Defending Santa

Defending Santa is a heartfelt holiday film released in 2013 and stars acclaimed actor Dean Cain, best known for his role in the TV series, “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.” Alongside him is Jud Tylor, an actress renowned for her roles in "That '70s Show" and "Edgemont", and respected character actor John Savage.

The film weaves a charming tapestry of traditional Christmas lore, familial warmth, legal drama, and the spirit of believing in the extraordinary. This is not your conventional Christmas story, but a blend of magic and legal thriller that is a sure treat for the holiday season.

Dean Cain plays Kris Furillo, Sheriff of the small town of Fullerton. One fateful day, he stumbles upon a strange man who claims to be Santa Claus (John Savage). Santa has met with an accident and is unable to continue his role of giving out presents. Kris, facing skepticism and disbelief from his community, is caught in the twofold problem of helping Santa recover and defending his identity against non-believers.

This sets the stage for the central plot and dilemma of the film. Kris has to present Santa's case in court to save him from the local law and bureaucracy. His principal opponent? A skeptical, rational-minded District Attorney named Sarah (Jud Tylor), who is firm about proving that Santa is merely a delusion. As the legal drama unfolds, Kris fights relentlessly to establish Santa's real existence, creating a palpable tension in the courtrooms while stirring emotions for viewers.

But Defending Santa is not just about legal battles and courtroom drama. At its heart, the film is about the power of belief and the magic of Christmas. It goes beyond the sparkle and presents of the holiday season. This movie evokes a more profound reflection on the enduring belief in the true spirit of Christmas, wherein generosity, love, kindness, and compassion triumph.

The character development in the movie is significant in serving this purpose. Dean Cain's character, Kris, isn't just a stoic lawman; he remains open to the wonder of possibilities, reminiscent of a child's unblemished belief in miracles. On the contrary, Sarah, played by Jud Tylor, is practical and reality-bound, resisting belief in the extraordinary. It's their confrontation and interactions that bring the narrative to life and makes the viewers question the nature of faith, reason, and the magic inherent in believing in something beyond the grasp of conventional logic.

The film also brings to life the essence of small-town charm with the setting of Fullerton, beautifully captured in the direction, cinematography, and production design. Fullerton is a quaint, close-knit community, skeptical yet comforting, complete with winters filled with snow-covered pine trees and scenes that frame quintessential American holidays. The town and its inhabitants play the perfect backdrop for the film's unique Christmas tale.

Beyond the principal characters, the film is abundant with supporting roles that lend depth to the narrative, ranging from the court's judge to the local townsfolk. It is in their actions and conversations that the movie extends its reach beyond the main leads and adds layers to the storytelling.

Primarily, Defending Santa is a film whose messages are universal, all-encompassing, and valuable. It appreciates values such as faith, kindness, love, and the spirit of togetherness, which are essential not just for the holiday season but for everyday life. It prompts viewers to affirm faith in the surreal, even when societal norms imply otherwise, and keeps the magic of Christmas alive.

In conclusion, Defending Santa is a heartwarming holiday film that goes beyond jingle bells and decorated trees. The movie's compelling narrative tells a dual story: a fight for faith in the courtroom and a reminder of the classic values and beliefs associated with Christmas. The engaging performances of Dean Cain, Jud Tylor, and John Savage, coupled with a captivating storyline, makes Defending Santa a film worth watching. Whether you're a Christmas movie enthusiast, a fan of courtroom dramas, or someone who simply seeks a refreshing spin on a classic holiday story, Defending Santa is the movie for you.