256 reviews
Over the years, there have been countless tellings and re-tellings of Charles Dickens' classic tale "A Christmas Carol". Who would ever have thought, then, that a version staring the Muppets would be the best one ever produced!
Basically, this version is narrated (quite comically) by The Great Gonzo and his sidekick Rizzo the Rat. They follow the story of curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine) on Christmas Eve night, when he is visited by three spirits that show him the meaning of Christmas. Central to Scrooge's emotional journey is Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog) and family (Miss Piggy), whose simple, hard-working lives prove quite inspirational.
The reason why this version of the story works so well is because not only does it provide the humor that one would expect from a Muppet performance, but it also brings the heavy emotional drama as well. You wouldn't think you could get teary-eyed over a Muppet, but that is exactly what happens. The comedy is on the fringes (mostly provided by Gonzo/Rizzo), while the story plays out about as expected.
The performance of Caine (now known for so many other projects!) is also a visual treat, again one of the best "Scrooge portrayals" ever put to screen! Caine is just such a great acting that he knows all the right beats to hit.
Overall, then, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" is a movie that will stand the test of time. Even if you don't particularly care for the Muppets in generally (this is, in all honesty, the only Muppet- based piece of media I have ever watched/owned in my entire life), the combination of comedy/emotion in this movie will boost it up near the top of your Xmas movie traditions.
Basically, this version is narrated (quite comically) by The Great Gonzo and his sidekick Rizzo the Rat. They follow the story of curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine) on Christmas Eve night, when he is visited by three spirits that show him the meaning of Christmas. Central to Scrooge's emotional journey is Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog) and family (Miss Piggy), whose simple, hard-working lives prove quite inspirational.
The reason why this version of the story works so well is because not only does it provide the humor that one would expect from a Muppet performance, but it also brings the heavy emotional drama as well. You wouldn't think you could get teary-eyed over a Muppet, but that is exactly what happens. The comedy is on the fringes (mostly provided by Gonzo/Rizzo), while the story plays out about as expected.
The performance of Caine (now known for so many other projects!) is also a visual treat, again one of the best "Scrooge portrayals" ever put to screen! Caine is just such a great acting that he knows all the right beats to hit.
Overall, then, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" is a movie that will stand the test of time. Even if you don't particularly care for the Muppets in generally (this is, in all honesty, the only Muppet- based piece of media I have ever watched/owned in my entire life), the combination of comedy/emotion in this movie will boost it up near the top of your Xmas movie traditions.
In terms of humor or songs, I can't honestly rank this was high as most of the other Muppet films BUT it may be the most touching version of the Dickens classic story I've ever seen on film.
The lyrics to the last two songs are fantastic: very Christian-like and very profound. Scrooge (Michael Caine), meanwhile, is not portrayed as some screaming maniac as he so often is in other versions. His transformation from cold-hearted tightwad to caring, generous person is done more subtly, too, than in other films. However, to be fair, sometimes the slapstick humor in here gets in the way of the touching story.
The last part of the movie is a lot sentimental drama than Muppet comedy and I found that refreshing. Not much offensive in here, either, making this a good film for little ones as well as older, sentimental folks.
The lyrics to the last two songs are fantastic: very Christian-like and very profound. Scrooge (Michael Caine), meanwhile, is not portrayed as some screaming maniac as he so often is in other versions. His transformation from cold-hearted tightwad to caring, generous person is done more subtly, too, than in other films. However, to be fair, sometimes the slapstick humor in here gets in the way of the touching story.
The last part of the movie is a lot sentimental drama than Muppet comedy and I found that refreshing. Not much offensive in here, either, making this a good film for little ones as well as older, sentimental folks.
- ccthemovieman-1
- Apr 16, 2006
- Permalink
The two best Muppet movies after Jim Henson's death are this and Muppets Treasure Island. The worst, I think is Muppets Wizard of Oz. Muppets Christmas Carol is wonderful, and deserves the high rating. I also think the rating for Treasure Island is too low, as I loved that film too.
The Muppets are truly funny here, especially Gonzo and Rizzo, who have the funniest lines. Kermit and Miss Piggy were at their most touching here. Scrooge's encounter with the Marley Brothers was the highlight of the film for me. The high point of the movie is the performance of Michael Caine,(like Tim Curry in Treasure Island) who was the best he was in recent years, and his singing was passable. Very convincing! I personally think this is the funniest post Jim Henson Muppet movie, and was my favourite Christmas memory as a kid, and managed to stay true to the spirit of Christmas, and was heartwarming with the character of Tiny Tim. The songs, also, weren't that bad at all, but in comparison to the ones in Treasure Isaland, one or two of them are a little hit-and-miss, but that's just me, and that is my only negative! The incidental music was beautiful though.
All in all, a wonderfully entertaining film, that has enough to satisfy Muppet fans. 9/10. Bethany Cox
The Muppets are truly funny here, especially Gonzo and Rizzo, who have the funniest lines. Kermit and Miss Piggy were at their most touching here. Scrooge's encounter with the Marley Brothers was the highlight of the film for me. The high point of the movie is the performance of Michael Caine,(like Tim Curry in Treasure Island) who was the best he was in recent years, and his singing was passable. Very convincing! I personally think this is the funniest post Jim Henson Muppet movie, and was my favourite Christmas memory as a kid, and managed to stay true to the spirit of Christmas, and was heartwarming with the character of Tiny Tim. The songs, also, weren't that bad at all, but in comparison to the ones in Treasure Isaland, one or two of them are a little hit-and-miss, but that's just me, and that is my only negative! The incidental music was beautiful though.
All in all, a wonderfully entertaining film, that has enough to satisfy Muppet fans. 9/10. Bethany Cox
- TheLittleSongbird
- Mar 13, 2009
- Permalink
This is a masterpiece. Not because it follows Dickens' marvelous story to the letter, but because it uses the Muppets to take the story to a wonderfully creative level. Michael Caine is Scrooge and he plays him really well. He never flinches at the fact that his clerk is a frog, that Tiny Tim is also a frog, and so on. Jacob Marley is played by those two old guys who carry on a commentary on the Muppet Show. As Scrooges wades through the famous story, meeting the ghosts of past, present, and yet to come, we are starting to believe that what we see on the screen are real characters. There are some wonderful songs that move the plot nicely along. Of course, the Muppets are incredible jokester, punning and dropping one-liners at will. Of course, we have to accept that Scrooge was apprenticed by old Fozziwig at a rubber chicken factory. Make this an annual event at the holidays.
