The Santa Trap (2002 TV Movie) User Reviews

Not all that great, but my kids seemed to like it

[russcampbell-1 · 5/10 · 8 January 2006]

I am writing the second review of this movie, but only because the first reviewer recommended it for "all ages of children." Well, perhaps that's not correct. First, there is some mild language (one character says "what the hell", there may be other examples, but that actually may be all) and there are some parts where one character is calling another stupid and showing disrespect. Neither of these are horrible, but it's better to be aware that the movie has this so that you can avoid it, if desired, or make a point of discussing it with your kids. Actually, I'm no prude who never cusses, but my kids aren't old enough to judge who/what/when/where, yet, so I like to avoid it (or at least an overabundance of it). Overall, this movie was not too bad in that department. One of the main things parents of young kids will want to know is that it "outs" the Santa Claus myth in a big way. But since Santa is "trapped" and does turn out to be real in the movie, then there's also a way out of the predicament. This movie is OK for the kids, assuming the other issues don't make you overly concerned, but it's not fare that too many adults are going to watch more than once.

A Good Director and Editor could have saved this mess

[docm-32304 · 3/10 · 18 December 2021]

This film just went on and on and on. I got dumber as it went along and it felt like the writers had a box of ideas and instead of picking and choosing, they tried to fit them all in.

Elves armed with silly string are just a part of this fun movie!

[inkblot11 · 6/10 · 8 March 2007]

Bill (Robert Hays) and Molly (Shelley Long) have moved their family from the northeast to the desert southwest. It was supposed to be a good career move for Bill but he is working lots of extra hours. Molly is having trouble getting her home business growing and laments the change in climate. With the Christmas holiday near, both Bill and Molly are worried about money and missing out on a "white Christmas". On top of that, son Mike has been telling his younger sister, Judy, that Santa does not exist. Judy won't hear of it and makes a "trap" (string and contraptions) to catch Santa when he arrives at their house, which he does! Santa (Dick Van Patten) is a jolly old soul but that does not prevent Bill from thinking he is a burglar and he has Santa arrested and thrown in jail. With children everywhere waiting for Santa to visit their homes, will Kris Kringle be able to deliver his goods? This movie started rather slowly but finished quite nicely. The plot line is fun and the cast is a dream, as Stacy Keach, Corbin Bernsen, Amanda Pays, and Adrienne Barbeau also make their appearances. Children will love to see the elves in the movie, as they not only look genuine but use silly string to get their way when dealing with the police force! Production values and costumes are nice, too. All in all, why not make it a tradition to watch a couple of new-to-you Christmas films each year? And, by all means, start with this one, for it has humor and good messages to extend to every viewer.

I recommend this movie for all ages of children who still hope to believe that Santa exists.

[tulz32 · 19 February 2003]

Santa Trap--This is truly an enjoyable little tale about a girl's strive to prove Santa's existence. and creating laugh-out-loud chaos in achieving her seemingly impossible goal. This was perfect for 12 year old twins and their little brother. not to mention myself who usually shies away from children's programming. I recommend this movie for all ages of children who still hope to believe that Santa exists.

Very Good Family Holiday Movie

[adehart-1 · 10/10 · 26 November 2006]

This movie is great for getting you into the holiday spirit. The part where the little girls sets the trap for Santa is priceless.

I loved the Santa, played by Dick Van Patton. I would recommend this movie for everyone to watch as a family. The movie is funny and brings home the idea of what Christmas is really about.

I really enjoyed the part where the father accidentally brings home the wrong, have-to-have-it toy (been there, done that!). Really funny.

The girl in the movie, Sierra Abel, is a great little actress who I'm sure we'll see again.

Stacey Keach, as the biker who trades places with Santa in jail, is also very good.

Watch with an open mind

[Christmas-Reviewer · 7/10 · 5 January 2017]

BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW. WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE PRODUCTION. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THAT PRODUCTION. NOW I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 Christmas MOVIES. I HAVE NO AGENDA. I AM FARE ABOUT THESE FILMS.

Now if you are a grown adult and don't care much about Christmas then chances are you will hate this. If enjoyed Christmas as a child you will like this. If you have small children then watch this with them. The film would be great tool to use to openly talk about "Bullying" and yes "Having Faith".

This film is not made for adults who hate Christmas (If that's you then watch The Ref and Bad Santa")

I love the fact that this films characters embrace what its like to live in Southern California in December. You want to build a snowman and yet its hot enough to swim! I love the casting of this film because its is full of familiar faces of pro's. It is a nicely done!

In this film a newly transported family from Connecticut faces many challenges on Christmas Eve. When Santa Claus lands on their roof and later arrested the father sets out to free Santa and Christmas itself.

Again watch this with an open mind. Enjoy the film and just remember this when you judge a movie

1) What is the story 2) Is it well told 3) Did it succeed to the audience that it was interned for 4) Do you recommend it 5) Would you watch it again

And that is how I judge a movie. to me it is yes to all these questions

a really nice film

[dkrob · 7/10 · 3 February 2006]

I must admit that the first time I saw this film I didn't think much of it but having seen it many times now I realise that it is a really nice film. Two characters Officer Calhoon and Officer Buckley are really good as are Shelley Long and Corbin Bernsen. Its a children's Christmas story so if you are looking for Gone with the wind or a Godfather type film this definitely is not the film for you but if you are looking for good family entertainment you might like this because I did. No rudeness no swearing no violence just an enjoyable film. The story has already been set out but any film with Shelley Long with children in it is always going to be a good family film