The Muppet Christmas Carol

1 The Muppet Christmas Carol!!!!
I love the muppets adaption of "A Christmas Carol"! Michael Caine is a riot as Ebenezer Scrooge! Also, this is the first muppet classic to not have Jim Henson as Kermit, for Steve Whitmire took over the role when Jim Henson died. Also, Richard Hunt died on the same year this movie was made. This movie was dedicated to their death. Furthermore, from here on, Dave Goelz will be the voice for Waldorf and Jerry Nelson will be the voice for Statler. If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, you should get this video, not "Mickey's Christmas Carol".

2 20% Of This Title Is Missing
This is a great movie, but a poor DVD, and here is why. 20% of this movie is missing--cut out by Disney. 10% is missing on the left, and 10% is missing on the right. It's called full screen and this title was originally released for movie theaters in Widescreen. The only widescreen version available is on Laser Disk. This title is not worth the one star I am forced to give it. Don't be fooled by all the 5 star ratings who watch all their movies on a TV set, the original movie is great, but this DVD release is bad.

3 Classic Muppet Version Of The Immortal Christmas Story
Having loved the Muppets from when I grew up watching their classic television series I just knew that their turn on the classic Charles Dickens story "A Christmas Carol", was always going to be something special. The story of the unappealing old miser who learns about life and caring one Christmas Eve when he is visited by three spirits is possibly the best known Christmas story ever written and is without a doubt one of the most frequently filmed stories as well. As was always their way however the Muppets have made this immortal story very much their own in a delightful version which is just as much for adults as it is for children. Boasting the great talents of Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge the other main characters in the story are filled by the various well loved Muppet characters with Kermit the Frog playing the much put upon Bob Crachit; Scrooge's employee, Miss Piggy playing his wife Mrs. Crachit, with Fozzie Bear as Fozziwig, Scrooge's first employer, Waldorf and Statler appearing as Robert and Jacob Marley, and Gonzo the Great as Charles Dickens himself and narrating the story with the help of a very accident prone Rizzo the Rat.

The story of "A Christmas Carol", hardly warrants a detailed description as it is so well known however "The Muppet Christmas Carol", with the addition of some wonderful songs and much Muppet humour along the way manages to cover in proper detail the main elements of the story which sees Scrooge visited by three spirits, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, who in the course of the night of Christmas Eve show him his wasted life and lost opportunities and illustrate how he has become a lonely, mean and unloved man as a result of his drive to accumulate great wealth, while forgetting his loved ones in the process. The totally brilliant way in which real actors are incorporated into scenes with the Muppets works extremely well here and somehow the Muppet's already established personas fit their characters perfectly. The story combines the essential elements of humour, love , regret, and redemption, all wrapped up with the hilarious Muppet antics nicely and it never fails as of course a Christmas movie in passing on that vital Christmas message about appreciating what and who we love and to show those in our lives that we do care. Having a narrator in this version is also a unique feature of "The Muppet Christmas Carol", which is a departure from how the story is generally presented. It works very well and with one of my favourite Muppets in Gonzo the Great playing Charles Dickens we are guaranteed an enjoyable viewing experience with much comedy being performed along the way between him and Rizzo the Rat.

Directed by Brian Henson the son of the late and very great genius Jim Henson, "The Muppet Christmas Carol", is as fitting a tribute to his father as could be found and he has shown that he fully understands the true uniqueness of his father's creations when placing the Muppets in such as famous story as Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol". For this film as well some "new", Muppet individuals have been created for the characters of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future and they are just as memorable as the characters we all know so well. The film is probably the best piece of film work by the Muppets to date and it is rich in terrific Victorian England atmosphere with no expense spared on sets, costumes, music, and the necessary special effects. Any actor performing with the Muppets certainly has his or her work cut out for them but Michael Caine as the very "human", Ebenezer Scrooge delivers a wonderfully balanced and thought out performnce as Scrooge. Not for one minute does he broaden his performance to match the colourful Muppet characterisations and as a result his balanced work stands out all the more prominently as a result. He certainly has created here his own unique and very memorable interpretation of Scrooge. The music in "The Muppet Christmas Carol", is equally memorable and is written by Paul Williams and while Dickens purists might object they create some wonderful interludes throughout the story. The beautiful "It feels Like Christmas", and the very amusing "We're Marley and Marley", are two of the standouts that you will find yourself humming long after the film has finished.

"The Muppet Christmas Carol", has become a film I personally cherish at Christmas time and in fact the whole film makes a dazzling Christmas viewing experience for both young and old. It's humour and special effects will amuse children while the brilliant compostion of the film will intrigue adults as it does me with every viewing. Make sure you treat yourself next Christmas to a viewing of the wonderful Muppet characters as they take on Charles Dickens in Brian Henson's classic "The Muppet Christmas Carol".

4 Another Muppet Classic
The Muppet Christmas Carol has been a classic in my household as long as I can remember. Every year at Christmas my family would pull this movie out and watch it.

The Muppet Christmas Carol combines Muppets with humans in a style only a Henson could do. It has humor, a story, moral, and loveable characters that last a lifetime.

Michael Cain is the gruff old miser Ebenezer Scrooge. He plays this character masterfully, sending chills into any room. Gonzo the Great (David Goelz) plays Charles Dickens. He and Rizzo (Steve Whitmire) follow Ebenezer Scrooge as he encounters the three spirits.

I would recommend this movie to anyone, but for the Muppet lover this is a must watch.

5 Dickens: Like Only A Muppet Can
When Jim Henson passed away, Brian Henson (his son) decided to pick a new type of project for the Muppet films in the arena of literature adaptation. Well, he pulled it off, and he could not have made a better choice than to tackle Dickens' Christmas Classic: A Christmas Carol.

The Muppets are the characters, but people are along for the ride too, such as Michael Caine who stars as Scrooge himself. With their quirky Muppet styles, and Caine's good acting this movie goes far in presenting this story to a new generation over and over again. The story, with many of the original lines, has all of the joy and sadness of the story, but with so much more liveliness.

I highly recommend this film, as it will probably become a Christmas classic in your household. Adults and kids will like this, and maybe not just in December either.

6 Excellent
This was a wonderful version of A Christmas Carol. The muppet characters lighten up the story enough that even small kids can enjoy this, as well as adults. Almost anyone can enjoy this movie, so you should go and buy it.

7 A Very Merry Muppet Classic!!
The story is an all too familiar one -- a miserly businessman named Ebenezer Scrooge (played exceptionally well by Michael Caine) is taught the true meaning of Christmas by a group of three ghostly visitors as they help me take stock of his past, present and possibly doomed future. Yes, this classic tale has been adapted more times than we may care to mention, but this particular version is sure to be loved by adults as well as children, making it a perfect family movie. It is warm, funny and very well-acted (by Muppets and humans alike).

What makes this adaptation so wonderful are the humorous antics the Muppets bring to the screen, the brilliant performance of Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, and the deeply moving original musical scores by Paul Williams. Several bold departures that also work brilliantly -- Marley is actually two characters -- brothers Robert and Jacob Marley. Kermit's Bob Crachit is actually one of several bookkeepers in Scrooge's employ, and the film is narrated by non other than Charles Dickens himself (played by Gonzo) and his admirable companion Rizzo the rat.

Of course, Dickens purists will not agree, but this is truly one of the best adaptations of the classic yet. Michael Caine is BRILLIANT as Scrooge - one of the best performances in this role I have ever seen.

A definite 5 stars!

Cris Cunningham

8 Always Aeaves A Warm Happy Feeling
I'll never forget the first time I saw The Muppet Christmas Carol. The very first caption read "I'm loving memory of Jim Henson" and I got a little teary-eyed. This movie is one big homage to Jim Henson while at the same time passing long the torch to his son Brian who directed the film.

It was like getting to know old friends all over again. This is also where Gonzo gets more of the spotlight as the narrator Charles Dickens with his sidekick Rizzo the Rat (also getting a little more attention) It's a heartwarming take on an old classic.

My favorite scene is with the ghost of Christmas Present, with his warm friendly demeanor he gave you a nice warm happy feelings, even though you know the dreary future was yet to come. If you can listen to It Feels Like Christmas and not be moved you must be a Scrooge yourself. That song tells us exactly what Christmas is and what it should be all year long.

If you listen to every song you can see the love and memory of Jim Henson's work shining through with a message loud and clear. The ending is a grand scene with all of the Muppets singing and you've just gotta sigh. This movie is truly a Christmas classic.

9 Best Christmas Movie ever!
This is the best Christmas movie I have ever seen. It's great because the comedy can be appreciated by both children and adults. I can't emphasize enough how good the narration is, it's done by Rizzo the rat and Gonzo who plays Charles Dickens. Despite being acted by puppets it very closely follows the original Christmas Carol. Michael Caine is amazing in this movie, Oscar worthy performance (come on it's hard to act against puppets!). The music is just beautiful. The singing and musical elements in the movie make it the best musical version of a Christmas Carol. All of this comes together to create one of the most memorable Christmas movies of all time.

10 THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL IS THE GREATEST HOLIDAY MOVIE
I can remember, when I was a young child, I would watch this movie several times during each holiday season. This exciting, entertaining, heart-warming, endearing, and educational movie is quite amazing. Yet, these words really do not give justice to this great great movie. No words can describe the emotions and love that come with this masterpiece. Focusing on the key elements of the original "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, this movie goes beyond what many "A Christmas Carol" movies can do. It is SO faithful to the original story it is a astonishing. This version is better than any before it. Many of the other versions of the novel by Dickens are morbid and sad, while the Muppet version keeps kids entertainment levels extremely high... it even includes some of the best Muppet songs ever created. So while many holiday movies are "same old - same old," A Muppet Christmas Carol brings the best of the season, teaching life-long values, and giving the GREATEST HOLIDAY MOVIE PERFORMANCE EVER.

11 Wonderfully unique take on an old classic!
If you've seen one version of A Christmas Carol, you've seen them all! At least that's how I felt when I saw a recent made-for-TV musical version of the Charles Dickens' classic. After all, who doesn't know the story by now? I've written reviews for other filmed versions of A Christmas Carol here on Amazon.com, and you can see that by time I critiqued the one with Patrick Stewart, I wasn't impressed. My personal favorite is the 1984 TV-movie with George C. Scott and unlike many; I didn't really like the one with Alistair Sim (though his performance is without equal). I guess when you pick a favorite, all others seem unoriginal, offering nothing new.

Then there's The Muppet Christmas Carol...now THAT'S original!

Ok, so the story remains the same: in one night, Ebenezer Scrooge learns the meaning of Christmas from several ghostly visitors, transforming his character from bitterness to joyous repent. That hasn't changed, nor should it. It is a musical, but that also is not new, as there's a well known and incredibly long-winded musical called Scrooge starring Albert Finney. And another excellent actor portrays Scrooge in the muppet film, carrying on the tradition of Sim, Scott and Finney.

Nonetheless, the differences are pretty obvious. Most of the (normally human) characters are played by muppets. Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchet, Fozzie Bear plays Fezziwig - er - I mean Fozziwig, and, in an odd yet brilliant departure, Gonzo the Great plays Charles Dickens narrating his own tale. The advantage of showcasing muppets instead of human actors is that it allows the characters to be silly and funny in ways their human counterparts cannot. Thus the film becomes more fun in the process. Yet, it never loses its heart, and The Muppet Christmas Carol may well be the most touching of all versions.

The musical numbers in the muppet version are actually very well done. Musicals can become problematic when the songs start to eclipse the action and dialogue. That recent made-for-TV musical I previously mentioned is one such example. This film features about 7 or 8 songs, but feels like only 4 or 5...and that's a good thing. Such songs as "It Feels Like Christmas" and "When Love is Gone" are enjoyable and poignant...and don't be surprised if you find yourself whistling a couple of the tunes.

A lesser actor might have delivered an over-the-top performance as Ebenezer Scrooge for fear having the show stolen away by his muppet co-stars. But film legend Michael Caine decided to play Scrooge straight. While he does have some fun in the process, Sir Michael gives a real, honest-to-goodness performance here. It shouldn't have come as a surprise, especially to a huge Caine fan like myself. Yet he's an actor who still surprises on occasion. He strikes the perfect balance between humor and sentiment. It's fun to watch Caine sing as well, which is one of those surprises. While he doesn't have the best singing voice, he makes it work because he knows that Scrooge is so happy (at that point in the story) that Scrooge would break out into song, whether he sounded good or not! Michael Caine delivers a wonderful performance and has done the seemingly impossible, stolen much of the film away from muppets!

I, like many others, believe that Disney should produce a special edition DVD of The Muppet Christmas Carol in anamorphic widescreen. I'd also like to see the image cleaned up as the video I have now isn't the highest quality it could be. The film makes such good use of the beautifully elaborate sets and colorful costumes, it's a shame these images are so constricted in the 4:3 pan-and-scan format!

The Muppet Christmas Carol is more than a fun family film. It takes its place among the many fine adaptations of Dickens' classic story. With its warmth, humor and originality, I consider it one of the best!

12 Tis the season to be jolly and joyous!
I love this movie. It is one of my Christmas. I must watch it every year! Whether you are a big fan the Muppets or never seen anything with them in it, you will enjoy this muppet's remake of the classic charles dickens tale.

13 Hilarious Take on a Classic Tale
It's Christmas Eve, and Scrooge (Michael Caine) is busy counting money and evicting people who aren't paying their mortgages on time. He reluctantly lets Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog) and the rest of his staff have the day off. But that night, his old partners, then three more ghosts, visit him. Can they change his view of the world?

I really didn't know what to expect the first time I saw this movie. Would the Muppets play it mostly straight or would they ruin one of my favorite Christmas tales. I immediately fell in love with this version of the story. It's got some great humor to it, but sticks very close to the story. In fact, at least half of the movie is taken directly from the book, especially Gonzo's lines as Dickens. The touches they make for this version are very powerful. Yet there are lots of great jokes that make it impossible not to laugh the entire way through. And some great songs enhance the movie. While a few go on a little too long, there are a couple I'd buy the soundtrack for.

This is a good DVD that could have been great. The only real drawback is that the movie is cropped to full screen instead of sticking with the original wide screen version. Other then that, the picture looks great, and the movie sounds great, too. Director Brian Henson provides an interesting commentary that really opened my eyes to how they create Muppet movies. There's also a 20 minute feature on the making of the film, some bloopers, and a very short segment on Christmas traditions around the world.

While the full frame format is less then perfect, the movie itself is. This is a fun take on a classic Christmas story that everyone in the family will love and will satisfy Dickens purists to boot.

14 Hands down, the best movie!
This is my all time favorite movie, we play it over, and over, and over, and over again. I have had to start packing it away with my Christmas items, as my family would watch it WAY too much. (There is no such thing as too much at Christmas time!)
Watching this movie touches my heart, and my children's heart, more than getting gifts! It is pure brilliance.

