In Pursuit of Santa Claus is a family comedy directed by James Huth, written by Laurent Tirard and Benjamin Dupas. The film features a cast including Patrick Timsit, Isabelle Nanty, Antoine Gouy, Eugénie Anselin, and Théa De Boeck, embarking on an adventure suitable for children as young as six. Released during the holiday season, it hits French theaters on December 10, 2025, and continues the tradition of Christmas tales aimed at young audiences.
Zoé, 7 years old, struggles to deal with Timothée’s relentless teasing. To turn the tables, she makes a specific request to Father Christmas: a blowgun to destroy her friend’s favorite toy. On Christmas morning, the gift she receives is far from what she expected, throwing her revenge plans into disarray. Determined to find out what went wrong, Zoé embarks on an energetic quest to track down Father Christmas. Her journey takes her into a world filled with surprises, where she discovers the limits and complexities of the magic that inspires children’s dreams.
As her adventure unfolds, Zoé encounters vibrant, memorable characters who support her, challenge her, and force her to confront her own contradictions. What starts as a simple quest gradually turns into a journey of exploring emotions and misunderstandings. The interplay between the young girl, Timothée, and the adults around them creates a story that blends humor, empathy, and a spirit of sharing—without revealing the twists that drive the second half of the film.
Filmed in the spring of 2025 across Luxembourg and Belgium, particularly in the town of Couvin, the movie features carefully crafted winter scenery to anchor its story in a cozy, festive atmosphere. James Huth had been eager to make a Christmas film for children for several years; he came on board after an initial screenplay by Laurent Tirard and Benjamin Dupas, supported by producer Olivia Lagache. The director then revisited the story with Benjamin Dupas, weaving in nods to classic family films like It’s a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra and Home Alone by Chris Columbus.
The Enchanted Forest of the story was partially shot at Plopsaland amusement park in northern Belgium, where several sets were recreated following a last-minute change of filming location. The film also marks the reunion between Isabelle Nanty and James Huth, nearly thirty years after Serial Lover. On screen, Patrick Timsit plays a character requiring daily transformation, involving three hours of makeup and a beard that posed certain technical challenges. The film also introduces young Therèse De Boeck, who lands her first major role here after appearances in short films and Thibault Emin’s Else.
Marketed as a family-friendly adventure suitable for children as young as six, the film targets audiences seeking a festive story filled with laughter, emotion, and imagination. James Huth favors a lively pace, gentle humor, and a visual style that emphasizes wonder and magic. In the spirit of classic Christmas comedies focused on childhood quests, the movie aims to create an intergenerational experience packed with mischief and warmth.
Chasing Santa Claus
Film | 2025
Released in theaters: December 10, 2025
Comedy | Duration: 1h37
Directed by James Huth | Starring Patrick Timsit, Isabelle Nanty, Théa De Boeck, Antoine Gouy, Eugénie Anselin
Country: France | Suitable for ages 6 and up
In pursuit of Santa Claus offers a family adventure where childhood energy, holiday magic, and the spirit of giving come together in a story crafted to bring multiple generations of viewers together.
To extend the theater experience, check out December's movie releases, films to see right now, and our selection of Christmas movies of the year.
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