Common Sense Media Review
By Monica Jones
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based on child development research. How do we rate?
age 10+
A holiday film about loss promotes compassion, empathy.
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What is the story?
SAINT NICK OF BETHLEHEM follows Nick (Daniel Roebuck), a lonely man reeling from his wife’s abandonment and the death of his teenage son in a drunken driver accident. After one particularly bad night of grief, Nick wakes up to a message from his son to live life to the fullest. As a result, Nick decides to embody the spirit of Santa by giving back to his community through his brother’s used car dealership.
Is it good?
This drama has the foundation of a good story, but the story gets bogged down in meandering, sometimes nonsensical storylines. Too bad, since Saint Nick of Bethlehem it could have been a nice, meaningful, low-budget movie with a big heart. As it is, the film has some odd characterizations and humor at times, not to mention a lack of build-up as to why Nick chose to embody Santa Claus. We know he says his son’s ghost told him that, but we never actually see it to have this epiphany, which makes his explanation seem to come out of nowhere.
Nick’s other decisions also seem a bit unsupported. Why did he decide to make his entire wardrobe red? Why does he seemingly equate Santa with God when he talks to a boy who is also dealing with grief? The questions at the end make what should be emotional scenes feel clunky and emotionally uninspired.
Talk to your kids about…
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Families can talk about grief. How Nick deals with his grief at first Saint Nick of Bethlehem? What makes him fight back as a more positive way to deal with loss?
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How does the film promote compassion and empathy? Why are these character strengths important?
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Are female characters and people of color represented with depth and nuance in the film?
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What spiritual or religious messages does the film have? Do you think it is intended primarily for religious viewers?
Did we miss something about diversity?
Research shows a connection between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews, which will be published continuously. You can help us help children