Claws & Saucers

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL” (1984) REVIEW:

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Cliver Donner, 101 min, color, 1984)

What’s Happening: Ghosts persuade miser to change greedy ways

Famous For: US/UK co-production made for television

Though I’ll always be partial to the 1938 and 1951 adaptations, I think I like George C. Scott best as Scrooge.  He seems smarter than other Scrooges, jaded and cynical, perhaps purposefully keeping himself from joy and generosity because he thinks he’s above it all; he’s seen it all before.  He sometimes smiles knowingly.  And as with all Scrooges, you can sense a spark of decency within him even from the beginning.

This 1984 adaptation is more eerie and atmospheric than others.  There’s an odd sheen about it as if you’re watching it through a veil or from a distance.  Scrooge’s house is dark and bare, with tall drapes and ceilings.

In comparison with earlier versions, less attention is paid to Scrooge’s past but more to his present; there are additional moments alongside the redeemed Scrooge around town on Christmas Day.

The music is particularly strong with many traditional carols but also a wonderful original song in traditional style – “God Bless Us Every One” by Nick and Tony Bicat – at the closing credits.

Minor flaws include a few overly obvious moral pronouncements.

Of the actors, those most notable to genre fans are David Warner as Cratchit and Michael Gough as a generous businessman.  Clive Donner also directed Spectre (1977).

Action: 6.  Gore: 3.  Sex: 3.  Quality: 8.  Camp: 5.

Don’t miss: Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Quotable pledge: “The spirits of all three shall strive within me.”

Article text copyright 2024 David Elroy Goldweber