Arthur Christmas
Columbia Pictures | Release Date: November 23, 2011
7.4
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 140 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
112
Mixed:
20
Negative:
8
Watch Now
Stream On
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Expand
Review this movie
VOTE NOW
 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Check box if your review contains spoilers 0 characters (5000 max)

User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
9
tallmanwritingNov 26, 2011
This movie just entered our family's Christmas rotation. Really fun movie that has something for everyone in the family. If you're looking for a lighthearted break from the holiday stress, get lost in this hilarious tale of Arthur, aThis movie just entered our family's Christmas rotation. Really fun movie that has something for everyone in the family. If you're looking for a lighthearted break from the holiday stress, get lost in this hilarious tale of Arthur, a child-at-heart dreamer who wants every child to experience the magic of Christmas. Well done. One of the few movies I'll actually buy when it's released on DVD. Merry Christmas!… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
5
TVJerryNov 29, 2011
The Aardman animators (best know for Wallace & Gromit) usually infuse their films with deadpan whimsy and eccentric personalities. This is an exception. The story takes place on Christmas night when Santa and his team have one last present toThe Aardman animators (best know for Wallace & Gromit) usually infuse their films with deadpan whimsy and eccentric personalities. This is an exception. The story takes place on Christmas night when Santa and his team have one last present to deliver. Leave it to the eponymous black-sheep son to come into his own and save the day. While the pacing is frantic and almost every frame is full of activity, the characters aren't especially unique and the writing isn't particularly clever. I really wanted to like it, but found it flat and lacking personality.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
All this user's reviews
7
BikerjamesNov 28, 2011
Being a big fan of Wallace and Gromit and Chicken Run I had to see this film. I enjoyed it, although not as much as the critics. There really were no big laughs, but there are many small ones. The most impressive thing about the film areBeing a big fan of Wallace and Gromit and Chicken Run I had to see this film. I enjoyed it, although not as much as the critics. There really were no big laughs, but there are many small ones. The most impressive thing about the film are the visuals, and the 3D is top notch as well. The worse part of the film is that most, if not all of the characters have an English accent and my friends and I couldn't decipher some of the things they said. I also noticed kids getting restless in the theater, so this might be hard for younger kids to follow. Before the movie I had to suffer through a Justin Bieber video who is trying to be a cross between Justin Timberlake and Michael Jackson, but with a much worse voice.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
TyranianApr 19, 2020
One of the better Christmas films with some excellent humour though a lesser Aardman effort.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
0
meydianarizki21Apr 10, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Could have been entertaining
This film had the potential of being entertaining despite the done to death storyline, but fails because of tedious and agonizing length. The characters get on your nerves after a while and nothing much happens as everybody seems to beat about the bush blabbering endlessly. Though it starts off quite well and has some nice moments, by the time you're halfway through the film, the magic is really lost.

I am quite certain that any kid in his right mind would not sit through this. And adults would be forced to cussing and tearing their hair, as the film rolls on and on, utterly lost in a maze of totally unnecessary subplots. If you're planning to entertain your family for Christmas, I'd recommend something else.

