Christmas movies are indispensable during the holiday season, akin to Christmas cookies, ornaments, and gifts. They’re a staple activity every festive period, and regardless of how dated or frequently viewed some of these films become, we savor them each holiday. While many Christmas films are untouchable classics, three timeless stories boast at least one remake, if not multiple.
A Christmas Carol
Originally penned by Charles Dickens in 1843, A Christmas Carol quickly became a bestseller. The memorable tale of the cold-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge encountering three Christmas spirits teaches him profound life lessons and transforms his fate. Even though ghosts are typically linked with Halloween, these spectral visitors, alongside Jacob Marley, impart crucial Christmas insights to Scrooge. The inaugural film adaptation, released in 1935 with Seymour Hicks portraying Scrooge, ran just over an hour. Since its inception, A Christmas Carol has been reimagined and adapted more than 60 times. Despite varying quality (shoutout to the 1992 Muppets Christmas Carol), the core message remains: serving others surpasses self-service.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Colored in the spirit of Christmas, the Grinch is a globally recognized character whose story has been retold thrice. Adapted from Dr. Seuss’s 1957 book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas debuted as an animated special under a decade later. This beloved cartoon became an annual tradition for families worldwide. Delightfully, it was revived in 2000 with Jim Carrey enhancing the character and adding memorable quotes. The grouch morphs into a lovable figure, and the narrative of redemption and forgiveness persists in this live-action version. The 2018 animated adaptation stars voices like Benedict Cumberbatch, Cameron Seely, and Rashida Jones, continuing the theme with humor and depth, making it a lasting rendition of The Grinch.
The Miracle on 34th Street
The original 1947 film, set against the backdrop of Macy’s department store in NYC, was updated in 1994 with a similar storyline and a few tweaks. Kris Kringle steps in for an inebriated Santa during the Thanksgiving parade, subsequently altering the skeptical beliefs of a young girl. Her seemingly unattainable wishes are miraculously fulfilled on Christmas morning, thanks to Santa’s magic, making her a believer. Despite Macy’s opting out, stating, “the original stands on its own and could not be improved on,” the modern retelling holds its charm.
While some cherish the originals, these Christmas remakes merit your attention. This festive season, consider embracing the refreshed versions over the enduring classics.
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