So, what is your favorite Christmas movie of all time? For some of us, that question might be hard to answer, given the fact that so many of them have been produced over the years. Maybe you are the sentimental type who enjoys classics like Rudolph: The Red Nosed Reindeer or Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Maybe you prefer a mixture of warmth and romance with Love, Actually or enjoy charming comedies like Arthur Christmas. On the other hand, you might enjoy explosions and one-liners so much that Die Hard has to be your go-to Christmas flick (yes, it is a holiday film). Still, there is a group of people who find joy and realization in one of the most unlikely of films: Bad Santa. While you might be surprised to hear this, Hollywood’s most crass, drunken Santa Claus actually might prove to be more useful as an educational tool this season. So, how can this black comedy turn into a blackboard for addicts? Let’s take a closer look at why Bad Santa is the perfection intervention film for Christmas.
Not Your Grandfather’s Santa Claus
Obviously, the famous film starring Billy Bob Thornton will not be at the top of your children’s Christmas film schedule this year. As you may have guessed from the title alone, this man is not our grandfather’s Santa Claus. However, beyond its swearing and downright disgusting humor, Bad Santa delivers an award-winning performance that perfectly depicts an alcoholic at his worst (on multiple occasions).
Released theatrically in 2003, Bad Santa tells the story of Willy T. Stokes (Billy Bob Thornton), a drunken reprobate who works as a mall Santa by day and a small-town thief by night. Accompanied by his dwarf sidekick Marcus (Tony Cox), the two rob the companies blind before taking extended trips. Only this time, Willy finds an urge to turn his life around after meeting an innocent boy called the Kid (Brett Kelly).
Drunkenness at Its Best (in This Case)
If you have known an alcoholic or alcohol abuser or if you are currently concerned that you are suffering from one of these conditions, Bad Santa might be the Christmas film for you. Peel away the dirty humor, and you will find an absolutely brilliant portrayal of drunkenness. Throughout the film, Thornton stumbles around in an alcohol-induced stupor and gulps down bottles of scotch like Pepsi. If you were ever concerned about drinking before, this film will either change your mind about booze or make you reconsider your options (whether you want to or not).
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Always remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.
