Entering the Christmas trifecta...
3 - Bad(der) Santa
Without any doubt, this has got to be the one film that couldn't be any further away from a traditional Christmas movie. Ironically enough, it may be that very reason why it's one of the better films of the season. Sometimes folks have to take risks when it comes to making comedies and this one definitely pays off.
I seriously doubt there could have been anyone better suited to play the role of a foul-mouthed, sex-crazed, drunken Santa Willie than Billy Bob Thornton. So far, there hasn't been one movie he's been in that I haven't liked. This one proved that even has it in him to make a
classic comedy as well.
My favorite scene in here is the interaction between the characters played by Bernie Mac, Tony Cox and Thornton. Mac discovers that Cox and Thornton are con men and wants in on the action. That negotiation scene is priceless. It's what isn't said that makes is to so good and that's the expressions on Thornton's face throughout the whole scene.
The best part about "Bad(der) Santa" is the kid played by Brett Kelly. No matter how much Thornton goes off on him, curses and belittles him, he still maintains the same stoic look and pleasant demeanor all throughout the flick. I still wonder how that kid was able to keep a straight face playing opposite Thornton. Eventually, he wears down Willie and gives him something worth fighting for.
Sadly, this would also be the legendary John Ritter's final acting appearance and they rightfully dedicated the film to his memory. No matter what, he'll always be Jack Tripper but his role as the mall manager made "Bad(der) Santa" that much better.
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