How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
In 1957, author Theodore Geisel, known more commonly as “Dr. Seuss,” published a charming little story about a grouchy curmudgeon who hated the season of giving and decides to steal it away from everyone, only to learn that “Christmas doesn’t come from a store.” The book was an obvious criticism of the avarice and greed in the holiday season. The book was animated into a half-hour special, released in 1966 which, believe it or not, some people are not presently aware of its existence. The Grinch is a grumpy persona who lives away from the noise and people in the mountains. I don’t know exactly WHEN I started relating to the Grinch, but I digress. Both the book and short are such a staple of the holiday that, when Hollywood “re-imaginings” were starting to gain popularity, director Ron Howard took a swing at the classic tale, taking over from director Tim Burton, and casting Jim Carrey as the Grinch. There are some who hate this movie and some who love this movie. In the case of the former, the most common element that pops up is the statement: “I don’t like Jim Carrey.” Even if you don’t like him or his zany antics, is he really the biggest problem with this film? Now, I’m going to be fair: I do love this movie. I first saw it in theatres when I was a little kid and, good or bad, it is a staple of my holidays, just as much as the animated short is. That does not mean that this movie is perfect.