Fan CastingThe Fake Santa (1984)

Frank Blitzen, a cynical, down-on-his-luck salesman, despises everything about Christmas. But when a holiday mishap forces him to pose as Santa Claus at a local children’s hospital, he reluctantly steps into the role, determined to just get through it. Things take an unexpected turn when he meets Maggie Frost, an upbeat teacher who ropes him into a series of community events, convincing everyone he’s the real Santa. As Frank stumbles through the antics of being the town Santa with the help of Elf Sam, a mischievous helper, he begins to see the holiday through a new lens. Meanwhile, Frank’s young friend Tommy, a hopeful boy who believes deeply in Christmas magic, encourages Frank to embrace the season. Just as Frank starts to soften, he meets the real Santa, who delivers a magical push in the right direction. Hilarious and heartwarming, The Fake Santa is a journey of transformation, showing that even the most stubborn Scrooge can rediscover the spirit of Christmas.