Nov. 20, 2020|USA|42 Min.|TV-Y
Genre: Animation;Family;Fantasy
Description: The 2020 film *Alien Xmas* offers a blend of charm and predictability, though it lacks the quirky innocence of classic Rankin-Bass holiday specials. Instead, it comes across as somewhat formulaic, with frequent, earnest messages about love and Christmas spirit. Adapted from the 2006 book by director Stephen Chiodo and Jim Strain, the story stretches 40 pages of illustrations into a 40-minute narrative, resulting in a plot that feels somewhat shallow.
The story introduces the Klepts, an alien race that has grown greedy and joyless after depleting their own planet’s resources. Led by their eccentric leader Z (voiced by Barbara Goodson), the Klepts invade Earth with a peculiar plan to disable its gravity and steal all of its possessions. Z’s enthusiasm for the scheme is the highlight of the film, as she gleefully declares, “We will stuff their stuff into our stuff chambers, and then their stuff will be our stuff!”
However, the film could have benefited from more of Z’s over-the-top energy and the absurdity of the plot. When no other Klept volunteers for the mission, the smallest alien, X, is sent to Earth’s North Pole with a gravity-altering device and a grumpy robot assistant. Along the way, X unexpectedly learns the true meaning of Christmas, discovering the importance of generosity and giving.
While *Alien Xmas* has its moments, it ultimately feels more calculated than heartfelt, leaving viewers with a sense of missed potential for a more unique and quirky holiday adventure.
Cast director: Stephen Chiodo
Cast actor: Dee Bradley Baker, Barbara Goodson, Kirk Thornton, Tony Oliver, Keythe Farley, Jessica Gee-George, Steve Staley, Kaliayh Rhambo, Madison Rojas, Jakari Fraser
Original name: Alien Xmas