The Big Gift

This film surprised me. I came across it on Tubi and thought it would be just as terrible as the rest of the terrible Christmas films. But I found myself really enjoying it. Sure it has it's problems and has a low budget, but I think that's part of the charm of this film. You would think this film had a much bigger budget than what they had. There's no A list or B list actors in the film. But everyone does a pretty good job and the fights scenes are top notch fun. Real locations and real snow was a real plus. The main actor is falling into the real snow and digging through it with his barehands for most of the movie. That's dedication. Considering this was mostly done by one guy with a small crew and his what appears to be just his friends is pretty impressive. This is indie film making at it's best.

With so many Christmas movies being made every year this one stands out. There are giveaways that the budget is low, but that didn't stop me from being entertained. The story was very creative and the resourcefulness of the production really stood out. Even the fight scenes were impressive, very Jackie Chan like. I was also surprised at how many locations this film had, from a scene in Leavenworth, Washington to Moab, Utah. They really take you on a journey. There is a great mixture of humor and heart. You can tell this was made with love. It might not be for everyone, but it's definitely worth a watch.

What a nice change to see a Christmas film that is completely different from the typical "girl and boy fall in love in small town" type of theme. Funny and engaging, The Big Gift will not leave you disappointed at the end. You would expect this quality of film to have a huge budget, it doesn't. But the film does NOT suffer from that detail. The film is clearly shot in multiple locations which adds to its attraction. The lesson learned by the lead character is one that resonates and might even bring a little tear to your eye at the end. The Big Gift should be put on your annual watch list for the holiday season. Sit back and enjoy this new classic.

The Big Gift is a fun action comedy film with incredible set pieces and a great storyline. The film follows a devoted father (Chris) as he fueds with a beefed up, cigar smoking Santa for credit on his sons gift. The film looked and sounded incredible. The cinematography, sets & locations were all MANY steps above your average indie film. Not many other local indie films achieve set design of this level. The Big Gift is a really ambitious film that (more than) pulls off what Director Jarrod Crooks was setting out to accomplish. The film had tremendous characters. Both humorous and likable. It's clear from the beginning that the parents (Chris and Jen) will go incredible lengths for their son Everett. This film will appeal to families (not only in the Midwest) but across the globe. 10/10.

Christmas movies are tricky to make feel genuinely different and special, and this one accomplishes that with a very clever high-concept based on a relatable adult fear, mixed with some fantastic black comedy and action sequences with the style and creativity of a Jackie Chan vehicle. Writer/actor/director Jarrod Crooks and the rest of the cast and crew show how there is still room left for unique stories and achievable within limited means, making this a very inspiring achievement for all low-budget filmmakers.

If you want to see a funny, edgy, poignant, action-filled take on the Santa Clause mythology that showcases the talent and ingenuity of independent filmmakers in the Midwest, this film comes very highly recommended!