“Bad Santa” Film Background
Released in 2003, Bad Santa quickly became a beloved Christmas movie. Originally starring Billy Bob Thornton, the film was directed by Terry Zwigoff and gained immediate box-office success.
Plot and Style
The film follows Willie, a foul-mouthed alcoholic played by Billy Bob Thornton, who works as a department store Santa each year while planning to rob the mall alongside his dwarf partner, Marcus (Tony Cox). At the time, it was described as “It’s a Wonderful Life meets South Park.”
Production Challenges
- The movie was difficult to produce as an R-rated Christmas film, which was considered a tough concept to market.
- Universal passed on the project, labeling it misogynistic and anti-Christmas.
- Bob Weinstein of Miramax acquired the film for those exact reasons.
- Brett Kelly, who portrayed Thurman Merman, contracted chickenpox before filming and had to be sent home for a week.
- Billy Bob Thornton was reportedly intoxicated during some filming days and hungover on others.
- After poor test audience reactions, Bob Weinstein requested reshoots, which director Terry Zwigoff refused to do.
- Joker director Todd Phillips stepped in uncredited to help with the film.
“It’s a Wonderful Life meets South Park.”
Behind the Scenes
The production endured numerous casting and filming difficulties but still managed to become a holiday classic, a near “Christmas miracle” in bringing the film to the screen.
Original Casting Note
Interestingly, the role of Willie was originally written for a star from The Sopranos, but ultimately Billy Bob Thornton became the lead.
Author's Summary: Despite many production problems, including casting challenges and studio pushback, Bad Santa has become an enduring and unconventional Christmas favorite.
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