15 The most memorable version ever made!
I remember the Muppets from when I was a child. My sisters and I would scramble to finish homework and get prepared for bed so that we would be allowed to "stay up" and watch Kermit and his troop, along with the marvelous guest stars. This version of Charles Dicken's classic story - though it may seem silly at first thought - is accurate, moving, and memorable. My father gave it to us on VHS years ago and it became a family classic. My father - very much a "manly man" - would make time in his busy schedule to watch this with us every Christmas season. Summer 2002, we gathered around his hospital bed to watch it one more time together as a family.

The music is appropriate and moving from the opening song about Scrooge - "When a cold wind blows it chills you - chills you to the bone!" - to the last scene of the friends and family together singing "The Love We've Found". I find myself singing "It Feels Like Christmas" months after watching the movie. All of the music is wonderful!

Perhaps it is the genius of the comedic touch which makes this version so much better than the others. In typical Muppet style, physical comedy is added to the mix. Who can forget Rizzo the Rat's plunge from the top of the iron fence into the snow, then his dash back through the bars because he forgot his bag of food? And "Light the lamp, not the rat!" If you have not watched this version, you have truly missed something wonderful. Make this one of the "must see" movies of the holiday season - or any time of the year!

16 WHERE IS THE WIDESCREEN VERSION?
Dear Disney DVD - I cannot tell you how upset I am. Here it is, November 2004. Yet another Christmas season has arrived and you still have not chosen to release MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL in an anamorphic widescreen version DVD. It's difficult to understand WHY you would chose to release MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL in a full-screen ONLY version. MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL is one of my all-time favorite movies and I am confused why Disney would make such a really lame marketing decision. I have a 16x9 TV and, as you know, if MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL had been issued in anamorphic widescreen, then the film would be presented crystal clear on my set WITH ALL THE IMAGE, ALL OF HENSON'S MAGIC SHOWING--just as it deserves because it is a positively, prodigiously wonderful movie. I understand that you are striving for the "family audience," but I DON'T understand why you are out-of-hand depriving the movie's loyal fans of the right to enjoy the movie properly. Is it so hard to believe that adults might actually love the movie? At the least, you could have released it so that the viewer could CHOOSE the format they preferred. It seems totally arbitrary since SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON, RAIDERS DOWN UNDER, THE PARENT TRAP, THE GREAT MOUSE DETECTIVE, and even THE ABSENT-MINDED PROFESSOR (among many others) have all been given lavish widescreen treatments. In addition, everything I just said also goes for MUPPET TREASURE ISLAND. I wish Disney DVD WILL RECONSIDER and release both of these MUPPET films in anamorphic widescreen as they should have been and deserve to be. Your decision about NOT releasing the two MUPPET movies in anamorphic widescreen is unconscionable. PERIOD.

17 The Love We Found.
Who knew that Micheal Caine would take this job so seriously. I am a Muppet fan. I grew up watching Sesame Street, the Muppet Show, watching the films. When Jim Henson died it was like a part of my childhood died with him. But when his son Brian took up the mantle and made "A Muppet Christmas Carol" I believe he made his father proud. Then, as I said, there is an amazing performance that Micheal Caine should honestly be proud of. Whenever I read the Dickens classic I envision Caine's portrayal of Scrooge. Definitely a warm Christmas classic.

18 I love this dvd!
My kids and I both adore this video. Around the end of November it suddenly begins to enter into our movie rotation, and we watch it a lot of times when its no where near Christmas times! And I can stand that! This movie is adorable, and a good way to expose kids to Dicken's legend.

I highly reccomend this!

19 Despite DVD flaws, still a great movie!
This is probably the best of the Muppet Movies. It was a time right after Muppet creator, Jim Henson had passed, and everyone was determined to keep the Muppets alive. This determination shows in every performance. No one settled for less than perfection. The result, a WONDERFUL movie.

Unlike "Muppet Treasure Island," which was heavily altered from the original novel, "Muppet Christmas Carol" remains faithful to Dickens' classic. Very few liberties were taken (the most noticable is Jacob Marley has become Jacob AND ROBERT Marley, roles perfectly suited for Stater and Waldorf--the "balcony guys"). Other than that, much of the prose and dialog from the original novel is intact.

Granted, the DVD version is not the original widescreen version, but manufacturing flaws aside, it is still a GREAT movie.

20 I can't believe it
I really can't believe it. I've waited for so long for this DVD and now I know that it is a "edited version" of the original film. WHAT? I should buy a cutted version of the movie? Are you crazy? Selling this, Walt Disney is fooling us all. It's like to buy a "Mona Lisa" by Leonardo da Vinci with just the face and without the body, the hands and the mountains. I wonder what you guys had in mind. One of the most beautiful film ruined by someone without brain. They' ve even cut some scenes!!! I'm sorry for Amazon, but I hope nobody will buy this dvd until the Disney band will reflect on their deeds and their sins. And this is even a special edition, yeah, a special trick. And someone still wonder why people keep downloading the films in internet...

21 Simply Fantastic!!
This is a great film. If you have a heart you will love this. Michael Caine gives an amazing true to life performance here. Somehow tapping into the very depth of the character and you can't help but feel that he's somehow living out his own personal demons from his own life. Who would ever believe that someone could give such a performance for a silly muppet movie? Yet Michael Caine somehow takes hold of this role and makes it his own and turns this into a wonderful film of incredible human depth and meaning. And more interesting is the fact that he plays the role of a Scrooge who is less of an evil man and more of a blind heartless man. Thats really how Dickens wrote it. In that regard everyone can see himself as a potential Scrooge and can identify with the things they've done in life which have been Scrooge-like. I've seen grown men sob and have to leave the room after watching the scene in which Scoorge see's himself as a young man foolishly losing the only woman that ever loved him. It's a moment in which love dies in his life and he doesn't even know it. As a young man, he simply walks away - he feels nothing. But now an old man many years later, he's a broken soul and all he can do is stand behind this lost love, who is now only a shadow of the past and sob in terrible sorrow. He asks the ghost of christmas past, "how can you take delight in showing me this?" With that moment, the truth of life is made reality and he understands the past can never be undone or changed. There is something very beautiful and great about this film and no matter what religion or belief you have, the message is universal. You can easly identity with the most important message. Don't waist your life in fear and pride and ignorance. Open your heart and stop yourself in your tracks. The future.. your future, is unwritten. It's wide open before you. Make good decisions. Follow your heart. Believe in your heart again. It does matter! This great message is mixed well with the muppet characters that you remember and love from the 70's and also really great songs that are just dazzling, "where-ever you find love, it feels like christmas."

22 Tiny Tim is Priceless
All of the other reviewers are correct. This version is one of the best. Miss Piggy is delightful as Ma Cratchit, sort of Julia Child gone wrong, but the performance of Little Robin Kermits nephew,as Tiny Tim is worth the price of the DVD. The coughing into the hankie will ruin you for all other Tims. Buy This Version!

23 enduring love
i have watched this movie since i was a kid and it still endures in my heart with the same love and happiness. it is a must watch every year as christmas rolls around. one of the best adaptations of charles dickens' a christmas carol in many years. all the favorite muppets are present with a great narration by gonzo as charles dickens and his sidekick rizo the rat provides great side humor throughout the film. if you don't buy this film please rent it, because after you watch it once you will wish you owned it for frequent viewing pleasure year after year.

