Vladmir Putin climbs down the chimney of Trump Tower a la Santa to allow Donald Trump to kiss his ass and then he leave Trump an Elf on the Shelf. Plus, John Goodman stops by to play Rex Tillerson and give his regards to his best pal, Vladmir, with whom he makes plans concerning Russian oil.

Is it a funny cold open? It’s OK. Does it strongly make the point to a mass audience that believes SNL more than CNN that Trump is in bed with Putin?

Yes, yes it does. That’s a win.

Also, John Goodman looks great.

Dustin is the founder and co-owner of Pajiba. You may email him here, follow him on Twitter, or listen to his weekly TV podcast, Podjiba.