The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) (Movie Review)

 The 1843 novel “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens is one of my all-time favorite tales to be associated with the holiday season, and it’s arguably been adapted into more mediums than any other holiday themed story. Oddly enough, one version I kept my distance from for many years was the one that introduced me to the story in the first place. 

For me, and many kids from the 1990’s, we were first introduced to the Dickens tale through the 1992 classic “The Muppet Christmas Carol”. Despite being my introduction to the timeless story, my feelings for “A Christmas Carol” didn’t fully manifest until I saw other film versions. As such, I never really returned to the Muppets picture, and I don’t have the same childhood nostalgia for it the same way most others do. Regardless, way back in my late college years, I found myself needing to scratch that itch to give this film another chance and see if it holds up as a holiday classic. Not only was the film a delightful surprise, but I’ve found myself more drawn to this film in my adult years than when I was a kid. I don’t see it as a nostalgic novelty, but a genuinely wholesome family film. When people say, “they don’t make them like they used to”, this is the kind of movie that comes to mind … because they just don’t make family movies like this today.

 Alright, let’s do this plot recap one more time … Mr. Scrooge is the meanest and greediest man in London, who thinks little of his fellow man. Yet, one magical Christmas Eve, he’s warned by the spirit of his late partner … or partners in this version … that his soul is doomed, unless he takes to heart the lessons of three ghostly figures. 

The entities reveal themselves one by one as the spirits of Christmas past, present and future. All through the night, they explore Scrooges upbringing, the faults he made, and what can be lost if he doesn’t reform his ways. It’s a very familiar story, but the beauty of these different film versions is the presentation, and how they can stand apart with their own distinct strengths and charms. This version naturally has the distinct presence of iconic Muppets, along with distinctly new puppet characters exclusive to the film, immersive settings, and a wonderful selection of original songs. Beyond that, it’s a respectful retelling of the Dickens Classic, which references the original text, while adding or altering details in the film’s favor.  

  Of course, the big make or break deal for any “Christmas Carol” adaption is Scrooge himself, and fortunately for this film, it comes in the form of Michael Caine. Despite being surrounded by puppets, he portrays the character with great conviction and is unflinching when talking to his employee … who just happens to be a frog. 

It brings to mind Bob Hoskins in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”, who never once winked at the camera, and gave a convincing performance, even when surrounded by cartoon characters. Also, since this Scrooge is surrounded by puppets half his size, the camera angles give him a towering presence and size different from any other version. Aside from his intimidating look and appearance, he certainly sells most of the emotional moments. My personal favorite moment in this film follows after Scrooges reformation, when he gives the charity collectors a respectful donation, they in return give him a scarf. Michael Caine’s delivery of the line “A gift … for me?”, is so humble and sincere, it gets me right in the feels.  

  When it comes to my feelings on “The Muppets” in general, I’ve only ever been a casual fan, viewing and admiring select properties of theirs, but never really forming any real attachment to them as a whole either. With that said, The Great Gonzo has always been my favorite of the Muppet characters, and I loved how he was utilized in this film as the always present Charles Dickens storyteller. Also, paring him with Rizzo the Rat was genius, and gratefully became a reoccurring paring in other Muppet projects. Curiously, most of the famous Muppet characters are given significantly smaller roles. While I couldn’t imagine Kermit the Frog as anyone else but Bob Cratchit, it’s still odd to have the most famous of all the Muppets disappear for lengthy scenes in a theatrical picture. Both Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear feel like extended cameo’s … although, Fozzie Bear as a Fezziwig stand in called Fozziwig is very funny.

 The best utilized characters in my view are Statler and Waldorf in the roles of Scrooges deceased partners Jacob and Robert Marley. As much as I love the different versions of “A Christmas Carol”, all the Jacob Marley encounters seem to blend together in my mind … but this one however stands out among the rest. Not only is their song “Marley and Marley” highly catchy, but the personality, tone and presentation breaths fresh air into this sequence, and gets me excited for the familiar story ahead. 

I suppose the lesser-known Muppet called Robin the Frog gets to shine as Tiny Tim, and his song “Bless Us All” is a touching highlight. On the subject of the songs, they are all wonderful in this film. The opening “Scrooge” number dose a good job getting me excited, all while showing off the impressive set design and puppets. The closing song “Thankful Heart” admittedly isn’t sung well, but Michael Caine’s jubilant performance again overcomes any shortcomings. My personal favorite song is Kermit’s “One More Sleep Til Christmas”. In general, my favorite part of Christmas is the build-up to it on Christmas Eve. In this cheerful little musical number, Kermit and friends celebrate how the most magical of holidays will be coming with the dawn of a new day. It’s a simple, yet upbeat song that always assures me … that on Christmas Eve … “There’s magic in the air!”. 