While the 1951 Alistair Sim version of A Christmas Carol is the most faithful to the original Dickens story, A Muppet Christmas Carol possesses heart, whimsey, and a joy that is so very much lacking in our evermore commercialized holiday season. Michael Caine's performance as Scrooge easily surpasses those of Reginald Owen (1938), George C. Scott (1984) and Patrick Stewart (2001). There is a more genuine degree of transformation and redemption in his characterization than has often been portrayed. This makes the story a truly wonderful experience both for adults as well as for children.
The use of the Muppets in the various roles makes for a lively film experience. Statler and Waldorf as Jacob & Robert Marley are appropriately heckling as they seek to convince Scrooge to change his ways. Kermit the Frog is a wonderfully sympathetic Bob Crachit just as Miss Piggy is appropriately and aggressively belligerent Mrs. Crachit. Perhaps one of the better-inspired comedy bits comes with the arrival of Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Past at Scrooge's former workplace, described as "Fozziwig's Rubber Chicken Factory." Such bits are frequent and help to keep the story fun. Paul Williams' music score and songs are eminently singable and leave the viewer with a lasting memory.
A Muppet Christmas Carol has joined the pantheon of classic holiday films, easily ranking alongside Holiday Inn, White Christmas and A Christmas Story. It is the opinion of this reviewer that for those whom holiday films have become a part of holiday celebration should make this a part of their seasonal experience. One might even complete the film humming the tunes and thinking better of themselves as well as of their fellow humans. In other words, Henson and company have made Dickens story as memorable as Dickens himself wished it to be.
The use of the Muppets in the various roles makes for a lively film experience. Statler and Waldorf as Jacob & Robert Marley are appropriately heckling as they seek to convince Scrooge to change his ways. Kermit the Frog is a wonderfully sympathetic Bob Crachit just as Miss Piggy is appropriately and aggressively belligerent Mrs. Crachit. Perhaps one of the better-inspired comedy bits comes with the arrival of Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Past at Scrooge's former workplace, described as "Fozziwig's Rubber Chicken Factory." Such bits are frequent and help to keep the story fun. Paul Williams' music score and songs are eminently singable and leave the viewer with a lasting memory.
A Muppet Christmas Carol has joined the pantheon of classic holiday films, easily ranking alongside Holiday Inn, White Christmas and A Christmas Story. It is the opinion of this reviewer that for those whom holiday films have become a part of holiday celebration should make this a part of their seasonal experience. One might even complete the film humming the tunes and thinking better of themselves as well as of their fellow humans. In other words, Henson and company have made Dickens story as memorable as Dickens himself wished it to be.
This retelling of Charles Dickens' novella starring your favorite muppets in supporting roles has become a Christmas classic in its own right. Michael Caine is perfect as Scrooge, and his chemistry with the muppets in tow are an amazing match. The movie is legitimately funny, spooky or touching all at the right moments—it's one of those rare films that hits the right note every single second. There doesn't seem to be any pattern with the intermixing of humans and muppets, but regardless, it works just fine without any distractions. Perhaps the strongest point of all is the musical numbers composed by Miles Goodman and written by Paul Williams.
**** (out of four)
**** (out of four)
- Geeky Randy
- Dec 25, 2014
- Permalink
Charming and enjoyable recounting about unforgettable and inmortal Christmas story . It is definitely worth a look thanks to splendid animated muppets . It's fun , touching and different approach to the Christmas classic with acceptable effects , and the classic muppets : Kermit the Frog , Miss Piggy , The Great Gonzo , The Rat Rizzo , Fozzie Bear , dealing with the known story about an old bitter miser who makes excuses for his uncaring nature and learns real compassion when the ghosts visit him on Christmas Eve . The Muppet Christmas Carol is an agreeable production , a wonderful and straight-forward approach to the Dickens's source material , being splendidly but loosely adapted . It 's developed with live-action sequences and muppets , being set in London , the site of a life by renowned novelist Dickens , stars miser extraordinaire Ebenezer Scrooge, excellently performed by Michael Caine , he's held accountable for his dastardly ways . The production values & muppets are both adequate with just enough attractive to appeal to the tenderhearted , and with touching doses of horror , case of the potentially frightening elements the Ghosts of Past , Present and Future , adding sentimental elements ; all of them are blended into the mix , until , like a nice Christmas punch , the result appeals to all . Scrooge : Michael Caine is a miserly old businessman in 1840's London . He displays no charity to mankind generally , and in particular , to his unfortunate employee Bob Cratchett . One Christmas Eve he is visited by a couple of ghosts, his two dead business partners . He is warned that he must change his miserly ways or face damnation . They foretell that Scrooge will be visited by three spirits , each of whom will attempt to show Scrooge the error of his ways . In Just One Night, He Has Seen His Past, His Present, And His Future. And They've All Come Back To Haunt Him Will Scrooge reform his ways in time to celebrate Christmas? . To his delight, the spirits complete their visits in one night giving him the opportunity to mend his ways . The first spirit, the Ghost of Christmas Past , shows Scrooge visions of his own past in which had spent much of his childhood neglected by his father over the holidays at boarding school until he was finally brought home . A past in which appears a young Scrooge and including a broken engagement to his girlfriend . In Just One Night , He Has Seen His Past, His Present, And His Future . And They've All Come Back To Haunt Him Will Scrooge reform his ways in time to celebrate Christmas? .past, present, and yet to come"
A marvelous recounting of a Christmas vintage story , including top-drawer effects , beginning with Dickens himself played by The Great Gonzo and accompanied by The Rat Rizzo The Rat , following the tale with Scrooge and this pair of muppets providing younger members of the audience with a point of childish style into the flick , while carrying a blaze of hope amidst the glaring co-existence of rich and poor in the streets of London in this retelling of Charles Dickens' immortal story . As throughout the subsequent unfolding of the famous tale and in a world full of muppet comedy and almost eerie appearances from the Ghosts of Christmas . Decent and stirring rendition with top-notch animated muppets and Michael Caine's great acting . Atmospherically , the movie is as comfortable and heartwarming as an old Christmas card , including potentially frightening aspects : the Ghosts of Past, Present and Future . The whole concept of looking at your life in the past, present and future is creative in and of itself . After watching the movie, you may look at your life from the same perspectives . And adding the pleasant voices from nice actors . The motion picture picture was competently directed by Brian Henson , Jim Henson's son , whom is dedicated the movie , in fact this was the first time the Muppets appeared on screen since Jim Henson's death in 1990. Adding stunning special effects with a nice little touch and rousing score by Miles Goodman. Though most of us , if not all of us, have seen other adaptations in the past or read the story , and know already what to expect, as director Brian Henson manages to capture pure magic with this peculiar portrayal of main character Ebenezer Scrooge , and it is definitely worth a look . It's attractive and unusual approach to the Christmas classic . A highly recommended film that nobody should miss it especially during Christmas time and still ranks as one of the most enjoyable adaptations of the Dickens classic ever . This muppet retelling of Charles Dickens' vintage novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption will appeal to Charles Dickens novel enthusiasts and Michael Caine fans .
