Mel Gibson Fatman Streaming will become available on Paramount+ starting November 1, bringing the 2020 action comedy back to audiences. The film stars Mel Gibson as an unconventional Santa Claus struggling to save his declining business, while a disillusioned 12-year-old boy hires a hitman to eliminate Santa after receiving coal for Christmas.
Fatman pairs Gibson with Walton Goggins, who plays the hired assassin, Skinny Man. This holiday movie blends action and dark comedy, standing alongside similar genre entries like Violent Night, where famous actors portray Santa Claus amid intense crime plots set during the Christmas season.
The Film’s Reception and Box Office Details
Upon its original release, Fatman received mixed reactions from critics, resulting in a 43% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, it found greater appreciation among viewers, earning an 84% approval score on the audience-driven Popcornmeter. Despite this fan support, Fatman did not experience a widespread theatrical release in either the United States or international markets, which limited its global box office total to under $2 million.
The screenplay and direction were managed by brothers Ian and Eshom Nelms, known for other projects such as Red Right Hand, Small Town Crime, and Waffle Street. The film’s cast also includes Marianne Jean-Baptiste as Ruth and Chance Hurstfield portraying the boy, Billy Wenan.
Upcoming Projects and Changes Behind the Scenes
While Fatman gains renewed attention, Mel Gibson is heavily involved in producing the next two Passion of the Christ films. The Resurrection of the Christ will be released in two parts, with the first installment scheduled for March 26, 2027, followed by the second on May 6, 2027. Recently, original Jesus Christ actor Jim Cavaziel stepped down from the role, and Gibson replaced him with Jaakko Ohtonen.
Additional cast members for these upcoming films include Rupert Everett, Mariela Agarrigha, Kasia Smutniak, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Pier Luigi Pasino. Gibson is currently filming these sequels overseas, preparing for their 2027 launch dates.
Why Fatman’s Streaming Release Is Significant
Fatman’s arrival on Paramount+ allows a broader audience to discover this distinctive holiday action film, especially given its limited theatrical exposure. For fans of Mel Gibson’s intense roles and the recent trend of violent Christmas-themed thrillers, this release offers a fresh option this season. As Gibson continues working on major projects like The Resurrection of the Christ and hints of a potential Lethal Weapon 5, Fatman serves as a reminder of his range beyond traditional action dramas.
Viewers can find Fatman streaming on Paramount+ starting November 1 and follow updates for Gibson’s upcoming releases in the years ahead.
