Movie Review: “Fatman” (2020) – A Dark and Twisted Holiday Action-Comedy
“Fatman,” a 2020 action-comedy film directed by Eshom and Ian Nelms, offers a unique and darkly comedic take on the Santa Claus mythos. Starring Mel Gibson, Walton Goggins, and Marianne Jean-Baptiste, “Fatman” combines elements of holiday cheer with gritty action and dark humor. In this review, we’ll explore the key elements that make “Fatman” a standout holiday film and where you can stream or purchase it in the United States.
Plot Summary
“Fatman” centers around a disillusioned and hard-bitten Chris Cringle (Mel Gibson), who operates his Santa Claus business out of a remote Alaskan town. Faced with dwindling income and a government contract to keep his operations afloat, Chris is a far cry from the jolly figure most people imagine. Meanwhile, a spoiled and vengeful young boy named Billy Wenan (Chance Hurstfield) hires a hitman known as the Skinny Man (Walton Goggins) to kill Santa after receiving a lump of coal for Christmas. As the hitman closes in on Chris, a showdown ensues, blending holiday themes with intense action.
Performances and Characters
Mel Gibson delivers a compelling performance as Chris Cringle, portraying Santa Claus as a weary and rugged figure grappling with modern realities. His portrayal adds depth and nuance to the character, making Chris both relatable and formidable. Walton Goggins shines as the eccentric and relentless hitman, bringing a mix of dark humor and menace to the role. Marianne Jean-Baptiste, as Ruth Cringle, provides a grounding presence and adds warmth to the otherwise gritty narrative.
Direction and Cinematography
Eshom and Ian Nelms’ direction effectively balances the film’s dark comedy and action elements. The film’s pacing keeps viewers engaged, with a mix of intense action scenes and character-driven moments. Cinematographer Johnny Derango captures the stark beauty of the Alaskan landscape, enhancing the film’s atmosphere and providing a fitting backdrop for the unconventional holiday story.
Themes and Messages
“Fatman” explores themes of redemption, resilience, and the clash between idealism and reality. The film presents a gritty and grounded take on the Santa Claus legend, highlighting the struggles and complexities of maintaining faith and goodness in a harsh world. It also delves into themes of revenge and morality, questioning what it means to be good or bad in a morally ambiguous world.
Streaming and Purchase Options
For those interested in watching “Fatman,” it is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Additionally, you can rent or purchase the film on services such as Google Play, Apple iTunes, and Vudu. These options provide convenient access for viewers in the United States to enjoy this dark holiday film.
Conclusion
“Fatman” (2020) offers a fresh and twisted take on the traditional holiday film, combining dark humor, action, and a unique interpretation of Santa Claus. With strong performances from Mel Gibson and Walton Goggins, and thoughtful direction from the Nelms brothers, the film provides a memorable and unconventional holiday viewing experience. Whether you’re a fan of holiday movies or looking for something different, “Fatman” delivers an entertaining and thought-provoking ride.
