This stripped down and barebones adaptation of Dickens classic is held together by the power of its performances, and the strength of Dickens words, and darn it if it didn’t really work for me. 

We all know the story of the miserly old Ebenzer Scrooge who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas. This particular adaptation comes from

This adaptation comes from TNT back when basic cable channels produced prestige TV Movies. Released in 1999 it is partly inspired by Patrick Stewart’s one man show performance of A Christmas Carol which is without a doubt my favorite adaptation of the story. You can hear it now as an audiobook on audible and wherever you get audiobooks. The power of his voice, and his incredible delivery completely enhance Dickens words. I listen to it multiple times each Christmas season. 

Each Christmas Carol is primarily judged upon its Scrooge. For me Patrick Stewart is up there with the best. He brings a ferocity and an edge to Scrooge that most others lack. He adds a venom to his voice when he snarls the poor had better die, “and decrease the surplus population.” He’s so effective in his arrogance and vehemence that when he changes at the end and laughs out loud and begs forgiveness of his nephew for the wasted years it feels so much more impactful. It melts my heart to see this bitter old miser throwing snowballs with children in the streets. 

This movie lacks the production design of other adaptations. The sets are stripped down and bare. The costumes are lovely and lived in. They don’t have the opulence and frills of other period dramas. It has special effects, but they are late 90’s cgi and don’t hold up. Luckily they are used sparingly. 

This deemphasizing of the aesthetics allows the movie to focus on the performances and characters. The movie is stacked with fun performers doing subtle work. You’ll recognize British thespians from movies and shows that have become staples since. It is the most grounded and realistic version I’ve ever seen. 

This emphasis really brings home the emotional impact of the story. These are the poorest Cratchett’s I’ve seen, and seeing them mourn Tiny Tim is particularly effective. The moment that totally gets me though is when Scrooge reunites with his nephew. 

Too many adaptations center the relationship between Scrooge and Bob Cratchett. It’s a nice dynamic, but the heart of Dickens’ original book is Scrooge and his long neglected Nephew Fred.

This movie rightly emphasizes this relationship and caps off scrooges transformation with a scene begging his nephew and niece in law for their forgiveness. It’s a true moment that brought a tear to my eye. He becomes generous with his money. He takes care of his employee. But more than that he acknowledges his wrongdoing and asks forgiveness and makes amends. It makes my heart sing to see it.

This isn’t my favorite adaptation, but it’s up there for me. It’s a great little movie.

It’s my cup of tea. A-