Review of A Christmas Carol (1984) by Justin R — 14 Oct 2010

The George C. Scott version of A Christmas Carol is another version that is widely regarded as both realistic and faithful to the Dickens story. The casting of Scott is excellent, as he owned the ability to play a curmudgeon in a realistic way. His Scrooge is perhaps the most 'human' of the many versions. He's not ridiculously cruel, just horribly cynical and practical as a result of many years of being a sharp businessman.

The production values, for a TV movie were very high, and the locations and sets feel very authentic. His ghostly visitors are also appropriately kind and gruff as Scrooge, since they are played more as an extension of his personality. With a host of experienced British stage and screen actors to help, this version has some excellent dark sequences. Want and Ignorance, often left out of productions, are included here, as well as some very seedy aspects of old London.

David Warner plays the bewildered Crachtit well opposite the gruff, but ultimately salvageable Scott. His transformation is much more subtle as a result of his visitations, but ultimately more satisfying and believable. Scott was nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal.