Directed by Sarah Smith and Barry Cook, written by Peter Baynham and Sarah Smith , Arthur Christmas is a family animated feature film featuring the voices of James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, and Bill Nighy. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, the film will be available on Netflix in France on December 1, 2025.
At the North Pole, a secret organization orchestrates the worldwide distribution of gifts each year using a massive, high-tech device. An error occurs when one child is forgotten, triggering an unexpected mission.
Arthur, Santa's youngest son, clumsy but determined, sets out to deliver the missing gift. Accompanied by his grandfather and an elf who specializes in gift wrapping, he embarks on an unpredictable journey across the globe.
Produced by Aardman Animations and Sony Pictures Animation, the film combines 3D animation with graphic influences from Aardman studio productions. The project was initiated after the release of The Pirates!, with the ambition of approaching Santa Claus' logistics from a military and contemporary angle. The voice recordings were made in the United Kingdom and the United States. James McAvoy was then known for Atonement and X-Men: First Class, Hugh Laurie for the series House, and Bill Nighy for Love Actually and the Pirates of the Caribbean saga.
The plot features a fast pace, family dynamics, and a coming-of-age story, aimed at a family audience aged 6 and up. The story is based on action, humor, and the principle of an urgent mission, accessible to children while remaining understandable for adults.
Mission: Christmas The adventures of the Christmas family
Film | 2011
On Netflix December 1, 2025
Animation | Running time: 1h38
By Sarah Smith, Barry Cook | Starring James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy
Original title: Arthur Christmas
Nationality: United Kingdom / United States
The film offers a family adventure centered on Arthur's mission and the secret mechanics of the North Pole.
To go further, check out our selection of new Netflix releases for December, our guide to streaming releases on all platforms, and today's selection of What to watch today on streaming.