Quite disappointed.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
7
GeneNov 23, 2011
The movie somehow works for adults, the constant gags involving spec ops elves and the logistics of billions of gift deliveries keeps the movie entertaining. Im ddocking 2 points because there's a Justin Bieber music video before the movie.The movie somehow works for adults, the constant gags involving spec ops elves and the logistics of billions of gift deliveries keeps the movie entertaining. Im ddocking 2 points because there's a Justin Bieber music video before the movie. First I've heard his music and it shook my faith in humanity, kid can't sing.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
WinstonoboogieNov 23, 2011
The folks at Aardman Productions (Wallace & Gromit; Chicken Run) have done it again with this hilarious, cleverly written, dazzlingly animated Christmas charmer about Santa's two sons - muscle-bound technocrat Steve (Hugh Laurie) andThe folks at Aardman Productions (Wallace & Gromit; Chicken Run) have done it again with this hilarious, cleverly written, dazzlingly animated Christmas charmer about Santa's two sons - muscle-bound technocrat Steve (Hugh Laurie) and mild-mannered dreamer Arthur (James McAvoy) - and how one of them (the title may give you a clue) saves Christmas for one little girl. This may be one of the most visually thrilling 3-D movies ever made, but even in good old 2-D you'll have fun with the very funny screenplay by Peter Baynham and director Sarah Smith, as well as a fabulous cast of voice actors including standout turns by Jim Broadbent as Santa, Bill Nighy as patriarch Grandsanta, Imelda Staunton as Mrs. Claus, and Ashley Jensen as the plucky elf Bryony, who proves herself useful for far more than just wrapping gifts. This one is a delight for all ages and sure to be a Yuletide favorite for years to come.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
JacobDec 19, 2013
Overall this is a really enjoyable film. The characters are likeable, the story is clever, and the film looks nice. It may not be in the style of an Aardman film but it is still enjoyable. I hope Sony Pictures Animation appreciates AardmanOverall this is a really enjoyable film. The characters are likeable, the story is clever, and the film looks nice. It may not be in the style of an Aardman film but it is still enjoyable. I hope Sony Pictures Animation appreciates Aardman because they are good studio. While this is may not feel like Aardman’s other work it is still enjoyable and I will take this over Sony Pictures Animation’s own films such as Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs any day. If you are looking for an enjoyable holiday film, a good animated film, or just sort of any enjoyable movie then definitely check this one out.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
TheQuietGamerDec 24, 2012
It's nice to see a movie that captures the Christmas spirit like this one does. It might just be a new Christmas classic. Either way it's a fantastic movie to watch during the Christmas holiday.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
HalfwelshmanNov 23, 2011
Arthur Christmas does just what a really good Christmas film should - it keeps you absolutely glued to the screen and makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It's expertly animated, slightly satirical, with strong morals and a great voiceArthur Christmas does just what a really good Christmas film should - it keeps you absolutely glued to the screen and makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It's expertly animated, slightly satirical, with strong morals and a great voice cast. While everyone gives their all in their vocal performances, of particular note are Hugh Laurie's efficient and coldly business-minded Steve Claus, Bill Nigh's ancient, senile and mischievous Grand Santa and Ashley Jensen's energetic and confident gift-wrapping elf Bryony. The story carries you along nicely, providing a fair amount of visual pizazz, action and humour along the way. Where Arthur Christmas really shines is in the festive message it promotes. The importance of unconditional family love is a common one in Yuletide movies, but somehow it comes across all the more effectively when the film's subjects, the Clauses are an undeniably dysfunctional, fantastic, yet strangely relatable family. Grand Santa is well past his sell-by date, but is not willing to give up the joys of life, or pass up an opportunity to show the younger generation how a job should be done. The current Santa (Jim Broadbent) is good-natured, but a little incompetent, and has never found the time to engage in any real way with his sons. Steve is desperate to do the best job possible and prove himself to be worthy of taking over the family business. Arthur, on the other hand, while inept, clumsy and generally being quite odd, is the only one in the family who seems to still understand, and truly care about the festive season, and what Father Christmas means to children all over the world. The real question is whether he's wise beyond his years or simply naive. The internal struggle within the family is essentially a battle between idealism (Arthur) and pragmatism (Grand Santa, Santa and Steve), and as a result, the film questions what modern Christmas is. Is it simply soulless commercialism, or is it something more? With these deep messages, as well as the simpler joys it provides, Arthur Christmas is certainly something special. It's just a lovely experience that will warm you to your very core, like a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine in front of the fire.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