 Early in production, the classic Muppet characters were considered for the roles of the three Christmas spirits, but along the way, it was decided to create original Muppet characters … which I feel was for the better. A fan favorite creation for this film naturally is the Ghost of Christmas Present, who’s a bundle of joy, and even has a bad memory, as his mind is always on the here and now … which differs from the book, but it’s a wonderful addition to the character. His big song number “It Feels like Christmas” is another fan favorite highlight, and it’s great to see Scrooges personality gradually change through the number. The Spirit of Christmas Past has a great design, like an ageless child, and is somehow both comforting and off-putting all at once. It doesn’t match the description from the novel, but she’s just so alien and mysterious with her presence, that she might just be my favorite depiction of the Spirit of Christmas Past.  

  Speaking of the past, let’s talk about the famous sentimental musical balled “When Love is Gone”, sung by Scrooges long lost love Belle. It wasn’t part of the theatrical presentation but was once readily available on VHS home video as a special addition. Nowadays it’s an optional extended cut on some DVD’s and has garnered mixed feelings from fans. While I think the song itself is okay, I feel it adds some much-needed dramatic elements to the narrative, as Scrooges trip to the past lacks any real pathos without this number. Also, the added detail of older Scrooge doing a musical duet with his young love is another great moment for Michael Caine to shine. The pop version of the song which plays over the end credits is also worth a listen.

 Finally, we have the Spirit of Christmas future, depicted as a hooded Grim Reaper type character, which I thought was awesome as a kid, and piqued my interest in seeing what this character might look like in the more adult films. After watching so many versions of “A Christmas Carol”, this Muppet take on the Spirit of the Future feels kind of basic, and I feel it could have been a pinch more creative for a Muppet property. 

Regardless, the whole segment of Scrooge’s trip to the future is handled very well and has just the right somber tone without going too far or holding back too much. I haven’t mentioned it yet, but this was the first big Muppet production following after the passing of Muppet creator Jim Henson and performer Richard Hunt … the film was even dedicated to them. As such, Jim Henson’s son Brian Henson directed the film, and absolutely sustained the spirit of these characters. When Scrooge in the film witnesses the passing of Tiny Tim, Kermit gives a speech about how life is full of meetings and partings, which is a clear, but very subtly nod to the memories of both Jim Henson and performer Richard Hunt.  

 In the end, I wouldn’t call “The Muppet Christmas Carol” the absolute best version of the classic tale … but it certainly belongs among the most favorable and re-watchable. It’s infectiously lovable, gentle in presentation, and it just leaves me smiling from ear to ear every time I watch it. Despite being so dismissive of this film for so many years, I can now see why it’s remained a beloved holiday classic. I may not call myself a Muppets fan per say, but Kermit the Frog and his band of Muppets are still a very special group of characters in their own humble and amusing way. In general, it’s so refreshing to look back on a film that didn’t overutilized CGI and instead created this magical world full of practical effects, wonderful sets, and it just feels timeless in its own right. Despite featuring puppets, this is still a warm and humble adaption of “A Christmas Carol”, and I feel it’s only gotten better with age.

Thanks for reading my review of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” … and continue to enjoy the movies you Love!

My Top 10 Favorite Movies of 1989

 

 Time to look back on another year of movies … 1989 … the end of a decade and the transition into a new era of entertainment. On a personal note, this was a very important year for me … it was the year my parents got married. 

As such, even though I wasn’t born yet, I have a sentimental attachment to this year, and as far as entertainment at the movies were concerned, some of my favorite movies came out from 1989. It was a year of hits, including the Oscars Best Picture winning “Driving Miss Daisy”, Kenneth Branagh’s epic movie adaption of “Henry V” and fan favorites like “The Fabulous Baker Boys”. It was also a year of sequels, with “Lethal Weapon 2”, “Ghostbusters 2” and “Star Trek 5: The Final Frontier” being some of the most anticipated ... yet received mixed reactions. Thus, I thought it would be fun to stop and rank my own personal Top 10 Favorite movies from 1989. 

 

#10 “Dead Poets Society” 

Back when I was a kid, Robin Williams was one of my favorite comedic talents, and I was mainly drawn to his goofier, kid friendly outings. The 1989, Best Picture nominated “Dead Poets Society” was the first to introduce me to his more dramatic and passionate side of acting with his Oscar nominated leading performance of schoolteacher John Charles Keating. In this prep school drama, Williams portrays a teacher who encourages his students to view the world in a new light, as a thoughtful yet still quirky father figure. 

