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Just for fun, the Museum of Science and Industry is adding Santa vs. the Snowman to its IMAX Dome Theatre lineup for the holiday season. You may have previously seen a version of this comedic cartoon on a much smaller screen.
Santa vs. the Snowman originated as a 1997 television show created by Steve Oedekerk (Kung Pow: Enter the Fist, Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls) that obviously didn't become a seasonal classic. The 22-minute computer-animated film has been expanded by 10 minutes for its IMAX engagements, with bookend padding and outtakes played during the end credits. It was also converted to 3-D projection, although MOSI's IMAX theater doesn't have that capability.
What's left for audiences is a lame cartoon that's overstaying its welcome, with 3-D effects we can't experience. For all its colorful touches, this is bland IMAX entertainment.
The story involves a mute snowman who's jealous of Santa Claus' popularity, so he tries to usurp St. Nick's fame. That involves a military conflict in which the snowman's henchmen drive 50-foot-high igloo fighters intended to recall The Empire Strikes Back, and Santa retaliates with a gigantic, fire-breathing Nutcracker doll. So much for peace on earth.
That ugly streak of violence, a misplaced sense of satire and a dearth of jokes (despite Jonathan Winters voicing Santa Claus) make Santa vs. the Snowman anything but worthwhile holiday moviegoing. Call this one The Bipolar Express. C-