It was better than expected. It aged well and the bluray helped it. The jokes were hilarious. I liked that he got the girl at the end. For a sec. I thought they were going to grinch him all hunchback. It was well adapted and a lot of fun. I can see why it’s a classic.
But it isn't a classic. In the nearly 20 years since it's release, critical and public reaction has been polarising at best, and seemingly only getting worse over time.
While the 2018 adaptation isn't considered great either, it seems it's generally preferred over this one - as is the 1966 animated short.
You can love it all you like, that doesn't automatically give it classic status! I personally really enjoy Homefront (2013), Phone Booth (2002), and Hanna (2011) but I know they aren't classic films.
I've already stated why The Grinch isn't, so might pay to read my original reply before throwing childish insults my way ("suck a bag of rocks", what are you 10?)!
Classic Films are often distinguished or unique works of cinema that have transcended time and trends, with indefinable quality. ... Classics are renowned films of first rank, reference points in film mythology, or films that have become a part of American cultural folklore.
This movie came out 20 years ago and is still played heavily on tv and streaming during the holiday season. That means not only is the movie popular it's also passed down to younger viewers. Many movies including those that take place during Christmas can't hold that same claim. I would argue that the Grinch stands with other top popular holiday movies such as a Christmas story, year with a Santa clause, and Christmas Vacation. I think this would qualify it as having an impact on our culture.
To add to that this the first live action attempt for a Dr. Sues adaptation. Arguably ground breaking and unique considering how unusual and fantastical his work is. It was also a box office smash during it's time making 400m+ in the US alone adjusted for inflation. Other movies during it's time to reach this level of financial success are lord of the rings, harry potter, Shrek, toy story, and Matrix. I would argue that they also have made a significant impact on our culture.
Your point on IMDB rating is mute since comedy is more subjective than any other genre. I'm actually surprised it's not in the mid 5s.
I'm not arguing that The Grinch is a master piece(If the comedy doesn't land for you it would be horrid). I'm just saying that whether you like it or not it's absolutely a popular movie, especially during the holidays, while also being a unique film that's made an impact on our culture. By the broad definition of classic movie I would consider it one.
You've made some interesting and valid points, I'll admit, though I'm still not sure I entirely agree. I think that it's box office success was mostly due to it being a novelty for its time, as live-action adaptations of cartoons was quite the fad during the 90's and early 00's.
While it is regularly aired and promoted during the Holiday Season, it's still nowhere near as popular and beloved as those others you mentioned (including LOTR, Matrix, Harry Potter etc.) - or even Home Alone, which is probably the most popular Christmas movie of the modern age.
The reason I got angry at you is that you are being arrogant and declaring what is or isn't a classic. Basically acting like you are God and that anything anyone else thinks is wrong. Well I am not bowing down before you, arrogant jerk.
"You are the troll who tells people what is or isn't a classic."
So stating the relevant fact that something isn't a classic just because you like it makes me a troll, huh?
Yeah, nah... it seems the shoe is on the other foot at this point : https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=fantroll
Your replies are almost identical to the example above. If you can't see that, we'll just have to agree to disagree.
UNLESS...UNLESS YOU WERE BORN SHORTLY BEFORE OR AFTER ITS RELEASE...THE POWER OF NOSTALGIA AND YOUNGER SELF MEMORIES IS STRONG...WHICH IS WHY MANNEQUIN FINDS ITSELF IN MY PERSONAL TOP 100 ALL TIME FLICKS.