1. A Christmas Carol (1951) The fact that Scrooge finally got to hear his sisters last words, begging him to take care of her son is absolutely crucial for his development. It was heart-wrenching
I would have added "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol" as an honorable mention at least. It was well written, stuck close to the novel and gave Scrooge an enormous growing feeling of pathos as it went on. The songs were also well done and the framing story (Magoo as a retired actor returning to the stage for one last performance) made sense. The art and animation was nicely done as well. Thanks for posting!
Magoo's Christmas Carol has always been one of my favorites since I was a little girl until today (60ish years). I would have had it in my top ten but I agree that Alistaire Sim's version is the ultimate best ever.
My family has a rule where every December it has to be the first Christmas movie we watch because it’s my moms favorite movie. I teared up during every single song when watching it.
The music put into Albert Finney's Scrooge is underrated! The depth of creativity it must have taken to create a musical fitting to the storyline. My favorite!
The songs and music was written by the producers and writers of this Wonderful motion picture, their first writing effort for a musical. They proud themselves for capturing the British Tradition of the Victorian Era.
Plus, it has the distinction of being television’s very first animated Christmas special; and it led to the series, “The Famous Adventures of Mr. Magoo”.
I was 7 yrs old the Christmas Mr. Magoo's version was released. It was my introduction to the Christmas Carol story and I suspect that's true for a lot of children of the early '60s. It made the story understandable for a child and had amazing music for the adults. I think it definitely deserved a place high up on the list.
The 1984 version with George C. Scott is my favorite as well. It should either be #1 or #2 on this list. I do recognize that the Alistair Sim version is the gold standard for most people. And it is excellent. However, I do prefer the 1984 version. I think Scott's performance was the best and having David Warner as Bob Cratchit and Roger Rees as Fred were brilliant casting choices. And that version also has my favorite version of the ghost is Christmas present. He was really visibly disgusted by Scrooge and really got in his face at times and chastised him about his callousness. Just magnificent across the board.
Me too! I loved George C. Scott's performance. It's also one of the rare times you get to see actor David Warner as a good guy (the kind hearted, but frightened Bob Cratchit)! Warner has played so many great villains of the years (the bodyguard from Titanic and the Cardassian from Star Trek TNG among his most noticable) that it's kind of a shock to see him cowered by such an iconic presence as Scott's Scrooge!
George C. Scott has always been my favorite Scrooge. He's so surprising. I'd never seen a Scrooge with a sense of humor before, but that made him all the more chilling and awful. A wonderful performance.
Same with me, I also love the addition of the poor family under the bridge and the scenes with Fred. That adaptation and _Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol_ were my introductions to _A Christmas Carol._
Depends on which part, and in which way, If adaptation wise: Part 2-4 he gets right, Meanwhile in part one he seems more sarcastic than grumpy In acting wise he’s the correct answer
Mine too! George C Scott really brought a nuanced, sarcastic, and blunt Scrooge to life. He wasn't just mean, but highly cynical and mocked all the celebrations that came with Christmas.
+orlendatube I'm guessing it may be because Sir Patrick doesn't look like a "traditional" Scrooge. I know, it's a shallow and stupid reason, but that's my theory. It certainly can't be because of how he portrayed Scrooge, which I think was excellent.
matt k. Still an enduring Christmas classic for me, it being my first cinema trip (that I remember, aged 5). I still frequently visit that cinema and no longer have to go to Toys R Us to kill some time because the screening I wanted was sold out (and not only because getting to where it was by bus would be both complicated and expensive).
"I do not make films for children... or, at least, not primarily for children." "You're dead if you aim for kids." "We design the films to appeal to ourselves." "The adults have the money.... children don't have any money." - Walt Disney
I grew up watching the Albert Finney "Scrooge" and have memories of hiding under the covers during the hell scene. My second fave is of course The Muppets Christmas Carol. I remember being doubtful about it without Jim Henson, but they carried it off beautifully. The songs in both of these films are terrific and catchy ie, "Thank You Very Much" from "Scrooge" and "It Feels Like Christmas" from The Muppets Christmas Carol. Dickens' story is a great Christmas tradition and the movies make it even more of a joy to share with family.
They always cut out the hell scenes on the network channels-So I couldn't figure out why he woke up with his bedsheets choking him. Once I got a VHS copy, I finally saw why! Plus Jacob Marley (aka Ben Kenobi) was hilarious in the 'hell' scenes! "You'll be the only one in Hell who's chilly"
Amy Bennett This is one of my favorites.....love the contrast scenes where Mr. Cratchit, buys his meager Christmas for his family as you see wealthier people buying a better feast.
I don’t understand In the Flintstones a Christmas Carol everyone That was supposed to perform gets sick with a bad case of the bed rock bug. So I’m wondering what is a bed rock bug?
Yes--Alistair Sim is my favorite film Scrooge. He's the only one who stands on his head on Christmas morning! I think his talent as a comedian made him the most believably bitter and hilariously redeemed Scrooge.
Amen to that! Also, my favorite line in that entire thing is when the maid runs out screaming and he runs after her, and then he gives her the money as a Christmas gift. She asks what's it for. He tells her to guess. She says, 'to keep me mouth shut.' Best line ever.
It's not everyone's favorite and parts of it feel lifeless and overly matter of the fact. I do like it, but I understand it being an honorable mention. I feel like aside from Patrick Stewart's performance and the actor that played Bob Cratchitt, there's not much extraordinary about it.
