Before I get into this review, if Spirited is in theaters, I'd check it out. Otherwise, this is available via Apple TV+. Anyway, this is something that caught my eye a little bit and is something that feels out of left field. Better than I thought it would be and it is well done with its choreography and attempt of a modern day version of A Christmas Carol.
Every year, there are ghosts that will try to change a person for better and redeem themselves. Led by Marley (Patrick Page), they go all out to scare the person straight and improve their life. His plan for the following Christmas is a hotel manager, but ghost of Christmas present (Will Ferrell) sees someone that is way worse. Reluctantly, Marley goes with the idea of redeeming Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds), an A-grade piece of trash. What ensues is pure insanity.
The only other film that has a modern day take that I can think of with A Christmas Carol is Scrooged from 1988, and even that is referenced by Clint. This is a musical for the most part and it saves its moments for when to sing and when to be comedic. It is an interesting duo with Reynolds and Ferrell. Reynolds is great as that slimy deceitful manipulative person and it clashes with the other side of the comedy. It's nice to see Ferrell play the straight laced character a bit, which is refreshing though he is more than just that as Christmas present.
It's few other characters who are important play vital parts. Sunita Mani and the voice of Tracy Morgan are hilarious as the other two ghosts Past and Yet to Come and their attempts to scare Clint. Octavia Spencer serves as a love interest for Present and also is a moral ground type of person that doesn't like the antics of Clint. But all these characters get their chances to sing songs surrounding their situations and the musical score is beautiful with well done dance and choreography if it needs to. Of course, the holiday look to it. Nothing more special than going to see the lights and everything in New York.
This is a bit lengthy. However the balance of comedy and musical and the energy keeps it going without a stale moment. I'm not sure how some will view the ending and some of the more darker moments of the film. Some development of a couple characters could have been better. But otherwise, Spirited is a funny film to go see. Check it in theaters if it's playing near you. As said at the beginning of this review, this is also on Apple TV+
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