7.4 / 10 (based on 198 reviews)
Pettson lives in a house in the forrest with his talking cat Findus. Findus is very exited about Santa Claus coming and leaving him christmas presents. The old Pettson then comes up with the brilliant idea of making a machine of Santa Claus to not disappoint Findus on Christmas eve.
Genre: Family
Main Cast: Ingvar Hirdwall, Ika Nord, Birgit Hageby, Peter Harryson
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes, 15-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Tomtemaskinen (1993)
Mirakel (2020)
7.4 / 10 (based on 545 reviews)
An artificial black hole crashes straight into an old mansion. The crash means that the year 2020 is connected with the year 1920. When Mira and Rakel stand in front of the hole, something strange happens.
Genre: Drama, Family, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Sarah Rhodin, Bibi Lenhoff, Emanuel Kielin, Sten Ljunggren
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes
Tusen år till julafton (2015)
6.7 / 10 (based on 306 reviews)
Christmas Calender for Sveriges Television 2015. Each day, the children get to experience life in a different historical setting during the last 1000 years.
Genre: Family, History
Main Cast: Erik Haag, Lotta Lundgren, Stina Ekblad, Tareq Taylor
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes, 13.0-minute runtime
Selmas saga (2016)
7.3 / 10 (based on 488 reviews)
8-year-old Selma Traskvist and her family are in danger of being evicted from their home, when Selma meets scientist Efraim von Trippelhatt who is working to build an airship and prove Santa’s existence.
Genre: Family, Fantasy
Main Cast: Johan Ulveson, Ester Vuori, Nils Eklund, Meg Westergren
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes, 15.0-minute runtime
Storm på Lugna gatan (2018)
6.3 / 10 (based on 261 reviews)
The Storm family moves from the big city to the small town of Järnkroken. They quickly decide to participate in the annual Christmas contest.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family
Main Cast: Sofia Ledarp, Adrian Macéus, Maja Söderström, Edvin Ryding
Creators: Jonatan Ramel, Sara Young
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes
In the realm of holiday television, certain shows capture the essence of the season, leaving a lasting impression on their audience. Among these, a standout series from the early ’90s, “Tomtemaskinen” (The Santa Claus Machine), holds a special place. This Swedish TV show, which aired in 1993, is a part of the country’s Advent calendar series, a unique tradition where a new episode is broadcast each day leading up to Christmas. This tradition of holiday shows is a staple in Sweden, creating a shared cultural moment that spans generations.
The Premise
At its core, “Tomtemaskinen” is a story that marries the whimsical with the profound. It revolves around two siblings, Staffan and Tova, who stumble upon a mysterious machine capable of creating anything one desires, as long as the intention behind the wish is pure. The machine, hidden in their grandfather’s attic, is revealed to be Santa Claus’s invention, designed to assist in the overwhelming task of delivering presents to children worldwide. The discovery sets the siblings, along with their friends and family, on an adventure filled with challenges, lessons, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Why It Stands Out
In a sea of holiday programming, “Tomtemaskinen” distinguishes itself for several reasons. Here’s a look at what makes it memorable:
Unique Concept
The idea of a machine that can materialize gifts is a novel concept, even by today’s standards. It’s a plot device that sparks imagination and invites viewers to ponder what they would wish for. This element of fantasy, grounded in the reality of the characters’ lives, creates a compelling narrative that appeals to both children and adults.
Character Development
Unlike many holiday specials that rely on archetypical characters, “Tomtemaskinen” invests in the growth of its protagonists. Staffan and Tova, with their distinct personalities and arcs, evolve through their experiences with the Santa Claus Machine. Their journey from disbelief to wonder, and ultimately to understanding the responsibilities that come with such power, mirrors the journey of growing up.
The Blend of Humor and Heart
The series skillfully balances humor with heartfelt moments. The comedic elements, often derived from the machine’s misinterpretations of the characters’ wishes, are juxtaposed with scenes that delve into the characters’ relationships and the spirit of giving. This blend ensures that the show is not just entertaining but also resonates emotionally with its audience.
Cultural Significance
For Swedish viewers, “Tomtemaskinen” is more than just a TV show; it’s a part of their holiday tradition. Watching the series during Advent is a ritual for many, akin to decorating the tree or baking gingerbread cookies. This cultural significance adds a layer of nostalgia and communal joy to the viewing experience.
Memorable Moments
Throughout its 24-episode run, “Tomtemaskinen” is filled with memorable moments that have left a mark on its audience. Here are a few:
- The first time Staffan and Tova activate the machine, the mix of awe and fear in their eyes captures the magical yet daunting nature of their discovery.
- A comedic highlight is when the machine, in a literal interpretation of a wish, creates a “sea of flowers” in their living room, showcasing the show’s playful approach to the wishes’ outcomes.
- A poignant scene occurs when the siblings realize that the best gifts are those that can’t be manufactured—a lesson in the value of intangible gifts like love and friendship.
Legacy and Influence
Despite its age, “Tomtemaskinen” continues to be relevant. Its themes of generosity, the importance of intention, and the joy of the holiday season are timeless. Moreover, the show has influenced how holiday stories are told, proving that engaging narratives can be woven around the magic of Christmas without relying on cliches.
For many, the series has become a part of their holiday tradition, passed down from parents who watched it as children to their own kids. This generational sharing underscores the show’s lasting appeal and impact.
Conclusion
“Tomtemaskinen” is more than just a holiday TV show; it’s a cherished piece of television history that captures the spirit of Christmas through its innovative storytelling, memorable characters, and heartfelt messages. Its blend of humor, adventure, and emotion makes it a standout series that continues to enchant audiences years after its original airing. For those looking to experience the magic of Christmas through a fresh lens, “Tomtemaskinen” offers a timeless journey into the heart of the holiday season.