Other versions about this stunning story courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions are the following ones : The rather obscure 1935 version with Sir Seymour Hicks , the 1951 British production with Alastair Sim, Jack Warner , adaptation released by MGM in 1938 with Reginald Owen , Gene Lockhart , and the 1970 musical, with Albert Finney , Frank Finlay . Under the title of 'A Christmas Carol' a cartoon rendition (1997) by Stan Phillips and voiced by Tim Curry and another (1991) by Jimmy T Murakami with Simon Callow . The made-for-TV productions : 1984 with George C. Scott , 1999 with Patrick Stewart , Richard E. Grant , Saskia Reeves , Laura Fraser , Joel Grey and the 2004 musical , with Kelsey Grammer . After that , ¨Robert Zemeckis's Christmas Carol (2009)¨ in which Jim Carrey demonstrates once again his versatility on screen ; it is given the full ¨Motion Capture¨ deluxe treatment in a superior film directed by Robert Zemeckis with Jim Carrey , Robin Wright , Colin Firth , Dominic West . Finally , ¨A Christmas Carol series ¨(2019) in 3 episodes with Guy Pearce , Andy Serkis , Joe Alwyn , Stephen Graham.
A marvelous recounting of a Christmas vintage story , including top-drawer effects , beginning with Dickens himself played by The Great Gonzo and accompanied by The Rat Rizzo The Rat , following the tale with Scrooge and this pair of muppets providing younger members of the audience with a point of childish style into the flick , while carrying a blaze of hope amidst the glaring co-existence of rich and poor in the streets of London in this retelling of Charles Dickens' immortal story . As throughout the subsequent unfolding of the famous tale and in a world full of muppet comedy and almost eerie appearances from the Ghosts of Christmas . Decent and stirring rendition with top-notch animated muppets and Michael Caine's great acting . Atmospherically , the movie is as comfortable and heartwarming as an old Christmas card , including potentially frightening aspects : the Ghosts of Past, Present and Future . The whole concept of looking at your life in the past, present and future is creative in and of itself . After watching the movie, you may look at your life from the same perspectives . And adding the pleasant voices from nice actors . The motion picture picture was competently directed by Brian Henson , Jim Henson's son , whom is dedicated the movie , in fact this was the first time the Muppets appeared on screen since Jim Henson's death in 1990. Adding stunning special effects with a nice little touch and rousing score by Miles Goodman. Though most of us , if not all of us, have seen other adaptations in the past or read the story , and know already what to expect, as director Brian Henson manages to capture pure magic with this peculiar portrayal of main character Ebenezer Scrooge , and it is definitely worth a look . It's attractive and unusual approach to the Christmas classic . A highly recommended film that nobody should miss it especially during Christmas time and still ranks as one of the most enjoyable adaptations of the Dickens classic ever . This muppet retelling of Charles Dickens' vintage novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption will appeal to Charles Dickens novel enthusiasts and Michael Caine fans .
Other versions about this stunning story courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions are the following ones : The rather obscure 1935 version with Sir Seymour Hicks , the 1951 British production with Alastair Sim, Jack Warner , adaptation released by MGM in 1938 with Reginald Owen , Gene Lockhart , and the 1970 musical, with Albert Finney , Frank Finlay . Under the title of 'A Christmas Carol' a cartoon rendition (1997) by Stan Phillips and voiced by Tim Curry and another (1991) by Jimmy T Murakami with Simon Callow . The made-for-TV productions : 1984 with George C. Scott , 1999 with Patrick Stewart , Richard E. Grant , Saskia Reeves , Laura Fraser , Joel Grey and the 2004 musical , with Kelsey Grammer . After that , ¨Robert Zemeckis's Christmas Carol (2009)¨ in which Jim Carrey demonstrates once again his versatility on screen ; it is given the full ¨Motion Capture¨ deluxe treatment in a superior film directed by Robert Zemeckis with Jim Carrey , Robin Wright , Colin Firth , Dominic West . Finally , ¨A Christmas Carol series ¨(2019) in 3 episodes with Guy Pearce , Andy Serkis , Joe Alwyn , Stephen Graham.
The Muppet Christmas Carol is my favourite of all the Muppet flicks. Jim Henson, of course, never lent his name to anything even remotely resembling 'bad', but nevertheless, there is a clear mark of sheer mastery and brilliance in this movie that is somehow less evident in most of the other muppet movies.
In a way, I have to admit that I find this surprising. This was the first Muppet movie to be shot after Henson himself passed away; the voice of kermit, the most beloved and indeed inventive puppeteer ever to have lived was dead. Could Henson's magic touch ever be recreated? Did the Muppets have a future at all without their creator? The answer, of course we now know, is Yes they did.
As is the secret to all truly great children's movies, The Muppet Christmas Carol does not pander to notions of anything being 'too scary'; nor does it shy away from the innate darkness of the material at hand.
Dicken's tale is one that revolves almost uniformly around themes of corruption, poverty and death, and here it has most certainly not been diluted.
"There was the year we evicted the entire orphanage! I remember the little tykes all standing in the snowbank, with their little frostbitten teddy bears!" hollers a ghostly apparition of Scrooge's dead business partner early in the film. We witness a heartbreaking lament from Scrooge's lover, who leaves him because he has become too money-hungry to love her. We watch as Bob Cratchett's family mourn the empty chair at their table where their beloved and selfless young son once sat. At the eleventh hour, scrooge even bends before his own tombstone and begs in tears of desperation to a grim reaper-like spirit to be allowed to live. So much for it being the season to be jolly.
Where there is humour, it is frequently black, and where there is emotion, it is generally somewhat adult by todays standards.
Of course, before you decide not to show this to your five year old son or daughter, you should consider that these dark themes by no means drag the film down; rather, they help to raise it up to become, just like the original story, a stirring and emotional story of triumph and redemption in the face of mortality.
Whilst the script writers wisely keep the story pretty much identical to the original in all of it's major aspects, there is plenty mayhem and indeed magic here too which is 24 carat Henson Studios. I remember as a 5 year old simply adoring the spectacle of Kermit's Bob Cratchett taking part in a the Penguins of London Annual Christmas Skating party, or the delight of Gonzo and Rizzo's almost post-modernist presence as physical participants but also omnipotent narrators in the tale.
