Celebrated yet often overlooked during the holiday season, Arthur Christmas is now available for streaming on Paramount+. When discussing iconic Christmas films, titles like It’s A Wonderful Life, Elf, and Home Alone frequently dominate the conversation. Surprisingly, Arthur Christmas emerges as an underrated gem, boasting a commendable 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This rating starkly contrasts with the general perception of it being among the worst Christmas films ever made.
Another factor contributing to the film’s underrated status is its box office performance. Despite its positive critical reception, Arthur Christmas managed to generate only $147 million globally, which is relatively modest compared to the returns of other holiday blockbusters. However, the film now enjoys renewed visibility on streaming platforms like Paramount+, adding it to an extensive selection of festive movies available on services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+.
What Makes Arthur Christmas Stand Out
The Heartwarming Plot
At the heart of Arthur Christmas lies an engaging narrative that effortlessly blends humor with heartfelt moments. The story follows Arthur, the youngest son of Santa Claus, who continues to embrace the magic of Christmas. His sibling, Steve, harbors ambitions of taking over Santa’s role, prioritizing efficiency and presentation over the genuine spirit of the holiday. Meanwhile, their grandfather, Grandsanta, represents traditional Christmas values that resonate with Arthur’s sense of wonder.
The plot unfolds when a mishap at the North Pole leaves one little girl without her Christmas gifts. Faced with Santa’s lethargy and Steve’s apathy, Arthur embarks on a mission with Grandsanta to rectify the situation. This adventure takes audiences on a humorous exploration of what truly gives Christmas its meaning, complemented by Aardman’s exceptional animation style, ensuring that Arthur Christmas remains a worthy holiday classic.
A Star-Studded Voice Cast
The film features a stellar voice cast, including the acclaimed James McAvoy voicing the lead character, Arthur Claus. Hugh Laurie lends his voice to Steve Claus, contributing a touch of sarcasm indicative of his character’s business-like demeanor. Furthermore, Jim Broadbent and Bill Nighy depict Santa and Grandsanta, respectively, enriching the film with their formidable acting skills. The cast also includes talents such as Imelda Staunton, Ashley Jensen, Marc Wootton, and Michael Palin, completing a well-rounded ensemble.
|
Arthur Christmas Character |
Voice Actor |
|---|---|
|
Arthur Claus |
James McAvoy |
|
Steve Claus |
Hugh Laurie |
|
Grandsanta |
Bill Nighy |
|
Malcolm/Santa Claus |
Jim Broadbent |
|
Margaret/Mrs. Claus |
Imelda Staunton |
|
Bryony Shelfley |
Ashley Jensen |
|
Peter |
Marc Wootton |
|
Ernie Clicker |
Michael Palin |
The collective performances elevate Arthur’s spirited optimism and disdainful humor, thanks to outstanding portrayals by McAvoy and Laurie. Broadbent’s warm portrayal of Santa strikes a perfect balance, while Bill Nighy’s whimsical characterization of Grandsanta adds a comedic flair. Imelda Staunton brings warmth to her role as Mrs. Claus, contributing to the film’s emotional depth.
Ultimately, the synergy between the captivating narrative and the stellar voice performances renders Arthur Christmas a delightful choice for holiday viewing. With its arrival on Paramount+, it presents an ideal opportunity to revisit one of the most overlooked festive films of recent years, just in time for the upcoming Christmas season.