NEEBONDNov 25, 2011
Its a joy full ride with santa and specially with arthur who makes the movie funny and adventurous. The movie is very interesting and a very happy family movie. It will make your christmas more magical and watch if something may be left nearIts a joy full ride with santa and specially with arthur who makes the movie funny and adventurous. The movie is very interesting and a very happy family movie. It will make your christmas more magical and watch if something may be left near your christmas tree. Overall a beatifull animated movie. So merry christmas to all of you and wish all a happy and prosperous New year.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
DukeJonDec 30, 2013
Great animation let down by a simple and predictable plot. No villain to speak of so I never felt there was any danger or real point to the story. Looked great, but insubstantial.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
love_sickJan 11, 2012
good flick for kids and adults alike, as i guess most animated films are geared toward nowadays. a very technology-driven delivery of goodies to the good and even bad kiddies.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
hoops2448Dec 12, 2011
Despite the fact that Aardman haven't done a proper computer animated feature in a while (Flushed Away, 2006) and it almost crippled the company financially when it bombed, they seem to have pulled off one of the best animations of the year.Despite the fact that Aardman haven't done a proper computer animated feature in a while (Flushed Away, 2006) and it almost crippled the company financially when it bombed, they seem to have pulled off one of the best animations of the year. Arthur Christmas looks fantastic, its got a great voice cast, it's genuinely funny and it works as both a kids and a grown up film. The story is one of the people that work in the north pole. Its the tale of the clumsy Arthur (James McAvoy) who discovers that ,despite the well oiled nature of his families present delivering operation, a child has been missed. The rest of his family doesn't think it matters so Arthur heads out with the only two people on his side, his grandfather (Bill Nighy) and a wrapping department elf (Ashley Jensen). Because its a kids film they get into the usual highjinks but the film never loses itself with its message being one of optimism while maintaining the fast pace and quick wit with both visual and spoken gags being used to great effect. Its thoroughly enjoyable because it captures the spirit of the season while also making fun of it slightly. It gets you in the mood for the holidays and that's what its supposed to do.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
HappymonkDec 3, 2011
It's another Aardman film, what's not to like? sure it's not up there with Wallace & Gromit or Chicken Run, but it's better than Flushed away. The story is nice, meaningful and relatively heartwarming; which is always good for a ChristmasIt's another Aardman film, what's not to like? sure it's not up there with Wallace & Gromit or Chicken Run, but it's better than Flushed away. The story is nice, meaningful and relatively heartwarming; which is always good for a Christmas film. Some of the jokes may fall a bit flat, but that's not really much to complain about, I haven't seen anything where some jokes don't. I recommend this film to anyone wanting a fun Christmas film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
ZilcellDec 10, 2011
Arthur Christmas is different from any Christmas movie you will ever see. It makes you wonder how Santa Claus really delivers presents. A fantastic story is at the heart.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
cwbradyDec 4, 2011
This was a wonderful Christmas movie for the whole family. My teenage sons loved it and my wife and I loved it more. It is such a funny fast action comedy, we are already talking about getting the dvd to watch it again to see the partsThis was a wonderful Christmas movie for the whole family. My teenage sons loved it and my wife and I loved it more. It is such a funny fast action comedy, we are already talking about getting the dvd to watch it again to see the parts we missed due to laughing too much. Highly recommended.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
aozetaJan 15, 2012
If most of the animated film these days seem to emphasize on milestones about animation, set this aside. Arthur Christmas is sincere in its storytelling. It has this humble effort to simply tell a story on how important it is to make childrenIf most of the animated film these days seem to emphasize on milestones about animation, set this aside. Arthur Christmas is sincere in its storytelling. It has this humble effort to simply tell a story on how important it is to make children happy and not sitting back in times someone gets left out. The voice talents are commendable especially voices for Grandsanta and Bryony. It would even deserve a "voice ensemble" nomination if such a category exist in the Annie. This movie will bring to life the child in you. movienotesbook.blogspot.com… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
amydevidNov 24, 2011
I was very encouraged to find this site. I wanted to thank you for this special read. I definitely savored every little bit of it.


carbon handlebars
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
shownyNov 25, 2011
Not real great. Was definitely expecting more after reading the reviews. Took my 5 year old who opted to watch this over the Muppets! Was wanting a warm holiday film filled with nostalgia and familiarity. Instead it was a British film filledNot real great. Was definitely expecting more after reading the reviews. Took my 5 year old who opted to watch this over the Muppets! Was wanting a warm holiday film filled with nostalgia and familiarity. Instead it was a British film filled with unfamilir scenery, sometimes hard to understand accents (especially for my little one) all the elves had blackberries, and Santa drove a spaceship (not a spoiler b/c this is the first scene!)! Not what I think of when I think of Christmas. It also lacked substance and I was bored. I didn't even giggle once and my son didn't either. Skip this one. Wait next for next year when it comes out on cable! I did like that it was 3D.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
Jefflyn90Jan 1, 2013
Aardman have a definite appeal to their audience. It all comes down to the fact that their films are both intelligent and silly in the same time. There are scenes in this movie which revolve around wit and multiple viewings are highlyAardman have a definite appeal to their audience. It all comes down to the fact that their films are both intelligent and silly in the same time. There are scenes in this movie which revolve around wit and multiple viewings are highly recommended to try and get all the in jokes. This could be the next Christmas classic....its just so happy. It becomes a bit dull during the middle act and some jokes doesn't really work, but the ending much more than compensates to that.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
AqueousDec 7, 2011
An entertaining movie suitable for families wanting to bathe in the Christmas season. The movie's animation is well done and utilizes some very imaginative elements. Although there are some logical plot holes, the kids will surely miss them.An entertaining movie suitable for families wanting to bathe in the Christmas season. The movie's animation is well done and utilizes some very imaginative elements. Although there are some logical plot holes, the kids will surely miss them. Arthur has its moments and laughs. But the thing that bothers me the most is that when you near the end, it feels as though the writers slapped on material to progress the film. This is exemplified by Arthur, who "discovers" the moral of the story, even though he had been preaching it since the start.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
MikeRGDec 14, 2011
Wonderful family film, lots of laughs, great characters and a nice spin on the Christmas mythology. Animation is decent; a tad too long, but provides more entertainment than the other animated films this year.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
MagnificentMDec 21, 2011
The lone Christmas movie of the year turns out to be one of the best made. Though it may look overly silly Arthur Christmas has quite a lot of depth to it that many animated Christmas movies never come close to achieving. The movie takes usThe lone Christmas movie of the year turns out to be one of the best made. Though it may look overly silly Arthur Christmas has quite a lot of depth to it that many animated Christmas movies never come close to achieving. The movie takes us into the world of the Clause family where the role of Santa is passed down from generation to generation. When Santa fails to deliver one present to one little girl, Santa's son Arthur sets out to deliver the present with his old and rather looney grandfather, the former Santa. The 3D effect used here is amazing and it helps to immerse the viewer in magical worlds of flying animals and winter wonderlands. Its well worth the surcharge in my opinion. The voice acting is spot on as well lead by James McAvoy as Arthur. However what truly makes this film wonderful is its charm and its wit, and there is plenty of it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
allmoviesJan 1, 2012
The 3D, CG-animated family comedy Arthur Christmas, an Aardman production for Sony Pictures Animation, at last reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child's question: 'So how does Santa deliver all those presents in oneThe 3D, CG-animated family comedy Arthur Christmas, an Aardman production for Sony Pictures Animation, at last reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child's question: 'So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?' The answer: Santa's exhilarating, ultra-high-tech operation hidden beneath the North Pole. But at the heart of the film is a story with the ingredients of a Christmas classic - a family in a state of comic dysfunction and an unlikely hero, Arthur, with an urgent mission that must be completed before Christmas morning dawns.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
khan2705Jan 30, 2012
Now this is what i was waiting for, a new High-tech Santa Claus/Elves. This one has deep emotions and heart warming and touching feelings to it and at the same time is a story well told in a non traditional way for the good ol Christmas thatNow this is what i was waiting for, a new High-tech Santa Claus/Elves. This one has deep emotions and heart warming and touching feelings to it and at the same time is a story well told in a non traditional way for the good ol Christmas that doesn't feel cliched at all. Superb visuals and everything and you will have a good time.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
skyminsterMay 22, 2012
Arthur Christmas is a really good movie. It's funny, its got good music (like most films), a good and well thought out plot, good characters and great character building (it lets you know what they're like, properly). It's not as good asArthur Christmas is a really good movie. It's funny, its got good music (like most films), a good and well thought out plot, good characters and great character building (it lets you know what they're like, properly). It's not as good as other aardman films, except from flushed away, it's better than that. Well done aardman, you've made another great movie!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
oblique15May 13, 2013
I was surprised, I actually liked it. The reasons I liked it is it gave off a real Christmas feeling, had some silly ideas of how Santa gets his job done, plus it was original. Most Christmas stories are about the same. A good movie to add toI was surprised, I actually liked it. The reasons I liked it is it gave off a real Christmas feeling, had some silly ideas of how Santa gets his job done, plus it was original. Most Christmas stories are about the same. A good movie to add to the Christmas Collection.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
Rox22Sep 11, 2013
Pretty much the best animated Christmas movie in recent years. It doesn't do very much that hasn't been tried before, but it does ooze with charm and Christmas spirit.