Indeed, the translation from book to screen is almost peculiarly elegant; the Muppet characters all seem to open up to new ranges of poignancy and dramatic possibility when placed in the storyline. You will find yourself feeling immense pity for Miss Piggy's somewhat hysterical but ultimately warm Mrs Cratchett for example, and indeed a whole host of wonderful performances on show from the familiar Muppet Show Cast.
Of course this review could not be complete without tribute to the simply brilliant performance from the great Michael Cane in the role of Ebeneezer Scrooge. he understands his role excellently and invests it with a moving, convincing and genius reality; always resisting the temptation, that must surely be strongly felt when one is the sole human among a cast of felt puppets, to play the role for laughs. One feels that his performance would not seem out of place if he were surrounded by the ranks of great British thespians and taking part in a 'straight' production of Dicken's tale as opposed to a Muppet movie. Upon recently viewing the Patrick Stewart film of this story, I was delighted to find that Cane quite simply out-acted Stewart in the role and clearly this makes his performance something special.
The production values are high in this film as is to be expected in a Henson movie, and the film has a wonderful, almost Tim Burton-esquire look which is by turns wintry and quite breath-takingly beautiful or dark and positively scary.
In terms of music it is filled with an array of wonderfully enduring and subtly written songs that fill me with a sense of child-like happiness and that allusive 'christmassey feeling' even after all these years. One recommendation I would make to anyone planning on purchasing the film is to if at all possible obtain a copy which contains the beautiful song "When Love Is Gone" which, in the recent DVD re-release, was sadly cut from the film. This decision to exclude the song from the film detracts hugely from the pathos of one of the film's central themes (past Mistakes and ultimate redemption) and definitely takes away some of the indescribably bitter-sweet overall mood of the film.
I strongly recommend this film to people of any age or gender as a film that it is virtually impossible not to fall in love with.
In a way, I have to admit that I find this surprising. This was the first Muppet movie to be shot after Henson himself passed away; the voice of kermit, the most beloved and indeed inventive puppeteer ever to have lived was dead. Could Henson's magic touch ever be recreated? Did the Muppets have a future at all without their creator? The answer, of course we now know, is Yes they did.
As is the secret to all truly great children's movies, The Muppet Christmas Carol does not pander to notions of anything being 'too scary'; nor does it shy away from the innate darkness of the material at hand.
Dicken's tale is one that revolves almost uniformly around themes of corruption, poverty and death, and here it has most certainly not been diluted.
"There was the year we evicted the entire orphanage! I remember the little tykes all standing in the snowbank, with their little frostbitten teddy bears!" hollers a ghostly apparition of Scrooge's dead business partner early in the film. We witness a heartbreaking lament from Scrooge's lover, who leaves him because he has become too money-hungry to love her. We watch as Bob Cratchett's family mourn the empty chair at their table where their beloved and selfless young son once sat. At the eleventh hour, scrooge even bends before his own tombstone and begs in tears of desperation to a grim reaper-like spirit to be allowed to live. So much for it being the season to be jolly.
Where there is humour, it is frequently black, and where there is emotion, it is generally somewhat adult by todays standards.
Of course, before you decide not to show this to your five year old son or daughter, you should consider that these dark themes by no means drag the film down; rather, they help to raise it up to become, just like the original story, a stirring and emotional story of triumph and redemption in the face of mortality.
Whilst the script writers wisely keep the story pretty much identical to the original in all of it's major aspects, there is plenty mayhem and indeed magic here too which is 24 carat Henson Studios. I remember as a 5 year old simply adoring the spectacle of Kermit's Bob Cratchett taking part in a the Penguins of London Annual Christmas Skating party, or the delight of Gonzo and Rizzo's almost post-modernist presence as physical participants but also omnipotent narrators in the tale.
Indeed, the translation from book to screen is almost peculiarly elegant; the Muppet characters all seem to open up to new ranges of poignancy and dramatic possibility when placed in the storyline. You will find yourself feeling immense pity for Miss Piggy's somewhat hysterical but ultimately warm Mrs Cratchett for example, and indeed a whole host of wonderful performances on show from the familiar Muppet Show Cast.
Of course this review could not be complete without tribute to the simply brilliant performance from the great Michael Cane in the role of Ebeneezer Scrooge. he understands his role excellently and invests it with a moving, convincing and genius reality; always resisting the temptation, that must surely be strongly felt when one is the sole human among a cast of felt puppets, to play the role for laughs. One feels that his performance would not seem out of place if he were surrounded by the ranks of great British thespians and taking part in a 'straight' production of Dicken's tale as opposed to a Muppet movie. Upon recently viewing the Patrick Stewart film of this story, I was delighted to find that Cane quite simply out-acted Stewart in the role and clearly this makes his performance something special.
The production values are high in this film as is to be expected in a Henson movie, and the film has a wonderful, almost Tim Burton-esquire look which is by turns wintry and quite breath-takingly beautiful or dark and positively scary.
In terms of music it is filled with an array of wonderfully enduring and subtly written songs that fill me with a sense of child-like happiness and that allusive 'christmassey feeling' even after all these years. One recommendation I would make to anyone planning on purchasing the film is to if at all possible obtain a copy which contains the beautiful song "When Love Is Gone" which, in the recent DVD re-release, was sadly cut from the film. This decision to exclude the song from the film detracts hugely from the pathos of one of the film's central themes (past Mistakes and ultimate redemption) and definitely takes away some of the indescribably bitter-sweet overall mood of the film.
I strongly recommend this film to people of any age or gender as a film that it is virtually impossible not to fall in love with.
- Catscanfly
- Nov 23, 2005
- Permalink
- mark-whait
- Dec 26, 2010
- Permalink
This is just a wonderful telling of Charles Dickens great Christmas story. The story being so good, you would have to try had to make a bad movie out of it. But the Muppet Christmas is a splendid modern version which probably Dickens himself would have liked a lot.
Other than Disney movies, the singing does not get on the nerves and the comic relief is actually funny. Muppet characters we have known for decades like Kermit and especially Gonzo are having great moments.
This is the perfect Christmas movie to watch with kids. It is something to lighten up your soul. And the fate of Tiny Tim is a cause for tears again and again, no matter how often you watch the film.
Merry Christmas!
Other than Disney movies, the singing does not get on the nerves and the comic relief is actually funny. Muppet characters we have known for decades like Kermit and especially Gonzo are having great moments.
This is the perfect Christmas movie to watch with kids. It is something to lighten up your soul. And the fate of Tiny Tim is a cause for tears again and again, no matter how often you watch the film.
