We current live in one of the darkest periods in human history. Solidarity, common sense and compassion are at stake, especially as the world tends to become more and more social isolated, separating the possibilities of interaction among those who need help the most. Even though we live busy lives, solidarity has been the essential part of any Holiday celebrations, for Christians or not- only if the world really knew the true meaning of Christmas. And despite our inclinations to selfishness and individualism, and the impact of the Pandemic changing the course of our routines in 2020, many of us remained helpful and engaged in social activism. That is the case of a centenarian program created by the US Post Office, that provides relief to lower class families across the country, answering to the requests and dreams expressed in millions of letters humbly written to Santa Claus.
The "Operation Santa" program has never stopped, and now more than ever, they will be able to reach out families that have been impacted by the Pandemic and the country's economic crisis. These guardians of peace are made of the Post Office employees, as well as social activists, community leaders and volunteers.
Award winning director Dana Nachman travels the country on Christmas evening, capturing the magic and warmth of the season and its valuable humanitarian effects. Her cameras reveal the struggles of working-class parents, many stories of survival, including those raged by the California fires, as well as the innocence and hope seen in the children's eyes, with tenderness and enthusiasm. The result is a triumphant, thoughtful, heart-warming, and honest portrait of solidarity and compassion. It also proves that not everything is lost in humanity. Exactly what the world needs right now.
(IFC Films. 12/4. In Theaters and On Demand.)
Review of Dear Santa
