I guess this is the Harriet the Spy for boys, in the coming-of-age/rites-of-passage department. And the moment I realised this, I began to really worry about writing yet another, “I know everyone else loves it, but I’m sorry …” review, lol. I still have to say, I didn’t find this the treat I expected as my first Christmas movie of the season, especially after meaning to finally watch it for quite a few years and never getting round to it. And it’s not just ‘cos it’s such a “boy’s tale” – though I won’t deny that’s a huge part of it … I won’t go there ‘cos ‘tis the season to be jolly and all.

Though I can completely grasp the intangible nostalgic love Americans in particular will have for this slice of Americana – it’s just not Christmas as I know it, that’s why I’m out mostly – I can’t understand anybody who would truly call it a great movie. It’s made by the guy who made Porky’s and it shows. But to each their own, I guess. I laughed enough – most particularly at the Santa version of the, “You’ll shoot your eye out,” line – but it won’t be appearing on my Christmas schedule again for many years to come. Pouts I would’ve loved a pink bunny costume for Christmas, lol.