Merry Christmas!
- Starbuck-13
- Dec 14, 2000
- Permalink
This movie is twenty years old, and I have never seen this, despite being a movie lover and having had two children now sixteen and nine, plus numerous nieces and nephews. Yet for some reason this movie has always passed me by. And it is my loss that is the case, as today I stumbled on a movie I wish I'd watched with my two kids when they were much younger than they are today.
Plot In A Paragraph: In this adaptation of the Christmas story narrated by Charles Dickens himself (played by Gonzo the Great) , It is Christmas Eve in 19th century London. The merriment is not shared by Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine), a money-lender who is more interested in profit than celebration. He is so against it, that his staff, including loyal employee Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog), have to beg for Christmas Day off. Later that evening, Scrooge finds himself face to face with the still mean-spirited ghosts of his former business partners, Jacob and Robert Marley (Statler and Waldorf) who have been condemned to shackles in the afterlife as punishment for the horrible deeds they committed in life. They warn him that he will share the same fate, only worse, if he does not change his ways, and foretell the arrival of three spirits throughout the night. The Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.
Plot In A Paragraph: In this adaptation of the Christmas story narrated by Charles Dickens himself (played by Gonzo the Great) , It is Christmas Eve in 19th century London. The merriment is not shared by Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine), a money-lender who is more interested in profit than celebration. He is so against it, that his staff, including loyal employee Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog), have to beg for Christmas Day off. Later that evening, Scrooge finds himself face to face with the still mean-spirited ghosts of his former business partners, Jacob and Robert Marley (Statler and Waldorf) who have been condemned to shackles in the afterlife as punishment for the horrible deeds they committed in life. They warn him that he will share the same fate, only worse, if he does not change his ways, and foretell the arrival of three spirits throughout the night. The Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.
- slightlymad22
- Dec 23, 2014
- Permalink
A The Muppet Christmas Carol is the Muppet's take on the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a selfish old man who cares nothing for anyone but himself, until on Christmas Eve he is visited by three spirits, telling him to change his ways. This is a well done version of the story, and it is the only Muppet movie I can look at as a real movie, rather than a movie starring Muppets.
The way the story is told in this movie is done really well. Having Gonzo play Charles Dickens as he narrates the story was a smart move. It adds more humour to the story. The different characters that Muppets pop up as are genius, for instance, changing Fuzzywig to Fozziewig so Fozzie Bear could play him. Also, the movie manages to remain dark like the story should be, while also staying tame for kids.
Micahel Caine is great as Ebenezer Scrooge. He's actually one of the best Scrooge's I've seen. It really speaks for his acting talent when he is able to talk and react to Muppets like they're people.
Overall, this is a classic children's film, and is probably one of the best versions of the classic tale on screen.
8/10
The way the story is told in this movie is done really well. Having Gonzo play Charles Dickens as he narrates the story was a smart move. It adds more humour to the story. The different characters that Muppets pop up as are genius, for instance, changing Fuzzywig to Fozziewig so Fozzie Bear could play him. Also, the movie manages to remain dark like the story should be, while also staying tame for kids.
Micahel Caine is great as Ebenezer Scrooge. He's actually one of the best Scrooge's I've seen. It really speaks for his acting talent when he is able to talk and react to Muppets like they're people.
Overall, this is a classic children's film, and is probably one of the best versions of the classic tale on screen.
8/10
- theshadow908
- Jun 23, 2006
- Permalink
There are certainly one or two toe-tappers in this enjoyable Muppetisation of the immortal Charles Dickens tale of Christmas humbug and redemption. "Gonzo" adopts the role of the author/narrator and guides us through this (pretty heavily) abridged version of the story as Michael Caine's arch-miser "Ebenezer Scrooge" is visited by the three kindly spirits on Christmas morning - each trying to point to the errors of his ways and to encourage him to engage a little more with the Christmas spirit. To be honest, I am not a fan of puppets - and these ones never worked for me on television when I was young. This film does, however, deliver well. A combination of very gentle comedy, a strong and emotional story and a star who was certainly up for joining in, all combine well to offer an engaging and colourful take on the story without descending into too much sentiment that ends, fittingly, outside the east London branch of Mickelwhite's. Paul Williams has composed some frequently poignant lyrics for the "Scrooge", "Bless Us All" and "It Feels Like Christmas" numbers and, mercifully, the more irritating "Kermit" and "Miss Piggy" characters actually feature quite sparingly as that huge turkey in the butcher in the next street gets ever closer to finding a generous buyer. Good fun to watch.
- CinemaSerf
- Dec 24, 2022
- Permalink
It is Christmas Eve, and miserly Ebeneezer Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future in attempt to get him to change his ways.
Dicken's classic tale gets the Muppet treatment, with Michael Caine taking the role of Scrooge, but most of the other characters being played by Jim Henson's famous felt creations. Whilst the story remains fairly faithful to Dickens' novel (although it is simplified somewhat for a younger audience), the lack of really good jokes and the inclusion of some rather forgettable songs (by Paul Williams) made this film rather disappointing for me.
Caine is superb as Scrooge but his Muppet co-stars are just not up to their zany best. Gonzo (as Dickens) and Rizzo the Rat narrate the tale and tend to interrupt the flow of proceedings, whilst Kermit, voiced by Steve Whitmire (not Jim Henson, who died two years earlier), just doesn't sound like the frog we know and love.
The whole affair is rather sedate considering this is a Muppet movie and I found myself struggling to stay awake towards the end. More jokes and a little less singing and I may have enjoyed this one a little more.
Dicken's classic tale gets the Muppet treatment, with Michael Caine taking the role of Scrooge, but most of the other characters being played by Jim Henson's famous felt creations. Whilst the story remains fairly faithful to Dickens' novel (although it is simplified somewhat for a younger audience), the lack of really good jokes and the inclusion of some rather forgettable songs (by Paul Williams) made this film rather disappointing for me.
Caine is superb as Scrooge but his Muppet co-stars are just not up to their zany best. Gonzo (as Dickens) and Rizzo the Rat narrate the tale and tend to interrupt the flow of proceedings, whilst Kermit, voiced by Steve Whitmire (not Jim Henson, who died two years earlier), just doesn't sound like the frog we know and love.
The whole affair is rather sedate considering this is a Muppet movie and I found myself struggling to stay awake towards the end. More jokes and a little less singing and I may have enjoyed this one a little more.
- BA_Harrison
- Dec 29, 2006
- Permalink
Brian Henson does his dad proud in this, the first Muppet feature filmed after Jim Henson's death. All the things which have made the Muppets appealing--charm, humor, tenderness--are very much in evidence in this adaption of Charles Dickens' much-retold classic.
