Ernest Saves Christmas (1988)

Ernest Saves Christmas Poster

When Santa Claus decides to retire and pass on his magic bag of Christmas surprises to a new Saint Nick, he enlists the aid of a hilarious assortment of characters. A perky teen runaway and hapless taxi driver Ernest P. Worrell must convince a skeptical kiddie-show host to take over the post of Father Christmas.

Intro to "Ernest Saves Christmas"
"Ernest Saves Christmas" is a 1988 American Christmas comedy movie directed by John R. Cherry III and stars Jim Varney as his renowned character, Ernest P. Worrell. This movie is the 3rd in the Ernest movie series, following "Ernest Goes to Camp" (1987) and "Ernest Conserves Halloween" (1988). The film blends humor with the essence of the vacation spirit, as the bumbling and lovable Ernest start a mission to help Santa Claus in his time of need.

Plot Synopsis
The film opens with Santa Claus, played by Douglas Seale, arriving in Orlando, Florida. His objective is to find a replacement, as he is due to retire and requires to pass on his magical responsibilities to a successor. Santa seeks out Joe Carruthers, a former kids's program host, who embodies the pure-hearted nature suitable for the red suit. Nevertheless, Joe is hesitant and at first uninformed of his possible function as the next Santa Claus.

Get In Ernest P. Worrell, a silly and good-hearted cab driver who accidentally picks up Santa Claus at the airport. Ernest is unaware of his traveler's identity, but when he learns of Santa's circumstance, he ends up being a strong ally in his mission to find Joe and convince him to accept the mantle of Santa Claus.

Ernest's Comical Antics
Throughout the movie, Ernest is characterized by his slapstick humor and excellent intents that typically lead to humorous accidents. His determination to conserve Christmas takes him and Santa on a series of comical adventures. Eventually, Ernest himself wears the Santa suit in an effort to perform Santa's duties while the look for Joe continues.

In the process, Ernest befriends a runaway teenage woman named Harmony Star, played by Noelle Parker. Initially self-centered and opportunistic, Harmony considers exploiting Santa's magic for her gain however ultimately experiences a change of mind due to the impact of Ernest and the Christmas spirit.

Climax Leading to the Heartwarming Resolution
The climax of the film involves Ernest and Harmony racing to the airport to rescue Santa, who has been collared after being mistaken for an impostor. Time is running out, as it's Christmas Eve, and Santa needs to pass his magic to Joe before midnight, or the spirit of Christmas could be lost forever.

In a minute of truth, Joe Carruthers, who is on the brink of signing a motion picture deal, realizes his real calling and rejects Hollywood fame to end up being the brand-new Santa Claus. With Ernest's help, Santa Claus and Joe make it to the airport just in the nick of time.

Conclusion
"Ernest Saves Christmas" concludes on a high note, with Joe completely welcoming his function as the new Santa. The magic of Christmas is preserved, and Ernest when again shows his heart remains in the best place. The movie ends with Ernest and Harmony finding out to value selflessness and the joy of offering, declaring the true meaning of Christmas.

The film's distinct mix of funny, heart, and vacation cheer makes "Ernest Saves Christmas" an endearing Christmas classic. It showcases the talent of Jim Varney as Ernest, who embodies a character that resonates with audiences due to his sincerity and unwavering optimism. Despite the movie's mixed important reception, it remains a cherished joyful film for those who enjoy an excellent laugh and a heartwarming vacation story.

Top Cast

  • Jim Varney (small)
    Jim Varney
    Ernest P. Worrell
  • Douglas Seale (small)
    Douglas Seale
    Santa
  • Noelle Parker (small)
    Noelle Parker
    Harmony
  • Gailard Sartain (small)
    Gailard Sartain
    Chuck
  • Bill Byrge (small)
    Bill Byrge
    Bobby
  • Billie Bird (small)
    Billie Bird
    Mary Morrissey
  • Oliver Clark (small)
    Oliver Clark
    Joe Carruthers
  • Robert Lesser (small)
    Robert Lesser
    Marty
  • Barry Brazell
    Cab Passenger
  • Phran Gauci
    Lacy
  • Bill Cordell
    Carl