines again as Santa but some of the heart that was present in the first two outings seems to be missing. Reinhold and Crewson are reduced to extended cameos and David Krumholtz's absence as Bernard is noticeable.
Overall this is a decent film to conclude the trilogy but it remains the weakest link in what is overall a fine set of films. My advice though would be to buy the box set of these films because there are magical moments to be found in each one.
I was expecting to dislike
r96sk2 October 2020
Well I'm in the minority with this...
I actually, admittedly narrowly, enjoyed 'The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause' - terrible title, mind. Most other reviewers clearly didn't and I respect that, but I genuinely found it alright. It's definitely the weakest entry of the series, yet I still found it entertaining enough.
Martin Short (Jack Frost) is the star of this second sequel to 1994's The Santa Clause', outshining lead Tim Allen; who is still decent, by the way. I love Short's character design, he looks ridiculous in the nicest possible way and Frost (why him, I'm not sure I admit) makes for a relatively good villain. All the other cast members take a backseat, while the storyline of Alan Arkin's Bud is very forgettable and arguably needless.
I was expecting to dislike this and the preceding follow-up, but to my surprise they are actually - at least to me - harmlessly fun festive films.
I actually, admittedly narrowly, enjoyed 'The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause' - terrible title, mind. Most other reviewers clearly didn't and I respect that, but I genuinely found it alright. It's definitely the weakest entry of the series, yet I still found it entertaining enough.
Martin Short (Jack Frost) is the star of this second sequel to 1994's The Santa Clause', outshining lead Tim Allen; who is still decent, by the way. I love Short's character design, he looks ridiculous in the nicest possible way and Frost (why him, I'm not sure I admit) makes for a relatively good villain. All the other cast members take a backseat, while the storyline of Alan Arkin's Bud is very forgettable and arguably needless.
I was expecting to dislike this and the preceding follow-up, but to my surprise they are actually - at least to me - harmlessly fun festive films.
Not as great as the first one!
Moonie_8824 November 2006
Perhaps, I shouldn't have waste my time watching this movie. I thought it would be funny based on the preview. When I went to watch this movie on Saturday, I did not find one scene funny at all. The only funny stuff in this movie was the bloopers. Overall, the movie just sucks! It wasn't that great as the first one. The first one was more funnier. The second one was good too, but this one was just not that great. It was okay and all but it just wasn't that funny. I personally think that I should have seen Borat instead of this movie. At least, I would have something to laugh about! I miss the 90s! They used to have such good movies that were much more funnier! If anyone want to see a good Christmas movie, I would recommend Home Alone 1,2, Miracle on 34th Street, and The Santa Clause 1,2.
This Is My Favorite of the Line, So Far.
FiendishDramaturgy28 December 2008
This could serve as the concluding chapter of the Santa Clause trilogy, or a deserving sequel to a longer franchise. Personally, I'd not mind a franchise in the least. I love these movies, and they just keep getting better and better.
The second installment was lesser to the original, but this third chapter surpasses even the beginning. Martin Short, Ann-Margaret, AND Alan Arkin?! How lovely! They are so funny, and contribute such wonderful aspects to this film. It has become one of the family favorites in our growing list of Yuletime "must watch" films. But I'll watch this in July, too.
Spencer Breslin may be growing too old to portray an elf for The Santa Clause 4, but he's still adorable herein, and a delight to watch. I hope they continue on with this franchise. It would be a shame to stop now. I would actually love to see this run on and on as a tradition, but Tim Allen, et al is a mandatory must. I think he's GREAT as this new generation Santa.
It rates an 8.3/10 from...
the Fiend :.
The second installment was lesser to the original, but this third chapter surpasses even the beginning. Martin Short, Ann-Margaret, AND Alan Arkin?! How lovely! They are so funny, and contribute such wonderful aspects to this film. It has become one of the family favorites in our growing list of Yuletime "must watch" films. But I'll watch this in July, too.
Spencer Breslin may be growing too old to portray an elf for The Santa Clause 4, but he's still adorable herein, and a delight to watch. I hope they continue on with this franchise. It would be a shame to stop now. I would actually love to see this run on and on as a tradition, but Tim Allen, et al is a mandatory must. I think he's GREAT as this new generation Santa.
It rates an 8.3/10 from...
the Fiend :.
