Hands down, this is the best remake of this tale. Patrick Stewart was born to be Scrooge. Even better is his audio rendition - which if you have never listened to, do yourself a favor and get a copy! Both versions are my yearly tradition to listen to/watch as me and my family decorate our tree and house. Kudos to Patrick Stewart for making such a quality film!!!
shareI agree. Out of all the versions of "A Christmas Carol" I've seen, this one's the best in my opinion.
shareSecond best, imho, but still wonderful (to me, "Scrooge" with Albert Finney is the be-all-end-all when it comes to this Christmas classic). Patrick Stewart is my #1 favorite nonmusical Scrooge (I love the way he laughs in the end. The cough was an excellent touch), and the way Saskia Reeves muttered her toast to the old skinflint was truly inspired. She really seemed like she was being forced into it, one of two films (that I know of) to show the toast done in this light, the other being "The Muppet Christmas Carol." Come to think of it, I also love when Bob grabs the poker when he sees Mr, Scrooge in the end, as it's simultaneously funny and not an unrealistic reaction. Also, the scenes with the Christmas carols being sung during the Ghost of Christmas Present's visit were quite touching.
Formerly rose-lisa
imdb DP fanclub president
Stop kicking people into the pit of death! Honestly!
I bought the DVD off of Amazon for $6 and watched this version for the first time last night. I was a little apprehensive after all the negative comments that have been made on this and other boards, but it actually turned out to be quite enjoyable.
I think the best version is the '51 Alistair Sim version without question. However this one is still good--better than expected in fact--and I have also come to appreciate the '84 George C. Scott version.
I finally got a chance to see this version again last night on TNT. And while it wasn't bad it simply doesn't compare to the '51 version with Alastair Sim. I even like the George C. Scott version better than Stewart's.
One of the things that was surprising to me was the special effects that some have noted as improvements with this version given it's ability to take advantage of more modern film making techniques. I honestly didn't see these effects as being any better in general even when comparing them to the '51 version. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing... not wanting the story to be overwhelmed with effects rather than essence.
And while Stewart is a capable actor, and a great voice, there was something missing in the performance, even if just some facial expression, so deftly played by Sim. And there was not the same intensity as Sim, or Scott for that matter, when Christmas morning arrives and Scrooge realizes his chance for redemption.
I agree with others that his "tight" reward to the boy was sort of odd, given the generosity of the other Scrooges... and the coughing bit just didn't come off as well as it was intended.
Just for the record, some of things that make the Sim version shine...
The bit in the tavern when he's having dinner, and refuses the extra bread he desires because of the added cost. His miserly ways extend even unto himself. I liked that.
His more animated actions, especially during Marley's visit and most certainly Christmas morning. His dancing and head stand, always brings a big smile to my face, and his interaction with the housekeeper is great.
I'd have to rank the versions as 1ST- Alastair Sim, 2ND- George C. Scott, 3RD- Patrick Stewart and 4TH- Reginald Owen... my opinion, of course. As far as the Finney version, I'd have preferred a straight performance rather than the musical. Finney is so good and carried Scrooge particularly well, but the whole musical thing lost me... especially the big finish... just not right. :)
~LjM
Put your pants on, Spartacus!
Off topic for this board but I agree with you about the 1970 musical. Albert Finney was great in the role but I prefer non-musical versions too. Some of the tunes are admittedly catchy but I objected to the big musical finish myself and the entire Santa Claus suit business. However, I did like this movie's version of Fezziwig and love the entire 'December the 25th' dance sequence from his party. I usually watch it over and over....
share[deleted]
the best version is of course "scrooged" with bill murray. lol.
shareyes.. the best..
share