Overall:
Buy this movie, watch every Christmas morning with the kids.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
TrilobiteGDec 26, 2015
It's admittedly cringe-worthy at times through a rehashed message on the importance of Christmas spirit, but that is completely mauled over by the unstoppable tide of hilariously crafted characters. Perfectly encapsulating a locked -antlersIt's admittedly cringe-worthy at times through a rehashed message on the importance of Christmas spirit, but that is completely mauled over by the unstoppable tide of hilariously crafted characters. Perfectly encapsulating a locked -antlers family over the Christmas holidays...this is probably my favourite Christmas movie, and with an overly clichéd message, that's quite the achievement.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
BrianMcCriticMar 15, 2013
This film was a real surprise. I thought this would just be another stale Christmas movie, but I thankfully thought this movie was funny and had a lot of heart.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
jeff_reviewsJul 5, 2013
It's a delightful Christmas tale with magical wonder, but it's story telling is just not that powerful. with a similar plot line to many told before, its can dazzle you with visuals, and give you a few moments of heart, and only reallyIt's a delightful Christmas tale with magical wonder, but it's story telling is just not that powerful. with a similar plot line to many told before, its can dazzle you with visuals, and give you a few moments of heart, and only really succeeds when its the winter holidays time of year. But don't get me wrong, I still found it enjoyable, and I would recommend it to those who appreciate the bountiful beliefs of Santa Claus.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
jacob4Jun 25, 2014
The movie is a great family movie for Christmas. It has great animation, good voice casting, fun action and comedy, and a heart-warming storyline. They even made Justin Bieber's ":Santa Clause is Coming to Town" song sound O.K. during the endThe movie is a great family movie for Christmas. It has great animation, good voice casting, fun action and comedy, and a heart-warming storyline. They even made Justin Bieber's ":Santa Clause is Coming to Town" song sound O.K. during the end credits.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
EpicLadySpongeFeb 5, 2016
Another Christmas movie blending in animation to enjoy for everyone and elves. Arthur Christmas is a lovable Christmas movie to enjoy at any age, any time, and anywhere.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
alejandro970Dec 24, 2017
From Aardman Animation that has the lesser home style. That not makes it worthless, the idea of a logistic Santa Claus and a race against time for deliver a last minute gift looks attractive for the kids. For watch it in Christmas time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
ThreeboxIndoorsDec 26, 2016
The problem with christmas movies nowadays, atleast for me anyway, is that they never seem to properly capture the spirit of christmas. Thankfully, Arthur Christmas succeeds in doing that. This is a very fun and enjoyable adventure with aThe problem with christmas movies nowadays, atleast for me anyway, is that they never seem to properly capture the spirit of christmas. Thankfully, Arthur Christmas succeeds in doing that. This is a very fun and enjoyable adventure with a funny script and some great comedic timing. It also addresses how christmas isn't like how it used it be. With lots of companies milking up the holidays, it isn't about the family or the spirit anymore, and this movie addresses that in such a hilarious way. The Santa in this movie is not like the Santa that you remember. He doesn't really do that much, instead he has hundreds of elves that enter the houses simultaneously and just drop everything off, and he is just the face of the company. Meanwhile, we have Grandsanta, who complains that his son has gone too commercial. He was by far the funniest character in the movie. Arthur is the protagonist, and is Santa's son. He is such a caring person with an optimistic attitude that did get annoying at times, but overall he is a great character that makes you want to pat him on the back. Steve is Arthurs brother who is the likely replacement of Santa, but i thought his character was rather pointless to be honest, and i didn't really care about him. There is a moment where i thought the film dragged just a little bit, however the last fifteen minutes of this movie make up for that as they're very intense. Overall, Arthurs Christmas is a great movie not just for kids, but also adults. It succeeds in capturing the christmas spirit, and i'm going to give it an 8/10.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
MonkiReviewsJul 2, 2017
The story feels like a new Christmas classic. The story is also enjoyable, but doesn't have many twists. The ending was great, and better than I expected. It is worth a watch.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
reetaplaysFeb 21, 2018
I don't know why people thought this movie was bad. I thought it had charm and it was also very funny. I watch this every Christmas with my family. It is a good treat. #ChaseMccain4life
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
SantanillaNov 8, 2020
Great movie, I was not expecting it to be so fun and original. Must watch this is highly recommended.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
rwncopDec 21, 2020
It's a surprisingly fun, beautiful and cheerful Christmas movie. It has a very unique take on Santa that increases the Christmas spirit. Santa and Ninja Elves was not something I was expecting, but it was actually really cool. I was alsoIt's a surprisingly fun, beautiful and cheerful Christmas movie. It has a very unique take on Santa that increases the Christmas spirit. Santa and Ninja Elves was not something I was expecting, but it was actually really cool. I was also surprised at how well a lot of the shots are angled, it really adds to the character of the film, being its own unique aspect.

Arthur Christmas is a great animated film, definitely in my top 10 Christmas films.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
More From This Movie

69 Critic Reviews

7.4 User Reviews

Details & Credits|Trailers

Current Movie Releases
By MetascoreBy User Score
1 81 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
2 77 Project Hail Mary
3 75 Send Help
4 73 Hoppers
5 72 The Sheep Detectives
SEE ALL
Essential Links
New on Amazon Prime Video
New on Netflix
Coming Soon to DVD/Blu-ray
SEE ALL