Santa Clause, The MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +3 1/2 Content: +3

If you want to have some real holiday fun, this is the movie to see. Starring popular comedian Tim Allen of the "Home Improvement" TV show, it's a hilarious fantasy about the Christmas adventures of single dad Scott Calvin (Allen) and his young son Charlie (Eric Lloyd). When Santa falls off Scott's roof and is injured one Christmas Eve, Charlie persuades his dad to put on his Santa suit and finish delivering toys to children all over the world. They later are taken to Santa's toy factory at the North Pole and Scott is informed he is now obligated to play Santa next Christmas as well. All this is great fun for Charlie, but it takes Scott a while to believe this is happening to him. Over the next year, Scott grows very plump and can't help growing a white beard. Needless to say, this leads to a stream of wacky comical antics and wisecracks by Scott in the inimitable Tim Allen style. Scott even begins to like the idea of his new seasonal job, even though he finds himself in big trouble on occasion. Before it's all over, almost everybody believes in Santa Claus. THE SANTA CLAUSE is a laugh-out-loud comedy, and the whole family will get a big kick out of it. The Christmas scenery, spectacular sleigh ride effects and spirited holiday music add to the wonderment of it all.

Walt Disney Pictures has really done this one up right with virtually no objectionable elements and inspiring messages about family love, caring for one's children and belief in the spirit of Christmas. Charlie isn't at all fond of his dad, but their adventures draw them close together, much to the delight of them both. The film's PG rating, instead of G, apparently is due to one mild rough word and a few comical suggestive quips by Scott, including a reference to reading a suggestive novel. Passing gas is used a few times for the comical effect and a policeman is treated rough when the kids tie him up with a ribbon. The theme that it is good to believe in Santa Claus and all the wonderful things he stands for comes across loud and clear. It gives a delightful, warm touch to this fun comedy. Take the whole family to see it.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution Co., 3900 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank CA 91521