There are few more classic stories associated with Christmas than the iconic seasonal tale from Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge has become part of the festive folklore since the novel was first published in 1843. Dickins originally gave the book the subtitle of ‘A Ghost Story of Christmas’ referring to the supernatural happenings which Scrooge experiences.
By now, it is such as well-worn cautionary tale that had been reimagined and reinvented in hundreds of different ways. It has made into a stage play, a TV show and countless movies over the years. Here are just a few of the works which have been influenced by Dickens’s classic novel.
Scrooge (1951)
There had been a few attempts at bringing the tale to the silver screen, but many were unremarkable. This 1951 movie which was directed by Brian Desmond Hurst and had actor Alastair Sim in the title role. The movie was given the title of A Christmas Carol on its release in the US, where it received a mixed reception at movie theaters, although it would go on to be a firm favorite as a holiday rerun on television in the 1950s and 60s.
Scrooge (1970)
This was a musical version of the story starring Albert Finney, who won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of the miserly businessman. It also received four Academy Award nominations. The movie musical would later go on to be adapted for stage and featured many of the original songs.
The Muppets Christmas Carol (1992)
Perhaps the most widely watched and enjoyed version in recent times. Michael Caine plays Scrooge and Kermit the Frog is his downtrodden employee Bob Cratchett. Feature the Muppets’ wacky humor, a number of memorable moments and some catchy tunes, it is a firm festive family favorite.
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