Jack Frost is a 1998 American Christmas fantasy film directed by Troy Miller. It stars Michael Keaton as the titular character, a musician who dies in a car accident and comes back to life as a snowman. The film also stars Kelly Preston, Joseph Cross, and Mark Addy.
Jack Frost was released in the United States on December 11, 1998, to mixed reviews. Some critics praised the film’s special effects and Keaton’s performance, while others criticized its plot and sentimentality. Despite the mixed reviews, the film was a box office success, grossing over $34 million against a budget of $85 million.
Review by Ben Dover:
Alright, you whippersnappers, gather ’round and listen to old Ben Dover tell you about this movie they call “Jack Frost.” Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Oh boy, another heartwarming Christmas classic.” Well, hold your horses, because this ain’t no “Miracle on 34th Street.” This here’s a story about a deadbeat dad who gets a second chance at life as a… wait for it… a snowman. Yep, you heard that right. A snowman.
Michael Keaton, the guy who used to be Batman (back when Batman was actually cool), plays Jack Frost, a musician who’s more concerned with his career than his family. He’s always on the road, missing his son’s hockey games and his wife’s… well, I don’t know what his wife does, but he’s always missing it. Anyway, Jack finally kicks the bucket in a car accident, but through some Christmas magic, he comes back as a snowman. Now, you’d think he’d use this opportunity to, I don’t know, solve world hunger or something, but no, he just wants to play hockey with his son.
The special effects in this movie are about as believable as a politician’s promise. The snowman looks like something you’d find in a department store window, and the way it moves is just plain unnatural. The music is your typical sappy Christmas fare, the kind that makes you want to stick needles in your ears.
But here’s the thing, despite all its flaws, “Jack Frost” isn’t a complete disaster. There are a few genuinely touching moments, and Keaton gives a decent performance, even if he does look ridiculous as a snowman. And hey, at least it’s not another one of those superhero movies that these kids are so obsessed with these days.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars (because even a grumpy old man like me can appreciate a little Christmas spirit)
Starring:
- Michael Keaton as Jack Frost
- Kelly Preston as Gabby Frost
- Joseph Cross as Charlie Frost
- Mark Addy as Mac MacArthur
- Henry Rollins as Sid Gronic
Special Effects: Subpar. Frosty the Snowman had more convincing movements.
Music: Saccharine sweet Christmas tunes that will make your teeth ache.
Synopsis and Plot Breakdown:
Jack Frost is a musician who neglects his family in pursuit of his career. He dies in a car accident but is magically brought back to life as a snowman. As a snowman, he tries to make amends with his son, Charlie, by playing hockey and teaching him life lessons. They bond over snowball fights and winter activities, but Jack eventually realizes that he can’t stay a snowman forever. He melts away, leaving Charlie with the memory of his magical winter with his snowman dad.
Famous Quotes:
- “I’m not a loser, I’m a snowman!” – Jack Frost
- “You can’t let fear keep you from living your life.” – Jack Frost
- “The greatest gift you can give someone is your time.” – Jack Frost
- “I’m the coolest dad in the whole world!” – Jack Frost
- “I love you, Charlie.” – Jack Frost
Notes:
- The film was a box office bomb, grossing only $34 million against a budget of $85 million.
- Three of Frank Zappa’s children, Dweezil Zappa, Ahmet Zappa, and Moon Unit Zappa, appear in the film.
- The snowman was designed by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.
- The film was shot in Truckee, California.
- Michael Keaton learned to play the harmonica for the role.
Trailer: