Classic Christmas Review #2: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Available on Netflix

Ron Howard’s adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ cherished children’s book has perhaps benefited more from the algorithmic world of social media than any other Christmas film. That’s because the initial critical indifference How the Grinch Stole Christmas was greeted by has been replaced by an annual month-long stranglehold on Netflix’s top 10 list that is doubtlessly inspired by the bitesize reels of Jim Carrey’s titular anti-hero that do the rounds on Instagram and TikTok at this time of year.

Indeed, Howard’s film is an unashamed vessel for its leading man to indulge in his signature brand of tomfoolery, which is probably just as well, given that Carrey was allegedly paid a handsome $20m to play the role. Subsequently, one’s enjoyment of this Yuletide tale of seasonal cynicism turned on its head is likely to be determined by your appetite for the actor’s rambunctious shtick, although it’s hard to argue with the generally held view that he occupied the zenith of mainstream comedy at the time of its release.

With the incomparable Anthony Hopkins also on narration duty, this festive flick has enough up its sleeve to continue to appease the masses.