Michael Caine fills the central role of Ebeneezer Scrooge admirably, throwing himself into the part with much energy and gusto. Familiar Muppet faces take up several roles--Kermit and Miss Piggy as Bob and Mrs. Cratchit, Robin as Tiny Tim, elderly hecklers Statler and Waldorf as the Marley brothers (Dickens' character Jacob and original creation Robert)--with new Muppets designed for the roles of the three Christmas ghosts. The result is a somewhat fanciful 19th-century London where humans, animals, talking vegetables, and various undefinable creatures live side-by-side. In spite of potential complications the concept works very well, thanks to the spirited performances by both actors and Muppet handlers.
Gonzo (adopting the persona of Dickens himself) and Rizzo the Rat narrate the story and add a healthy dose of humor to the proceedings. But the film knows when to be serious--the climactic scene focusing on Christmas Yet to Come is as eerie and touching as it should be. And ultimately, the resolution leaves one with the warm, peaceful joy synonomous with the season. Definitely a movie which deserves a place among the family classics of the holidays.
Michael Caine fills the central role of Ebeneezer Scrooge admirably, throwing himself into the part with much energy and gusto. Familiar Muppet faces take up several roles--Kermit and Miss Piggy as Bob and Mrs. Cratchit, Robin as Tiny Tim, elderly hecklers Statler and Waldorf as the Marley brothers (Dickens' character Jacob and original creation Robert)--with new Muppets designed for the roles of the three Christmas ghosts. The result is a somewhat fanciful 19th-century London where humans, animals, talking vegetables, and various undefinable creatures live side-by-side. In spite of potential complications the concept works very well, thanks to the spirited performances by both actors and Muppet handlers.
Gonzo (adopting the persona of Dickens himself) and Rizzo the Rat narrate the story and add a healthy dose of humor to the proceedings. But the film knows when to be serious--the climactic scene focusing on Christmas Yet to Come is as eerie and touching as it should be. And ultimately, the resolution leaves one with the warm, peaceful joy synonomous with the season. Definitely a movie which deserves a place among the family classics of the holidays.
If you're looking for a great family film that will delight everyone, look no further than Muppet Christmas Carol. Even if it's not Christmas this is well worth watching, and you will spot more and more gags every time you watch. Brilliant.
In my house, we watch The Muppet Christmas Carol every Christmas Eve. When Kermit the Frog sings the song "One More Sleep 'Til Christmas", we cuddle together and sing along, knowing that Santa's on his way and the next day is the most special day of the entire year. My parents told me that when this movie was released in the theaters, it didn't do well, but I can't seem to believe it. How can one of the most adorable versions of A Christmas Carol, one that remains one of our all-time favorites—and we've seen every version known to man—not be treasured by everyone in the world?
Paul Williams wrote the memorable and lovely songs in the film, and when Miles Goodman's music flows during the opening credits, it instantly puts the audience in the mood for Christmas. The cast is announced, and as Kermit the Frog is listed as Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy as Emily Cratchit, and other well-known Muppets and human actors are credited, the best is saved for last. Michael Caine gets the "and" in the credits; he plays Ebenezer Scrooge. He's truly heartwarming in the film, playing the iconic role as a sensitive man. While other versions of the story portray Scrooge as unwaveringly mean until the memorable ending, Jerry Juhl's fantastic script shows Scrooge affected by the early scenes.
The Great Gonzo and Rizzo the Rat speak to the camera in the opening scene, introducing themselves and the story. They're the continuous narrators of the film, and the running commentary is absolutely hilarious. Too many of the lines from Juhl's screenplay have become household phrases in my family for me to list, but there is one part that is worth mentioning. When the Ghost of Christmas Future appears, there is the usual ominous setting. Gonzo and Rizzo remark how spooky it is and tell the little kids in the audience that they're going to leave and come back when it's not scary anymore, which is not only a considerate warning but is kind to the kids who choose to hide their eyes so they don't feel embarrassed. When the Muppets reappear, they say, "We're back! We promised we would be!" Every time I used to come home and greet my kitty, I said that phrase.
There's really too much perfection in this movie to keep my review short, but I'll try to keep it relatively brief. The sets and costumes are beautiful and look very authentic. The smaller roles—Steven Mackintosh as Nephew Fred, Meredith Braun as Belle, and the incredibly cast Raymond Coulthard as Young Scrooge—are lovely and put just as much of their hearts in their performances as the main leads do. And the songs, which I've already praised, somehow make the listeners' hearts lighter and spirits brighter. In "It Feels Like Christmas", the production number started by the Ghost of Christmas Present and continued by the ensemble, Michael Caine actually dances along as his Christmas spirit is rekindled. The back-and-forth rocking is forever known in my house as "doing the Michael Caine" and it's a dance move we love to imitate. Speaking of the Ghost of Christmas Present—have you noticed that sometimes this jolly spirit isn't always nice in other film versions? In The Muppet Christmas Carol, he's incredibly sweet and caring.
If it's at all possible you haven't seen this version, buy a copy. I guarantee it'll become a staple in your household during the Christmas season. Whether you watch it the first night you put up the tree or wait until there's only one more sleep 'til Christmas, it'll be one of your favorite parts of the most wonderful time of the year.
Paul Williams wrote the memorable and lovely songs in the film, and when Miles Goodman's music flows during the opening credits, it instantly puts the audience in the mood for Christmas. The cast is announced, and as Kermit the Frog is listed as Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy as Emily Cratchit, and other well-known Muppets and human actors are credited, the best is saved for last. Michael Caine gets the "and" in the credits; he plays Ebenezer Scrooge. He's truly heartwarming in the film, playing the iconic role as a sensitive man. While other versions of the story portray Scrooge as unwaveringly mean until the memorable ending, Jerry Juhl's fantastic script shows Scrooge affected by the early scenes.
The Great Gonzo and Rizzo the Rat speak to the camera in the opening scene, introducing themselves and the story. They're the continuous narrators of the film, and the running commentary is absolutely hilarious. Too many of the lines from Juhl's screenplay have become household phrases in my family for me to list, but there is one part that is worth mentioning. When the Ghost of Christmas Future appears, there is the usual ominous setting. Gonzo and Rizzo remark how spooky it is and tell the little kids in the audience that they're going to leave and come back when it's not scary anymore, which is not only a considerate warning but is kind to the kids who choose to hide their eyes so they don't feel embarrassed. When the Muppets reappear, they say, "We're back! We promised we would be!" Every time I used to come home and greet my kitty, I said that phrase.