While the narrative hits predictable beats, the emotional performances, and positive tone make it a genuinely touching experience. Over the years, it's become a "love it or hate it picture", with many won over by its charm, and others viewing as sentimental to a fault. For me, I'd say it's required viewing for any longtime fan of Robin Williams to see it at least once and then judge for themselves. I'm rather fond of the film, and I feel it holds up as one of his better dramatic offerings.

 

#9 “Back to the Future Part 2” 

Of the many sequels that came out in 1989, I enjoy “Back to the Future Part 2” a great deal. It’s not quiet on par with the original classic, but it’s still an engaging and ambitious sequel in its own right. This is the film that brought variety to the time-travel elements of the story, giving us a colorful future setting, an alternate present reality, and returning to the past to see things from a different perspective. The main leads are still charming, and the villain Biff steals most of the show, securing his status as one of the great 1980’s movie villains. 

Plus, there’s just so many details throughout this film I love, including the future setting of Hill-Valley, and a number of action set-pieces, which makes for an easy experience to enjoy, and occasionally return to. It may not have the same heart as the first film, but it’s certainly an engaging and fun chapter in its own right.

 

#8 “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” 

There’s a number of different Christmas movies and specials I love returning to around the holiday season, and I especially love the variety that comes with them. As far as Christmas comedies are concerned, this late 1980’s Chevy Chase outing is one of my personal favorites. It’s hard to explain, but this one just finds that perfect balance, with lots of slapstick and laugh-out-loud moments, but also some really simple holiday charms and details. It's another one of those perfect little offsets to what we usually get around Christmas, and yet it still feels like a holiday classic in its own hilarious way. 

Chevy Chase absolutely shines in this film, and there’s a colorful cast of memorable family members to boot. Whether you can get into the films slap-stick presentation is certainly an acquired taste, but for me, it just clicks. “Christmas Vacation” packs the laughs, with just enough seeds of heart, and holiday delights to make for a special holiday gift in its own unique way.

 

#7 “Field of Dreams” 

When it comes to my favorite Sports movies, I’m partial to the ones that crossover with other movie genres, and no-where is it better than the 1989, Best Picture nominated “Field of Dreams”. When an Iowa farmer named Ray hears a mysterious voice stating … “If you build it, he will come” … he’s persistent to transform his corn field into a baseball diamond. Following this, it brings about the spirit of one Shoeless Joe Jackson, along with the spirits of other late Baseball players. This film is virtually devoid of traditional sports movie conventions, and yet … it still has that same winning sprit that’s impossible to resist. 

Even though I’ve never called myself a baseball fan, there’s something about the way these characters describe it, and express their feelings toward it, which really get me to respect the sport, and why it stands as one of Americas most celebrated pass-times. 

Also, for such a simple premise, there’s this inviting and warm atmosphere to the experience, brought to life through a solid direction, and a charming cast. Even if you’re not a sports fan, this is one of those special films I’d encourage anyone to watch. It’s an appropriately sentimental mixing of drama and fantasy, resulting in a special kind of movie magic that’s virtually non-existent today.

 

#6 “License to Kill” 

I’m a long time James Bond fan, and Timothy Dalton is easily the most underrated actor to portray 007, giving the character a less jokey, and more intense tone. His second (and only other Bond picture) titled “License to Kill” is also one of the more underrated gems in the James Bond cannon. 

It still has the silly charms, explosive chase scenes, and attractive woman that make the series so fun to watch, but this was one of the first to add a darker layer to both the story and tone. James Bond this time is out for revenge and has even abandoned his organization, which makes things a little more exciting than the usual 007 fair. 

Seeing Bond go rogue is such an intriguing concept, I'm surprised it wasn't utilized earlier, but better late than never ... and the concept is executed masterfully. For me, “License to Kill” has a secure place among my personal favorite James Bond films, and as such, it’s an easy win among my personal favorites of 1989.

 

#5 Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” 

Disney animation had always been a staple of family entertainment, but it was 1989’s “The Little Mermaid” that ushered a new golden age of classic family entertainment, and brought new life to their animated pictures, with glowing animation, and song numbers that can match any great Broadway musical. While I still view the original Hans Christian Andersen novel as the more meaningful peace of work, I just can’t help but adore the animated Disney movie as its own special achievement separate from the book.

