‘The Grinch’ steals Christmas again, and plenty of laughs along the way

Posted on November 16, 2018

By MARK VIOLA

Last week, in my preview of Illumination Entertainment’s new adaptation of “Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch,” I concluded by stating that I would believe they had made a quality Grinch movie when I saw it. Well, I have now seen the movie, and can attest that they have actually done just that.

The original 1966 made-for-television Christmas special is one of the most beloved holiday traditions, right up there with “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and, if you’re a little less of a purist, “A Christmas Story.” The 2000 live-action adaptation starring Jim Carrey has its fans, but it was always a bit too much Jim Carrey (and I like him as an actor, don’t get me wrong) and not enough Grinch. At least it was better than “The Cat in the Hat” live-action movie.

The new “Grinch” brings the story back to animation, where I think most Dr. Seuss stories belong, if you’re going to adapt them into movies. Actor Benedict Cumberbatch (“Avengers: Infinity War”) provides the voice of the title character, and even though I knew it was him, I couldn’t hear him at all in the Grinch’s voice (which is a huge compliment).

“Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch” is funny and sweet, and most importantly, it keeps you entertained from start to finish. It’s a great start to the holiday season at the movies.

The film is rated PG for brief rude humor.

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