There's really too much perfection in this movie to keep my review short, but I'll try to keep it relatively brief. The sets and costumes are beautiful and look very authentic. The smaller roles—Steven Mackintosh as Nephew Fred, Meredith Braun as Belle, and the incredibly cast Raymond Coulthard as Young Scrooge—are lovely and put just as much of their hearts in their performances as the main leads do. And the songs, which I've already praised, somehow make the listeners' hearts lighter and spirits brighter. In "It Feels Like Christmas", the production number started by the Ghost of Christmas Present and continued by the ensemble, Michael Caine actually dances along as his Christmas spirit is rekindled. The back-and-forth rocking is forever known in my house as "doing the Michael Caine" and it's a dance move we love to imitate. Speaking of the Ghost of Christmas Present—have you noticed that sometimes this jolly spirit isn't always nice in other film versions? In The Muppet Christmas Carol, he's incredibly sweet and caring.
If it's at all possible you haven't seen this version, buy a copy. I guarantee it'll become a staple in your household during the Christmas season. Whether you watch it the first night you put up the tree or wait until there's only one more sleep 'til Christmas, it'll be one of your favorite parts of the most wonderful time of the year.
- HotToastyRag
- Nov 30, 2017
- Permalink
There's a priceless lesson at the heart of Dickens' classic Christmas story, which I'm sure is why it remains timeless. But it's also been done to death six ways from Sunday. So adding a Muppet twist to the proceedings is a breath of fresh air. Those characters (and the brilliant puppeteers) add heaps of personality. Especially Rizzo. Michael Caine's a terrific Scrooge and really sells the uplifting finale. And it doesn't matter how many times I've seen this, his "Not Tiny Tim!" always hits me where I live.
Good stuff.
7/10
Good stuff.
7/10
Okay, not every movie can be like this, especially not every rendition of A Christmas Carol. A Muppets' Christmas Carol to me is the perfect version of this story. It encompasses everything that's wonderful about the original story - it's heartwarming, the characters are truly alive in all forms, and the message is as clear as day: Keep the True Meaning of Christmas with you always, to love your friends and family, and never let them go. Definitely the best Muppets movie ever, and just a beautiful movie as a whole, both visually and in story. Every year my family and I gather 'round the TV in our living room, just like we did when I was little, and we pop in the old VHS I got when I was eight. It's definitely a classic in my book, and ranks up there with A Christmas Story as one of the most amazing Christmas movies ever made.
This film really stands the test of time. Made in 1992, I watched it in 2010 (and again in 2011) and it could have been made yesterday... it just really carries the spirit of timelessness.
Great songs, great use of Muppets (especially Rizzo). And who can say anything bad about Michael Caine? George Carlin was considered for the part of Scrooge, and I want to see what that would be like, but you can never go wrong with Caine. I cannot name a single failure in his career. This is one of his greatest performances, as well... and it is truly an honor to appear alongside Muppets, I imagine.
The film is available in two versions: theatrical widescreen, and extended full-screen. I suggest the widescreen, not only because the picture is better, but because the only scene cut is of a woman singing, and her song and voice are not high points whatsoever.
The DVD is worth owning for the special features. A short feature on the life of Gonzo and another short on Christmas Around the World. I wish they had both been longer, but they were still a nice treat. There is also a commentary, though I have not yet had the chance to check that out.
Please, check this out and share it with your kids. It is more kid-friendly than some versions of "Christmas Carol" (although Christmas Past is a bit creepy) and you cannot go wrong with that.
Great songs, great use of Muppets (especially Rizzo). And who can say anything bad about Michael Caine? George Carlin was considered for the part of Scrooge, and I want to see what that would be like, but you can never go wrong with Caine. I cannot name a single failure in his career. This is one of his greatest performances, as well... and it is truly an honor to appear alongside Muppets, I imagine.
The film is available in two versions: theatrical widescreen, and extended full-screen. I suggest the widescreen, not only because the picture is better, but because the only scene cut is of a woman singing, and her song and voice are not high points whatsoever.
The DVD is worth owning for the special features. A short feature on the life of Gonzo and another short on Christmas Around the World. I wish they had both been longer, but they were still a nice treat. There is also a commentary, though I have not yet had the chance to check that out.
Please, check this out and share it with your kids. It is more kid-friendly than some versions of "Christmas Carol" (although Christmas Past is a bit creepy) and you cannot go wrong with that.
Having seen previous Muppet offerings that were, frankly, banal this little gem almost escaped me. This film is best enjoyed if you already know the Dickens tale inside out so that you can relish the way it has been adapted to fit well-known Muppet characters and also so that you can spend you time watching for the throwaway comedy in the background. This is the same throwaway humour that Nick Park (Chicken Run) has become famous for. I recommend buying this movie on video and getting it out once a year, in the run-up to Christmas, as a family tradition.
- hilary-franoux
- Aug 22, 2001
- Permalink
This adaptation will never replace the Alastair Sim version, but Jim Henson's warmly charming wit applied to the classic tale has produced a modest gem, with appeal to both children and adults. Never condescending, the story remains true to the original, and the humorous elaborations never seem obtrusive (best line, from Scrooge's clerks: 'please, Mr. Scrooge, our assets are frooooozen!'). These beloved characters who have worked their way into our hearts - Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fozzy, and the rest - are a delight to watch. My only reservation, as has been noted by others, is that we could have skipped the songs, especially if Caine had to sing them. He does a very creditable Scrooge here, but a crooner he ain't. None the less, this will become a Christmas classic.
I resisted watching THE MUPPET Christmas CAROL for over two decades. Why? Because I don't like most versions of the Dickens film because it's been overdone so many times that the story has practically become a cliché. Heck, there have been 95 versions of A Christmas CAROL!!! And, among the many versions were even ones that starred Mr. Magoo and Scrooge McDuck! Talk about overdoing things!!! Some of these variations are quite clever--most are not and are just cheap ways to get past writing original material. My feeling about THE MUPPET Christmas CAROL is that if you must see one, this is better than most though not as good as, in my opinion, the best version which stars George C. Scott*.
Now, despite all my Scrooge-like comments, I cannot fault the film too much since despite the familiarity of the story, it's actually one of the better Muppet films. I was particularly impressed by the sets. The scenes of rooftops of London and the forest were all created on the sound stage and must have taken a tremendous amount of time and effort--and they are beautiful. Additionally, some of the other sets are amazing--such as the Cratchit house. They are just lovely. Likewise, I just loved the puppets--especially the Ghost of Christmas present. The only negative were that there were perhaps a few songs too many. Otherwise, a lovely family film overall.