24 enjoyable, time after time--music sticks in your head
An adult who absolutely loves this version of the oft-told A Christmas Carol. Funny--you might not catch this, but Beaker flips off Scrooge (Michael Caine) when he will not give them a donation.

25 Great Holiday Entertainment for ANY age!
A few years ago I forced my family to watch this movie. They all thought I was out of my mind, and being ridiculous, ...none of us were under 30 years old! Everyone enjoyed it so much and laughed so hard, they all thanked me for making them sit in front of the TV to see it. The Rat is hysterical, and Michael Caine is wonderful amongst the muppet cast. Highly recommended!

26 Muppets are great
This is a hilarious take on the classic christmas story. The muppets know how to make it creative and fun. I must see during the christmas holidays.

27 Our family tradition
Every Christmas Eve for the last 8-10 years we watch this movie. Christmas is not complete until we do. We are buying our 22 year old son his own, as he will not be with us this year. (Refers to VHS version.Bummer about the DVD. I won't get it now that I know the song has been cut.)

28 A Christmas Classic! Disappointing DVD!
A full five-stars for the wonderful "The Muppet Christmas Carol." I am amazed that a fresh and interesting take can be found on the often re-made Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol." Muppet movies are hit-or-miss at best, and this one is either the top 1 or 2.

Michael Caine is brilliant as Scrooge, and the combination of the completely straight Caine and the antics of the muppets creates a wonderful reality, blending the original ghost story with a heartwarming chaser.

The DVD contains two really nice special features, including a very interesting "Making of..." featurette , and a nice "Christmas's Across the World" featurette. The "Making of...." featurette is one of the most interesting that I have seen, quite long with cast interviews, special effects, song information and pretty much everything you could want.

However, several really disappointing choices were made on this DVD release, including producing a full-screen edition and eliminating the song "The Love is Gone" from the UK edition. When I buy a DVD, I want to full movie, not 75% or it with the edges trimmed off. Also, the exclusion of "The Love is Gone" from the UK edition makes no sense, as it is singled out to be the most important transition point of the movie during the "Making of..." featurette.

29 It's Not Christmas Until I've Watched It
there are certain movies that really make the holiday season; and this is one of them. Yeah i like the other 'traditional' christmas carols, but this one is light and for the most part up beat while mixing in the drama... and who doesn't love Micheal Caine? Come on it's Micheal Caine! and the muppets, ugh, makes me want to watch it.

30 Why cut the Songs?
'The Muppet Christmas Carol' is my favourite of the Muppet movies so you can understand how upset I was to find the DVD version had been edited. What has been taken out I hear you ask? The Song 'When Love is gone.'This song, apart from being a beautifully stunning song, completely makes the scene (Belle tells Ebeneezer that he has made the choice to put his work above her and one day he will regret that decision).I cry almost every time.Granted, the song is played over the credits but that is little comfort. There is still the reprise of the song later in the movie which now doesn't make sense. I was really upset about the lack of one of my favourite songs and I don't think the gag reel special feature quite makes up for it. (Although it is VERY funny.)

31 God Bless Us Everyone!
This classic Dickens story is hilariously retold by the timeless Muppet's characters! From Kermy to Miss Piggy, the movie exudes good holiday spirit and humor. Michael Caine stars as the perfect Scrooge. This is a family Christmas favorite for young and old... A definate must see at Christmas time. It isn't really Christmas until you've seen it. Enjoy!

32 Great Fun.
The MCC is by far my favorite Christmas Carol version. If you loved the Muppets show you will truly love this verson of MCC.

33 A great Christmas movie, A classic Muppet movie!
What a great movie!
It's the Muppet Version of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Ebenezer Scrooge is played, not by a muppet but by Michael Caine. Everyone knows not to mess with Ebenezer Scrooge - his penny-pinching ways and bah-humbug attitude could make even the bluest skies cloudy. But when he is alone on Christmas eve, he is visited by three spirits: The Ghost of Christmas Past, The Ghost of Christmas Present and The Spirit of Christmas's Yet To Come - and gets to see the impact that he has had on the world - and it's not a pretty sight! But, along the way he comes across the life of his poor and kind employee, Bob Cratchit (Kermit) and his family including Tiny Tim who teaches Scrooge the true meaning of Christmas and ends the with the immortal words "God Bless us, everyone."
This is a great movie to watch for kids and adults! Jim Henson's movies never disappoint! Full of hilarious jokes and good humor for families, and a wonderful performance by Micheal Caine, you and your entire movie will love this movie - and it will hopefully get you out of your Humbug mood and put the Christmas spirit in you too!

34 Holiday Horror made palatable.
Behold, the "Muppet" version of the classic Dickens' holiday horror story. The macabre premise of ghosts and things that go *bump* in the night is softened by the whimsical critters made popular by Jim Henson, bless his heart.
It's no small wonder that Scrooge (played by Kermit) begins to experience nightmares, after a long bout with severe social anxiety and antisocial personality disorder. I imagine anyone would have such psychological problems if they were being stalked by a large singing pig wearing a blond wig. I know I would. Why, I'd be afraid to open up to anyone, too!
The situation is made worse by the hallucinations Kermit starts having at night. He seems much more at ease with the spectres that haunt his dreams than he does with other talking frogs, however- a curiousity that is never quite explained in this film.
Scrooge/Kermit takes us on a journey into his own psyche, where his fears take form and he sees his life as it is, and will be if he doesn't do something about his stalker.
Rather than call the police about her and get an order of protection or telling his frog family to bugger off, he enters a state of denial, fantisizing that everything will be good in his life if he just gives in to the demands of others.
Gleefully, the other characters commence spending his fortune on themselves. One can only imagine that they are too selfish and impatient to wait for their inheritance, and we hope that Kermit/Scrooge does not truly die alone, as his nightmarish premonition suggested.

35 The Muppets do their own version of "A Christmas Carol"
I do not want to go so far as to say that it is impossible to put together a really unsatisfying version of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, first, because I have not seen all of the versions ever made, and, second, because I do not want to tempt the fates. This is a classic story for which most people have several favorites, from the 1951 Alistair Sims film to the animated "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol" (I could have easily named another half dozen films to replace either one of those). Still, with all of those versions floating out there is still room for those that retell the tale with a humorous touch, the best of which involved Mickey Mouse and the Muppets.

In "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Michael Caine is the sole "real" person, playing Ebenezer Scrooge. The performance is rather impressive when you take into account that he has to play straight man to the cast of Muppets but still manages to give the key moments of Dickens' story their gravity. Basically, this version works because Caine never lets you know he is working with Muppets. Persuading you to see this one is fairly simple. You know the story and if you mention that Kermit the Frog is Bob Crachit, Miss Piggy is Emily Crachit, Fozzie Bear is Fozziwig (who else?), Robert the Frog is Tiny Tim, Waldorf and Statler is Robert and Jacob Marley, and the Great Gonzo is Charles Dickens, that should be enough to fire your imagination. The ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come are "new" Muppets, which shows screenwriter Jerry Juhl and director Henson know how to preserve the spirit of the original while still letting the Muppets have their fun.

All things considered, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" is the merriest version of the Dickens' classic. The songs are by that living Muppet, Paul Williams, the best of which is "Marley and Marley," although the two big songs are "When Love Is Found" and "It Feels Like Christmas." None of these will become Christmas standards, but they are still enjoyable in the context of this charming movie. Even better, it is not just for kids, but for all those who know Christmas and keep it in their hearts (and who are old enough to get all the jokes).

