User Reviews

Somewhere between the sugary sweet fantasies of Rankin-Bass and the more cynical (yet enjoyable in their own right) offerings like "Scrooged" lies this little TV movie. It makes few efforts at being cool, instead aiming for pre-teen innocence, or maybe just the innocence adults think they had at that age. In any event, whether by design, by accident or even by the idealizing effects of misty childhood memory, this movie has won a place in the hearts of many kids and kids at heart who watched it in the 1980s.

It has all the usual ingredients for a decent Christmas movie. Family strife, imminent peril but no real violence, little people as elves, singing, colorful toy clutter, and some fairly imaginative Christmas-themed props. But it takes itself fairly seriously and doesn't devolve into complete goofiness like "Elf."

This was one of the early movies showing a "high tech" Santa, far presaging "The Santa Clause" or "Santa vs. the Snowman." Of course, by modern standards, the effects are primitive, but remember that this is a kid's movie, and kids are not nearly as picky as adults are. Which is a good thing. Take it for the story and don't whine that it's not a Disney/Pixar visual extravaganza. It could have been a lot worse, being a TV movie, and you have to give them points for doing quite a bit of exterior filming on location in Alaska rather than some fakey soundstage. The interiors of North Pole City were small, limited by the budget, but there was a bit of homey coziness in there.

If there is one real weakness in the movie, it's the acting. Many were fine, including Jaclyn Smith, Art Carney, June Lockhart, Paul Williams (alas, at 5'2", too tall to look convincing as an elf, especially when around all the real dwarfs playing elves) and veteran character actor Mason Adams. On the other hand, R.J. Williams was not a good child actor, being roughly in the same league as the "Full House" era Olsen twins. He overacted during most of his scenes, and the emotion just never seemed genuine. In the other direction was Paul Le Mat as his father. Every line, facial tic and gesture seems to come out of an acting class technique. It doesn't feel like anything comes from his heart. With flat delivery of his lines and an unexpressive face, he was terrible and as unconvincing as his young co-star. A second problem is that Santa was very passive in this. He never really does anything to try to save North Pole City other than convincing Claudia and the kids. Later on, in desperation, he says that he'll have to take matters into his own hands and convince Michael himself, but nothing comes of this.

All in all, it's a worthwhile treat for the family, although it may bore some adults who didn't grow up with it.

I caught this movie on TV once when I was kid. I don't remember too much of it, only to say that it was one of the more exciting Christmas TV movies I've seen, with a catchy music score and dramatic acting. The plot about an oil company unknowingly disturbing Santa Claus' North Pole village while exploring for oil, which leads to Santa enlisting the aid of the explorer's wife and children is pretty captivating.

Many made-for-TV Christmas movies have a sappy message with a romantic subplot. This one has an actual rescue mission theme, which makes this a suspenseful story. You will also get to see Santa explain his secrets in delivering presents all around the world. I also remembering the lead character receiving a sparkling star from Santa Claus as a gift, reminding you the miracles of Christmas.

Overall, it's a pretty good family film for Christmas time.

Grade B

BEWARE OF FALSE REVIEWS & REVIEWERS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW TO THEIR NAME. NOW WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE MOVIE. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THE FILM . NOW I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 300 HOLIDAY FILMS. I HAVE NO AGENDA.

The Night They Saved Christmas is a 1984 American made-for- television Christmas film directed by Jackie Cooper and executive produced by Jack Haley, Jr. and Robert Halmi, Jr. The film, about an oil company dynamiting in the North Pole in search of an oil field unaware that they are endangering Santa Claus, starred Jaclyn Smith and Art Carney and premiered on ABC on December 13, 1984.

This film is worth watching. It has a charming cast and a story line that hits all the right notes without diving into the deep end. This is a Television-Movie so the Special Effects are limited and not the best however the film story works and that is what counts.

I've enjoyed this movie ever since I've first seen it back in the 80s and still enjoy it today. The special FX are decent especially for the era this film came out of but better than most(Santa Claus conquers the Martins). The plot of drilling for oil at the North Pole area is unique. And Santa's dislike of the song "Jingle Bells" can be agreed upon by most during the Christmas season. The scenes of Northpole City are very creative. The use of technology however does take a little away from the mystery surrounding Santa Claus but then people today want everything answered with science. The movie helps make Santa into a more realistic character. A highly enjoyable film for the whole family.

