Meaning:
The quote provided is from Leonard Maltin, a well-known film critic, and it reflects his positive opinion of the movie "The Santa Clause" and its lead actor, Tim Allen. In his quote, Maltin expresses his appreciation for the film, noting that he found it delightful due to its combination of modern sensibility and sentimental elements.
"The Santa Clause" is a 1994 Christmas comedy film directed by John Pasquin and starring Tim Allen as Scott Calvin, a divorced father who inadvertently becomes Santa Claus after the original Santa falls off his roof and he is magically recruited to take his place. The film explores Scott's transformation into Santa Claus and the challenges he faces as he navigates his new responsibilities while also trying to balance his personal life.
Maltin's description of the film as "delightful" suggests that he found it to be charming, enjoyable, and possibly heartwarming. The use of the word "delightful" implies that the film brought him a sense of joy and amusement, which aligns with the lighthearted and comedic nature of the story.
Maltin's mention of "a modern sensibility" in the film indicates that he recognized the incorporation of contemporary elements or themes that resonated with audiences at the time of the film's release. This could refer to the film's portrayal of family dynamics, humor, or cultural references that reflected the era in which it was made. Despite being a Christmas movie with fantastical elements, "The Santa Clause" apparently managed to connect with modern audiences by infusing relevant and relatable aspects into its storytelling.
Furthermore, Maltin's comment about the film's "sentiment" suggests that he appreciated the emotional depth or heartwarming qualities present in the story. "The Santa Clause" likely struck a balance between humor and heartfelt moments, evoking sentimental feelings and resonating with viewers on an emotional level. The inclusion of sentiment in the film may have helped it transcend mere holiday entertainment and become a meaningful and enduring piece of cinema in the eyes of Maltin and many others.
Overall, Leonard Maltin's quote reflects his positive assessment of "The Santa Clause" as a film that successfully blends modern sensibilities with sentimental elements, ultimately creating a delightful and enjoyable experience for audiences. His words capture the essence of the movie's appeal, highlighting its ability to entertain, connect with viewers on an emotional level, and stand the test of time as a beloved holiday classic.