36 The Muppets do their own version of "A Christmas Carol"
I do not want to go so far as to say that it is impossible to put together a really unsatisfying version of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, first, because I have not seen all of the versions ever made, and, second, because I do not want to tempt the fates. This is a classic story for which most people have several favorites, from the 1951 Alistair Sims film to the animated "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol" (I could have easily named another half dozen films to replace either one of those). Still, with all of those versions floating out there is still room for those that retell the tale with a humorous touch, the best of which involved Mickey Mouse and the Muppets.

37 The One you don't want to miss.
This is my absolute favorite movie of all time!! Perfection my style. Micheal Caine is the perfect scrooge! Gonzo is terrific as "dickins" doing the narration. I really enjoy watching this dvd over and over and over and over.

38 Another Great Muppet Movie!
I remember seeing this movie in the theaters and I loved it!
What a terrific Muppet adaption Of "A Christmas Carol". The casting was subperb and the DVD extra's a real treat too! The interview with Gonzo,Rizzo and Brian Henson was a very nice added touch that includes some behind the scenes info that we would never have known! I have to applaud the commentary track also as it includes alot of the secrets that whent into the making of this wonderful Holiday film!Four stars only due to the fact this was not presented in widescreen, but I enjoy this DVD all the same! If your a big Christmas movie fan and a Muppet fan, you will not go wrong with this DVD. The magic of the Holidays AND the Muppets live in this great holiday film!!

39 An experienced opinion...
As an actor, I've appeared in over 14 productions of "A Christmas Carol." I played Scrooge himself in 10 of those productions. I have studied the Scrooges of Patrick Stewart, George C. Scott, Alistair Sim, Seymour Hicks, and many others. This is, by far, my favorite adaptation of the story. I find Michael Cain's performance a bit watered down, but effective nonetheless. Obviously, Henson takes certain liberties with the story line with the likes of Jacob and the added Robert (Bob) Marley (inside joke there), but he definitely captures the wonder and spirit of Christmas. And when the Cratchits mourn the loss of Tiny Tim, the floodgates open for me every time.

I'm glad this Muppet classic has finally been released on DVD. My VHS copy is getting a bit worn.

40 The Movie deserves 4-5 stars. The DVD deserves 1.
A poor excuse...this DVD is completely edited from it's original release. FULL FRAME! Wonderful acting and story of course. So if you just want something cheap for the little ones it's great. If you really want a good DVD of this film, then you'll have to look elsewhere. Who was the brain who decided adults don't want quality Muppets DVDs? The laserdisc was widescreen with no edits.

41 Excellent movie, awful DVD
This movie is a classic. A cherished Christmas tradition at my house. You can always rely on the Muppets for some entertainment, but this is one of the best. Now, you would think such a classic would get decent DVD treatment, right? Wrong. Disney has decided to release this movie edited. That's right -- 25% of the picture is cut off from the sides to fit a standard television. If only the correct Widescreen version had been offered. Forget about black bars -- with widescreen, you can see a movie the way it was meant to be seen!

42 best muppet movie of all time
This is the best muppet movie of all time. It is funny, educational, and great fun. There are alot of jokes that only adults would understand. It is a great movie. If you are a muppet fan than I highly recommend this one.

43 Why it's not in widescreen
Okay, Many a folk has wondered why this long anticipated DVD is in fullscreen rather than widescreen. Here's my answer:

In the original movie there were more scenes. For example, when scrooge is at his desk in the beginning and beaker and his budy come in, they are supposed to sing a song. The same with the Eagle when Scrooge goes to christmases past and is with the the eagle. These songs, along with other scenes, were omitted in the VHS edition which many have come to love because they forgot about the original songs.

I suspect this is also why the soundtrack is amost impossible to find. I got it when the theatre version came out, but I haven't seen it since! Both of the deleted songs are on the tape though!

Hopefully the execs will get their heads on straight and release a good DVD, otherwise I recommend sticking with the video until other notice!

Although I gave the DVD 2-stars, the movie in itself if a muppet classic and very good!

44 Good then...good now.
I love the Muppets, ask anyone of my friends...and I love their interpretation of the classic. I personally get tired of remake after remake of old classics, but when the Muppets re-did this movie, it was if I was six years old again watching my favorite Muppet pals.

Michael Caine is wonderful as Scrooge, Gonzo is a great Charles Dickens and Kermit is a heartfelt Bob Cratchit.

The DVD has some great extra features, primarily an interview with Brian Henson, in which he is joined by Gonzo and Rizzo the Rat. There are also some snippits of an interview with Caine as he relays his first experience of working with the Muppets, great stuff.

45 Perfect introduction for young children!
This version is delightfully amusing in the details of the performance, the music is well done for the most part, and the light-hearted attitude makes this a perfect introduction to teh classic for young children. Some of the original language, particularly stunning metaphors and descriptions, is maintained; and some information about the author and book is also included in the movie itself- and it ends with a urging to read the book! The extras on teh DVD are fun, too.

46 Muppet Holiday Magic - Really Special
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL is one of my all time favorite Christmas movies to watch around the Holidays. It was theatrically released in 1992 and has become a family regular favorite to watch. It takes the classic Charles Dickens novel and gives it a funny and heart-warming twist with memorable scenes, characters and music. The screenplay was adapted by Jerry Juhl (Muppet Treasure Island, Muppets From Space) and stays true the original classic.

The song score is by Paul Williams (The Love Boat, Bugsy Malone, The Muppet Movie) who brings a lot of charm, humor and wit to these toe tapping and memorable little gems. "It Feels Like Christmas", "Just One More Sleep Till Christmas" and "Thankful Heart" are some of my favorite songs.

It stars the regular Muppet repertory cast with the talents of Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire, Jerry Nelson and of course Frank Oz (Yoda, Director of In And Out and Bowfinger).
The starring role is masterfully played - with much delight - by Michael Cain (The Cider House Rules, Austin Powers Goldmember and Miss Congeniality). His outstandingly evil and then learns what it is to be nice - really nice by none other than the three magical ghost and Bob Cratchit himself - played by Kermit The Frog!

It is a fun and magical film and should be in every family's shelf for the Holiday Season. A real family pleaser! (1-3-02)

47 Disney DVD Disappointment
"Muppet Treasure Island" and "Muppet Christmas Carol" are both good movies, but Disney came out with a bad DVD. Both of the movies are in full screen format. I think they should really have offered wide screen versions of the films. The Special Features of Muppet Christmas Carol are: *Audio Commentary by Director Brian Henson. *Frogs, Pigs, and Humbug: Unwrapping a new Holiday Class, which is a making of documantary. *Christmas Around the World. *On the Set which are the out takes from the movie. *And animated menues.
Over all, the special features are good, but i am not happy that it is only in full screen format. If you are mad as well call Disney to get it changed at: 1-800-723-4763.

48 A disappointing edition of a great movie
I really liked both "A Muppet Christmas Carol" and "Muppet Treasure Island". I think the Muppets to a fantastic job adapting literature to the screen in an enjoyable manner and I sincerely wish that they would return to this type of work (especially after the abysmal "Muppets From Space").

HOWEVER -- unlike the first three Muppet movies, the DVDs for "Muppet Treasure Island" and "A Muppet Christmas Carol" contain the "fullscreen" version only. "Fullscreen" is a euphemism for the cropped image, instead of the "widescreen" image (also called "letterbox"). In other words you've lost bits of the image to the left and right of the parts you can see ... and with the Muppets there are always little interesting bits going on _everywhere_ in the image.

