The Santa Claus Brothers (2001)

TV. I had to get this one through Blockbuster since Netflix still doesn't carry it. The art design and computer illustration are a delight to me -- very Grant Wood-esque. The story, script, and voice talent are all interesting too. (Best line in the show: "Sorry. I've been listening to talk radio.") Santa is ready to retire and his three sons (who come in different sizes and predilections but have the same fashion designer in Mrs. Claus) apparently still need to learn a lesson about Christmas -- because of the duplicitous machinations of one of Santa's "helpers." Santa sends them to Santa Monica to find the real meaning of Christmas, which, despite further mishaps, they inadvertently discover and share with numerous children of the city. This show adds a bit of a back story about Santa's family life that is charming. Made in Canada but with a California vibe, it has the potential to become a modern holiday classic. 4.5 stars.