The whole movie gives such a warm, cozy feel. The style of the movie is just perfect. It's very believable, and down to earth, you could say. The explanation of Santa's powers is about as believable as it gets in Christmas movies, and Art Carney is the only person who could ever fill the boots of Mr. Claus so well. When I close my eyes and envision my ideal Santa, it's his face that pops to mind. That's the lasting impression this movie has left. It's been my favorite Christmas movie since I was old enough to remember.

The setting is a departure from the usual Christmas fare, as well. The family travels as it moves to new oil drilling sites, and as a little boy, seeing the construction equipment in the intro credits, coupled with the fact that it's a Christmas movie left an impression upon a lot of my interests at that age. All little boys love dump trucks and construction equipment, and somehow it fits into a Christmas tale.

If you've never seen this, you must.

I taped this wonderful little Christmas offering back in '84 when the kids were still in nappies. We have watched this flick religiously every yuletide season since (takes a LOT to wear out those old BETA tapes!) I'd like to see someone criticise this flick in the presence of my kids - that'd be really messy!!!

Well cast with engineer Paul le Mat being warned-off drilling near the North Pole for fear of his blasting, endangering Santa's workshop. He and wife Jaclyn Smith were the right choice here, exuding just the right amount of parental care and not-quite disbelief. Love the scenes in Santa's factory - Art Carney is simply perfect as Santa. If this one doesn't re-awaken the child in you, it simply was never there.

Oh and that final scene? everyone looking in different directions? It's a classic!

Feel good holiday entertainment for the entire family. Good take on how Santa's home in the North Pole can exist without anyone finding it. Old time theme where no one believes the children until it's almost too late. Race against time to save Christmas, Santa and the North Pole make for a thrilling finish. The best part is when Santa tells the mom about her own childhood Christmas and she is awe struck and brought to tears. Remember the magic of Christmas is in our hearts. Jaclyn Smith is one of the most beautiful and classy actress of all time. Her grace and beauty alone is worth watching this picture. I recommend it for children of all ages.

I recorded this movie off Television many years ago. My entire family watches it each year (several times). My kids are now 17 and 19 and still watch this MUST SEE movie. We all still believe, after watching this movie how can you not believe. We have watched it so very many times our copy is now dragging and the sound is just awful. I would very much like to surprise my family by ordering a copy either VHS or DVD, because I am afraid my copy will soon be useless. If any one knows of where I could buy a copy of this movie, please let me know. Jaclyn Smith is my favorite actress of all times and she continues to show her talent in "The Night They Saved Christmas".

This is quite the odd little movie, isn't it? "Christmas" is initially little more than a passing word on the time of year, and the drama playing out as exposition is very ordinary familial discontent and professional difficulties. The thrust of the plot is then introduced very quickly, setting up the conflict as a confluence of those common elements with the typical holiday film storyline of "saving Christmas," and - to a small extent - an underlying environmentalist message. Then consider the cast, including 'Charlie's Angels' mainstay Jaclyn Smith, Art Carney, and singer-songwriter Paul Williams - this is at once exactly what I expected, and not.

True, 'The night they saved Christmas' is kind of a mixed bag. I really appreciate the production design and art direction. Aspects like set design and decoration, set pieces, and painted backgrounds look fantastic. Costume design, hair, and makeup bear the weird distinction of being rather fanciful, where the denizens of North Pole City are concerned, yet also perhaps a little too over the top and overbearing. Either way, I appreciate the contributions of those behind the scenes. Still, those special effects that are employed are generally less than perfect, and weaken our suspension of disbelief. The dialogue is also rife with notions that exceed fantasy to include facets of science fiction, further straining our artificial credulity. To be fair, this is a family-friendly TV movie, and one should anticipate more than a few such indelicacies.

That just makes it all the more strange that this is, in total, rather well-made and enjoyable. Imperfections and ham-handedness aside, the screenplay is surprisingly strong, with an engaging narrative, and robust scene writing. Characters have a measure of real depth and personality, and where dialogue isn't outright gauche, it is pretty smart at times. Moreover, there are unexpected, welcome ideas and themes broached at varying points. Apart from a minor environmentalist touch, there's also passing emphasis on anti-gun, anti-violence politics; unmistakable reference to patriarchal condescension, and sexist disbelief and patronization of women; and lack of responsibility or accountability for the rich and powerful. All these are woven into the story quite organically, however, keeping the plot foremost - just with added flourishes to taste.

