Common Sense Media Review
Magical (if mindless) family holiday fun.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
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The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 4 parent reviews
Based on 16 kid reviews
Kids say that while some found this installment to be magical and enjoyable, many others criticized it as a disappointing ending to the series, with unconvincing performances and juvenile humor. Some reviewers noted that it offers mild entertainment for younger viewers, but significantly lacks the charm and wit of the original film.
- disappointing series end
- juvenile humor
- mild entertainment for kids
- lack of charm
- mixed opinions
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In the franchise's third installment, Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) has a rival for his job as Santa: Jack Frost (Martin Short), who has a big chip on his shoulder about always having to play second fiddle to the popular Claus. But, as the title suggests, there's an "escape clause" in Scott's contract, which takes Scott and Jack back to the moment when Scott first pulled on the enchanted red coat and became Santa. This time around, Jack grabs the garment and -- presto! -- he becomes Santa instead. This is not good. Not good at all. Mainly because Jack is sorely lacking in people skills. Unlike Scott, Jack isn't doing the whole Santa thing to bring joy and happiness to people around the world. He's only thinking of himself -- so much so that he re-names the holiday "Frostmas." Jack doesn't have the warm, fuzzy factor that Scott has, either. He frightens the kids, blames them when things go wrong, and takes the spirit of the season and turns it into one big commercial for himself.
Is It Any Good?
The Santa Clause movies don't require a lot of brain power, but, frankly, that's what makes them entertaining. They're just good, old-fashioned fun, with some magic and mischief mixed in. Allen has found a great niche in family movies, and sidekick Spencer Breslin (who's shared the screen with Allen in several movies) is funny as head elf Curtis. New additions Ann-Margret and Alan Arkin (as Scott's in-laws) bring some freshness to the franchise, and, of course, Short is his usual over-the-top funny self. If you're just looking for a lighthearted movie to share with your kids, this is a great way to kick off the holiday season.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the differences in the way Jack and Scott view Christmas. Scott loves being Santa and bringing joy and magic to people all over the world, while Jack is only in it for his own gain. Does Jack's scheming pay off in the end? And, what is Christmas truly all about? The candy and presents? The magic and joy and spending time with people you love? The religious significance? This is a great opportunity for families to talk about their own holiday traditions and beliefs.
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 2, 2006
- On DVD or streaming : November 20, 2007
- Cast : Martin Short , Spencer Breslin , Tim Allen
- Director : Michael Lembeck
- Studio : Buena Vista
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Holidays
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : general audiences
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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