Alastair Sim isn't the first Scrooge I ever loved, but over the years he’s become my favorite. Likewise, I consider his 1951 Christmas Carol the Christmas Carol.
I especially love Sim's giddy, irrepressible joy the morning after the spirits visit, when he realizes he’s been granted a second chance at life. Favorite moment? When after dancing about the room he says, “I must stand on my head. I must stand on my head,” and proceeds to do so, leading his housekeeper to run screaming from the room, her apron flung over her face.
Alastair Sim is but one of many Scrooges, however; we have others to suit every taste and age group.
If you’re a fan of old school Bill Murray and Saturday Night Live, check out Scrooged. This 1988 update of A Christmas Carol stars Bill Murray as a ruthless television network executive and was penned by two former SNL writers.
While not a contender for my favorite Christmas Carol, it plastered a goofy smile on my face within minutes. It should also score points with pop culture buffs: Look, there’s Paul Shaffer and Miles Davis as Christmas carolers! And isn’t that David Johansen as the Ghost of Christmas Past? Other cast members and cameos include Bobcat Goldthwait, Carol Kane, Alfre Woodard, and Robert Mitchum.
Want A Christmas Carol the kids will enjoy that won't put you to sleep? The Disney Christmas Carol features 21st century special effects and the voices of Jim Carrey and Colin Firth, but some consider it too disturbing for very young children. Another option is The Muppet Christmas Carol with the appealing Michael Caine as Scrooge, music by Paul Williams, and muppets like Kermit and Miss Piggy as the Cratchits.
Who’s your favorite Scrooge and why?
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