*While it is a very, very, very different version, I strongly recommend you see BLACKADDER'S Christmas CAROL. It is a wonderful variation on the old story--one where sweet, generous and kind Mr. Blackadder is accidentally turned into a selfish jerk by the same ghosts!
Now, despite all my Scrooge-like comments, I cannot fault the film too much since despite the familiarity of the story, it's actually one of the better Muppet films. I was particularly impressed by the sets. The scenes of rooftops of London and the forest were all created on the sound stage and must have taken a tremendous amount of time and effort--and they are beautiful. Additionally, some of the other sets are amazing--such as the Cratchit house. They are just lovely. Likewise, I just loved the puppets--especially the Ghost of Christmas present. The only negative were that there were perhaps a few songs too many. Otherwise, a lovely family film overall.
*While it is a very, very, very different version, I strongly recommend you see BLACKADDER'S Christmas CAROL. It is a wonderful variation on the old story--one where sweet, generous and kind Mr. Blackadder is accidentally turned into a selfish jerk by the same ghosts!
- planktonrules
- Nov 29, 2013
- Permalink
Following on from The Muppet Movie, The Muppets Take Manhattan and The Great Muppet Caper, this is Jim and Brian Henson's puppet version of the famous Charles Dickens story, "A Christmas Carol". It is a story done many times for stage and screen, and this version is pretty faithful to the source material, though inevitably it does make simplifications in order to accommodate its intended juvenile audience. Michael Caine is a perfect choice for Ebenezer Scrooge and holds the film together well (not easy, I'm sure, when you're a living, breathing actor surrounded by furry puppets!)
In Victorian London, miserly counting house boss Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine) looks on in disgust as the citizens merrily prepare for Christmas. Since youth-hood, Scrooge has despised Christmas and what he deems to be the frivolity and excessive generosity associated with it. One of Scrooge's employees, Bob Crachit (Kermit The Frog), asks for time off on Christmas Day to be with his family, and is begrudgingly given it by his sour employer. However, Scrooge is visited later that night by the ghosts of his now-deceased partners Jacob and Robert Marley (Statler and Waldorf). They warn him that he needs to change his ways or else he faces eternal damnation. More ghosts visit him through the night in an attempt to show him the error of his ways. Firstly, the Ghost of Christmas Past who forces Scrooge to relive some of his acts of cruelty from Christmases gone by; secondly, the Ghost of Christmas Present, who shows Scrooge how his mean nature affects those around him; and thirdly, the Ghost of Christmas Future, who allows Scrooge a terrifying and heart-breaking glimpse of what will be if he continues to mistreat those he knows....
The film is well-made and enjoyable in its simplistic way. Caine, as noted, is an outstanding choice for the Scrooge role. The production designs are also first-rate, including some well-designed wintry Victorian streets and some excellent interiors. There are a few things about the film that I find rather irritating, though, and as a result I've knocked my rating down to a 6. The linking device, which uses Gonzo as narrator Charles Dickens and saddles him a very unfunny sidekick called Rizzo the Rat, seems both unnecessary and heavy-handed. Also disappointing is the lack of screen time given to some of our favourite muppet characters. True enough, Kermit gets plenty of time as Bob Cratchit, but muppet legends like Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, the Animal, and Statler & Waldorf disappear from the action all too quickly. The central storyline here follows Scrooge, and since Scrooge is played by the human Caine, the muppets are reduced to brief guest roles.... and THAT seems a bit of a cheat when it is supposed to be a muppet movie. This is a worthwhile film and a nice, easy introduction to the story for viewers too young to read the book, but somehow I cant help thinking that it could have been better.
In Victorian London, miserly counting house boss Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine) looks on in disgust as the citizens merrily prepare for Christmas. Since youth-hood, Scrooge has despised Christmas and what he deems to be the frivolity and excessive generosity associated with it. One of Scrooge's employees, Bob Crachit (Kermit The Frog), asks for time off on Christmas Day to be with his family, and is begrudgingly given it by his sour employer. However, Scrooge is visited later that night by the ghosts of his now-deceased partners Jacob and Robert Marley (Statler and Waldorf). They warn him that he needs to change his ways or else he faces eternal damnation. More ghosts visit him through the night in an attempt to show him the error of his ways. Firstly, the Ghost of Christmas Past who forces Scrooge to relive some of his acts of cruelty from Christmases gone by; secondly, the Ghost of Christmas Present, who shows Scrooge how his mean nature affects those around him; and thirdly, the Ghost of Christmas Future, who allows Scrooge a terrifying and heart-breaking glimpse of what will be if he continues to mistreat those he knows....
The film is well-made and enjoyable in its simplistic way. Caine, as noted, is an outstanding choice for the Scrooge role. The production designs are also first-rate, including some well-designed wintry Victorian streets and some excellent interiors. There are a few things about the film that I find rather irritating, though, and as a result I've knocked my rating down to a 6. The linking device, which uses Gonzo as narrator Charles Dickens and saddles him a very unfunny sidekick called Rizzo the Rat, seems both unnecessary and heavy-handed. Also disappointing is the lack of screen time given to some of our favourite muppet characters. True enough, Kermit gets plenty of time as Bob Cratchit, but muppet legends like Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, the Animal, and Statler & Waldorf disappear from the action all too quickly. The central storyline here follows Scrooge, and since Scrooge is played by the human Caine, the muppets are reduced to brief guest roles.... and THAT seems a bit of a cheat when it is supposed to be a muppet movie. This is a worthwhile film and a nice, easy introduction to the story for viewers too young to read the book, but somehow I cant help thinking that it could have been better.
- barnabyrudge
- Nov 1, 2005
- Permalink
Dickens' Christmas Carol must have been filmed about 200 times right about now, and I'm sure those Hollywood executives will do so in the next century as well, as the story is quite a winner.
So this is the Muppets interpretation of it, with Michael Caine in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge and Kermit as Bob Cratchit. Scrooge is mean, cold and cheap but he is visited by some ghosts, yada yada, and God bless us, everyone!
Anyway, the Muppets don't really do anything special with the story so this one just blends in with all the other Christmas Carols. Not a standout movie for sure. 5/10.
So this is the Muppets interpretation of it, with Michael Caine in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge and Kermit as Bob Cratchit. Scrooge is mean, cold and cheap but he is visited by some ghosts, yada yada, and God bless us, everyone!
Anyway, the Muppets don't really do anything special with the story so this one just blends in with all the other Christmas Carols. Not a standout movie for sure. 5/10.
- TheOtherFool
- Jul 28, 2004
- Permalink