Love the George C. Scott one for how Scott makes Scrooge stand up for himself like at the Cratchits he says "Bob has a point. Without me there would be no goose or Christmas dinner." When the spirit asks if that's all he can think about Scrooge gives him a look that screams you're an idiot I've genuinely been touched while saying "no but one must speak up in one's own defense." Along with just the intensity that Scott brings to where you can see that he's not hating Christmas so much as he's built up walls of defense against incredibly painful memories caused in his life all happening around the time of year. Also with The Muppets Christmas Carol Michael Caine does play Scrooge in a very genuinely broken way. Just watch the past scenes where he has trouble getting out a justification for not going home at Christmas, when Belle leaves him he's dying inside watching it happen again. In the present you see him slowly open up to the spirit and actually have fun during the "it feels like Christmas" number before being touched by the Cratchits and begging the Spirit to stay because he's fond of him. Then in the future you can just see his heart shatter at Tiny Tim's death along with his voice cracking before his total breakdown at his grave site where he's BEGGING for the spirit not to make him look at the headstone because he would only be confirming his suspicions and asking through tears "why show me this if I was past all possible hope?"
I know you wrote this a year ago but you're very right, it was a FANTASTIC adaptation and it's easily number one on my list for how perfectly he played the role
Cool fact: George C. Scott was best known for portraying as General George S. Patton, which won him the Oscar for Best Actor (but refused it). He even played the General in 1986's TV move "The Last Days of Patton".
Glad to see you put the 1984 adaptation in the top 5. It's one of my favorites. Scott is brilliant. His performance in the initial scene with Fred is perfect. The actor that plays Tiny Tim is one of the best child actors I've seen. The line delivery could use some work but the physical acting is heart breaking.
And it includes things other versions leave out (i.e. Ignorance and Want), plus follows the book in that Scrooge does not visit the Cratchits on Christmas. Probably the closet version to the book IMO.
Yes! Thanks for mentioning Mr. Magoo. Watching that one was a yearly ritual in my family for entering into the spirit of Christmas. My dad had a strangely poignant response to this fairly cheesy cartoon. I think he identified with Mr. Scrooge and was captivated by the possibility of redemption that Scrooge got, and by extension, he could get. The Magoo version is very cheesy, but I overlook that when I see it because I revere it feeling fond childhood memories of gathering around the TV and actually feeling my dad get transformed along with Mr. Magoo. I guess the Mr. Magoo version was the only one he knew - probably because it was 100% pop culture the year it came out (1962). I was in the second grade then. I gleaned that the story held a profound message from Dad's total absorption by it. He never actually told us what had moved him, but it's not hard to figure out. I sure would like to travel back to that time, though, and hear him explain what was binding his own spirit like Scrooge's, and what form the Spirits' visitation would take for his own liberation. Someday when I too am a spirit I intend to have him explain all of that to me.
@@Loveroffood41 I can totally see that. Sir Patrick Stewart was an excellent Scrooge in the version he starred in. Defiantly one of my favorites next to The Muppet Christmas Carol.
I agree. I especially love the part where Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Present are wondering the world and the Ghost is throwing dust to make some men in a workhouse sing.
it's also the first animated holiday program ever produced specifically for television. and only until the stop motion Rudolf the red nose reindeer special that came out 2 years later. it really should have been at least an honorable mention
Here are my my top ten favorite Christmas Carol film adaptations: 1.Scrooge: 1970 (Albert Finney) 2. A Mickeys Christmas Carol: 1983 (Scrooge McDuck) 3. A Christmas Carol: 1984 (George C. Scott) 4. A Christmas Carol: 1954 (Alastair Sim) 5. A Muppet Christmas Carol: 1992 (Michael Caine 6. Scrooged: 1988 (Bill Murray) 7. A Christmas Carol: 1938 (Reginald Owens) 8. A Christmas Carol: 1999 (Patrick Stewart) 9. A Diva Christmas Carol: 2000 (Vanessa Williams) 10. A Christmas Carol: 2009 (Jim Carry)
I agree!! It's my absolute favorite!! And to demean it by placing the Muppets higher, such disrespect!! I thumbed down the video because it weren't on the list!!
I know this is 5 years old, but I've only just found it. I am so happy to see the Alastair Sim version made #1. I agree with that wholeheartedly. A couple of the others may have followed the book better, but Alastair Sim captured the character of Ebenezer Scrooge better than anybody else. He became Scrooge.
Hard to believe you completely neglected "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol"! Framed as a Broadway musical version of "A Christmas Carol", the songs had music by Jule Styne (who wrote "Gypsy") and lyrics by Bob Merrill (who wrote "Funny Girl"). In addition to Jim Backus's Magoo as Scrooge, Bob Cratchit was voiced by Jack Cassidy, a Broadway star in his own right (and father to David Cassidy). Some later versions trimmed some songs to fit shorter time slots, but as a musical adaptation, it's one of the best.
My favorites are as follows 1. Stingiest Man in Town 2. Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol 3. Mickey's Christmas Carol 4. Disney's A Christmas Carol (2009 5. A Christmas Carol (1999) (the fifth one is interesting because it's not only one of many musical versions of the story. But it features Tim Curry in the role of Scrooge)
Kermit, and many of the rest of the Muppets, debuted on a television show airing at midnight, for crying out loud. Walt Disney, himself, said throughout his lifetime that he never made anything (that was not advertiser-supported) "for children... or, at least, not primarily for children." And, he went so far as to say, "You're dead if you aim for kids."
I watch "Scrooge" every year. It is a wonderful adaptation. I would like to mention that "An American Christmas Carol" with Henery Winkler should have made the list.
I love "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol". The songs in that one have stayed with me all my life. "All Alone In The World" still makes me misty eyed. It's a great animated movie from the 60's I think. I'm going to try to find it right now!
+C Liles You are correct. It debuted on TV in 1962. It was one of the first animated Christmas specials for TV, and although I like it, I'm a bit disappointed that they put the Ghost of Christmas Past after Christmas Present--it seems a little backwards to me.
