Santa Clause 2: The Escape Clause (prototype film)

Santa Clause 2: The Escape Clause is a 2001 American Christmas comedy film directed by Michael Lembeck. It was released in theaters in November 21, 2001. After seeking well-publicized treatment for a drinking problem, and separating from his wife in 1999, Mr. Allen neared a deal to once again don the Santa suit. Disney agreed to pay him $12 million upfront for the sequel and a million or two to star in another picture. In November 22, 2000, the studio sent theaters a preview for what it was then calling "The Santa Clause 2: Escape Clause," announcing the film's opening in November 21, 2001. Shortly afterward, however, Disney sent the script back to surgery, delaying the film yet another year.

Release
A teaser trailer for this film originally referred to it as Santa Clause 2: The Escape Clause, scheduled for release in November 2001. The subtitle would later become the subtitle of the following sequel in 2006.

Home Video
It was released on VHS and DVD in November 5, 2002 by Walt Disney Home Entertainment.