On the one hand, from the start the picture seems overproduced, whether one considers this in terms of obvious (though good-looking) computer-generated imagery, or simply the slick, shiny, waxy veneer that defines the fundamental image. On the other hand, maybe that ultra-polished presentation is perfectly deliberate and part and parcel of the prevailing ethos here. After all, the violence is extra over the top, the characters we're introduced to in the active plot represent well-trodden tropes and stereotypes that should be familiar to anyone who has ever seen a decent cross-section of modern Hollywood horror flicks, and this horror-comedy readily presents with a cheeky air about it that informs it's less than serious about itself. In fact, whatever one thinks of the former qualities, the latter start to take over in no time: 'Sint' (alternatively known as 'Saint Nick') is not as free-wheeling and outrageous as some like-minded flicks, and it tends more to carry itself with a sly wink and knowing smile. Anyone who is open to the blend of genres will nevertheless find much to enjoy here, and however much one may wish to nitpick, it's as well made as one could hope of movies in the twenty-first century. This is a really good time!
Granted, the feature is a tad slow on the uptake, for beyond the carnage of the opening scenes (a prologue), fairly tame exposition fills the first third, and the pacing is kind of lax generally. It should also be noted, as in text preceding even the studio logos, that this title includes depiction of the folk figure of Black Pete; rightly and increasingly considered racist, tradition is slow to die out in some places. Yet as the story picks up more in the second act, so do both the blood and gore and the wryly overcooked, humorous sensibilities. Yes, there is an actual story here, and even as it primarily serves as a vehicle for the brashness, crimson, and viscera - and is both simple and pretty ordinary for genre fare - one can't fault filmmaker Dick Maas for shaping a solid tale that's worthy of most any of its brethren. The characters, dialogue, and scene writing alike are all just as tried and true, but no less sturdy, and Maas' direction is similarly capable. One might observe that the man seems to derive influence from a discrete type of blockbuster of preceding years; particularly when it comes to action sequences, one could easily substitute Not-So-Jolly Old Saint Nick for another being and this would look a great deal like Joe Johnston's 2010 remake of 'The wolfman,' or even 2003's 'League of Extraordinary Gentlemen' adaptation. Still, 'Sint' has no illusions about what it is, and the film happily plays in the space that's carved out for it.
As ever, the more we see of the CGI the worse it looks, but it's fine in and of itself. Given the purposefully overdone approach, in the best instances of the digital wizardry I'm reminded in some measure of John Carpenter's misunderstood 'Ghosts of Mars,' which is an incredibly high compliment if you ask me. The practical effects, special makeup, and stunts, meanwhile, are roundly terrific, and this is well made in every other regard. From Maas' direction and original score, to the editing and cinematography, and including the commendable acting of the cast, no one can say this wasn't professional, or crafted with skill and intelligence. The biggest issues this faces aren't the common aspects of the writing but the most overt examples of the CGI and especially the comparatively soft tone and pacing; through these I think the production is limited from achieving its full potential. Be that as it may, Maas wanted only to entertain, with a violent holiday horror-comedy romp, and he ably does just that. It's not flawless, but it's fun, and when all is said and done I think 'Sint' is exactly what it wanted to be. One way or another there's no need to go out of your way for it, but if nothing I've described puts you off and you're open to the style, this is a swell picture that's worth checking out if you have the opportunity.
