Vince Vaughn stars as Fred: an unreliable repo-man with a girlfriend at the end of her tether, a penchant for deflecting blame, and who just happens to be the immortal brother of Nick 'Santa' Claus.

But rather than being proud of his generous sibling for all his hard work delivering gifts across the world (like his parents are), Fred is a little resentful of all the favouritism.

When a financial opportunity arises, he agrees to help Nick at the North Pole.

But can Fred keep out of trouble while the sinister Clyde Northcut (Kevin Spacey) tries to find an excuse to shut down Santa's workshop for good?

If you are a sucker for a great feel-good Christmas movie with a predictable 'triumph over adversity' story set amidst a backdrop of family life and a love story thrown in for good measure, then Fred Claus is for you.

Carefully walking the line between over the top schmaltz and genuine festive sentiment, the film more than manages to keep the sickly sweet slushiness in check - mostly thanks to a comedy orientated director and all-star cast.

Playing the same kind of character he does in every film, Vince Vaughn brings his usual wise-craking fast-talking comedy to the table, which will probably go right over the heads of most under 12 year olds.

But his 'average Joe' quality is a great piece of casting to bounce off Paul Giamatti's rotund, put-upon Santa.

And while older audiences will enjoy the constant streams of talk-back, there are still just enough moments of slapstick visual gags to keep the kids entertained.

However, very young children may find Fred Claus a little too much to take at nearly two hours long, and with more than its fair share of 'just for adults' comedy moments.

With dazzling, colourful set pieces and plenty of amusing elf action, Fred Claus is an easy to watch festive treat that is sure to get even the most Scrooge-like audiences members in the Christmas spirit.

8/10 - A Christmas cracker!