8/10
In The Christmas Chronicles 2 on Netflix, Kate (played by Darby Camp), one of the leads from the first film, finds herself and Jack (Jahzir Bruno), the son of her mother's boyfriend, transported to Santa's village. Though they're naturally thrilled to be there, there is a sinister reason behind their trip and they and Santa Claus (Kurt Russell) and Mrs. Claus (Goldie Hawn) have to save Christmas.
This is an enjoyable sequel. I did like the first film more, because I felt it brought a little more to the table. This is more of a traditional Christmas film complete with the well-worn trope of the villain who wants to ruin the entire holiday. But, it's a polished predictable film. This is directed by Chris Columbus (Home alone 1/2, Harry Potter 1/2, and Adventures in Babysitting) who is well versed in how to pull off family fare. A lot of stuff is squeezed into this (including a giant mountain lion!). Whereas the first one mostly took place in the mundane world and only a little at the South Pole, this is the exact opposite. Santa's village is the primary location here. It looks nice and really fits the bill. I appreciated the first one for being a little edgier than expected for a Christmas film. This plays things safer, but there are a couple scenes where the film took chances.
Again, Kurt Russell as Santa is the best part. He's sort of like a hip, fun uncle Santa. Hawn ain't too bad herself as Mrs. Claus.
Understand that only so much money went into this and the computer effects aren't always perfect.
I recommend this. Christmas Chronicles 2 may not be the most ambitious of films, but it's fine holiday viewing for you and your kids.
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