When Santa Claus decides to retire, he appoints a washed-up kiddie show host (Douglas Seale) to take his place. Along the way, the real Santa ends up in the slammer on Christmas Eve, and it's up to goonish, glad-handing Ernest P. Worrall (Jim Varney) to bust him out. Varney plays a handful of supporting characters, including a slick-talking attorney. This film was followed by Ernest Goes to Jail. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
Long live Jim Varney! I watch this movie instead of those other "Christmas Classics". What it lacks in production value it more than makes up in heart and hilarity. Though the concept of Santa selecting his replacement and the way the gift sack works was well thought out. Maybe cause it debuted on my birthday or cause I crushed heavy on Noelle Parker but I've been enjoying this silly movie for years.
This isn't an Oscar worthy movie by any means, but it is a fun Christmas movie. Ernest movies have their own style, and sense of humor. If you don't like it I understand, but if you like Earnest P. Worrell than you will enjoy this.