Bad Santa

Willie Soke and Marcus, two seasoned criminals, initiate their annual holiday scheme by masquerading as Santa Claus at shopping malls. Their primary objective is to use this disguise to disable security systems, allowing them to access safes and make quick money over Christmas Eve.

Upon arriving at a mall in Phoenix, the dynamic between Willie and Marcus experiences tension due to Willie's issues with alcoholism and compulsive behavior. This creates a noticeable strain on their criminal efficiency, particularly attracting the ire of the uptight mall manager, Bob Chipeska.

While at a bar indulging in his vices, Willie begins a romance with Sue, a bartender who harbors a peculiar obsession with Santa. Their relationship introduces further complications into Willie's chaotic life as he juggles his criminal endeavors and personal distractions.

During his shift as Santa, Willie meets Thurman, a sweet child who genuinely believes Willie is the real Santa. Despite the ridicule Thurman faces from skateboarders, his innocence leaves a mark on Willie, illuminating his softer side amidst his criminal façade.

An aggressive encounter in the parking lot prompts an unexpected moment of bravery from Thurman, who intervenes to help Willie. This interaction signifies a growing bond between the two, contrasting Willie's deceptive persona with the child's pure intentions.

Willie gives Thurman a ride home and learns about the challenges the boy faces, including the absence of his mother and a father in prison. Seizing the opportunity, Willie exploits this situation to rob Thurman's father's safe, illustrating his relentless criminal nature.

Bob discovers Willie in a compromising position in the mall's dressing room, escalating tension with the mall's security. Concerned about Willie’s inappropriate behavior, Bob warns Gin Slagel, amplifying the stakes for Willie and Marcus as they conduct their heist.

Willie returns to find his motel room ransacked and is alerted by a nearby prostitute about the potential police involvement. In a moment of manipulation, he decides to move in with Thurman, raising red flags for Marcus, who confronts Willie about his reckless choices.

Willie begins to display a protective nature towards Thurman, especially after the boy faces bullying. This marks a turning point in Willie’s character as he grapples with the implications of his lifestyle choices while caring for the vulnerable child.

In a significant moment of mentorship, Willie encourages Thurman to stand up for himself against bullies, revealing a softer side to his character. This act not only deepens their bond but also highlights Willie's unexpected transformation.

The relationship between Willie and Thurman is threatened when Marcus and his wife Lois reveal their sinister plans regarding the loot. Tensions rise dramatically as Marcus contemplates turning against Willie, leading to a pressing confrontation between the two.

As the police unexpectedly arrive during their mall heist, Willie and Marcus find their plans unraveling into disarray. The chaotic scene forces Willie to navigate a frantic escape, blending the criminal undertones with a moment of desperation.

In a dramatic turn, as Willie attempts to grab a pink stuffed elephant for Thurman during the escape, he is shot in the midst of a frantic chase. This pivotal moment emphasizes the stakes of their criminal venture and the inherent dangers they face.

After the chaos, Willie writes a heartfelt letter to Thurman, expressing his hopes for the future and his longing to change. The letter signifies his commitment to rehabilitation and showcases the emotional impact the boy has made on him.

With the villains apprehended and the threat lifted, Sue steps up to provide care for Thurman in the aftermath. This resolution points towards a semblance of stability and hope emerging in the aftermath of a tumultuous holiday season.