RiffTrax Shorts Season 15 Episode 5 Santa Claus' Punch and Judy
- December 17, 2010
- 8 min
-
(15)
In RiffTrax Shorts season 15 episode 5, the team tackles the holiday classic, Santa Claus' Punch and Judy. This 1948 short film features a traditional British puppet show, retelling the story of Christmas with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself. However, this particular Punch and Judy performance has a somewhat gruesome twist, as Punch brutally beats and kills several characters, including his wife, before being defeated by the good fairy.
As always, the RiffTrax team brings their signature humor and wit to the table, making clever and snarky comments throughout the short film. They mock the outdated and problematic stereotypes present in the Punch and Judy characters, finding humor in the absurdity of a violent and abusive puppet show being used as children's entertainment. They also point out how the film's portrayal of Santa Claus as a benevolent, all-knowing figure clashes with his more modern image as a jolly gift-giver.
The team's commentary is lighthearted and irreverent, but also insightful and clever. They point out the historical and cultural significance of Punch and Judy shows, discussing their origins in 17th century street performances and their evolution as a beloved British tradition. They also touch on the controversy surrounding the use of violent puppet shows as children's entertainment, questioning the appropriateness of Punch and Judy in the modern world.
Throughout the episode, the RiffTrax team stays true to their signature style, offering up a mix of pop culture references and tongue-in-cheek humor. They draw comparisons between Punch and Judy and other violent characters from popular media, such as Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead. They also make jokes at each other's expense, poking fun at their own humorous shortcomings and the quirks of their fellow riffers.
Overall, RiffTrax Shorts season 15 episode 5 offers a hilarious and insightful look at the bizarre world of Santa Claus' Punch and Judy. The team's comedic commentary provides a fresh perspective on the timeless classic, pointing out its wacky characters, strange plot points, and questionable cultural significance. Fans of the RiffTrax team will no doubt enjoy this latest episode in their ongoing series of hilarious movie and TV show commentaries.