The Grinch (2018) Review

In my mind, I've enjoyed the few adaptations that How the Grinch Stole Christmas has had. The special from the 60s is enjoyable and one of the greatest specials. Other than a few dark things, I liked (and many others I knew as well) the 2000 live action film with Jim Carrey. To say this newest take on it is interesting to say the least. An animated version from Illumination would certainly raise some eyebrows, both good and bad. It's better than you think.

As with following, the idea of the Grinch stealing Christmas is the main basis of the plot. A problem with the live action film was adding enough to keep people interested for an hour and 40 minutes. This one has that issue, too, but not as bad. This version of Grinch, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, is not as mean, but he can pull off some dastardly stuff. His backstory as a kid is similar to the live action one, though with different reasons for hating Christmas. His dog, Max, is still loyal, and there is a bond between the two you don't see in the cartoon or film. At least in terms of them getting along.

The town of Whoville is a bit more unique with people being more excited for Christmas. That was the case in the live action film, but that was more about competition and glorification of gifts and stuff like that. Here, it's people waiting for that day and celebrating it. Their take on Cindy Lou Who is a lot more friendlier take. They make simply a kid and enjoying her life, all while wanting things to be good for her single mother, who does lots of things for her and her twin baby brothers. Among the other noticeable people for the town is Mr. Bricklebaum. He provides some of the laughs with trying to get the Grinch to get into the holiday spirit. 

Visually, it's a very clean looking film. A lot more lighter toned than the live action take. The characters are a combo of what Dr Seuss created along with the style Illumination does.It's take on Whoville is very beautiful in capturing a Christmas town. Regarding the script, there's a fine balance of giving the main characters adequate time and enough to provide substance to their plots. It's not over the top or cheesy for a kids film. This doesn't rely on fart jokes or anything gross, which is surprising but also a bit of a breath of fresh air. 

It is pretty short, but not to the point where it is boring. My only big complaint is the Grinch sounding like multiple characters. Then again, it's not easy to have an idea of what he should sound like. I do think they nailed it and got a good interpretation of him. There aren't too many choices for the holiday season that isn't a Disney movie (Wreck it Ralph 2 comes out next week) for kids, but at the very least, The Grinch is a safe option. Not my number one recommendation for kids stuff, but a choice you can use if you want to see this in the theater with your family or kids. 

Score: 6.5-7 out of 10