How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) - 10 stars out of 10
The original "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is the best telling of any Dr. Seuss story. Ever. It should come as no surprise, being directed by Looney Tunes mastermind Chuck Jones with "Dr. Seuss" around to provide input. The animation is of the highest quality (especially considering that this was created as a tv special) and Whoville is the epitome of Dr. Seuss' style. There are so many classic images contained throughout this film (the ever-growing smiling on the Grinch's face, the reindeer horn on Max's head, the Christmas tree being shoved up the chimney, the heart growing three sizes) that it simply would not be Christmas without seeing these visual cues at some point in the season. Perhaps the most memorable part of this film are the voice actors. Boris Karloff (Frankenstein's monster) makes the Grinch scary enough to children that they will "get" the levity of his transformation, and Thurl Ravenscroft's performance of "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" turns it into one of the most famous songs contained in any movie. It is often imitated but never recreated - only Tony the Tiger can do it right. It is difficult to believe that any American (regardless of religion or preferred holiday of celebration) has not seen this film but if this rare instance of depravity describes you, cue up ABC Family and watch it ASAP. It is more than just a Christmas story - it is an important life lesson about the importance of being loved; however, it is also an amazing example of the power of the Christmas spirit and no holiday season is complete without it!
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