Over the past few years, it has seemed like less and less Christmas movies have been released in theaters. I looked forward to possible new Christmas classics but they seem to be few and far between these days. Sure, you get a movie like “Last Christmas” this year, but nothing that really screams Christmas tradition. When I saw Netflix released “Klaus” this year, I knew I had to give it a shot.
The film tells the story of a spoiled post officer worker named Jasper Johansson who gets assigned to the small freezing town of Smeerensburg by the head postmaster (and Jasper’s father) in the hopes that the job will straighten him out. Jasper has to make the town’s post office successful before he is permitted home. When Jasper encounters a local woodsman named Klaus, Jasper hatches a scheme to make his post office a success by manipulating the townspeople and their children.
This film is an interesting spin on the Santa Claus legend and is very unique as a result. Sometimes a break from traditional Christmas stories make for the best new traditions. “Klaus” manages to teach children the values of the holiday while still telling a new origin for Santa Claus that is original.
What helps “Klaus” the most is it’s animation style which isn’t like anything you have seen before. It is an English language film made by Spanish animators. Sergio Pablos actually made his directorial debut with this film and he certainly impresses. Pablos managed to obtain a skilled voice cast led by Jason Schwartzman as Jasper and J.K. Simmons as the title character Klaus.
“Klaus” has the honor of being Netflix’s first original animated film and it couldn’t have been more impressive. It should be noted that “Klaus” clothing can actually be currently purchased at an Old Navy by you. The film is a winner all the way around and is destined to be a new Christmas tradition for many families.
Grade: B+
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