The George C. Scott version, nails it, every time for the closest to the original. Surprised that "An American Christmas Carol" is not in this list. And, some honorable mentions - Ms. Scrooge; Ebbie; A Diva's Christmas Carol; A Carol Christmas, for a little variety.
In some ways, An American Christmas Carol should have been called A Canadian Christmas Carol as it was filmed on location in Canada and featured many local Canadian actors (including R.H. Thomson and Chris Wiggins) in the supporting cast.
Absolutely agree with #1!! I think Alistar Sim gives one of the finest acting performances ever in that film. That scene where he begs forgiveness from his daughter-in-law gets me every time. My VERY minor complaint would be that I would've liked to have seen the Mr. Magoo Christmas Carol get an honorable mention (showing my age).
I wish they'd added the 30 minute animated version that uses Alistair Sim, once again as the voice of Scrooge. The animation in this short version is absolutely remarkable!
Waited for it every year when I was a kid. And it had some awesome musical numbers years before the Albert Finney version (I especially liked the song of the bandits stealing the curtains from Scrooge's bedroom).
The Database Me too. They actually referenced it in an episode of The Simpsons, but I hate that I can't find it anywhere. Would love to show my son one day.
It baffles me that the 2009 animated version isn’t more popular. I’m equally baffled that some disliked the animation, as it was breathtakingly impressive. I’ve never seen the famed George C Scott version, but I can’t imagine any other adaptation topping the 2009 one for me. Not only is it apparently true to the book (yes, I’ve never read it. One on me), but it’s just wonderfully made and a great story in and of itself. It’s amazing how well Jim Carrey can do so many different voices and carry the movie like that, and the always amazing Gary Oldman also greatly contributes. The movie is top quality from the top down, from the animation to the soundtrack to the performances. And while sometimes the attempts at adding humor for the kids feel a little out of place, it also does give a few good laughs, and the end leaves me feeling fulfilled and uplifted every time. Just another incredibly underrated movie in my opinion. I watch it every Christmas season!
Jim Carey’s Disney Christmas Carol was fantastic! I also love Jim Carey in Christmas movies because, I also love him as the Grinch. But I’m surprised it’s #8
Definitely a family favorite and now my husband's favorite too. We always get a kick between the conversations between Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas present. So zany!
They're all great- but the list should have included "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol," which featured Jim Backus as Mr. Magoo doing Scrooge in a Broadway musical.
How could you have missed the Mr. Magoo Christmas Carol? It was arguably the first animated Christmas television special, and the Christmas Carol trivia book rated it the best musical version. Definitely one of the top 10 in my book. (Scrooged would have been part of my 10 worst list).
Agree with the 1951 Alastair Sim version; all other Scrooges are more less measured against his. I would have included the 1935 British version directed by Henry Edwards and starring Sir Seymour Hicks as Scrooge. Hicks performed the role frequently onstage and in at least one silent film adaptation before this one, which was the first film version in the talkie era (rather surprising, considering that the talkie era basically began in 1928-29, that it took so long to have a talkie version). This version is superb and is one of the few to depict the dead Tiny Tim onscreen, laid out in the small spare room of the Cratchit house, with Bob mourning over him, and of course the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come and Scrooge, compelled by the ghost, looking on. Depiction of Tim's body after death rarely occurs in any film or TV version of the story, it only being alluded to in mournful conversation by the Cratchit family members.
It really is a shame the 2019 BBC Version ist almost not available outside of the UK. I had the chance to see it once and i must say that after watching the trailer and beeing quite sceptical i enjoyed it a lot. I would even say it is in my personal top 3.
While I love all versions (especially the Doctor Who and Blackadder ones!), my most favorite one of all is the 1951 film “Scrooge” starring Alastair Sim. The very first Christmas Carol I ever saw was the 1970 “Scrooge” musical movie starring Albert Finney. Saw it in the theaters when I was a kid.
Some fine choices, no doubt. I was skeptical about "The Muppet Christmas Carol" when it first came out, but I was pleasantly surprised when I saw it. The addition of Gonzo as Charles Dickens was a nice touch, because he was able to add some of the author's better comments ("Darkness was cheap, and Scrooge liked it."). I also liked the one with Patrick Stewart. It's the only one I've seen that shows Scrooge going to church on Christmas Day, as he did in the book. Still, my favorite is probably the 1951 version with Alistair Sim, so I'm glad it made #1. It takes a few liberties with the book, but it's truer to the spirit of Christmas than many of the other versions.
1. A Christmas Carol (1951)
The fact that Scrooge finally got to hear his sisters last words, begging him to take care of her son is absolutely crucial for his development. It was heart-wrenching
Scrooge with Alastair Sim is not only my favorite adaptation, but one of the greatest films ever made. A true Classic.
Totally agree!
Perfect
I would have added "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol" as an honorable mention at least. It was well written, stuck close to the novel and gave Scrooge an enormous growing feeling of pathos as it went on. The songs were also well done and the framing story (Magoo as a retired actor returning to the stage for one last performance) made sense. The art and animation was nicely done as well. Thanks for posting!
I'm 5 years late, but that was also my first Christmas carol adaption that I've seen as well
Hear, hear! Magoo's version is one of my favorite iterations.
OMG YAS I WAS WATCHING THAT ONE A MIN AGO!!!
It's sooooooo. Underrated😩
Magoo's Christmas Carol has always been one of my favorites since I was a little girl until today (60ish years). I would have had it in my top ten but I agree that Alistaire Sim's version is the ultimate best ever.
The muppet Christmas carol is my favourite
Mine too! I watched it last night and I while I remembered it being good, I had forgotten just _how_ good it was!
I have the 2005 DVD.
Light the Lamp not the Rat LIGHT THE LAMP NOT THE RAT!!!!!!
