The Grinch (Karloff) hates Christmas. He especially hates the way the town of Whoville celebrates, which carries to his home at the top of the mountain. Dreading another year of all the noise that comes with Christmas, he decides to ruin the holiday, with the reluctant help of his dog Max (McKennon).
A television special based on Dr. Seuss' 1957 children's book "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!".
The Good:
Dr. Seuss was involved in this adaptation, and it shows. All of the dialog comes directly from the book (nothing added). Seuss also wrote all of the lyrics for the songs (the music was composed by Albert Hague): "Welcome Christmas", "Trim Up the Tree", and "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch". The animation is well-done and mimics the design of the book. It is clear that the animators and directors Chuck Jones (best known for his work on the Looney Tunes shorts) and Ben Washam love and respect the original book. The film is only 25 minutes and does not waste any of that time - it tells the story, with a few songs and some action, and keeps your attention.
Boris Karloff pulls double-duty, as both the Narrator and the Grinch (with a slightly gravelly tone). While Karloff is the only actor credited in the film, voice actress June Foray (also known for working on the Looney Tunes) brings life to Cindy Lou Who.
The Bad:
Nothing - it's the perfect length, strong story, good animation, and lots of heart.
Other Comments:
-The iconic "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" song, was performed by Thurl Ravenscroft.
-This film and character of the Grinch were popular enough to make 2 more TV specials based on the Grinch (Dr. Seuss wrote both films): Halloween is Grinch Night in 1977 and The Grinch Grinches the Cat in the Hat in 1982. This film was released on CBS, the other 2 were released on ABC
-There have been 2 subsequent film adaptations of this story: the live-action Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (directed by Ron Howard, with Jim Carrey as the Grinch) in 2000 and the 3D animated The Grinch in 2018 (made by Illumination Entertainment, with Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch).
-This is my favorite adaptation of the story. I enjoy the other 2 films, but this one is hard to beat. The animation, the voice work, and songs all work together to create a timeless Christmas classic! It is beloved by many and airs on TV every Christmas.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966) 25 minutes
Director: Chuck Jones and Ben Washam
Starring: Boris Karloff as Grinch / Narrator
June Foray as Cindy Lou Who
Dallas McKennon as Max
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