It is quite amazing that I’ve never been a big fan of Dr. Seuss’ Grinch character. There are so many similarities between myself and the Grinch. We are not huge fans of the Christmas season, and we both tend to be grumpy all the time. I tend to go against the grain with everything in life and think if I lived in fantasy Whoville, I could be friends with the green one himself.
I have never read How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and it’s been ages since I’ve seen the 1966 animated classic. I’ve never been a fan of the Jim Carrey Grinch (2000), so naturally, I was not on board with this one, which I watched at the theatre. Somehow, I never reviewed it, which is sad, considering this is an amazing movie.
The Grinch, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, was the most likable green monster I’ve ever seen. His sidekick, Max, is also the best version of the loveable sidekick dog. Cindy Lu Who (Cameron Seely) is also the cutest. The who’s are famous for their haircuts, and her pigtails in this one are exceptional. They really showcase her joyful personality as well as her innocence.
To be honest, I have no clue what the Grinch’s main backstory is since it has played out in various ways before. This particular version is brilliant. All the major points are still there, like the Grinch’s hate for Christmas and how he plans to steal it all away, but this one branches off and digs deep into his childhood where he was alone. It is the most heartbreaking and heartwarming angle that I know of. It is sad to see why he turned out to be so hateful, yet you can be brought to tears when he makes his apology and witnesses his heart grow.
The animation and voice acting make this movie better than all the rest. It is beautifully shot, and the inclusion of Fred the reindeer adds another layer of comedy. I’ve avoided the Grinch every holiday season but would be open to watching this particular version every year from now on.
The Grinch is a very marketable character at Christmas, almost on the same level as Santa Claus. I would not be surprised to see another film about the green monster at some point in the next few years, though it would be extremely tough to top this one. 9/10
Ten Stars or Less 