Klaus

In a snowbound outpost, a lazy and entitled postal cadet named Jesper is reassigned to a remote town where people have stopped speaking to each other. Struggling with the cold and isolation, he encounters Klaus, a solitary toymaker who lives alone in a cabin. Jesper and Klaus form an odd partnership: Jesper's knack for delivering letters paired with Klaus's handcrafted toys means parcels start showing up for local children. As toys spread through the village, old grudges begin to thaw and new connections appear. Jesper's arrogance sparks comic setbacks, while Klaus's habits add mystery. The tone mixes humor and warmth.

Released in 2019, Klaus was created by Jim Mahoney, Zach Lewis, and Edgar Martins. The feature-length animated film features voice performances from Jason Schwartzman, J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones, Joan Cusack, and Norm Macdonald, blending comedy and heart for family audiences.

It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature, drawing industry attention and introducing its unconventional holiday tale to a wider audience during that awards season, while boosting interest in its animation style. Critics highlighted its emotional beats and inventive visuals, and moral clarity.

Klaus sparked conversations about reviving traditional animation, merging hand-drawn principles with contemporary techniques. Its visual style and gentle humor helped it become a modern holiday pick for families, referenced often when critics praise original, non-musical Christmas films. Animators praised its lighting and frame-by-frame sensibilities as a fresh approach.

Audiences and critics responded warmly, and that's reflected in an 8.228/10 average from 4,503 votes. Many pointed to its blend of humor and warmth, and to themes of kindness, community repair, and how unlikely friendships can shift a place's character. It's a story that leans on small, consistent acts to change people, rather than big miracles.