Honestly my favourite Xmas film
My family has a rule where every December it has to be the first Christmas movie we watch because it’s my moms favorite movie. I teared up during every single song when watching it.
The Muppets aren't made for kids. Kids love them, but the humor is aimed at us.
Truth
Muppets are for all
Depends on what you mean by "made for kids".
What makes you say that?
Love the Muppets version ♡
I never get bored of the Muppets Christmas carol 😊😊😊❤❤❤
Me too
Always enjoyed that one when I was young and still do.
LeanneVlogzFilmz. 34 years old and still watch it every Christmas
The Muppet one is my favorite.
@@johnvance3519 Same here 😁😁😁 I love it so much 💖💖💖💖💖
I loved Mickey's Christmas carol!
Endergirl Darling true
Fire starters92 Me too! It's a classic! ❤️
It’s on Netflix it’s house of mouse Christmas at the end
I do too,but,my two favorites were the George C.Scott version and the one that was number 1,The Alistair Sim version!
my favorite Christmas Carol!
As much as I love the Jim Carrey one, Muppets Christmas carol is my absolute favourite, there’s something really magical about those puppets ❤️
Amelia Potter Agreed!
The music put into Albert Finney's Scrooge is underrated! The depth of creativity it must have taken to create a musical fitting to the storyline. My favorite!
The songs and music was written by the producers and writers of this Wonderful motion picture, their first writing effort for a musical. They proud themselves for capturing the British Tradition of the Victorian Era.
Thank you very much.
IMO, the Disney version is SEVERELY underrated only being placed at #8.
MemphisTiger I agree. I know a lot of people complained about it being too scary for kids, but it’s easily one of my favorite versions.
@@Wuzwrongwitdatdolla Even the 2009 version that they made has some scary scenes. Both underrated in their own ways.
Disney owns the Jim Carrey one, the Muppets one, and the Mickey mouse one
@@apinkrat7135 not the Muppets one, a company in Germany owns it
@@isabelalzateestrada You can find the Muppets one on Disneyplus
my family watched the 1984 George C Scott "A Christmas Carol" every Christmas Eve. great countdown - makes me nostalgic!
I totally agree
I still watch it every year around Christmas time. A truly great film.
Let's not forget Mister Magoo's Christmas Carol. Pretty faithful to the story, with exact dialogue and terrific music.
I watched that a couple nights ago. Good stuff.
Plus, it has the distinction of being television’s very first animated Christmas special; and it led to the series, “The Famous Adventures of Mr. Magoo”.
They should have added “Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol” as one of their honorable mentions for other versions of Dickens novel.
disneyfanjsg That’s what I think, too! It’s one of the best!
and the kelsey grammer and kate winslet version
Yes
Mr Magoo should definitely be in the top ten 😧
Mr. Magoo get's no respect. His version of Cyrano de Bergerac is good too. As a kid it inspired me to read the original play.
I was 7 yrs old the Christmas Mr. Magoo's version was released. It was my introduction to the Christmas Carol story and I suspect that's true for a lot of children of the early '60s. It made the story understandable for a child and had amazing music for the adults. I think it definitely deserved a place high up on the list.
Yeah. Jim Backus _nailed_ Scrooge as both a callous, greedy miser and a cheerful, born-again man.
I came here to make sure Mr. Magoo's version got some love!
OMG!! I remember watching the Mr. Magoo adaption......I think it aired on ABC.....?
I absolutely LOVED the 1984 version as a kid! Still my favorite adaptation 💕
The 1984 version with George C. Scott is my favorite as well. It should either be #1 or #2 on this list. I do recognize that the Alistair Sim version is the gold standard for most people. And it is excellent. However, I do prefer the 1984 version. I think Scott's performance was the best and having David Warner as Bob Cratchit and Roger Rees as Fred were brilliant casting choices. And that version also has my favorite version of the ghost is Christmas present. He was really visibly disgusted by Scrooge and really got in his face at times and chastised him about his callousness. Just magnificent across the board.
@@turc1656Yes, the 1951 version is definitely the gold standard for me. It isn’t Christmas with it, to me.
Mine too
The George C. Scott version will always be #1 to me!
Agreed!
The director Clive Donner actually worked on *Scrooge 1951*
Me too! I loved George C. Scott's performance. It's also one of the rare times you get to see actor David Warner as a good guy (the kind hearted, but frightened Bob Cratchit)! Warner has played so many great villains of the years (the bodyguard from Titanic and the Cardassian from Star Trek TNG among his most noticable) that it's kind of a shock to see him cowered by such an iconic presence as Scott's Scrooge!
I can never choose between the 1984 George C. Scott version and the 1970 Musical staring Albert Finney.
Yes, Scott was great
George C. Scott has always been my favorite Scrooge. He's so surprising. I'd never seen a Scrooge with a sense of humor before, but that made him all the more chilling and awful. A wonderful performance.
Same with me, I also love the addition of the poor family under the bridge and the scenes with Fred. That adaptation and _Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol_ were my introductions to _A Christmas Carol._
Depends on which part, and in which way,
If adaptation wise:
Part 2-4 he gets right,
Meanwhile in part one he seems more sarcastic than grumpy
In acting wise he’s the correct answer
It's my mom's favorite
Mine too! George C Scott really brought a nuanced, sarcastic, and blunt Scrooge to life. He wasn't just mean, but highly cynical and mocked all the celebrations that came with Christmas.
great list! personally, the muppet Christmas carol is fantastic and the version with Patrick Stewart is my absolute favorite!
Those are the two versions I watch every year.
Yes! you have the same taste I do! its crazy to me the patrick stewart version wasnt in the countdown for this!!!
+orlendatube I'm guessing it may be because Sir Patrick doesn't look like a "traditional" Scrooge. I know, it's a shallow and stupid reason, but that's my theory. It certainly can't be because of how he portrayed Scrooge, which I think was excellent.
