Top 5 Adaptations of A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens’ classic novella A Christmas Carol was first published in 1843 and told the story of a bitter old miser named Ebenezer Scrooge, and his transformation into a gentler, kind soul after he is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The story boasts a variety of transcendent themes that have carried through generations upon generations, such as “It’s never too late to change your ways” and “Be kind, for you never know the effect it can have on others.” The story has also served as an inspiration for dozens upon dozens of screenwriters, and been adapted countless times over the years. We’ve rounded up the Top 5 adaptations of Dickens’ classic below.

Scrooged

This 1988 modernization of the original story takes a comedic approach, with the center plot focused on a cynical television producer for the IBC Network (played by Bill Murray), whose ruthless behavior has cost him the love of his life as well as alienated him from his family. The ghosts that visit this Scrooge come in the form of a New York City taxi driver, a pixie, and a creepy death-like figure in an elevator. It’s a lighter, modern take on the storyline but still carries the same overall sentimental value and warming finale.

A Christmas Carol (2009)

The most recent remake of the novella was released nearly six years ago, and possesses the same powerful meaning of the original story but illustrates it through the use of modern day 3D motion capture animation technology. The graphics are rich and powerful, and the creators weren’t afraid to recreate the somber and often times frightening tone of the three ghosts’ visits, which is a choice that added a lot more impact and overall power to the ultimate conclusion. The film was directed by Robert Zemeckis, and grossed $30,051,075 its opening weekend, and has come to have earned over $318 million worldwide. It’s widespread popularity means that it’s easily accessible to stream or watch on demand through providers like iTunes or DirecTV.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Everyone loves the Muppets, and their 1992 adventure narrated by Charles Dickens (who is played by Gonzo the Great) takes place in 19th Century London and follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s tale with the additions of some fuzzy and comical cast members, such as Kermit the Frog as Scrooge’s loyal bookkeeper, Bunsen and Beaker, Fozzie Bear, Rizzo the Rat, The Swedish Chef, and Miss Piggy. The lightheartedness added by the Muppets’ presence makes this a film ideal for kids who could otherwise be a bit frightened by the darker remakes.

Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol

Oh, Mr. Magoo. Everyone’s favorite sweet, senile protagonist stars as Scrooge in this musical 1962 animation. The nearsighted Mr. Magoo has a long night ahead of him when the three ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future pay him a visit in hopes of inspiring to change his cold-hearted ways before its too late. Upon initially hearing the idea of Mr. Magoo as Scrooge, many may not take the special seriously, but it’s an adorable remake worth giving a watch.

A Christmas Carol (1951)

Originally titled Scrooge, the Brian Desmond Hurst directed adaptation was written by Noel Langley (who wrote the screenplay for The Wizard of Oz) and stars Alastair Sim in the lead role. The film stays true to its source, but does go a step further to expand on the rise of Scrooge’s role as a successful businessman, as well as add detail to the lives of secondary characters such as Scrooge’s former fiancee Alice, as well his sister. The film was originally released in Great Britain under the title of Scrooge, but was changed to A Christmas Carol when it crossed the pond. According to a review by A. O. Scott of The New York Times, the film is the best one ever made of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic.