It’s been a while since we’ve had a movie based one of Dr. Seuss’ most famous characters. His Grinch character is probably the second most recognizable character he created. First debuted in 1957 within the pages of How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, people everywhere were swept away with the mischievous mayhem that this green guy took joy in while spreading holiday jeer. In 1966 the first television movie was created with the same title as book. It became a classic and remained untouchable until the turn of the century when Jim Carrey brought this guy to life again in How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000). Now what was one old is now new again as a new story is ready to be told in The Grinch.
In the village of Whoville, Christmas is right around the corner and its residents grow happier and more excited each day as December 25th approaches. There’s singing and dancing going on in the streets with Donna Lou Who (Rashida Jones) and her daughter, Cindy Lou Who (Cameron Seely), doing the same. All is not sunshine and roses with every creature here. The infamous Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch) tries to avoid these nuisances along with all of their deplorable joyous behavior but he seems to be fighting a losing battle here. It begs the question though, why does The Grinch seem to hate everything and everyone that brings smiles to others, especially Christmas joy? As it turns out, there’s a story behind the our main character that may just prove that he’s simply misunderstood rather than mean. Will those living in Whoville get to have a holly, jolly Christmas?
One of the things that really stands out in this version of The Grinch is just how visually pleasing it is on the eyes. The music, thanks to the modernized arrangement, should lead to some good toe-tapping seat dancing making everything more upbeat and enjoyable. And with voice talents such as Benedict Cumberbatch, Rashida Jones, Kenan Thompson, Angela Lansbury and the young, but on the rise, Cameron Seely. These actors provide a good mix of personalities to help keep everything fresh and funny. As for the story, well it was born from the mind of Dr. Seuss so you know that it’ll be whimsically wonderful.
Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch is good story that children of all ages can enjoy. Yes, it involves being mean and grumpy at times, but it’s done in a fun way that would make fans of the Despicable Me franchise smile while reminiscing fondly about Gru’s character. There are lessons to be learned, with probably the most important one being that everyone can use a little encouragement and unwavering friendship every now and again. Benedict Cumberbatch gives the title character the exact voice he needs to flourish. All in all, this will be a fun time at theaters while getting the children primed and ready for the biggest holiday of the year. You can check this animated delight out in theaters right now.
