‘Outrageous’ Christmas action comedy with Fallout star streaming free
Some claim it is the perfect movie for the festive period if you’re after something different
An ‘outrageous’ Christmas action comedy movie that features a Fallout star is currently streaming for free.
Fatman is an alternative title for audiences to check out along with their usual festive film viewings. However, it is definitely an option to wait for when the younger family members have gone to bed.
Originally released in cinemas back in 2020, it wasn’t long before it was making an impression on digital storefronts. Now, a few years later, it has found multiple new streaming homes.
Best yet is one of those options allows users to check out the film for themselves at no extra cost. While the film is currently streaming on Prime Video, those without a subscription can also find it on Plex.
Plex is an ad-supported streaming platform available on most devices or via web streaming. It also doesn’t require users to log in to stream many titles.
According to the film’s synopsis, Fatman follows an out of his luck Chris Cringle, also known as Santa Claus, who in an attempt to save his declining business, is forced into a partnership with the U.S. military. Making matters worse, Chris gets locked into a deadly battle of wits against a highly skilled assassin, hired by a precocious 12-year-old, who is more than unhappy after receiving a lump of coal in his stocking.
The cast features non other than Mel Gibson taking on the role of Santa. Meanwhile, Fallout star Walton Goggins plays the assassin and toy store worker Jonathan Miller who has his own personal grudge against Chris Cringle.
While the film was not a massive hit with critics, it has certainly found its own fanbase. It boasts an 84% fan score rating on website Rotten Tomatoes. Although one reviewer did claim: “Fatman is outrageous on paper but surprisingly level-headed in execution. It needs to be a little looser and crazier to attain cult status, but as it stands, it works more often than it doesn’t, and boasts enough ho-ho-hos to warrant a watch.”
Many fans have shared their recommendations, with one simply stating: “Ridiculous in the best way.” While another went so far as to say: “This is probably one of the greatest holiday movies of all time, however, it won’t receive the appreciation it deserves because of poor critic reviews.
“Great acting by a great cast, especially Mrs. Claus… all boxes are checked here: funny, dramatic, suspenseful, realistic action, emotional moments… “
Others suggested it for those looking for something unexpected. One person posted: “Fatman is a surprisingly fun and different take on a Christmas movie. Mel Gibson plays a tough, worn-down Santa, and it actually works.
“The movie mixes dark humour, action, and heart without getting cheesy. It’s not your typical holiday film, but that’s what makes it enjoyable. If you want something a little gritty and entertaining instead of the usual feel-good stuff, this one’s worth watching.”
While others agreed that the central performances elevated the experiences, with Mel Gibson and Walton Goggins on fine form. One person suggested: “The role Mel Gibson was meant to play! This movie is not slapstick or over the top violent. It is entertaining, however, in its self-aware, melodramatic treatment of such a ridiculous premise. I’m not kidding, the acting by all involved, Especially Mel and Walton, is fantastic.”
Another agreed: “This movie is absolutely ridiculous and I love it for it. It’s silly, weird, and it knows it. The serious tone of the movie does very well to highlight the hilarity of the scenario. Mel Gibson is fantastic and Walton Goggins is the best damn thing about the movie. All in all, I love this movie far more than I should and it’s definitely the perfect Christmas movie.”
Fatman is streaming on Plex and Prime Video. For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website