Kudos for the movies, but a BIG "shame on you" for not releasing the widescreen edition on DVD.

49 Widescreen dilemma
It's a great movie because anyone can watch and enjoy the Muppet's humor anytime in the year. It would be nice if they made a widescreen version though.

50 the muppets christmas carol
this movie is hilarious! i love the part with the ghosts of jacob marley.its nice scrooge ends up nice.i dont' know how jim henson did it!!!

51 Not just for kids!
I love this movie. A Christmas Carol is one of my favorite Christmas movies and the Muppet version is my favorite of them all. Michael Caine is the best Scrooge and very believable. The sets are wonderful and true to the classic Christmas Carol movies. The Muppets inject a unique humor and sometimes you even forget they are Muppets. I especially like the rats working in Scrooges office as accountants. They ask Scrooge for another shovel of coal for the fire. His reply, "How would like to be suddenly UNEMPLOYED!" They don grass skirts and sing, "It's a tropical heat wave..." You'll love it. Oh, and your kids will too.

52 Where's the widescreen??
This is one of our family favorites. A wonderful telling of the story. We also have a laser disc version in widescreen. Sadly Disney nor Amazon.commention that this dvd version is pan and scan. So I dutifully bought mine, assuming the best. I'm disappointed that Disney didn't go the extra ten yards and either put both editions on the disk or offer a widescreen. The pan and scan loses so much of the visual power. C'mon Walt! Quality counts. But you got me, now I'll have to pay you once more.

53 One of the best versions of A Christmas Carol!
I LOVE this movie! I can't let a Christmas pass without watching it 3 or 4 times! I have even been known to watch it in the middle of summer!

The dialog by Scrooge and the other characters closely follow the book. What adds to this story, however, is the running commentary by Rizzo and Gonzo as Charles Dickens. Sure, they take license by adding a second Marley, but it seems natural, and by changing names of stores - Fozziwig & Mom's, for instance - but it only personalizes it and makes it all the more entertaining. The music is excellent and there is so much emotion in this movie - much more than in any other version I have seen!

I really think that this movie is by far one of the best Muppet movies I have seen. I only wish Jim Henson had been alive to voice Kermit (although he was done superbly!) and to see the end result!

54 A wonderful Christmas tale
The lovable Muppets put their own spin on Dicken's classic Christmas story. Kermit plays Tim Cratchet, and Miss Piggy is Mrs. Cratchet. This is a wonderful edition that should appeal to adult fans of the book as well as children just discovering the story. I am very pleased to see it is finally available on DVD to enjoy at any time. With several amusing and memorable songs, and wonderful characterizations including a fine rendition of Scrooge by Micael Caine, it's a movie to treasure not only at Christmas, but at any time of year when we need a little reminder of what the holiday season is truly all about.

55 Where is the 'missing song;?
I love this movie. So where is the song 'When love has gone' which Belle sings to a young scrooge which was in the video and film version. I bought my DVD in England so is the American version any different? Some of the customer reviews only mention that the film is in pan and scan and not widescreen but never that a song is missing. Is then the UK version different from the American? Has anybody any answers? By the way I would love to give this film 5 stars but my DVD copy only merits three stars!

56 Odd with the muppets, but the best by far!
Sure, the muppets mixed in with a Christmas classic it does sound sort of strange, but it works out beautifully! While this story is warped into too many emotionally sterile versions(like Scrooge, in the seventies or so, Mrs. Cratchet wasn't even mourning Tiny Tim! Albert Finney Could NOT act and the music, most of it, was terrible!)this one really focuses on the humanity of the story and characters. Human emotions were finally shown! Michael Caine was excellent as Scrooge. The love between him and Belle was really believable(when he joins her at the end of her song, you can tell he has repeated her parting words ever since; he MUST have loved her!). Emily Cratchet was finally mourning her son(more realistic), and Bob Cratchet's speech about being parted from a loved one is a fact of life is one of the most touching moments. The score to the movie, why didn't they make a soundtrack?! They each tie into their scenes so well that if they were removed, it would just be missing something; When Love is Gone" is one of the saddest, most beautiful love ballads I've ever heard and its sequence is equally heartbreaking; no wonder Scrooge (and Rizzo)was crying when Belle left, he must have loved Belle very much and seeing it happen again...it would break the hardest heart, it did with me, and I'm 17 and hardened through and through, although I do care about others! I just can't go past that scene; its too much! This movie is just SO touching! I highly recommend it!

57 Adults: don't bother reading further
This is a movie for kids, so if you're an adult and didn't like it, duh! I actually collect all the different versions of this Dickens classic on video and try to watch all of them every holiday season. I was pleasantly surprised that the Henson people were actually able to stay as close to the text as they did. Michael Caine is a scary Scrooge and the kids are afraid of him -- as is Kermit I might add, but remind the kids that at the end, Scrooge is a really nice guy who saves Tiny Tim, and they might come out from behind the couch to watch the last act.

58 Good movie, bad release
Picture quality is OK, but not great. It is cropped so it doesn't show the full picture we saw in the cinema. Disney chose to mention this in extremely tiny print on the back of the box.

I'm waiting until it comes out in widescreen.

59 Christmas Classic
My sister and I have to watch this movie every christmas, and we are both 22! I love the songs and this is my favorite muppet movie. I love this movie! Its sweet and funny and really the best retelling of the christmas carol. Because, it's not too sickingly sweet like some, or too traditional a telling for this day and age like the version with Patrick Stewart that put me to sleep. A great way for kids to learn the tale, and fun for parents as well!

60 Charming and appealing to adults too
You would have to have the heart of a Scrooge to not enjoy this DVD! They did a masterful job at presenting the well-known story in a format that would be fun for kids and yet appealing to adults too. Some of the sly humor will go right over your kids' heads, but will make you laugh! This is really quite fun, and has become a traditional favorite in our household for holiday viewing.

61 Truly a 'Muppet' good time!
Released in 1992 'The Muppet Christmas Carol' is a TRUE CLASSIC. Brian Henson directs a true masterpiece, a great tribute to the genius of his father. The Muppet Christmas Carol remains astonishingly true to the Dickens classic. Michael Caine delivers a fantastic performance as Ebeneezer Scrooge, the mizerly, bitter old man who's anger at Christmas and all it encompasses touches everyone around him. On Christmas Eve Scrooge is visited by three spirits who show him the true meaning of Christmas. With Kermit as Cratchet and Miss Piggy as his wife and the ensemble cast of the Muppets filling all the other pertinent roles this is a fabulous film for the entire family. There is something for everyone in this wonderful, magical film. With the exception of 'The Muppet Movie' the 'Muppet Christmas Carol' is probably one of the most spectacular muppet movies to come out of the Henson studios. I am dissapointed that this film is not widescreen, however, you cannot miss this opportunity to own a great film which will enrich your life and those around you.

