Variety
A brisk computer-animated adventure clever enough to become essential yuletide viewing.
Full review
Arthur Christmas
British animated Christmas comedy from Aardman Animation (Wallace and Gromit, Flushed Away), featuring an all-star British cast including James McAvoy and Jim Broadbent, following the Claus family and their ultra-high-tech present delivery operation.
McAvoy voices Arthur, the son of Santa Claus (Jim Broadbent) and Mrs Claus (Imelda Staunton), and brother of Steve (Hugh Laurie). Together the family run the North Pole's Christmas strategy, allowing Santa to deliver gifts to all the world's children in one night.
Also stars the voice talent of Bill Nighy - as 136-year-old Grandsanta, a curmudgeon who hates the modern world and thinks things were better when he delivered the presents - and Ashley Jensen (from TV's Extras), as ambitious elf Bryony from the Giftwrap Battalion. From the writer of Borat and I'm Alan Partridge.
2011Rating: G97 minsUK, USAAardman Animation, Sony Animation
AnimatedKids & FamilyFantasy
- Director:
- Barry Cook ('Mulan')Sarah Smith (feature debut, TV's 'The Armando Iannucci Shows')
- Writer:
- Peter BaynhamSarah Smith
- Cast:
- James McAvoyJim BroadbentBill NighyHugh LaurieImelda StauntonAshley JensenMiggie Donahoe
Arthur Christmas / Reviews
Total Film
There are plenty of ho-ho-hos here, but there’s definitely something missing, and we don’t just mean the plasticine.
Full reviewThe Guardian
An odd Anglo-American collaboration that will bring a little brief happiness to undemanding children.
Full review
Hollywood Reporter
Aardman’s sparkling, inventive take on Santa truly delivers the holiday goods.
Full review
Empire Magazine
A great, big joy. Even if you’re a bit bah humbug, just delight in the supremely clever Aardman comedy.
Full review
Share