Good, not Great Trilogy Movie!!!
kelleyew-13 November 2006
Yes, I am am adult and yes, I was probably more excited to see this third movie than my 3 children. I really loved the first two movies. This third is a must see in the "set", but I have to say, it's not my favorite. It's very hard to compete with the excellent first 2 movies. I didn't like that Charlie isn't played often enough. I also did care for the actors that starred as Mrs. Clause's parents. Yes, Ann-Margaret and Alan Arkin are terrific actors, but not perfect for this role as the in-laws, I thought. Martin Short was excellent! He is so evil and he does it well! Lucy is a doll! She stole the movie. I loved this movie... it's a great end to the other two, but I don't think they should make any more. Curtis's role as an elf was better when he was a kid! Yes, Bernard's appearance was highly missed. If you loved the first two, see this 3rd, otherwise wait until October of next year to rent it.
Lamest film of the year
sstofflet17 December 2006
Sad to day -what was once a great idea has become painful.
This should never have hit theaters - a DVD only release would be pushing it. Strained, forced, uninteresting and poorly conceived.
Tim Allen created a great character in the first film - the 2nd was pushing it - this 3rd outing was simply vengeful.
The idea was bad; its execution is worse - to subject movie audiences to this type of tripe should be illegal, if not unconstitutional. (Oops! wait - it is... cruel and unusual punishment....) The best use for the DVD release of this? Christmas ornaments for your tree next year...
This should never have hit theaters - a DVD only release would be pushing it. Strained, forced, uninteresting and poorly conceived.
Tim Allen created a great character in the first film - the 2nd was pushing it - this 3rd outing was simply vengeful.
The idea was bad; its execution is worse - to subject movie audiences to this type of tripe should be illegal, if not unconstitutional. (Oops! wait - it is... cruel and unusual punishment....) The best use for the DVD release of this? Christmas ornaments for your tree next year...
Completely misses what made the 1st movie work
Bats_Breath26 December 2010
The first film Tim Allen did in this series, "The Santa Clause" was not a great movie by any stretch, but it was an entertaining film and one of the more imaginative and clever Christmas movies ever made. That film dealt with what it would be for a regular guy to be Santa Claus. That was a new idea! It was witty enough for adults and cutesy and fun enough for kids. Bam, the perfect mix for a "family" movie. The sequels (well OK I guess SC2 had some moments) have just been a mess. The filmmakers spend far too much time in the ridiculous North Pole, show us all the other mystical figures of legend (Mother Nature, Father Time, the Easter Bunny) and completely forget that Scott Calvin is supposed to be a regular dude that just happens to be Santa Claus. This movie is too stupid for anyone over the age of 11 and at times too filled with adult complexities for children to enjoy. The only parts that evoked a feel of the 1st film were the Canada jokes and Scott going back in time to the events of the first film and returning to Scott Calvin, corporate toy maker again. Otherwise this is a waste. Forget this film and go watch the 1st one.
That's the way the gingerbread house crumbles, SC3 stumbled
KitsunegariBlu3 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Tim Allen was pure genius with the 1st movie of this installment, and surprisingly enough the 2nd was also delightful. But I have to say, the 3rd, having added Alan Arkin, Martin Short & Ann Margaret, SHOULD have made "The Escape Clause" a film trifecta.
But it didn't. All the humor from the 1st film was missing, and all the nuclear familial bonding from the 2nd film just didn't appear.
What we got instead was Martin on a Short leash. His humor is an acquired taste to start with, but the man is known for creating quirky characters that leave you amused by their human flaws, and touched when they realize the error of their ways.
Then there were Alan Arkin and Ann Margaret's couple bickering so much you really wondered what they ever saw in each other in the first place.
Santa & the Mrs. seemed out of touch with each other. The other Legendary Characters, though fun to see, seemed they could have been utilized better. Kevin Pollack and Michael Dorn never fail to deliver.
My favorite secondary character though is Judge Reinhold's ever optimistic, quirky psychologist.
Tim Allen, whom I've always found amusing, seemed as though he rushed through the film. I think it would have been nice if Bernard the Elf, had been able to leave his "Numbers" chalk board long enough to give Santa a much needed hand in the Supporting Best Guy Friend role.
