We wrap up all of our special Christmas features with who else, but Santa Claus. Over time there have been many actors taking on the role of Santa Claus, some okay, some pretty bad and some the best of the best. With that in mind here is my personal selection for five of the very best to ever play the role in films.

5. Paul Giamatti in “Fred Claus’ from 2007. A fine dramatic actor, this role was a total departure for him. But he was able to show his comedic side as well as his dramatic skills and pull off a very whimsical, believable Santa that went a long way in making this movie a success.

4. Ed Asner in Elf from 2003. While Will Ferrell was the real headliner, Asner’s role as Santa Claus was a bit of Hollywood genius. He had the look, the voice, the motions. Then add the beard and padded red suit and he made the perfect Santa to go against all of the Elf hi jinx.

3. Tim Allen in the “Santa Claus” franchise of films. There were some who thought that Allen would be totally wrong for the role. But with his comedy/TV sitcom background, it made a perfect fit and he looked fantastic as Santa. So much so that he has essayed the role in all 3 Santa Claus films and a TV series for Disney.

2. Richard Attenborough in the 1994 remake of “Miracle on 34th St.”. The remake of the original wasn’t really that great as the modern day look, dialogue and surroundings just didn’t have the same punch. What saved it was Attenborough and his spot on performance. He had it all in looks, voice, motions and believability as Kris Kringle/Santa Claus in a classic turn.

1. Edmund Gwenn in the original 1947 version of “Miracle on 34th St.” The timing of this film was perfect. It was just two years after the end of WWII and a magical fantasy about Santa was ideal. Edmund Gwenn gave an Oscar winning performance that brought chuckles and tears making us all believe there really is a Santa. For me, Gwenn’s performance will always be number one.

Those are my top five. Who are some of your favorite movie Santa’s and why. Let us know we’d be glad to share thoughts. In the meantime, I want to wish you all a Merry, joyous and blessed Christmas. I hope Santa Claus will be very good to you this year!

Art Koch, National Features & DVD Editor, NightMoves Magazine and AAN