Bad Santa

Bad Santa is a 2003 film directed by Terry Zwigoff, produced by Joel and Ethan Coen, and starring Billy Bob Thornton as the title character and Tony Cox (Friday), (Me, Myself and Irene) as his partner-in-crime. Bernie Mac, John Ritter, Lauren Graham, Lauren Tom, Ethan Phillips and Cloris Leachman are also featured.

Related Topics:
2003 - Film - Terry Zwigoff - Joel and Ethan Coen - Billy Bob Thornton - Tony Cox - Friday - Me, Myself and Irene - Bernie Mac - John Ritter - Lauren Graham - Lauren Tom - Ethan Phillips - Cloris Leachman

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The story principally concerns two con men, Willy and Marcus, who, each Christmas season, seek work at a different shopping mall dressed as Santa Claus and one of his elves. Rather than spreading good cheer, the duo's motive is to rob each establishment, a strategy that becomes complicated when they encounter an 8-year-old who ends up inadvertently teaching Willy the true meaning of Christmas. In addition to being a criminal, Willy is also a bitter and abusive drunk.

Related Topics:
Con men - Christmas - Shopping mall - Santa Claus - Elves

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The movie attracted bad publicity before its release from critics who likened the movie to an "evil twin" of Miracle on 34th Street and chided The Walt Disney Company for allowing such a beloved figure as Santa Claus to be trashed by its Miramax subsidiary. http://www.washtimes.com/op-ed/20031120-075904-1339r.htm

Related Topics:
Miracle on 34th Street - The Walt Disney Company - Miramax

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The film was John Ritter's last live-action role—he died prior to its release—and is dedicated to him.

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