The problem with the film for me, was that this time out I felt the script writers dumbed the movie down far too much. It came off preachy and left you wondering why, if they wanted to drive the moral of the storey that Christmas is for Familys, not just to make money, home so badly why crank out such a poorly scripted film, that would have made a better holiday movie of the week special? Perhaps it's my own fault that I was disappointed, because I'd had such high hopes for this film, but all in all, I was left feeling that this installment, which ought to have been another glittering Snowflake.
Was just another production line cookie cutter script: Aww Baby=Cute, Family Bickers=You Still Love Each other. Cute Little Girl + Grinch Like Bad Guy=Predictable Hollywood Ending Where She Changes His Stripes. Edit in filler footage, slam it on a reel and call it a great Holiday Fare for the whole Family.
Unless they have a fantabulous script, I hope they don't film anymore in this series.
This film felt like the dieing embers of a Yule log, spluttering, a few pretty pops, but none of the warmth that made the first 2 films so enjoyable. It wasn't entirely a waste, it had a few moments that were enjoyable, the scenery was great, but the poor script kept getting in the way.
If I could, I would have seen it at the dollar show. Or better yet, since I had to buy 3 tickets, I'd have rented it on DVD and been able to pause it to use the bathroom, because the treacles sweetness made my tummy queasy. Love, Grace & Peace, Gunner
But it didn't. All the humor from the 1st film was missing, and all the nuclear familial bonding from the 2nd film just didn't appear.
What we got instead was Martin on a Short leash. His humor is an acquired taste to start with, but the man is known for creating quirky characters that leave you amused by their human flaws, and touched when they realize the error of their ways.
Then there were Alan Arkin and Ann Margaret's couple bickering so much you really wondered what they ever saw in each other in the first place.
Santa & the Mrs. seemed out of touch with each other. The other Legendary Characters, though fun to see, seemed they could have been utilized better. Kevin Pollack and Michael Dorn never fail to deliver.
My favorite secondary character though is Judge Reinhold's ever optimistic, quirky psychologist.
Tim Allen, whom I've always found amusing, seemed as though he rushed through the film. I think it would have been nice if Bernard the Elf, had been able to leave his "Numbers" chalk board long enough to give Santa a much needed hand in the Supporting Best Guy Friend role.
The problem with the film for me, was that this time out I felt the script writers dumbed the movie down far too much. It came off preachy and left you wondering why, if they wanted to drive the moral of the storey that Christmas is for Familys, not just to make money, home so badly why crank out such a poorly scripted film, that would have made a better holiday movie of the week special? Perhaps it's my own fault that I was disappointed, because I'd had such high hopes for this film, but all in all, I was left feeling that this installment, which ought to have been another glittering Snowflake.
Was just another production line cookie cutter script: Aww Baby=Cute, Family Bickers=You Still Love Each other. Cute Little Girl + Grinch Like Bad Guy=Predictable Hollywood Ending Where She Changes His Stripes. Edit in filler footage, slam it on a reel and call it a great Holiday Fare for the whole Family.
Unless they have a fantabulous script, I hope they don't film anymore in this series.
This film felt like the dieing embers of a Yule log, spluttering, a few pretty pops, but none of the warmth that made the first 2 films so enjoyable. It wasn't entirely a waste, it had a few moments that were enjoyable, the scenery was great, but the poor script kept getting in the way.
If I could, I would have seen it at the dollar show. Or better yet, since I had to buy 3 tickets, I'd have rented it on DVD and been able to pause it to use the bathroom, because the treacles sweetness made my tummy queasy. Love, Grace & Peace, Gunner
I liked the first one.
rturner23126 December 2006
My girlfriend talked me into seeing this movie because she loves Christmas movies. I don't generally mind them either, so I went. I was bored. I'm not often bored, especially at the movies, but maybe that's because I'm careful about what I pay ten bucks to see. I was truly disappointed in the lack of comedy, writing, or anything else that usually goes into making a movie. Tim Allen wasn't funny, Martin Short was REALLY annoying as usual, and the head elf this time around is a little nervous guy with a lisp. Who the filmmakers ride as if it's a stroke of comedic brilliance. The only thing this film had going for it was that it has Santa Claus in it and was released at Christmas time. Boo, Hollywood. Shame on you. But I guess I fell for it, and maybe kids who marvel at shiny things and bright lights liked it.
