Review of A Flintstones Christmas Carol (1994) by Adam D — 23 Nov 2010

Charles Dickens' holiday classic "A Christmas Carol" is perhaps the most adapted holiday story of all time. Yet, it seems that ironically, Hanna Barbera's Flintstones rendition is among the least seen versions of the story, on the small screen. Various adaptations have been done for the big screen, though. Among the best of the small screen renditions of this holiday classic is Hanna Barbera's rendition brought via America's favorite stone age family (yes you can sing along). And while audiences will likely only see it on the likes of Cartoon Network, during the holiday season, "A Flintstones Christmas Carol" is one of the best of the small screen renditions of "A Christmas Carol".

Hanna Barbera got this version right because of the story's execution. Having the entire community put on a play of the classic sends a double message to audiences. So many companies take themselves far too seriously when they make their version of Dickens' story. Hanna Barbera did anything but that, here. Including the Bedrock community in a small town rendition that tries to honor the classic sends a positive message of community togetherness, as well as showing that Hanna Barbera wanted to still be as true to the original as possible. Considering this, one can't help but respect Hanna Barbera for that.

The story presented here isn't the only positive to this dvd. Another plus to this dvd is the inclusion of the bonus Flinstones Christmas episode from the original series. The Flintstones original show itself is one of the greatest animated series ever created. And its Christmas episode is just as enjoyable as any other episode. Yes, there have been shows where someone or something took Santa's place because he was hurt, or sick. But that aside, the story here still works.

Hanna Barbera's version of "A Christmas Carol" is hardly the first of its kind. That aside, there is a certain something about The Flinststones that makes this version of the Christmas classic work. And while it may never be shown on any of television's "Big 4"--ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX--it is good to see at least one network airs it every year. And for that matter, it is good to see this fun family classic released to dvd. This way, anyone who misses it on tv can watch it on dvd any time they want.