Scrooged: Dickens, with a twist!
If you have had enough of the traditional adaptations of 'A Christmas Carol', then Isabel Sheppard has just the thing...
Whilst many people will agree that the moral of Dicken’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ is heartwarming and would have made people more aware of poverty in the Victorian era – arguably vital considering the alarming spread of Malthusian beliefs at the time - a modern reader would probably find story either difficult to understand in terms of the language used, or not humorous in the slightest (even if your teacher says it is). If this sounds all too familiar to you, I have the perfect version for you!
Before you continue reading, a warning: Please, please, please do not use this movie as revision for ‘A Christmas Carol’ – whilst following the story loosely, it is not accurate to the original novella!
The movie in question is called ‘Scrooged’. It is an amazing comedy that follows a particularly irritated and resentful businessman, who appears to hate Christmas, Christmas spirit and everyone that celebrates Christmas – just like ‘A Christmas Carol’! However, that is where the similarities end. One major difference between the film and the novella is the ghosts; they are all modern versions but slightly more chaotic than they should be.
My personal favourite is the Ghost of Christmas Present (played by the brilliant Carol Kane), who is portrayed as a bright, bubbly and glittering fairy. She also happens to be slightly overexcited at the idea of Christmas celebrations and parties and feels that her lessons can only be taught by slapping people around the face – quite literally. The best example of this is probably the scene with the toaster (if you simply look up the “it’s a toaster!” scene, you will find what I am talking about).
Other actors featured include Bill Murray and Karen Allen, who both bring the story to life in the best ways possible. Make sure you pay attention to what is happening - it’s very fast paced, and you won’t want to miss a second of the action!
The movie is filled to the brim with jokes and comedic moments, but still portrays the overall moral of the story in a powerful way. If you have time over this Christmas, go watch it! It’s a great movie to watch with all your extended family and friends too. I can guarantee that you will all be wheezing with laughter by the time you have finished.
Have a lovely Christmas break!
Isabel Sheppard, Year 11