To this day Bad Santa remains one of the most unique, entertaining and strangely heartwarming Christmas films of all time. Its dark and twisted narrative accompanied by its extremely crude humour created a unique festive experience for audiences. In fact, these story elements (alongside the hilarious cast) have ensured that Bad Santa has remained as my personal favourite Christmas film for many years.
As you can imagine I was delighted at the news that a sequel to the raunchy black comedy was in the works. However, after many years in development hell production on Bad Santa 2 is finally getting underway. With shooting due to commence later this month (hallelujah!) the film is currently in the process of rounding out its cast.
Now, Mad Men star Christina Hendricks has reportedly joined the sequel as a new love interest for Billy Bob Thornton’s despicable shopping mall Santa. Hendricks will play:
‘An Ivy League-educated, upper class woman who runs a charity that is targeted by Thornton’s mall Santa and his foul-mouthed, tough-as-nails mother.’
It will be intriguing to see if the same magic can be recaptured thirteen years after the release of the original. Although, luring back Brett Kelly (Thurman Merman), Tony Cox (Marcus) and of course Billy Bob Thornton (Willie) is definitely a good start. They will also be joined by Kathy Bates, who will be playing Willie’s (undoubtedly revolting) mother.
Hendricks will definitely be amongst some truly unpleasant company in the belated follow-up. But, it’s hard to believe that it will take too long for Willie to seduce the red-headed bombshell. After all, who can really resist a lowlife, thieving, chain-smoking alcoholic when he has the gruff charm of Billy Bob Thornton?
Bad Santa 2 will be released this Christmas.
