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Klaus (2019) — Review, Streaming & Trivia

Klaus (2019) is a beautifully animated Netflix original film that reinvents the Santa Claus origin story with stunning artistry and genuine emotional depth. Jason Schwartzman voices Jesper, a spoiled postman banished to the miserable arctic town of Smeerensburg, where two feuding clans have made mail delivery virtually impossible. When Jesper discovers Klaus, a mysterious reclusive carpenter voiced by J.K. Simmons, their partnership to deliver toys to children inadvertently gives rise to the traditions we associate with Santa Claus. Directed by Sergio Pablos, a veteran Disney animator, Klaus features a revolutionary 2D animation technique enhanced with volumetric lighting that gives it a painterly, three-dimensional quality unlike anything seen before. Winner of the BAFTA for Best Animated Film, Klaus is a modern holiday masterpiece.

Last updated: February 2026

Klaus poster

Klaus

2019 Dir. Sergio Pablos ★ 8.2/10 IMDb
AnimationAdventureComedy

A selfish postman stationed in a frozen, feuding town befriends a reclusive toymaker, and their unlikely partnership inadvertently creates the legend of Santa Claus.

About Klaus

Klaus (2019) is a beautifully animated Netflix original film that reinvents the Santa Claus origin story with stunning artistry and genuine emotional depth. Jason Schwartzman voices Jesper, a spoiled postman banished to the miserable arctic town of Smeerensburg, where two feuding clans have made mail delivery virtually impossible. When Jesper discovers Klaus, a mysterious reclusive carpenter voiced by J.K. Simmons, their partnership to deliver toys to children inadvertently gives rise to the traditions we associate with Santa Claus. Directed by Sergio Pablos, a veteran Disney animator, Klaus features a revolutionary 2D animation technique enhanced with volumetric lighting that gives it a painterly, three-dimensional quality unlike anything seen before. Winner of the BAFTA for Best Animated Film, Klaus is a modern holiday masterpiece.

Cast

  • Jason Schwartzman
  • J.K. Simmons
  • Rashida Jones
  • Joan Cusack

Where to Watch

Klaus is currently available on the following platforms:

Netflix

Trivia & Fun Facts

  • Klaus was the first Netflix original animated feature to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.
  • Director Sergio Pablos originally developed the concept for the film in 2007 and spent over a decade bringing it to life.
  • The film uses a unique animation technique that applies lighting and texture to traditional 2D hand-drawn animation, creating a look between 2D and 3D.
  • Klaus won the BAFTA Award for Best Animated Film, beating Frozen II and Toy Story 4.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I watch Klaus?
Klaus is currently available to stream on Netflix. Availability may change by season and region, so check your preferred streaming service for the latest information.
Who directed Klaus?
Klaus was directed by Sergio Pablos and released in 2019. The film stars Jason Schwartzman, J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones.
Is Klaus a good family Christmas movie?
Klaus is a popular Christmas movie, though parents may want to preview it first as it may contain content more suited for older viewers. Check the rating before watching with young children.

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