Deserved to be more than just an HM!
I agree, Diana, Patrick Stewart is my favourite Scrooge. The scene where he reconciles with his nephew's wife always makes me cry.
I'm so happy the 1970 Scrooge film made this list. I always feel like my extended family are the only ones who have ever seen that version.
I watch it every Christmas! And have the soundtrack!
I've seen this version too.
Me: How could you place Mickey's Christmas Carol so low on the list!?! D: Also Me: *sees top three* Alright, you're forgiven. Merry Christmas.
Scrooged and Muppet Christmas Carol were my favourites
I was'nt too crazy about Scrooged,but,I did love Muppet Christmas Carol!
Muppets rules
To me it aint christmas until I watch Scrooged and Die Hard.
KanekoXLiamB Scrooged is mine too
But it wouldn’t hurt for regular show or fresh TVs stoked to do this
mine as well
1984 is my favorite, George C Scott was the prefect Scrooge!! Loved him in that role.
Yeah, and Scrooge's father appears in that one.
I love the Muppets Christmas Carol! That's my all-time favorite Christmas film and one of my favorites to watch during Christmas!!!
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" is a musical, and it very much is NOT "made for kids."
matt k. Still an enduring Christmas classic for me, it being my first cinema trip (that I remember, aged 5). I still frequently visit that cinema and no longer have to go to Toys R Us to kill some time because the screening I wanted was sold out (and not only because getting to where it was by bus would be both complicated and expensive).
Arguably no version is 'made for kids.' Dickens was not writing children's novels.
Well, it depends on what you mean by"made for kids".
"I do not make films for children... or, at least, not primarily for children."
"You're dead if you aim for kids."
"We design the films to appeal to ourselves."
"The adults have the money.... children don't have any money."
- Walt Disney
@@mattk.3645 I always found it funny how people who make things towards kids, HATES kids 😂 look at Dr. Suess 😂
I love the Alastair Sim version and watch it every Christmas Eve. Best conversion moment ever. So moving.
I grew up watching the Albert Finney "Scrooge" and have memories of hiding under the covers during the hell scene. My second fave is of course The Muppets Christmas Carol. I remember being doubtful about it without Jim Henson, but they carried it off beautifully. The songs in both of these films are terrific and catchy ie, "Thank You Very Much" from "Scrooge" and "It Feels Like Christmas" from The Muppets Christmas Carol. Dickens' story is a great Christmas tradition and the movies make it even more of a joy to share with family.
They always cut out the hell scenes on the network channels-So I couldn't figure out why he woke up with his bedsheets choking him. Once I got a VHS copy, I finally saw why! Plus Jacob Marley (aka Ben Kenobi) was hilarious in the 'hell' scenes! "You'll be the only one in Hell who's chilly"
The Albert Finney version is one of my favorites
Amy Bennett This is one of my favorites.....love the contrast scenes where Mr. Cratchit, buys his meager Christmas for his family as you see wealthier people buying a better feast.
I completely agree. Scrooge and the muppet Christmas Carol are my top 2 favorite Christmas movie
Thank you very much, thank you very much; that's the nicest thing that anyone's ever done for me. I sing that all times of the year
I'm glad they mention a Flintstone Christmas Carol on the honorable mention
me too. I love that one.
Likewise.
I thought it was a bit so so. Also too bad it wasn't done when Alan Reed, the original voice of Fred Flinstone, was still alive.
It's ironic that the show took place in the prehistoric times but Jesus was'nt born yet.
I don’t understand In the Flintstones a Christmas Carol everyone That was supposed to perform gets sick with a bad case of the bed rock bug. So I’m wondering what is a bed rock bug?
Just saw 1970's "Scrooge" and I loved it. Glad Albert Finney won a Golden Globe for his wonderful performance.
I am an adult and STILL get teary eyed over Tiny Tim in Mickey's Christmas Carol. So glad my children love the movie too!! Love all of these!
“and to Tiny Tim, who did not die, he was a second father” is such genius because it is so simple it catches you unaware.
Yes--Alistair Sim is my favorite film Scrooge. He's the only one who stands on his head on Christmas morning! I think his talent as a comedian made him the most believably bitter and hilariously redeemed Scrooge.
My family watches his Christmas Carol every Christmas.
What about the musical adaptation where Frasier plays Scrooge? They missed THAT one, too.
Amen to that!
Also, my favorite line in that entire thing is when the maid runs out screaming and he runs after her, and then he gives her the money as a Christmas gift. She asks what's it for. He tells her to guess. She says, 'to keep me mouth shut.' Best line ever.
And he actually played Scrooge twice, thirty years apart.
This is the best version in my book.
I absolutely love the musical from 1970. It's just perfect.
Your number 1 pick is 100% correct! Alastair Sim's "Scrooge" is pure Christmas magic.
Putting Patrick Stewart's, "A Christmas Carol", as merely an, "Honorable Mention", puts you on Santa's, "Naughty List".
ziggy78eog amen!
Roger that, Sir.
Patrick Stewart version is a Top 3 choice.
Having Alistair Sim at No. 1 redeams them
It's not everyone's favorite and parts of it feel lifeless and overly matter of the fact. I do like it, but I understand it being an honorable mention. I feel like aside from Patrick Stewart's performance and the actor that played Bob Cratchitt, there's not much extraordinary about it.
As far as I know, Stewart's version is so so so close to the book that it is my favorite.
Love the George C. Scott one for how Scott makes Scrooge stand up for himself like at the Cratchits he says "Bob has a point. Without me there would be no goose or Christmas dinner." When the spirit asks if that's all he can think about Scrooge gives him a look that screams you're an idiot I've genuinely been touched while saying "no but one must speak up in one's own defense." Along with just the intensity that Scott brings to where you can see that he's not hating Christmas so much as he's built up walls of defense against incredibly painful memories caused in his life all happening around the time of year.
