John Lithgow is a terrific villain in "SANTA CLAUS: THE MOVIE."  Dudley Moore is also a pretty good elf, and Santa's ok, but the problem is the film's direction by Szwarc. Sure, he did direct "SOMEWHERE IN TIME," but let's be honest, in spite of its "trekkie-like" cult following, it wasn't that great!  It was good, but too unevenly paced, and that's the biggest problem here.  Alexander Salkind, responsible for the "SUPERMAN" movie franchise set out to make an epic Santa Claus film, with state-of-the art special effects so that audiences would believe Santa, like Superman,  could fly.  Well, some of the effects are entertaining, but many are mediocre, giving an atmosphere more like "SUPERGIRL," than "SUPERMAN." 

The script by David Newman, the writer responsible for such classics as "BONNIE AND CLYDE," "BAD COMPANY" and "THERE WAS A CROOKED MAN," has some surprisingly inventive twists to it, and our grandchildren and their friends noticeably enjoyed this film, even over repeated viewings.

ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT has provided two separate transfers for this film.  One is the pan&scan version, and the other is letterboxed. Both contain the same extras.  The pan&scan version cuts off so much information, and while children won't notice it, the production design is so important to the film it's a shame to miss any of it, let alone almost 1/2!  The pan&scan image is extremely grainy, and colors never feel quite right. There appears to be some artifacting as well. 

The letterboxed version has been mastered with "THX," and it looks much sharper!  There is still some grain, however, colors are richer, and appear more accurate.  The contrast is superior as well, offering deep blacks and grays. Fleshtones appear natural throughout.

A Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is presented for both releases.  While surrounds are utilized in various spots, this isn't an aggressive mix.  Still, the music is boosted through all speakers, and surround/directional effects come to life during some key moments. Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

An audio commentary with Szwarc and Special Projects Consultant Scott Michael Bosco.  It's a pretty dry commentary, and while they both elaborate on how certain "big" scenes were done, it becomes tedious very quickly.

A featurette with behind-the-scenes footage and interviews is offered, as well as trailers.

In spite of lack-luster extras, and uneven pacing, kids of all ages will enjoy this and it's worth recommending as a stocking stuffer.