“Scrooge: A Christmas Carol,” a 2022 animated musical fantasy comedy-drama film, revitalizes the classic tale by Charles Dickens with a fresh and musical twist. Directed by Stephen Donnelly, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Leslie Bricusse, the film is an adaptation of the 1970 film “Scrooge,” and features a star-studded voice cast. It stands as a tribute to Leslie Bricusse, commemorating his legacy a year after his passing.
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Table of Contents
Plot
Set in 1843, the story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly moneylender who despises Christmas. The plot unfolds on Christmas Eve, as Scrooge encounters various characters, including his cheerful nephew Harry Huffman and his underpaid clerk, Bob Cratchit. The narrative takes a supernatural turn when Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his late business partner, Jacob Marley, and three spirits representing his past, present, and future. These encounters lead Scrooge on a journey of self-reflection, ultimately transforming him into a kinder, more generous person.
Cast
- Luke Evans as Ebenezer Scrooge
- Olivia Colman as Past
- Jessie Buckley as Isabel Fezziwig
- Jonathan Pryce as Jacob Marley
- Johnny Flynn as Bob Cratchit
- James Cosmo as Mr. Fezziwig
- Trevor Dion Nicholas as Present
Supporting roles are voiced by actors like Fra Fee, Giles Terera, Homer Todiwala, Jemima Lucy Newman, Rebecca Gethings, Rupert Turnbull, Oliver Jenkins, Devon Pomeroy, and Sheena Bhattessa.
Music
The film’s soundtrack is a blend of original songs and classic Christmas melodies, featuring performances by the cast, including “I Love Christmas,” “Tell Me,” and “Happiness.” The music adds an enchanting layer to the film, enhancing its magical and festive atmosphere.
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Release
“Scrooge: A Christmas Carol” was released on Netflix on December 2, 2022, following a limited theatrical release in the United States on November 18, 2022. The dual release allowed for both cinematic and at-home viewing experiences.
Reception
The film received mixed reviews, with a 38% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 46 on Metacritic. While some critics appreciated the film’s innovative approach and musical elements, others found it lacking in comparison to previous adaptations of the Dickens classic.
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Closing Remarks
“Scrooge: A Christmas Carol” offers a unique, animated musical interpretation of a timeless story. While it may not have resonated with all critics, its innovative approach, star-studded voice cast, and enchanting music provide a fresh perspective on the beloved tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. This film stands as a festive treat for audiences seeking a blend of classic storytelling with a modern, musical twist.