It took me a while, but “The Little Mermaid” did eventually climb-up my figurative totem pole of Disney pictures and found a place near the top with all my other favorites. I’d encourage anyone to still read the book, as I don’t want it to disappear under the popularity of the Disney version, but still … both deserve their gold points, and both have endured as classics to be shared with the generations to come.

 

#4 “Batman” 

While Richard Donner’s 1978 classic “Superman” is what kicked off our modern superhero movies, Tim Burton's 1989 “Batman” is the reason they're still going strong today. While there are other Batman and Superhero movies that deliver better character focused stories and superior action, this film has a personality and style all its own, which makes it stand out with its own unique flavor of cool. I love experiencing all the visuals, the sets, the music, the clichés, the film noir, and just the whole artistry of how the film is brought to life.

 It doesn’t need a strong script or intense character depth ... it already makes for a worthwhile film on its own technical merits. Even the characters ... simple as they are ... can leave a memorable impression and are strong enough to anchor the technical strengths of the film. Again, I can't call this a masterpiece ... Tim Burton himself has even referred to this movie as "More of a cultural phenomenon, then a good film". Regardless, I still look back on this movie as a classic, a great start to an outstanding franchise, and it still did its job making an icon out of this character.

 

#3 “The Abyss” 

Along with “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”, I view this as one of the best “First Contact with Alien” films, and features some of the most unique underwater creatures of the genre. Director James Cameron was riding a high of hit Sci-Fi pictures in the 1980’s, with both “The Terminator”, and “Aliens” being preserved as classics. In my view, “The Abyss” deserves the same acolytes, and stands as an important testament to both Science Fiction cinema, and original movie material in general. 

It’s something we’ve lost sight of over the years, as we’re so caught up in fast paced escapes, or familiar franchises. All these years later, “The Abyss” is still an aw-inspiring motion picture, and one that can potentially inspire filmmakers for years to come. The visual effects, while dated by today’s standards, are still quite innovative and breathtaking to look back on. 

The characters are engaging, the claustrophobic suspense is downright thrilling, and the themes are still timely. It’s the kind of film I want Hollywood to challenge itself to make more of, and still to this day, I feel “The Abyss” holds up as one of the best of the 1980’s Sci-Fi pictures.

 

#2 “Glory” 

Despite the growing controversy of Matthew Broderick’s Colonel Robert Gould Shaw being the lead “white star” among a cast of African Americans, I feel “Glory” holds up exceptionally well as a whole, and I’m shocked it wasn’t nominated at the Oscars for Best Picture. As far as movies themed around The Civil War are concerned, this is my personal favorite and contains just about everything the nation stands for … chivalry, patriotism, valor, unity, self-sacrifice, and above all else, respect for one’s fellow man. 

Everything else in the movie ranging from the cinematography, to James Horners sensational music score, to the performances are all first-rate, with Denzel Washingtons Oscar winning performance leading the charge. While the historical accuracy can be a little dodgy in spots, the film hits the right points where it counts for a great movie, getting us to care for these soldiers before they valiantly charge into battle. Colonel Shaw: “If this man should fall, who will lift the flag and carry on?” Corporal Searles: “I Will!”. 

 

Before I reveal my personal favorite movie of 1989, here are some quick Honorable Mentions …

 “Henry V”

“All Dogs Go to Heaven”

“Pet Sematary”

“Honey, I Shrunk the Kids”

“The Phantom of the Opera”

 

#1 “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” 

In general, Indiana Jones was my top childhood movie hero by far, and he still maintains the status as one of my favorite movie characters all these years later. His franchise represents the peak of adventure cinema, and the original 1980’s trilogy will always have a special place in my nostalgic heart. While the 1981 classic “Raiders of the Lost Arc” is a landmark achievement, and still holds up as a quality piece of entertainment all these years later … “The Last Crusade” is that special sequel that just seemed to go the extra mile and has a secure spot as one of my all-time favorite movies period. 

It takes the basic outline of a treasure hunt and transcends it into an epic quest to find one of the most Holy artifacts in history and protect it from an army of evil. Beyond that, it’s an engaging story about a broken family coming closer together through a series of challenges. 

Harrison Forde and Sean Connery make for one of my favorite on-screen pairings ever and make for one of the most dynamic and memorable father/son relationships I’ve seen in a movie. “The Last Crusade” also balances incredible action with a healthy sense of humor and even a small yet welcome amount of substance to anchor the excitement. It’s simply one of the greatest of its kind and has remained my personal favorite adventure themed movie I’ve ever seen.

Thanks for reading my countdown … and continue to enjoy the movies you Love!