Klaus
A simple act of kindness always sparks another, even in a frozen, faraway place. When Smeerensburg's new postman, Jesper, befriends toymaker Klaus, their gifts melt an age-old feud and deliver a sleigh full of holiday traditions.
Directed by Sergio Pablos, Carlos Martínez López · Animation · Adventure · Comedy · 96 min · 2019
Trailer
Director
Sergio Pablos, Carlos Martínez López
Studio
Netflix Animation Studios / Comic Animations / The SPA Studios / Atresmedia Cine / Yowza! Animation
Release
15 Nov 2019
Runtime
96 min
Genres
Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Full Plot
When Jesper (Jason Schwartzman) distinguishes himself as the postal academy's worst student, he is stationed on a frozen island above the Arctic Circle, where the feuding locals hardly exchange words let alone letters. Jesper is about to give up when he finds an ally in local teacher Alva (Rashida Jones), and discovers Klaus (Oscar® winner J.K. Simmons), a mysterious carpenter who lives alone in a cabin full of handmade toys. These unlikely friendships return laughter to Smeerensburg, forging a new legacy of generous neighbors, magical lore and stockings hung by the chimney with care. An animated Christmas comedy directed by Despicable Me co-creator Sergio Pablos, KLAUS co-stars Rashida Jones, Jason Schwartzman and JK Simmons.
Cast & Characters
Jason Schwartzman
J.K. Simmons
Rashida Jones
Did You Know?
After setting up his animation studio in Madrid, Spain, director Sergio Pablos, who had worked on Disney Renaissance films such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Hercules, and Tarzan, decided to develop a new traditionally-animated feature film.
Source: Wikipedia · verified 2026-08-03
Critical Assessment
Klaus holds 8.2/10 on IMDb (232,782 votes), 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, 65/100 on Metacritic.
Not enough independent critic/audience score breakdown available.
Ratings as of July 30, 2026
Where to Watch
United States
United Kingdom
India
Streaming data from JustWatch via TMDb. Availability changes often — confirm on the provider before watching.
AI Verdict
AI-generatedBased on aggregated scores (8.2/10 on IMDb (232,782 votes), 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, 65/100 on Metacritic), this is a data-driven snapshot rather than an editorial take.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Klaus's Rotten Tomatoes score?+
Klaus holds a 95% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes.
What is Klaus's IMDb rating?+
Klaus has a 8.2/10 rating on IMDb from 232,782 votes.
What is Klaus's Metacritic score?+
Klaus has a Metascore of 65/100 on Metacritic.
Is Klaus good? What are critics saying?+
Klaus holds 8.2/10 on IMDb (232,782 votes), 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, 65/100 on Metacritic.
How long is Klaus?+
Klaus has a runtime of 96 min.
Who directed Klaus?+
Klaus was directed by Sergio Pablos, Carlos Martínez López.
Where can I watch Klaus?+
Klaus is available to stream, rent, or buy on Netflix, Netflix Standard with Ads.
Fan & Critic Buzz
The public reaction to "Klaus" appears to be overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers praising the film's charm, creativity, and selfless act storyline. The movie is also being commended for its unique approach to reimagining Santa Claus and standing out from traditional Christmas stories. The trailer comments highlight the film's lighthearted tone and memorable moments, such as Jason Schwartzman's character's lazy personality.
Viewer Reviews (TMDb)
A beauty. What a lovely, charming and clever film. <em>'Klaus'</em> took my interest and then some, I was locked in from the start. It's terrific, with some excellent hand-drawn animation. The cast, led by Jason Schwartzman, do very good jobs, also. I loved seeing it connect all…
r96sk · 9/10**Klaus reinvents the classics of Christmas with charm and creativity. It belongs on your holiday tradition list.** Klaus is a surprisingly sweet and heartwarming animated Christmas story that reimagines Santa's origins. The story is unique and creative, standing out from many ot…
The Movie Mob · 7/10"Jesper" is a sort of "Verruca Salt" type of character. He's spoilt and lazy and lives the life of Riley because his father indulges him. Finally, though, his Postmaster General dad decides it's time for his son to stand on his own to feet. Well more likely skis, as he's dispatch…
CinemaSerf · 7/10
From the trailer's comments
"A true selfless act always Sparks another" - Mr Klaus
@theliberatedqueen603 · 1999 likesWhen every other studio is busy making photo-realistic cartoons, The SPA Studios comes and reminds us why we once loved cartoons.
@jamesjason8471 · 10839 likesEveryone is gangsta until klaus steps in with his axe.
@TheAngelClippy · 1763 likesI don’t know how they did it but this movie quickly became my favorite Christmas movie 😭 it’s perfection so many ways!
@deztheray8935 · 959 likesinteresting side note: the charaacter designer for this film is sergio pablos who did character designs for disneys hunchback of notre dame and tarzan.
@dungeonmaster16 · 4139 likesDisney: original 2D animation? No no no, we only do remakes now. Netflix: hold my eggnog
@ManyStandAlone · 6625 likesEveryone: Spooktober Netflix: Here is a Christmas movie
@Ro321chile · 4152 likesI can't believe how this trailer under represents the movie. The movie is soooo heart warming and beautiful.
@runachy9475 · 1877 likes