Though restricted by the heavy-handed style, the primary adult cast put in fairly good displays of acting, and Jackie Cooper's direction is quite fine. The score throughout is suitable, though not necessarily remarkable - while the song that plays at the very end is several steps too far. Apart from the effects, there's not really anyone one flaw here except for the decidedly overdone simplicity and overwhelming childish mirth that we tend to get from pictures of this nature - kids' movies, holiday movies, made-for-TV movies. It's an unfortunate detriment to the overall quality, though if someone is wholly open to such films, no doubt this would be held higher in their esteem. For my part, I did enjoy 'The night they saved Christmas,' and on the balance I think it's worth checking out if you come across it - just know what you're getting into, then sit back and enjoy the silliness.

THE NIGHT THEY SAVED CHRISTMAS has to be one of the most annoying movies ever-(made-for TV or otherwise). The storyline is really insipid, the performances-with all due respect to Art Carney-are unbelievably bad.

A real good-for-nothing holiday non-classic.

MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATRE 3000 can't even salvage this one.

Rating: 1/4 * out of *****

I've been looking for this movie all over the internet, all i can find is amazon, even my local video stores don't have it..one of the most heartwarming stores I've ever seen, just a super job of bringing you a little down then lifting you up with the belief in the north pole folk. Wish it were a little more widely available. Best Christmas movie I've seen. It would be a good investment for a family who wants to spend some quality time together and see the magic of Christmas. Paul Lemat and Paul williams are excellent as is Jacly Smith who seems to appear all to infrequently in movies these days.

Again a masterful job of bringing the magic of Christmas alive and making believers out of even the most cold hearted.

I liked this movie.

I remember watching this as a little kid with my mom and really believing that it was all real.

It's a real shame this movie isn't played that often anymore.

It's a light-hearted Christmas movie that serves its purpose, to make children believe in Santa and everything Christmas!

Art Carney was great at playing Santa and the set was adorable!

I loved Jaclyn Smith's character!

She, as always, looked beautiful.

That woman can't age!

Once upon a time there were three little girls who went to the police academy - two in Los Angeles, the other in San Francisco - and they were each assigned very hazardous duties. But one married a geologist and his company was dynamiting near North Pole City. Now she works for me. My name is Santa.

A new assignment for the former member of "Charlies Angels." Jaclyn Smith has to save Christmas from the greedy oilman, Mason Adams, from "Lou Grant." Her husband played by Paul Le Mat (American graffiti, Melvin and Howard) doesn't believe she met Santa. He doesn't really care about anything but bringing in that oil for his boss.

Art Carney (Harry and Tonto, "The Honeymooners") is Santa, who really doesn't do much other than moan about the dynamiting that will destroy North Pole City. In fact, no one does much in this film, and no one really save Christmas. It just so happens that they discovered oil seconds before they were going to destroy Santa's home.

But, what the heck, we don't watch these films for great acting. They are just for fun and to get into the spirit.

This is one of my favourite movies from my childhood. It's a must-see if you love Christmas and the whole idea of Santa Claus. Every child should see this movie (but you'll enjoy it even if you aren't a kid anymore!!)

I first saw this movie when it was on TV. I just loved it. It made me believe in Santa Clause. It shows such imagination. A very heart warming story. I think everyone should see it. I watch it several times during the Christmas season. The movie depicts Santa's north pole like I think it would look. It's the best depiction ever. The movie is such a feel good movie. I cry a happy cry every time I watch it. If this movie doesn't make the scroogeiest person believe in Santa, nothing will. My thanks to the cast for making this movie. I have a young great niece and nephew and I intend to have them watch this movie this year. I know they will love it.

Thank you for making the best Christmas movie ever.

Okay I know that this is an 80's film as well as a kid's movie so I really should expect the over the top and hammy acting, it was all the rage then. But the dialogue is really awful at times. And what I value more than sets, effects, costumes or even plots is acting. I just wasn't very impressed with it.

