Angele Colageo
Jesper has been spoiled with all the luxurious comforts of life, served gourmet meals, living in private quarters with silk sheets and fluffy comforters, all while failing his classes. His father, the Postmaster General decides to put his foot down by thwarting Jesper’s attempt to return home and continue living the good life that he has been accustomed.
His father gives him an ultimatum with his own post office in the farthest outpost in the country: Smeerensburg. Jesper is then banished, not to return until he has met the assigned quota of letters.
Once he arrives is Smeerensburg, he quickly discovers the inhospitable environment and it’s constant warring factions, the Ellingboes and the Krums. They make the feud between the Hatfield and McCoys look like a holiday dance. The town has a bell that signals the daily fisticuffs between the two families. The school teacher has become feral as the fishmonger. She no longer teaches due to the children’s lack of attendance.
Jesper decides to do his darndest to reach his assigned goal. He meets Klaus. He is a giant of a woodsman who lives in the far reaches of the forest. All it takes is one letter from a child to spark Klaus and Jesper. The kids send a letter, and they will receive a toy in return!
He convinces one child to write a letter. This multiplies to more children learning how to read and write. Jesper unintentionally sparks positive change to the people of Smeerensburg.
This is a beautifully animated version of the Santa Klaus story. The voice actors in the film are exceptional. Rashida Jones (Alva, the school teacher), J.K. Simmons (Klaus), Joan Cusack (Mrs. Krum), Jason Schwartzman (Jesper), Will Sasso (Mr. Ellingboe). Keep an eye out for the cutest little girl Margu.
The story is charming and sweet. There are lines that the adults would appreciate and moments that the children will enjoy. This should be part of your movie rotation every Christmas!
5 out of 5 Stars
