Matt O’Connor
It’s Day 5 of the Beacon’s Christmas Movie Countdown! This next film is wildly different compared to the ones we’ve looked at so far. Released in 2019 from Netflix Animation, Klaus depicts a very different version of Santa and tells a heartwarming story about how jolly old Saint Nick came to be.
Taking place in Norway during the 19th century, the film follows postman Jesper Johansen being assigned by his father to establish a post office in the town of Smeerensburg. It’s there where he meets Klaus, a reclusive toymaker hidden within the woods. After delivering a toy to a young boy, Jesper and Klaus work together and begin to establish the tradition of children writing letters and receiving the toys that they wished for.
This film is unlike any other and features an incredibly strong cast including the talented voices of Jason Schwartzman, Rashida Jones, Joan Cusack and J.K Simmons as Klaus. This film is also notable for featuring Norm Macdonald’s final film role before his passing in 2021. The film’s animation is gorgeous with dynamic lighting and cozy vibes. The ending of the film in particular is a standout and offers a meaningful conclusion to the character arcs of both Jesper and Klaus.
Upon its release, the film was critically acclaimed and went on to be nominated for the 92nd Academy Awards for Best Animated feature. Klaus’s nomination also marked the first time that an animated film released by a streaming service was considered for the award. Klaus excels in so many areas, and I think it’s one of the best Christmas tales in recent years. Day 6 will be here before we know it!