Also with The Muppets Christmas Carol Michael Caine does play Scrooge in a very genuinely broken way. Just watch the past scenes where he has trouble getting out a justification for not going home at Christmas, when Belle leaves him he's dying inside watching it happen again. In the present you see him slowly open up to the spirit and actually have fun during the "it feels like Christmas" number before being touched by the Cratchits and begging the Spirit to stay because he's fond of him. Then in the future you can just see his heart shatter at Tiny Tim's death along with his voice cracking before his total breakdown at his grave site where he's BEGGING for the spirit not to make him look at the headstone because he would only be confirming his suspicions and asking through tears "why show me this if I was past all possible hope?"
Frank Finley was also the humorus Porthos from The Three Musketeers.
I know you wrote this a year ago but you're very right, it was a FANTASTIC adaptation and it's easily number one on my list for how perfectly he played the role
Cool fact: George C. Scott was best known for portraying as General George S. Patton, which won him the Oscar for Best Actor (but refused it). He even played the General in 1986's TV move "The Last Days of Patton".
YES!!! Alastair Sim is my favorite!
That’s the one I grew up watching. It scared me and it still creeps me out. The music during the Marley’s ghost scene is bone chilling
He reprived his role as the voice of Scrooge in the 1971 animated Christmas Carol. (It's short but beautifully animated)
How about Mr Magoo? The music was written by Jule Styne a Broadway composer who wrote Peter Pan
Muppets Christmas Carol is one of the best adaptations and also one of the all time greatest Christmas movies :D I adore it :D
Glad to see you put the 1984 adaptation in the top 5. It's one of my favorites. Scott is brilliant. His performance in the initial scene with Fred is perfect. The actor that plays Tiny Tim is one of the best child actors I've seen. The line delivery could use some work but the physical acting is heart breaking.
And it includes things other versions leave out (i.e. Ignorance and Want), plus follows the book in that Scrooge does not visit the Cratchits on Christmas. Probably the closet version to the book IMO.
How could you forget Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol? That one was the best in my book. Loved it since I was a kid.
I myself would’ve picked the 1999 version with Patrick Stewart as #1, but I have no qualms with Alastair Sim getting it. Brilliant performance.
Alastair Sim always had those sad puppy dog eyes, like a Basset hound
No matter which adaptation .. I always cry over Tiny Tim.
The muppets had the best adaptation
Sofii C no they did fucking not
Nothing beats the “Thank You Very Much “ version
For me it's the Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey and Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol those are my top go tos.
Yes! Thanks for mentioning Mr. Magoo. Watching that one was a yearly ritual in my family for entering into the spirit of Christmas. My dad had a strangely poignant response to this fairly cheesy cartoon. I think he identified with Mr. Scrooge and was captivated by the possibility of redemption that Scrooge got, and by extension, he could get. The Magoo version is very cheesy, but I overlook that when I see it because I revere it feeling fond childhood memories of gathering around the TV and actually feeling my dad get transformed along with Mr. Magoo. I guess the Mr. Magoo version was the only one he knew - probably because it was 100% pop culture the year it came out (1962). I was in the second grade then. I gleaned that the story held a profound message from Dad's total absorption by it. He never actually told us what had moved him, but it's not hard to figure out. I sure would like to travel back to that time, though, and hear him explain what was binding his own spirit like Scrooge's, and what form the Spirits' visitation would take for his own liberation. Someday when I too am a spirit I intend to have him explain all of that to me.
One of the most touching moments,all versions of “a Christmas Carol “ included, is when tiny Tim sings his song in the magoo version.
at least Patrick Stewart's version made honorable mention - my favorite absolutely
Should have been ON the actual list!
high on the list
You mean the poop emoji Christmas Carol?
Imagine if they had use Patrick Stewart for the Muppet Christmas Carol. That would be really cool
@@Loveroffood41 I can totally see that. Sir Patrick Stewart was an excellent Scrooge in the version he starred in. Defiantly one of my favorites next to The Muppet Christmas Carol.
Every Christmas Day, muppet Christmas carol is on whilst we open presents
Unbelievable definitely Patrick Stewart TNT movie A Christmas Carol is by far one of the best adaptations out there!!!
Certainly deserved more than just a honorable mention.
It's definitely a very good adaptation.
I agree. I especially love the part where Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Present are wondering the world and the Ghost is throwing dust to make some men in a workhouse sing.
My favorite, by far...
My favorite is A Christmas Carol with George C. Scott. There are others that are good, but George C. Scott is very good in the film.
Me too!
The best of all of them. Scott does a fantastic job as well as the support cast. Cinematography and lightweight great as well.
1951 with Alistair Sims hands down is the best without a doubt has been my favorite all my life
You missed Mr Magoo's Christmas Carol. It's a little old but it should have gotten at least an honorable mention.
Kellie Fay ❤❤❤
it's also the first animated holiday program ever produced specifically for television. and only until the stop motion Rudolf the red nose reindeer special that came out 2 years later. it really should have been at least an honorable mention
No. It should've came in at number one instead.
Best adaptation ever. Five stars and and a jar of wazzleberry gwaby
I love that special!
Here are my my top ten favorite Christmas Carol film adaptations:
1.Scrooge: 1970 (Albert Finney)
2. A Mickeys Christmas Carol: 1983 (Scrooge McDuck)
3. A Christmas Carol: 1984 (George C. Scott)
4. A Christmas Carol: 1954 (Alastair Sim)
5. A Muppet Christmas Carol: 1992 (Michael Caine
6. Scrooged: 1988 (Bill Murray)
7. A Christmas Carol: 1938 (Reginald Owens)
8. A Christmas Carol: 1999 (Patrick Stewart)
9. A Diva Christmas Carol: 2000 (Vanessa Williams)
10. A Christmas Carol: 2009 (Jim Carry)
The 2009 version is my favorite
1935 Sir Seymour Hicks❤️❤️❤️ my favorite.
How about Barbie in A Christmas Carol
Patrick Stewart's A Christmas Carol should have been in the top 10, NOT the honorable mentions!!
