Common Sense Media Review
By Tracey Petherick
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Made-for-TV Christmas caper is formulaic, unthreatening fun.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
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Where to Watch
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'Twas the Night
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In 'TWAS THE NIGHT, Santa (Jefferson Mappin) crash lands his sleigh on the house of teenager Danny (Josh Zuckerman), knocking himself out in the process. Danny, together with his wayward uncle Nick (Bryan Cranston), realize they're going to have to deliver all the presents themselves, so set off across town using Santa's magic. However, as Nick starts to use this newfound magic for his own selfish means, Danny discovers Nick is less a lovable rogue and more an actual con artist. Danny is not only forced to question how he feels about his favorite uncle, but also how he's going to make amends and help his siblings and Santa to save Christmas.
Is It Any Good?
This Disney Channel offering from 2001 draws on the tried and tested formula for a classic Christmas caper. Family tensions, petty crime, skepticism over the existence of Santa Claus, and a series of misadventures that place Christmas itself in jeopardy, are all present. There are a few ludicrous plot lines, and some dated special effects that will unintentionally raise a giggle, but overall it's decent, mischievous fun.
Cranston, in the days when he was known as "the dad from Malcolm in the Middle," exercises his comedy chops as wayward Uncle Nick, the worn out con artist who's "on the naughty list for life." He inevitably learns his lesson -- this is Disney after all -- but not before a lot of lying, thieving, and generally irresponsible behavior. While 'Twas the Night can't compete with Christmas classics like Elf or even 2018's The Christmas Chronicles, it does have plenty of festive charm. And despite the sometimes unsavory behavior of naughty Nick, this Christmas caper will no doubt get the whole family in the holiday mood. When Santa uses tickling to overcome the baddies, you know you're in a pretty safe place.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what message 'Twas the Night is trying to tell. Why is it important that we don't label people as "good" or "bad?" Discuss the idea that being "naughty or nice" is never clear-cut.
Would you consider any of the characters in the movie good role models? Who can you relate to and why? Can you also see these characters' flaws?
Talk about Danny's relationship with Uncle Nick. Why do you think Danny looks up to him, even though Nick is selfish and irresponsible?
Many Christmas movies follow a similar formula, featuring family tensions, Santa skeptics, and the threat that Christmas won't happen. Why do you think this formula works, and which other movies have you seen with these elements?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : December 7, 2001
- Cast : Josh Zuckerman , Bryan Cranston , Brenda Grate
- Director : Nick Castle
- Studios : Disney Channel Original Movies , Disney+
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Holidays
- Run time : 87 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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