62 Super Cute
Well I have to say it is everything you would expect from the muppets. Gonzo and his friend "Rat" are the story tellers and extremely funny I might add. It's great holiday fun and no regrets at all adding this to my collection. I am 24, no kids and most my friends are my age as well and we watch it and love it so it is definitely for families of all ages not just the little ones. I recommend it, I promise you'll enjoy it and watch it enough to get your moneys worth :o)

63 Excellent adaptation
My 7 year old loves this and we do too! It is a much more authentic Dickens than any other Christmas Carol that I have seen, yet it's still lots of fun for kids. And how can you beat having Michael Caine as Scrooge? I'm glad that my child will be learning the story from this version and not from Mr. Magoo like we did! :)

64 A perfect movie -- so why does Disney treat it so poorly?
This is my absolute favorite "Christmas Carol" adaptation. What makes the Muppets so great is their versitility --they can be used to tell any story, and this proves it. Kermit is Bob Crachit, Gonzo is Charles Dickens (a brilliant touch) and Academy Award-winner Michael Caine is Ebenezer Scrooge. The songs are as touching and as funny as any Muppet production in history, and Brian Henson is doing his father proud, helming these classic characters the way he has.

The only beef I've got is with Disney's production of the DVD -- NO WIDESCREEN VERSION! Blast it, why are we still being subjected to fullscreen? TVs are going to be widescreen in a few years anyway -- the same people who whine about black bars at the top and bottom of their screen now will be whining about them on the SIDES then... The movie is nearly perfect. Five stars. The presentation is what yanks it down to three.

65 No Widescreen Transfer!
I am very disapointed with this dvd and also Muppet Treasure Island...both of which Disney chose not to release in widescreen at all. These are Full Screen only movies in their current DVD form. I can just watch the VHS copies I ahve if I wanted Full Screen. The other Muppet movies published by Columbia/Tristar contain both widescreen and full screen, so I don't know why these are not in widescreen. I will hold out on buying them until they are, however.

66 My name is fozzie bear.
What is better than Michael Caine and Muppets? How about Michael Caine and Muppets on christmas! Yay!

67 Eye-catching, earful and superb to boot!
Finally, in Michael Caine, we get a Scrooge that is despicable without being disgusting. In a flawless performance, Michael Caine makes us clamor for Scrooge's redemption, by showing us glimpses of the man he could be. The entrance of Caine as Scrooge and the accompanying song is alone worth the price of the movie.

The music invites you to sing along, or weep along as the case may be. and the sets are imaginative and evocative of Christmases we wish we had.

You know a film is good when you care about what becomes of a green cloth frog. To me, this is the best of all possible Christmas Carols.

68 Christmas Treasure
This movie is a true treasure that warms the heart and gladdens the soul. Michael Caine is outstanding and it's his classic portrail that enhances the muppets. It's impossible not to sing along and to continue singing the wonderful music long after the movie is over.

I would have given this 10 stars, but the colors seem a bit faded and it's not in wide screen. But don't let that stop you from buying this. It's a real treat.

69 DVD NOT IN WIDESCREEN, Disney should be ashamed!!
This film is one of the Christmas classics and a favorite of our whole family's. The film deserves "5-stars." However, Disney chose to release "pan-and-scan" only for the DVD. Since pan-and-scan chops off the sides so that the movie is the same aspect ratio as a standard TV, we're only seeing half of the film. Therefore, I can give this "VHS with chapter stops" version of the film no more than two stars.

Disney should be ashamed of themselves, ... ruining such a wonderful film with a sub-par DVD release. I was really looking forward to seeing this film as it was seen in the theaters (i.e. in WIDESCREEN). Maybe another year.

Perhaps Disney is letting art imitate life. Perhaps, ... just perhaps, ... they will turn over a new leaf like Ebeneezer Scrooge and start releasing films in their Original Aspect Ratio!!

We can only dream.

70 One of Michael Caine's best
We have loved this movie from the first time we saw it. The music is unbelievable and a testament to the song writing talent of Paul Williams. What we enjoy the most is you have to remind yourself that you are watching muppets. This movie is a Christmas Eve tradition in our home and will be for years to come.

71 The DVD is amazing! New footage awaits you....
Disney and Henson have really got it right with The Muppet Christmas Carol DVD.

The DVD has a stunning menu with a newly-recorded introduction and hilarious sarcastic navigational advice from Kermit. The menu begins with a Dikendian snowy scene of rooftops which then pans to a snow encrusted CGI window inside a fire-lit Victorian house. Here the new sound and video footage of Kermit in yuletide attire plays over the animated menu of snow falling. After some time, Kermit plays hide and seek whilst he waits, impatiently, for you to select your choice.

With a swoop of CGI animation, the Special Features are on another menu, which has also music and newly recorded Kermit puppetry and a roaring Yuletide fire. Here you will find the extras - a wonderful and entertaining `Behind the Scenes' with Rizzo and Gonzo, `Audio Commentary' Option, `Christmas Around the World' feature and a `unique' on the set extra! Amazing!

The menus are true to the magic of Christmas, Disney and The Muppets! This is one Disney release you'll love - real thought and imagination have gone into the production and it shows. It's a Christmas DVD gem - alas, in 1.33:1 but in glorious 5.1 DD Surround which is noticable.

72 Hey! Light the lamp, not the rat!
This chestnut is re-told with a sarcastic and skewed attitude. So much the better. Caine is the redoubtable Scrooge and the Muppets do their wonderful thing, as usual. The scene not to be missed is when Beaker flips off Scrooge after turning them down for a charitable donation. Enjoy!

73 Excellent
I own this movie on VHS and i love it. There are a few forgettable songs but most are delightful ("Wherever you find love, it feels like Christmas"), Micheal Caine is excellent. Bob Cratchit's (Kermit's) family are spunky and witty, with Miss Piggy playing Mrs. Cratchit. Gonzo trades his usual weirdness for a top hat and scarf. He serves as the narrator, along with Rizzo the rat. Henson splits the character Marley into two separate characters. They are played by everyone's favorite hecklers Statler and Waldorf. I don't need to tell you who plays Fozziwig. This movie is very entertaining and will put even the biggest Scrooge into the holiday spirit.

74 WIDESCREEN please!
This is an absolutely superb movie. It balances a sincere story with absurd Muppet hilarity with incredible skill. My only wish for it now is to have a widescreen version. The VHS "full screen" version reduces the camera work to the point that it looks like a camera-wielding hamster could have done better. There are always cropped Muppets lurking at the edges of the screen. Come on Disney! Get your act together. Two versions, double sided, whatever ... just hurry up with a widescreen version.

75 Fun ! For the kid in all of us!
No matter what your age Dicken's timeless classic is one the whole family will enjoy. I highly recommend it for anyone who is a child at heart. It will melt the heart of even an Ebenezar Scrooge!

76 Great Movie!
This is a great Christmas Tradition ranking right up their with Mickey's Christmas Carol. Probably the last great muppet movie the Jim Henson company made.

77 The Ultimate Christmas Classic
This is a great kid's adaptation of a classic book. With a combination of actors and muppets, this movie mixes family-friendly comidy and a little Dickens drama. However I think the best part of this movie is the songs, which are very cute and memorable.
My only warning is that the ghost of future Christmas' might be a little scary for very young kids. I probably wouldn't reccommend this movie for kids younger then seven.

78 Respectful, joyous treatment of Dickens and Henson
"Muppet's Christmas Carol" manages the almost impossible task of merging Dicken's haunting ghost story of loss and redemption with Henson's style of wacky, screwball comedy and Muppets. I was not expecting to like this movie as much as I do.

Michael Cain is well suited to the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, and plays the character as the nasty old man that Scrooge is. It takes an actor of his caliber to threaten Muppets! The Muppets themselves are in full form, ranging from familiar faces like Kermit the Frog and Mrs. Piggy, to characters created just for the Christmas Carol. Sadly, this is the first Muppet movie after the passing of Jim Henson, but Steve Whitmire fills his shoes just fine. Of all the characters, the Ghost of Christmas Past is my favorite. The aging giant is as amiable as any live actor to play the part.

