The Grinch

     If you don't know the story of Dr. Suess's "The Grinch" you should be shot down for the inhumane son of a (CENSORED) that you are. I'm sorry, I know that was a bit harsh..but this story is the staple of a young person's childhood and it must be known by all. BUT, for those of you who have no idea who Dr. Suess *cringes* is. Here goes: Inside a snowflake, high atop Mt. Crumpit, just north of town, a certain cave-dwelling curmudgeon peers down on the Christmas-adoring Whos of Whoville as they make their frantic Yuletide preparations. And this isn't your run-of-the-mill sourpuss. This is the Grinch (Jim Carrey), and he is positively sick of those nog-sucking cheermongers.

     Why is the Grinch so, well ... so Grinchy? Nobody knows, not even his lone companion, the endlessly oppressed canine, Max. But with an expression that goes from glum to glummer and then to a malevolent lip-curling grin as a wicked lightbulb clicks over his head ... a wonderful, awful idea is born. Christmas is back and the Grinch plans to do something about this annoyingly-happy holiday ... once and for all.

     The movie, where possible, sticks to the original story to a 'T'. It is quite nice to see one of your favorite books as a child turned into a live action film, its sort of a warm feeling you get. You've always dreamed it, and it finally happens. The sets and make-up (Rick Baker is a GOD) deserve to be nominated for an award, as it totally ecompasses the audience in the world of the Who's.

     As far as Jim Carrey, well..he's Jim Carrey. He's not as great as usual, but he does very well with what he has to work with. This is a kids movie, so don't expect ol Jim to go around talking out of his but and cursing like a sailor. Its like watching Jim play a more P.C. version of The Mask. The young girl who plays Cindy Lou Who is perfect for this movie, but I wouldn't expect to see her too many places after this movie cause her talents are limited...very limited.

     When I first heard that this movie was being made, I was afraid..very afraid. How could they turn a 25 minute cartoon into a full length film. By adding in a filler story thats how, and for the most part..its done well and is rather enjoyable to see what made the Grinch so grinchy. But things such as love interest seem overly hollywood-esque to me and just ruin any nostalgic feelings I had going into this film. Also, what is the deal with every hollywood film having a car scene. No matter how kiddy and cute it is, its still non original and has no place in a film of this sort.

     Also, as much as I love Jim Carrey and thought he did a wonderful job as the Grinch...at times lines were lost becasue he decided to speak out the corner of his mouth and sounding like a brokedown Jimmy Stewart. It was a tad annoying, but because Jim is so over the top. Only a few lines are really dropped.

     This is a good film, which recreates the world of Whoville beautifully. Unfortunately, there's not enough subtance to go with the toppings and this movie falls flat to those of us who remember and adore the original. Unlike the cartoon, this movie lacks the heart to make me care..much less make the Grinch change.

Rating:

out of four.

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