Review of The Grinch (2018) by Joseph D — 14 Nov 2018

Ok, ok, if it means that much to you, I'll review...

The Grinch (not the one with Jim Cary).

The original Grinch short cartoon was a masterpiece, the Jim Cary live action film was HMHO ok, delving into his backstory, showing the Who's as crass consumers, all that good stuff. And now we have a mix: an animated hour-&-a-half movie. Will it dethrone the original, or will we scream ENOUGH WITH THE GRINCH MOVIES ALREADY in one voice? Here. We. Go!

Ok, I don't know if it knocks the original off it's high perch, but IMHO, it comes dang close! Unlike the live version, we get right to the main story, with minor but essential expansions fleshing it out. Honestly, I thought the time was well spent! The story once again adds the Grinch's backstory, but it's more organic & feels less "filler-y".

The cast did a really great job. Benedict Cumberbach could've played such an iconic character any way he chose, & he chose an uptight socially awkward nerd whose pain at being left in the cold had festered into something caustic & sinister. As one of a similar personality, it kinda hit close to home for me. This Grinch was the most relatable since Jim donned the green fir. Max the Dog took on a greater role this time, acting as more of a service animal/loyal roommate & having more opinions than earlier incarnations, it was refreshing. Cindy Loo's new characterization was a nice mix of an adventurous spirit & an altruistic nature, far more than any real kid; she's a bit too saint-like for the real world, but at least she wasn't boring or dislikable. The rest of the cast were mainly for dressing, but they added a nice bit of detail, especially the deer, who might knock the minions off THEIR perch, & the mayor, voiced surprisingly by Angela Lansbury, who's still kickin', & Cindy's family, who...no spoilers!

The animation was great. It all was clearly meant to be viewed in 3D, but my 2D viewing didn't detract from the experience. All the characters & locations paid respect to the source material, while looking organic. The snow & some of the environments really stood out, almost lookin' like they were really there!

The music was modern, while maintaining the original spirit...except for "Welcome Christmas" which was unaltered, no one would be crazy enough to mess with THAT song!

This version of The Grinch may be a cash grab, it may be an honest homage, it may be lots of things, but it ain't nothin' if not a decent holiday film that got an emotional response from me, which doesn't happen often. 4 stars outta 5, happy Grinch-mas!!!! #ScreamingGoat.