Oh dear lord, this one was a chore to watch
aidanratesmovies7 December 2020
Considering the first two were both box office hits, it's no surprise Disney revived the series for a third film. However, it certainly proves to not only be unnecessary- but incredibly cringeworthy, lifeless, and overdone. This is a really hard movie for me to watch, mainly because of Martin Short's Jack Frost. I respect Short as a comedian, but by God is he awful in this film. Not only is he overacting every single line and gesture on screen, but he also is single-handedly the most annoying character I have ever seen on screen. There is no magic in this film, and I don't mean literally, but rather the feeling the other two brought with them is simply gone. Its charm, evaporated for ironically the same subplot the film chose to pursue- that being- making the north pole a place for nothing but money. Tim Allen has also lost his charm in this film, he tries so hard, but everything he does falls rather flat. When reverted back to his original form, he is a bit more tolerable, but the script and plot throughout don't make it any easier to enjoy. Speaking of plot, this film goes nowhere and everywhere at once, which not only is frustrating, repetitive, and hard to watch, but also just what was the point? It had no point, no message, and it was quite intolerable to watch- not to mention very lazy. In the end, I would be totally fine never setting my eyes on a single moment of this film ever again. It's a disgrace to the first two, which were not necessarily great to begin with, and it's a disgrace to film in general, as it is easily one of the worst sequels I have ever seen.
My Rating: 1/10.
My Rating: 1/10.
At least the kids liked it!
ASHeun784 November 2006
Went to see this movie today with the family. Personally, I was alittle disappointed in some aspects. There just didn't seem to be a lot of comedy or comic relief in this movie as with the other two. The absence of David Krumholtz was unmoving, for he provided a lot of stability to the plot lines in the other movies.
I did however, enjoyed Martin Short as Jack Frost. He was great! Everyone else returning was a pleasure. It seemed their screen time was increased over SC2, with the exception of Charlie. He just seemed to be there this time around. Lilian Mumy shined in this movie, one of many I hope. And of course Tim Allen....he is superb as Santa Clause.
Overall, the movie was so, so. I thought a lot of the context and situations in the movie were alittle over the heads of children my age. (ages 7 and 5 respectfully) And to me, the original movie was based for all ages. The third installment had to many "grown-up problems" that could loose the interest of a child real quick. But for the most part all the elves, toys and of course Santa made seeing it will the kids worthwhile! Although, it is not up to par with the original, it does do a great job of completing a trilogy that will warm the hearts of families for many holidays to come.
I did however, enjoyed Martin Short as Jack Frost. He was great! Everyone else returning was a pleasure. It seemed their screen time was increased over SC2, with the exception of Charlie. He just seemed to be there this time around. Lilian Mumy shined in this movie, one of many I hope. And of course Tim Allen....he is superb as Santa Clause.
Overall, the movie was so, so. I thought a lot of the context and situations in the movie were alittle over the heads of children my age. (ages 7 and 5 respectfully) And to me, the original movie was based for all ages. The third installment had to many "grown-up problems" that could loose the interest of a child real quick. But for the most part all the elves, toys and of course Santa made seeing it will the kids worthwhile! Although, it is not up to par with the original, it does do a great job of completing a trilogy that will warm the hearts of families for many holidays to come.
The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause
jboothmillard1 January 2011
Warning: Spoilers
The first film was a good fun film to enjoy, the second time not so much so, and unfortunately this third instalment isn't any improvement, but I stuck with it to the end. Basically Santa Claus (Razzie nominated Tim Allen) aka Scott Calvin and his new wife pregnant Carol (Lost's Elizabeth Mitchell) are running the North Pole and the Elves efficiently and getting ready for the next oncoming Christmas. But a new problem crops up when the naughty Jack Frost (Razzie nominated Martin Short) has been causing trouble, and he is put on probation and it is up to Santa to keep an eye on him. Of course with presents needing to be made and wrapped this is not easy, and the Claus' are concentrating more on Carol's parents, the Newmans, father Bud (Alan Arkin) and mother Sylvia (Ann-Margret) coming to visit. While they come to the North Pole, fooled into thinking it is Canada, and Scott's ex-wife Laura (Wendy Crewson), his son Charlie (Eric Lloyd) and Laura's husband Neil Miller (Beverly Hills Cop's Judge Reinhold) are hanging round too, Jack Frost is ready to cause more trouble. He knows he can finally get some recognition he craves by becoming the new Santa Claus, and he knows that the hall of snow shakers hides the one that can change the past and future. So with Scott pressured and tricked into it, they go twelve years ago when Scott caused the original Santa to fall off the roof, and Jack shouts and ultimately puts on the red coat to take the helm. They return to the present day in the alternative world, where Scott is thin and brown haired working in his office like he used to, and the North Pole is advertised as a theme park attraction with Jack as the new Santa Claus to run the show. Returning to the North Pole and with a little help, Scott manages to grab the snow globe that caused this situation, and double cross Jack into doing the same as he did to him. So they go back twelve years again, and Scott stops Jack shouting again to watch the past Scott shout and the future restore itself, just in time for Christmas Eve and delivery time, for his baby too. Also starring The Cat in the Hat's Spencer Breslin as Curtis, Liliana Mumy as Lucy Miller, Little Miss Sunshine's Abigail Breslin as Trish, Art LaFleur as Tooth Fairy, Kevin Pollak as Cupid, Aisha Tyler as Mother Nature, Jay Thomas as Easter Bunny, Star Trek: The Next Generation's Michael Dorn as Sandman and Peter Boyle as Father Time. Allen is still alright as the lead, Short is pretty annoying as the bad guy, the inclusion of Arkin doesn't add to much, the story is slightly better than the last, there are small laughs and Christmas fun, but as a whole it is a silly seasonal family fantasy comedy. It was nominated the Razzie for Worst Excuse for Family Entertainment, Worst Prequel or Sequel and Worst Screen Couple for Allen and Short. Okay!
Not great, but good for families and people who like warm fuzzies.
pamnewt23 November 2006
We just saw this movie tonight. I was surprised to see it out so far ahead of Christmas, but looked forward to it having seen the first two and enjoyed them. The special effects are as good as before and it was a treat seeing all the actors back. Didn't really miss Bernard until it was over when it suddenly hit me he wasn't in this movie. I was getting kinda irritated with the negative in-laws and thinking I didn't like the whole film until the end which had me laughing and really enjoying myself. Know I'm a sap, but I LIKED the warm fuzzy feeling of family and friends coming together. Martin Short was pretty good as Jack Frost. Tim Allen was perfect as Santa and Mrs. Santa is lovely. If you enjoy seeing movies just for light entertainment, I think you might enjoy this movie.
Use the escape Claus to exit the theater
kooolkyl15 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I saw the first one when I was about five I loved it. I would sometimes even watch it in the middle of the summer. Then the second one came out eight years later and I loved that one too. And then two weeks ago the Santa Claus three came out and wow was I disappointed. I saw the trailers on TV and in other movie theaters and I was so excited to see it and was really disappointed. The storyline was not followed and was often caught off guard. The trailers were set out for the whole movie to be about Tim Allen to figure out a way to become Santa Claus again. Ummm....wrong. He isn't Santa for a grand total of approximately 20 minutes, and then all the sudden he is Santa again. Don't get me wrong, this movie is great for little kids but not for fans of the first two Santa Claus movies.
**Spoiler** Bernard does not appear as the head elf anymore like he did in the first two. Curtis takes his place
Scotts son Charlie is only in the very beginning and in the very end and has only ten lines. But you do get to see a lot of Scott's niece Lucy, and Laura and Neil.
Oh yea say hello to the in-laws!
**Spoiler** Bernard does not appear as the head elf anymore like he did in the first two. Curtis takes his place
Scotts son Charlie is only in the very beginning and in the very end and has only ten lines. But you do get to see a lot of Scott's niece Lucy, and Laura and Neil.
Oh yea say hello to the in-laws!
Tis the season to be jolly ! ! !
roblop19 November 2006
Look, I recommend that everybody just take a chill pill and relax for a second. This movie is not trying to be anything more than a fitting finale to what has proved to be a great trilogy of films. Too many people are being too critical and expecting too much from this film. The story is fine, a nice pleasant easy to follow plot with help from some nice additions to the cast, especially Alan Arkin as Santa's father-in-law.
Tim Allen continues to impress as the big man himself and Martin Short is great as Jack Frost. I strongly recommend this one as a holiday pleaser and whilst a number of adults will sigh at the films relatively corny ending I strongly recommend staying around for the bloopers during the final credits.
Overall I would definitely say that this is a movie worth seeing, ignore the critics and make your own mind up on this one, you wont be disappointed.
