“Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more.”
synopsis
High above Whoville lives the Grinch, a bitter green recluse who despises the noise, joy, and relentless cheer of Christmas. Determined to stop the holiday altogether, he disguises himself as Santa and steals every gift, decoration, and scrap of festive food in town. But when Christmas morning arrives and the Whos celebrate anyway, the Grinch discovers something surprising about the true spirit of the holiday.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
Jim Carrey throws himself completely into the role, delivering a manic, rubber-faced performance that carries the entire movie. The film expands Dr. Seuss’s short story into a full live-action spectacle—sometimes charming, sometimes overstuffed—but Carrey’s comedic energy and the elaborate, candy-colored production design make it a memorable holiday oddity.
Bright Christmas lights, a plate of sugar cookies, and a healthy appreciation for Jim Carrey’s ability to contort his face into shapes that physics should probably forbid.
Absurdist's Corner
The Whos happily sing together even after all their food, presents, and decorations are stolen overnight. Realistically, at least one Who would be filing an insurance claim before joining the choir.
fun facts
Jim Carrey reportedly spent eight hours a day in makeup to transform into the Grinch.
The makeup process was so uncomfortable that the production brought in a CIA specialist to train Carrey in techniques used to endure torture.
The film won the Academy Award for Best Makeup.