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By Michael Lopez

Over the past few years, there have been tons of movies hoping to give the Santa Claus legend a fresh spin. But none in recent memory come off quite as creative (or fun) as Arthur Christmas. This unique animated outing isn't just exciting for kids, it's great for anyone who's ever left milk and cookies by the Christmas tree.

Created by England's Aardman Studios, Arthur definitely feels wackier than anything you'd expect from Pixar. The characters are much more exaggerated (which is a good thing), the pace is a little more manic, and the jokes have a great British wit behind them. But beyond all that, Aardman has created a very lively and engaging plot.

One big thing that Arthur has going for it is its incredible opening sequence. As the story begins, we find that Santa's gift-giving has become something of a Mission: Impossible. There are elves using night vision goggles, computerized spy equipment, and cloaking devices to ensure that the "nice" kids get presents under their trees.

Santa is in charge of the operation, but we soon discover that he may be due to retire. So the question is, who will take his place? The frontrunner is his son Steve (voiced by House’s Hugh Laurie), a buff military type who's eager to sign on. But Mr. Claus also has another son named Arthur (voiced by James McAvoy). Sweet, good-natured, and incredibly clumsy, Arthur seems like a long shot for the job.

But then, late Christmas night it's discovered that the North Pole’s military operation has forgotten to deliver a gift to one little girl. Everyone on Santa's team seems willing to let it go. Everyone except Arthur. Venturing out with his cranky grandpa, a zany elf named Bryony, and some rickety reindeer, Arthur decides to make the trip (and gets into all kinds of shenanigans along the way).

You can imagine where things go from there. Staying true to its family-friendly roots, Arthur Christmas showcases nobility, determination, and (as with every seasonal movie) the spirit of giving. But the great thing about this flick is, it does it in a fun, inventive, and very original way. Arthur Christmas is definitely not your typical holiday fluff and that's exactly why we love it!

Bottom line: Who cant love a funny movie about Santa Claus? Especially when it's done with such a fresh and loving slant. All of your favorite Christmas icons are here (Santa, Mrs. Claus, the helper elves), but not as you'd expect them to be. And better yet, Arthur Christmas has created some great new characters to fall in love with. Anyone looking for a "feel-good" holiday movie (without the R-Rated mayhem of Harold & Kumar) will not be disappointed with this animated gem.

What's your favorite Santa Claus movie? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Aardman Studios, Arthur Christmas, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Christmas, Holidays, Hugh Laurie, James McAvoy, Movie Reviews, Movies & CineMás, Santa Claus