The Grinch is a fairly well-known character. From the original 1957 Dr. Seuss book, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” to the 2000 movie adaptation, everyone has at least heard about this infamous character.

The new movie, simply called “The Grinch,” was released in U.S. theaters on Nov.9. The film is directed by Yarrow Cheney and Scott Mosier. Cheney has previously directed “The Secret Life of Pets” and Mosier has directed the film “Free Birds.” The Grinch was voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch and the film was narrated by Pharrell Williams

This new version follows a similar plot to the 2000 movie version. The Grinch lives with his dog Max inside a cave on Mount Crumpet, which overlooks the joyful and lively town of Whoville, full of people who celebrate the holidays in a big and over the top manner. Because the Grinch hates Christmas, he creates a plan to steal it and gain the peace and quiet he wants.

What I liked

• The soundtrack. I really enjoyed every song that was included. It helped bring together the scenes. My favorite song was “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” performed by Tyler, The Creator.
• The details. The scenes and people were all very detailed. The first thing  I noticed were the details to the character’s hair and apparel. If I didn’t know better, I would assume that the clothes they wore were actual clothing pieces.
• The Grinch is more human. From small details like living in a cleaner home to the good relationship he had with Max, it all encompasses a different and more human-like view of the Grinch. I also loved how he was a lot more relatable, with several iconic quotes that I’ll probably post on my wall.
• The extra characters. I liked that the audience was introduced to more citizens of Whoville. It made it so the movie was not only about the Grinch, but also about the Whoville culture.
• The messages. There were several messages that were shown throughout the movie, from small things like friendship to finding happiness. It all helps the movie be more relatable to our real-life situations.
• The vibrancy. The colors used in the animation were all very bright and clean. They made the situations a lot more joyful and engaging.

What I didn’t like

• The withholding of the Grinch’s childhood. Although some facts are given, there are some essential facts that are not included which would have helped characterize him.

2018 Grinch compared to the 2000 Grinch. 

Similarities

• It follows a similar plot line.
• The characters are relatively the same, with a few exceptions.
• The Grinch is successful in stealing Christmas
• The Grinch’s heart grows.

Differences

• Is more progressive with character situations.
• Cindy Lou Who is seen more as a main character.
• More detailed about the Grinch’s plan to steal Christmas.
• The mayor of the city is a woman rather than a man.
• The citizens of Whoville are more welcoming to the Grinch.
• The audience finds out the Grinch’s age.

Length: 1 hour and 26 minutes.

Rating: PG

Where to Find it: Cinemark, AMC, Alamo Drafthouse, and other near movie theaters.

My Rating: 5/5 stolen Christmas presents.