The Story:
Frank Cross (Bill Murray) is the youngest TV executive in network history. He has big plans for a live performance of A Christmas Carol on Christmas Eve. Ah, but when Frank is visited by the ghost of his former boss (John Forsythe), it's only a matter of time before his world is turned upside down as he lives his own version of Dickens' classic tale.
Will Frank learn a valuable life lesson, or is he doomed for all eternity?
Richard Donner directs yet another personal favorite of mine. I tell you, he's possibly the most underrated movie director of the 80s/90s.
While Murray gets acclaim for his later dramatic roles, this is my favorite role that he has done in his career. Yep, better than Caddyshack, Stripes and Ghostbusters, to name but three.
He's funny, but in reactionary ways only, which is a great skill for an actor to pull off.
That he seems to be having a nervous breakdown due to the ghosts adds to the comedy of the film.
Unlike versions of the ghosts, these 3 aren't exactly nice or sentimental with Frank. In fact, Carol Kane as the Ghost of Christmas Present is downright brutal with Frank.
:)
Naturally, Frank learns that the life he could have had with Claire (Karen Allen) is his one big mistake, and that's why I don't consider Scrooged to be a straight adaptation of A Christmas Carol.
Does it borrow, oh yes, liberally.
But here, Frank, unlike Scrooge, gets the chance to rectify that moment in his life where things went wrong, and win back the love of his life.
Great performances across the board, and if you don't like this movie...
You have no Christmas spirit.
;)
Available to stream instantly on Amazon if you have Prime membership.
Final Grade: A+
Rewatchability/Purchase Factor: It is owned already and is watched at least once every holiday season. I'm thinking there will be an upgrade to Blu Ray to keep it lasting forever in the near future.
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