Tim Allen continues to impress as the big man himself and Martin Short is great as Jack Frost. I strongly recommend this one as a holiday pleaser and whilst a number of adults will sigh at the films relatively corny ending I strongly recommend staying around for the bloopers during the final credits.
Overall I would definitely say that this is a movie worth seeing, ignore the critics and make your own mind up on this one, you wont be disappointed.
Better than I expected
CuriosityKilledShawn21 December 2006
Don't get me wrong, there's a lot of sheer crappiness in Santa Clause 3, but there is still enough imagination and twists to balance it out and keep it alive for one more (and hopefully last) movie. I say hopefully last because I don't really think that Tim Allen really has any talent. He seems to have coasted his way into stardom. He also has a thing for doing Xmas-themed movies when he's not making utter crud like The Shaggy Dog or Zoom. But less about him and more about Santa Clause 3.
As Santa/Scott prepares for his massive annual delivery he must disguise the North Pole as Canada so the visiting in-laws don't find out his secret. Also Jack Frost (Martin Short) wants to take over Xmas so he plots to have Santa wiped out of Scott Calvin's history. Cue time travelling and alternate universes.
I really didn't feel a pressing desire to see this film. I did see the first two in the cinema but felt that a third was really pushing it. But when Peter Boyle died and I learned that this would be his last movie I felt like I owed it to him. It's not as bad as it's low score would suggest but is still nowhere near as good as Polar Express or any other recent Xmas film. There's just no magic in it. Santa Clause 3 all looks rather false and phony.
Actors like Alan Arkin, Judge Reinhold and Wendy Crewson are wasted with this kind of material and really should have been allowed to have more freedom with their limited roles.
At the very least it rounds-off a neat little family Xmas trilogy. Please no more.
Oh, and by-the-way, 'Jingle Bells' is not a Xmas song. It's a Thanksgiving Song! And the image of Santa as being the big white-bearded guy in a red suit with fluffy white bits was invented by Coca-Cola to match their bottle coloring.
As Santa/Scott prepares for his massive annual delivery he must disguise the North Pole as Canada so the visiting in-laws don't find out his secret. Also Jack Frost (Martin Short) wants to take over Xmas so he plots to have Santa wiped out of Scott Calvin's history. Cue time travelling and alternate universes.
I really didn't feel a pressing desire to see this film. I did see the first two in the cinema but felt that a third was really pushing it. But when Peter Boyle died and I learned that this would be his last movie I felt like I owed it to him. It's not as bad as it's low score would suggest but is still nowhere near as good as Polar Express or any other recent Xmas film. There's just no magic in it. Santa Clause 3 all looks rather false and phony.
Actors like Alan Arkin, Judge Reinhold and Wendy Crewson are wasted with this kind of material and really should have been allowed to have more freedom with their limited roles.
At the very least it rounds-off a neat little family Xmas trilogy. Please no more.
Oh, and by-the-way, 'Jingle Bells' is not a Xmas song. It's a Thanksgiving Song! And the image of Santa as being the big white-bearded guy in a red suit with fluffy white bits was invented by Coca-Cola to match their bottle coloring.
Jack Frost is jealous of Santa.
michaelRokeefe3 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Knock the rust off those silver bells. Christmas is approaching and Santa(Tim Allen)has really got his hands full. Mrs. Claus(Elizabeth Mitchell) is expecting a baby; her parents(Ann-Margret and Alan Arkin)are coming to visit; as well as Santa's ex-wife(Wendy Crewson). The in-laws don't know that their son-in-law is actually Santa and think he is a toy manufacturer in Canada. The biggest distraction though is that Jack Frost(Martin Short)is jealous of Santa and wants to take over his title and holiday.
There may be a few chuckles; but this film is as interesting as a fermented fruit cake. It seems targeted for children ten and under; so you know what to expect. Some of the costumes appear clever and I hate to really say that Jack Frost is the centerpiece. Also in the cast: Spenser Breslin, Aisha Tyler, Kevin Pollak and Liliana Mumy. The best gift we could receive is knowing this is the end of the series.
There may be a few chuckles; but this film is as interesting as a fermented fruit cake. It seems targeted for children ten and under; so you know what to expect. Some of the costumes appear clever and I hate to really say that Jack Frost is the centerpiece. Also in the cast: Spenser Breslin, Aisha Tyler, Kevin Pollak and Liliana Mumy. The best gift we could receive is knowing this is the end of the series.
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