Review of Ernest Saves Christmas (1988) by Ray D — 09 Dec 2007

Probably one of the best of the Ernest movies, which isn't saying very much, especially if you've got a low tolerance for Jim Varney's trademark mugging (the guy could give Pacino lessons in chewing the scenery).

Still, it's a film full of good intentions, and one I enjoyed watching as a kid, so it gets some credit. The plot, such as it is, involves Ernest helping Santa find his chosen replacement, who has to choose between taking on the role of St.

Nick and starring in a Christmas-themed horror movie. Interesting is the focus on language--Ernest stresses the importance of 'Please' and 'Thank You' (He could be a live-action version of Grover, in a way), and Santa's replacement is pressured to use foul language on the set of the film, which would presumably render him unfit to be Mr.

Claus. R.I.P Vern.