The film is terrific! The question I have is, does anyone know why the DVD is not available for Region 1 players. The only DVD I can find is for Region 2 only. I have the VCR tape now but would really like to get the DVD. It doesn't have to be Blu-ray. We look forward to watching this movie every year at Christmas time & our VHS tape is getting kind of bad. No matter how many times we watch it, it is still one of our favorites. Any help in finding this DVD would be appreciated. I've tried all the obvious sources but can't seem to find it. Too bad they didn't do a second movie a year after the first, I think a follow up would have been a great idea.

I loved watching this one with my kids when they were little and now can't wait to share it with my grandkids.

North Pole city was so magical.

Great scenery.

I loved the way Santa made the Jaclyn Smith character believe in him.

It has something to appeal to all ages from 2 year olds up to .......

Not too heavy for kids and not to silly for adults.

The only thing I didn't like was the way the parents were at odds over

living up there.

I didn't see the relevance of that as far as bringing anything to the movie- that part could have been left out.

Anyone who doesn't like this movie is just an old Scrooge. :D

🏆 EXCELLENT CHRISTMAS FAMILY FILM... This is a superb Xmas film that's destined as a holiday classic for years to come.... FIRST RATE CAST has alot to do with the film's success... ART CARNEY (The Honeymooners) is PERFECT AS SANTA 🎅... He plays it very natural and believable and never falls into stereotype.. JACLYN SMITH (Charlies Angels) gives one of the very finest performances of her entire career (Just watch her tender emotional scene with Santa as he proves to her that he's the real thing).. JUNE LOCKHART of course was born to play Mrs. Claus. Her warmth is her trademark and here it's perfect... PAUL WILLIAMS is the finest elf ever in a Xmas movie. Just the right touch of respectful seriousness and whimsy... The 3 KIDS are also just right, with the youngest being a standout. Only weak link is a bland performance by Paul Le Mat as the dad... This is the family Christmas movie everyone, especially the kids, should make a point to watch every year.. IT SIMPLY TOWERS ABOVE MUCH BIGGER BUDGETED MOVIES THAT ALWAYS PUT SPECIAL EFFECTS ABOVE HEART.

At the time it came out there were things I liked and things I did not like. I didn't like how the cast did not mix well and Paul Williams, as great an Ape as he was, had something to be desired as an elf. It was an odd portrayal but still enjoyable with. Happily, he did grow on you. Jaclyn Smith may have the looks but she seemed stiff back then. It was nice to see her now, years later. I think her part was not well thought out by the writer, but she makes it work.

Art, what can I say about Art. His portrayal and sincere acting makes his part. Although, this has nothing to do with his Twilight zone character, it meshed very well with it. Art had a way about him that made you feel the parts he played from serious to funny.

June Lockhart, always had very good parts that she played great. I don't think she ever got that great part that really stood out. At least, here she nearly had that part. She made her part great as she did in many others.

I think I like this movie far better than when I did as a young adult. Its wonderful.

this movie is really great! especially to a person who loves the holiday season.

i am glad that i could catch it on cable.

otherwise, i would have never heard about it.

it gives me this great warm feeling and renews my love for the season.

i only have one question.

what's with the bearded lady elves and the main guy elf wearing eyeshadow?

i thought he was angela lansbury at first but then i found out it was a man elf.

the movie definitely gets a person to think about what humans are doing to nature as well.

i could not go without this movie.

I'm going to make it a personal tradition.

I think this is a great movie, and that Art Carney made a wonderful Santa Claus. This is one of my "must watch" movies every Christmas. June Lockhart makes a great "Mrs. Santa" as well and you get a good glimpse into Santa's modern North Pole workings. The father, busy trying to hit the oil that he knows is there, and trying to appease a very demanding and inconsiderate boss, is losing touch with his youngest. His wife has had enough of the constant up-rooting of the family, and informs him that she and the kids are going back to civilization after the New Year, with or without him. Next he is confronted by "Ed" who is Santa's "Chief Elf" who tries to convince him that his use of explosives is endangering the existence of "North Pole City, and there is good chance he will blow up Santa Claus". He thinks it is s joke, being pulled off by a well known company prankster, but when his wife and kids go with Ed, and do not return, and the prankster knows nothing about any of it, things turn serious. Even with his wife and kids missing, the boss doesn't lighten up one bit, but rather threatens his job if he doesn't find that oil and soon. Find the oil, wife and kids missing, hateful boss, wife ready to leave him, and some elf says he's destroying Santa...what next?