But, as good as the technology is, the performances are what really power this 93-minute TNT interpretation. Patrick Stewart brings a depth to Scrooge that allows the character to go beyond the cartoonish qualities that have made him a Christmas mainstay. That doesn't mean he's any less heartless with his hapless employee Bob Cratchit (Richard E. Grant) or any less dismissive of his well-meaning nephew. A frail-looking Joel Grey makes an excellent ghost of Christmas past, and a superb British cast ably fill the remaining roles.

Director David Jones, shooting on location in England and at London's Ealing Studios, has achieved a balance of science and sentiment that will help this version hold up for many years to come. --Kimberly Heinrichs

Customer Reviews Average rating - 4.0

Rating - 5 Date: 2009-01-06
Content: I have been a fan of Dickens' beloved story all my life. I have watched numerous versions each year since I was a child. While I've always believed the Alister Sim version (1955) was the best of all time, I must now state that Patrick Stewart as Scrooge is simply incredible! Stewart truly brings Scrooge to life, and his ability to convey the profound transformation of the old miser is simply marvelous. Great supporting cast and costuming as well. I would highly recommend this production!
Summary: Best version available

Rating - 2 Date: 2009-01-01
Content: I own this among most of the other versions of A Christmas Carol. If you are looking for the best version, don't buy this. Get the 1984 version with George C. Scott. This version is entertaining, but I think is has poor acting and lacks the emotion of the story.
Summary: Not the best version...

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-12-31
Content: I consider Dickens' work The Christmas Carol to be the best Christmas story every written, second only to the one in the Bible which is the reason for the season anyway. I have highly enjoyed previous versions of this classic starring Reginald Owen, Alastair Sim , and George C. Scott, as well as numerous other copycats on film and television that are hardly in the same league as those mentioned above. I really enjoyed this version of this story, and unlike many others who have reviewed this film, I have actually read the book, and this version is almost word for word the book as written by Dickens. Since this is only a work of fiction (although I can think of many people in this world, past and present, for whom a little haunting would do them and all the rest of us a world of good), every version will add its only little twist to it. I found the special effects to be entirely appropriate to the film. Regardless of those who may only be familiar with his work in Star Trek and the Xmen, Stewart is obviously a very well trained and excellent actor who does an excellent job in playing the title character, and he is supported by a stellar supporting cast, which overall make this an excellent addition to anyone's Christmas library. I highly recommend this film to any one interested in the true spirit of Christmas, regardless of the American way.
Summary: The closest adaptation yet

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-12-28
Content: An excellent adaptation of a Christmas favorite.
I orginally taped it off TNT back in '99, watching again every year. I was so glad to find it in DVD format online.
I bought several copies, to give as gifts.
A must see to get you in the holiday spirit
Summary: A Yearly Tradition

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-12-27
Content: Many have been "Scrooge." and so far I've never seen anyone do a bad job. I love the story and Patrick Stewart does it well. I was suprised as I did not think I would believe him as scrooge. The story was presented well and pleasing to watch. But I am biased as this is my favorite Chritmas story and so far I like all versions.
Summary: Piccard Goes Where Many Have Gone Before