This is not your usual Christmas flick but it perfectly embodies the Christmas Spirit. Directed by Ron Howard, also directed The Da Vinci Code and A Beautiful Mind, among countless other well known titles. Based on the book by Dr. Seuss of the same name, comes this beautiful adaptation of it. They were able to create the town of Whoville, with its citizens who are known as “Whos”. The said town was also featured in Horton Hears a Who! Another brilliant story from the author.

Inside a snowflake exists the magical town of Whoville, the character’s characteristics looks mouse-ish, small nose and small mouth. Crazy hairstyle and colorful array of clothes and houses. Unfortunately, not all children will be attracted to this as our main protagonist, The Grinch, isn’t as appealing to the eyes as our beloved Santa Claus. He’s kind of scary to be honest, specially if the kid is used to pretty looking main characters. Hopefully parents would try and persuade them to watch it as it is deserving of it. Every Christmas season I watch this and I never tire of it.

Perfect Cast

Jim Carrey plays as The Grinch. Our green colored furry Christmas-hating character. Above all things, he despises Christmas the most. And of course, all the other good things that come with it. He was suggested the title role by Dr. Seuss’ widow, Audrey Geisel, along with other well-known names in the industry, such as Jack Nicholson, Dustin Hoffman, and Robin Williams.

In my opinion, no one could’ve done it as well as Carrey did. The transformation process took 2 hours getting into the full outfit and make-up, and an hour getting out of it. Carrey was so overwhelmed with the whole thing that he had a hard time finding his happy place whilst under the costume, to the point that he spoke with Rob Harris that he doesn’t want to do the film anymore. This then led to then bringing in a CIA expert to teach Carrey ways to relax under extreme stress. Having said that, Carrey was able to bring everything together with his masterful performance of The Grinch.

Fantastical World

The town of Whoville was well made and it reminded me of Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, with all those mechanical structures and inventions. The citizens of the town all performed wonderfully and brought the town of Whoville to life. Special mention to Joshua Ryan Evans, who played the 8-year old Grinch. Characters such as Cindy Lou Who, Lou Lou Who,May Who, and Martha May Whovier, all of whom had memorable roles and performances and greatly contributed into bringing more impact to the story.

The character development of The Grinch was entertaining, and the over-the-top expressiveness of Carrey added to the magic. The Grinch felt sickly when he’d done something good, which was funny but well thought of.

The message the story brings

The message of How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss is that Christmas is more than just a holiday—it’s a feeling, a spirit, and a time for joy. The story shows that the true meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of God’s Son and to spread happiness to others. He discovers that Christmas is about being with loved ones, being grateful, and sharing values and beliefs with family. Unfortunately, most people nowadays care more to flaunt what they received, and what they’ve given. Appreciate what matters most, and value them more.

Conclusion

The film was able to relay its message towards the ending. Where they all gathered in the middle while holding hands and singing. Amidst all the destruction and chaos surrounding them. And all the gifts were destroyed but they still have each other.

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