'Reacher' Meets 'The Terminator' in Prime Video's New Christmas Heist Movie
Prime Video announced a December release for *The Man with the Bag*, a Christmas heist film starring Alan Ritchson and Arnold Schwarzenegger, blending action and comedy.
Prime Video has greenlit *The Man with the Bag*, a holiday-themed heist movie starring Alan Ritchson and Arnold Schwarzenegger, marking their first on-screen collaboration. The film follows Santa Claus, played by Schwarzenegger, as he teams up with Ritchson’s character, Vance, to recover a stolen magic bag before Christmas. A disgruntled elf, voiced by Awkwafina, orchestrates the theft, setting off a chaotic mission involving reindeer and a crew of misfits. The project reunites Ritchson with Prime Video after his action series *Reacher* was renewed for a sixth season following its fourth-season finale.
Arnold Schwarzenegger returns to the Christmas genre for the first time since 1996’s *Jingle All the Way*, starring opposite Sinbad in a holiday comedy. The film is directed by Adam Shankman, known for family-friendly comedies like *The Pacifier* and *Disenchanted*, with a script by Allan Rice. Ritchson, who also starred in *Playdate* on Prime Video, brings his action-comedy experience to the role of Vance, a thief recruited by Santa for the heist.
The Man with the Bag is rated PG, allowing families to enjoy the holiday adventure without mature content restrictions. This contrasts with *Reacher* season 5, which series creator Lee Child described as unsuitable for family viewing. The film’s tone blends humor and light action, appealing to a broad audience during the holiday season. Prime Video’s announcement follows the renewal of *Reacher* for a sixth season, underscoring the platform’s investment in Ritchson’s projects.
The first teaser trailer for *The Man with the Bag* debuted on Wednesday, showcasing Schwarzenegger’s Santa Claus in a comedic yet action-packed narrative. The film is set to premiere on Prime Video on December 2, expanding the streaming service’s holiday lineup. With a mix of holiday cheer and heist intrigue, the movie positions itself as a fresh take on Christmas cinema. The collaboration between Ritchson and Schwarzenegger adds star power to Prime Video’s growing slate of original films.