Santa Claus Conquers the Martians

This Deep Dive covers the script for "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" from 1963 by Paul Jacobson. The story focuses on a Martian invasion of Earth in which the Martians kidnap Santa Claus to bring Christmas to their own planet. The Martians believe that their children have become too advanced and need a taste of childhood innocence to be truly happy. The Martians land on Earth and attempt to abduct Santa Claus, but encounter resistance from two Earth children, Billy and Betty Foster, who ultimately help Santa Claus escape. The Martians then attempt to use a giant toy robot, Torg, to force Santa Claus into obedience, but they are thwarted by the unexpected power of Santa Claus's magic. In the end, Santa Claus is returned to Earth and the Martians learn the importance of childhood and the power of Christmas cheer.