You bet!
That instantly became my favorite!
I agree!! It's my absolute favorite!! And to demean it by placing the Muppets higher, such disrespect!! I thumbed down the video because it weren't on the list!!
Best one by far
Agreed! Alisdair Sim=#1. Patrick Stewart=2.
I know this is 5 years old, but I've only just found it. I am so happy to see the Alastair Sim version made #1. I agree with that wholeheartedly. A couple of the others may have followed the book better, but Alastair Sim captured the character of Ebenezer Scrooge better than anybody else. He became Scrooge.
My favorite has always been the Albert Finney version "Scrooge". Thank you very much!
Hard to believe you completely neglected "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol"! Framed as a Broadway musical version of "A Christmas Carol", the songs had music by Jule Styne (who wrote "Gypsy") and lyrics by Bob Merrill (who wrote "Funny Girl"). In addition to Jim Backus's Magoo as Scrooge, Bob Cratchit was voiced by Jack Cassidy, a Broadway star in his own right (and father to David Cassidy). Some later versions trimmed some songs to fit shorter time slots, but as a musical adaptation, it's one of the best.
My favorites are as follows
1. Stingiest Man in Town
2. Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol
3. Mickey's Christmas Carol
4. Disney's A Christmas Carol (2009
5. A Christmas Carol (1999)
(the fifth one is interesting because it's not only one of many musical versions of the story. But it features Tim Curry in the role of Scrooge)
HEAT WAVE!!!!!!! OI! THIS IS MY ISLAND IN THE SUN! OI,OI!! 😂❤️
Sellouts! That was funny tho!
Kermit, and many of the rest of the Muppets, debuted on a television show airing at midnight, for crying out loud.
Walt Disney, himself, said throughout his lifetime that he never made anything (that was not advertiser-supported) "for children... or, at least, not primarily for children." And, he went so far as to say, "You're dead if you aim for kids."
I watch "Scrooge" every year. It is a wonderful adaptation.
I would like to mention that "An American Christmas Carol" with Henery Winkler should have made the list.
My favorite FAVORITE Charles Dickens book of all time
I love "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol". The songs in that one have stayed with me all my life. "All Alone In The World" still makes me misty eyed. It's a great animated movie from the 60's I think. I'm going to try to find it right now!
They had the perfect opportunity to have Mr. Magoo's nephew play Fred, but they scrapped the character all-together.
+C Liles You are correct. It debuted on TV in 1962. It was one of the first animated Christmas specials for TV, and although I like it, I'm a bit disappointed that they put the Ghost of Christmas Past after Christmas Present--it seems a little backwards to me.
@@hotwax9376- They did it that way because it was aimed at children under the age of eight.
Yes 💔
The George C. Scott version, nails it, every time for the closest to the original. Surprised that "An American Christmas Carol" is not in this list. And, some honorable mentions - Ms. Scrooge; Ebbie; A Diva's Christmas Carol; A Carol Christmas, for a little variety.
In some ways, An American Christmas Carol should have been called A Canadian Christmas Carol as it was filmed on location in Canada and featured many local Canadian actors (including R.H. Thomson and Chris Wiggins) in the supporting cast.
@@trinitymplayers Since Canada is a part of north america it is still legit to call it "An american christmas carol".
@@simonbionary11010 I said "in some ways". I wasn't actually saying it should be called A Canadian Christmas Carol.
@@trinitymplayers I know. I was just messing with you ^^
@@simonbionary11010 Hoping that's what it was. ;)
My first introduction to A Christmas Carol was Mr. Magoo's A Christmas Carol. I still love it!
Alastair Sim was the best Scrooge ever, and the rest of the cast outstanding. Definitely my favourite, I agree it's #1.
What's your favorite adaptation of A Christmas Carol?
MsMojo the 1970 Scrooge. I grew up with that version.
MsMojo doctor who
I remember an animated 101 Dalmatians adaptation. Cruella as Scrooge was just, the best.
The Muppets Christmas Carol
Easy. The Mickey and Muppet versions. Also, An All Dogs Christmas Carol, the Mr. Magoo, the Flintstones, and Looney Tunes versions.
Absolutely agree with #1!! I think Alistar Sim gives one of the finest acting performances ever in that film. That scene where he begs forgiveness from his daughter-in-law gets me every time.
My VERY minor complaint would be that I would've liked to have seen the Mr. Magoo Christmas Carol get an honorable mention (showing my age).
Jacob Marley. On the dvd we have of that version it always plays with creepy music that makes your bones freeze.
The Muppet version was the very first one I ever saw. Back than I didn’t know it was based on a book until I saw later versions.
An American Christmas Carol with Henry Winklier is an often overlooked adaptation.
Kirk Singleton I just recently saw that one for the first time, even though it came out 40 years ago.
Yes, I agree MsMojo, 1951 version is my favorite Christmas carol adaptation.
I wish they'd added the 30 minute animated version that uses Alistair Sim, once again as the voice of Scrooge. The animation in this short version is absolutely remarkable!
My all time favorite growing up was Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol and no on plays it in TV anymore 😭😭😭
Michelle DiPalo ❤❤❤ It own it.
Waited for it every year when I was a kid. And it had some awesome musical numbers years before the Albert Finney version (I especially liked the song of the bandits stealing the curtains from Scrooge's bedroom).
dadoctah That's my favorite part of the whole movie 😂🤣
My goodness! I thought no one else remembered it, no one talks about it. I loved that one growing up.
The Database Me too. They actually referenced it in an episode of The Simpsons, but I hate that I can't find it anywhere. Would love to show my son one day.
The Muppet Christmas Carol is my absolute favorite!
Thank you very much! for including Scrooge in the list! It's my favorite.
YES! SIM DID AN AWESOME JOB PLAYING AS SCROOGE! I AM *SO* GLAD THE 1951 VERSION IS ON HERE!
George C Scott's version should have been up higher! I love that version!
I really like A Muppets Christmas Carol
Yay Doctor Who A Christmas Carol!!! It's my favourite Christmas Special
mine too, it's both smart and touching
Agreed! 🎄
It baffles me that the 2009 animated version isn’t more popular. I’m equally baffled that some disliked the animation, as it was breathtakingly impressive. I’ve never seen the famed George C Scott version, but I can’t imagine any other adaptation topping the 2009 one for me. Not only is it apparently true to the book (yes, I’ve never read it. One on me), but it’s just wonderfully made and a great story in and of itself. It’s amazing how well Jim Carrey can do so many different voices and carry the movie like that, and the always amazing Gary Oldman also greatly contributes. The movie is top quality from the top down, from the animation to the soundtrack to the performances. And while sometimes the attempts at adding humor for the kids feel a little out of place, it also does give a few good laughs, and the end leaves me feeling fulfilled and uplifted every time. Just another incredibly underrated movie in my opinion. I watch it every Christmas season!
My mom makes my family watch the muppet christmas carol E V E R Y christmas
Same. It’s my favorite Christmas movie right next to the polar express.
Your mom has good taste.
My daughter might make me watch it this year. I just learned it's her favorite.
So glad blackadders here
HoneyBadger 🇺🇸love that series!🇬🇧
There are SO many great versions of this book!
Micky's ,George's,Muppets,Alistar's and others are so amazing in their on ways!
You forgot Looney Tunes A Buh Hum Duck's Christmas
Bruh
That’s just dethpicable
Do you plan on doing a “Another Top 10” or “Top 20” list for this? They have been a lot more Christmas Carol adaptations since this was made.
Yes. There should be at least more. "A Christmas Carol " as been adapted 135 times!!
Agree
Jim Carey’s Disney Christmas Carol was fantastic! I also love Jim Carey in Christmas movies because, I also love him as the Grinch. But I’m surprised it’s #8
my favorite is the George C Scott 1984 version
Best one
I think the muppet Christmas carol is the best one in my opinion but that one is really good too.
I don't know if its my favorite but it's the first one I ever saw
Definitely a family favorite and now my husband's favorite too. We always get a kick between the conversations between Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas present. So zany!
They're all great- but the list should have included "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol," which featured Jim Backus as Mr. Magoo doing Scrooge in a Broadway musical.
How could you have missed the Mr. Magoo Christmas Carol? It was arguably the first animated Christmas television special, and the Christmas Carol trivia book rated it the best musical version. Definitely one of the top 10 in my book. (Scrooged would have been part of my 10 worst list).
Agree with the 1951 Alastair Sim version; all other Scrooges are more less measured against his. I would have included the 1935 British version directed by Henry Edwards and starring Sir Seymour Hicks as Scrooge. Hicks performed the role frequently onstage and in at least one silent film adaptation before this one, which was the first film version in the talkie era (rather surprising, considering that the talkie era basically began in 1928-29, that it took so long to have a talkie version). This version is superb and is one of the few to depict the dead Tiny Tim onscreen, laid out in the small spare room of the Cratchit house, with Bob mourning over him, and of course the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come and Scrooge, compelled by the ghost, looking on. Depiction of Tim's body after death rarely occurs in any film or TV version of the story, it only being alluded to in mournful conversation by the Cratchit family members.
One of my very favorite versions of “A Christmas Carol “ is Mr. Magoo’s A Christmas Carol from the late sixties. It’s a musical and so well done!
I've always loved Mr. Magoo's A Christmas Carol. I'm disappointed it wasn't mentioned in the list..
You're not alone Sister believe me.
It was terrible
It really is a shame the 2019 BBC Version ist almost not available outside of the UK. I had the chance to see it once and i must say that after watching the trailer and beeing quite sceptical i enjoyed it a lot. I would even say it is in my personal top 3.
While I love all versions (especially the Doctor Who and Blackadder ones!), my most favorite one of all is the 1951 film “Scrooge” starring Alastair Sim.
The very first Christmas Carol I ever saw was the 1970 “Scrooge” musical movie starring Albert Finney. Saw it in the theaters when I was a kid.
Uh, hello? "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol"? Terrific songs.
Mr. Magoo didn't make it?!!! I'm absolutely devastated. =(
The Muppet Christmas Carol is the best adaptation ever!
.Oh, come on - what about “Mr Magoo’s Christmas Carol”?
William Sugarman ❤❤❤❤
Exactly!
Mr Magoo's Christmas Carol is good. It should be on here!
Jimmy Wallace ❤❤❤❤
I have a deep love of the Albert Finney musical film from the 1970's and I can hardly explain it lol
Some fine choices, no doubt. I was skeptical about "The Muppet Christmas Carol" when it first came out, but I was pleasantly surprised when I saw it. The addition of Gonzo as Charles Dickens was a nice touch, because he was able to add some of the author's better comments ("Darkness was cheap, and Scrooge liked it."). I also liked the one with Patrick Stewart. It's the only one I've seen that shows Scrooge going to church on Christmas Day, as he did in the book. Still, my favorite is probably the 1951 version with Alistair Sim, so I'm glad it made #1. It takes a few liberties with the book, but it's truer to the spirit of Christmas than many of the other versions.