Best Versions of "A Christmas Carol"

Charles' Dickens's "A Christmas Carol" is one of the most adapted books ever written, with numerous versions gracing radio, the stage, and the silver screen. Have you ever wondered which of the many versions out there are really worth watching? If so, then you'll be glad to know that there are four versions, spanning several decades, that stand above the rest and are definitely a joy to watch in the Christmas Season.

Mickey's Christmas Carol
Although shorter than some of the versions out there, this lovely gem produced by Disney in the 1980s is nevertheless a stirring and authentic depiction of the classic tale. Featuring (who else?) Scrooge McDuck as everyone's favorite Christmas villain and a host of other familiar friends from the Disney canon, including Donald (as Fred) and Mickey (as Bob Cratchett), this is one rendition of "A Christmas Carol" that you won't want to miss and that is sure to become a staple at Christmas time.

A Christmas Carol (1984)
This rendition, starring the inimitable George C. Scott, is a fairly faithful adaptation, which also manages to have a darker edge to it that sets it apart from some other versions. With his gruff, tough-as-nails persona and his raspy voice, Scott manages to bring to life the miserable and despicable Scrooge in such a way that you actually believe he is the character.

A Muppet Christmas Carol
Everyone's favorite puppets bring "A Christmas Carol" to brilliant life in what is a surprisingly faithful adaptation. Michael Caine, that great Brit, does a wonderful job of portraying Scrooge, indeed one of the best in the history of the adaptation of the book. He manages to capture the sense of bitterness of Scrooge's life while also allowing us to see the joy that comes about at the end of the novel. You'll be hard-pressed not to cry at this one.

"Scrooge"
This musical version of the story, starring the capable Albert Finney, is a lively romp through Victorian London with a number of musical numbers that were written especially for the film. Finney brings Scrooge to life in a way that is all his own, while Alec Guinness portrays Jacob Marley in what is perhaps the best rendition of the character on screen. Combining comedy with sadness, this rendition of the timeless tale is sure to please everyone in the family.

If you're looking for a version of "A Christmas Carol" to watch this holiday season, then be sure to try any one of these versions. They are sure to bring a smile to the face of everyone in the family, even the Scroogiest among them.