Becoming Santa: A Documentary
“Becoming Santa” explores deeper than typical holiday documentaries. It offers a warm journey into Christmas’s true essence. This is alongside the transformative experience of wearing Santa’s costume. The documentary, directed by Jeff Myers and starring Jack Sanderson, provides a charming and insightful look at the true essence of becoming Santa Claus. It goes beyond the traditional costume.
The movie opens with Jack Sanderson, a bachelor without kids experiencing a sense of detachment during the Christmas season. Seeking a deeper connection to Christmas, he makes a decision that changes everything: he decides to become Santa himself. The journey is deeper than just wearing the famous red suit for comedic effect. To fully embrace his role as a professional Santa, Sanderson immerses himself in the experience by bleaching his hair and beard to achieve the desired appearance. During Santa school, he learns to deliver the “ho ho ho” while acquiring techniques to communicate with children, pose for photographs, and most importantly to become the embodiment of Santa’s joy and wonder.
Santa’s Journey
The film documents Sanderson’s journey through parades and tree lighting events while participating in endless photo sessions with kids. The documentary covers more than just his story. Audiences encounter multiple experienced Santas who share their distinct viewpoints and narratives which enrich the apparently straightforward role. To some people Santa represents a vocation while others believe it helps maintain childhood enchantment. Their stories reveal Santa’s emotional significance as they witness children crying with happiness, overhear intimate secrets shared with Santa, and observe strangers put their faith in this emblem of warmth and benevolence.
The uniqueness of “Becoming Santa” emerges from its combination of comedic moments with heartfelt emotion. Sanderson’s training sessions spark laughter while occasionally revealing unexpected depth. The film demonstrates that the holiday season extends beyond material symbols to something more profound. The holiday spirit thrives through personal connection and empathetic interactions while spreading joy quietly transforms lives. The journey of becoming Santa involves a transformation that extends beyond public perception to include a fundamental shift in personal worldview.
“Becoming Santa” demonstrates during December’s season of giving that the true holiday spirit emerges when you actively create it. All viewers who cherish Christmas magic should watch this festive film regardless of their holiday behavior.