Suprisingly, the musical numbers are quite catchy and enjoyable. I would happily buy a soundtrack version. Much of the original Dickens dialog is retained, and there is no attempt to soften or update the story. It is an abridged version, and most of the usual cuts happen.

This has become as much a Holiday classic for my family as "It's a Wonderful Life" or "White Christmas."

79 Great movie, for all ages
Ever since I was eight or so, I can remember my family and I watching this movie each Christmas. Some people would think that this would get repedative and boring. But each time, I notice a new joke or something i missed before.

The movie tells Dicken's story great, with all the main characters included and the story pretty much the same. Gonzo, Kermit, Piggy, Rizzo, Fozzie, theyre all there. The music is awesome, to say the least. I find myself humming along to the songs when I watch. It is very funny, as it is the muppets. It is a great portrayal of this old tale.

In short, this movie is definately worth buying.

80 The songs stick with you!
The songs in this movie tend to stick with you. The first time I watched this movie I wasn't impressed - because I think the George C. Scott portrayal of Scrooge is the best. But the second veiwing - when I wasn't comparing it to any other Scrooge versions made it more likeable and eventually, over the years, it has become one of the only movies my family can agree on that they "have to" watch during Christmas.

"Where ever you find love, it feels like Christmas" is a sentiment that would do us all good throughout the rest of the year!

81 Good
This was a nice Muppet movie. I would still prefer "A Muppet Family Christmas" though. This was a good movie, I remember when it came out. It was funny and clever the way it was casted. Staflor and Wardoff were the ghost of "Marley & Marley" lol, Kermit is Bob Cratchit, Piggy is [of course :)] Mrs, Cratchit, and Gonzo is Charles Dickins. This was a very clever idea! It was very nice to see. The only thing that children may find scary is the whole scene with "The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come (Future)". Nice movie though!

82 A Muppet Drama?
Something is just not right when you mix "muppets" and "drama" together. The dark and dreary setting only enhances the unsettling mood of this movie. Neither my kids nor I have ever really enjoyed it, though we've tried with multiple viewings. We still prefer the first Muppet Movie much more.

83 Classic Christmas viewing for Kids
This movie embodies all the best of Dickens and Jim Henson. The movie is clever, cute, enjoyable, easy to follow, funny, a little scary (but not too much for preschoolers) and faithful to Dickens' story. All of my children enjoyed this movie and I was happy to have them watch it! Adults and kids can enjoy this movie. My children were motivated to read the Dickens' story! - that alone is a recommendation for a film!

84 The Muppet Christmas Carol
This is a lovely adaption of the classic A" Christmas Carol" with wonderful songs and sentiment, not to mention the magic of the muppetts. A must see for children of "all" ages.

85 Muppet's Christmas Carol Rife with Creative Genius
Heartfelt, heartwarming expression of the Dickens classic. Great blend of humor, music, Dickens' storyline, and Muppet antics. A masterpiece of wit and heart. Woefully absent from network main stream of Christmas broadcasting. Michael Caine is magnificent as the object of redemption--E. Scrooge.

86 A Wonderful version of A Christmas Carol
I enjoy this movie as much as any that I have ever watched. The music is wonderful, the characters are so perfectly cast, and the story is timeless. It is easily my favorite Christmas movie.

87 The Muppett Christmas Carol
My all time favorite Christmas movie. I love happy endings and the Muppetts are always upbeat. I already own it but am afraid I will wear it out. I wish it came on DVD.

88 Muppet Christmas Carol
This is my all time favorite Christmas movie. It has become a tradition for me and my children and we always look forward to watching it together with a cup of hot chocolate on chilly nights during the holiday season. I regret it is not available yet on dvd as we upgraded strictly to dvd and this title is not yet released on dvd. We anxiously await its arrival!!!

89 A Must Have for any Christmas Movie Collection!!
This movie is THE BEST version of "A Christmas Carol" I have ever seen. It is very entertaining for both children and grown ups. Even the little ones can watch this one, as the ghosts aren't so spooky that they will have nightmares. The Christmas message of giving, etc. shines very clear and anyone who watches it will be left smiling and singing.

90 A standout Muppet adaptation
Purists will cringe, but this is one of the best Christmas Carol productions ever, for either kids or adults. The Muppet ghosts are truly phenomenal--the Ghost of Christmas Present, especially, is wonderful. Michael Cane gives an uncharacteristically muted performance. The humor is all-over-Muppets, irreverent and pushing artistic liscence to the utter limit. But Dickens, I think, would grin; it's just up his alley.

The standout performances are Meredith Braun as Belle and the musical score by the very underrated American composer, Paul Williams. Braun sings Williams' ravishing song, "When Love Is Gone", with a coiled tension that's operatic, and when Michael Cane haltingly joins her at the end, every adult will recall their own lost loves with an aching heart. There won't be a dry eye in your house.

There's enough goofy fun, literary puns, and excellent "casting" to please adult and kid alike (the rag-and-bone man who buys Scrooge's still-warm blankets is a grasping spider in a Victorian stovepipe hat...and the wheedling women who steal Scrooge's bed-clothes are bedbugs...I think!), but what'll keep this Muppets movie on your shelf long after the kids have moved on is the genuine portrayal of adult guilt and redemption. Which is, after all, the whole point of Christmas.

91 Simply the Best Out There
If you are reading this review, chances are that you are as familiar with the story of Ebenezer Scrooge as you are with The Wizard of Oz. Who doesn't know the classic tale? Did you know the story of A Christmas Carol has been filmed over 200 times, the first film being made in 1908? Adaptations have run the gamut, from strict adherence to the story to the irreverent (Blackadder's Christmas Carol, 1988) and the modern (Scrooged, also 1988.)

Assuming you are already familiar with the tale, what makes an adaptation superior? Any story well known enough to have practically risen to the status of folktale is at risk of being so familiar its message becomes tired if not presented compellingly. On the surface, the broad plot action of A Christmas Carol might be summed up in the sentence: Scrooge gets scared straight. The challenge of any adaptation is to impress the audience of the personal joy that inhabits anyone who embraces generosity and kindness - we can all deduce that the lives of Bob Cratchit's family will improve financially, and that the poor in general will benefit from Scrooge's transformation: but what about the man himself? The beauty of the tale is of a bitter man who, in the end, really is given more than he can ever give. Even extremely liberal adaptations like Scrooged understood this: the real message in that film was summed up by Bill Murray in the closing sequence, where he tells his audience that once you start giving, you'll get a wonderful feeling, and "You'll want it EVERY DAY."

The film must inspire us to do likewise, not to mention entertain us along the way. Think the muppets are just for kids? Wrong! There's enough sophisticated humor embedded in this film to give anyone a laugh, largely provided by its narrators, The Great Gonzo (as Dickens) and his sidekick, Rizzo the Rat. There are other detail changes to the old story slipped in to spice up the old tale for those familiar with it - just hearing the august Michael Caine sincerely utter the line, "Why, it's Fozziwig's old rubber chicken factory! I had my first job there" is enough to set us laughing.

Let's talk about the ghosts. A successful adaptation has just got to have good ghosts, and the presentations here are wonderful. Christmas Past is represented by an ethereal child, voiced wonderfully; Christmas Present is the most welcoming spirit, voiced marvelously by Jerry Nelson (a muppet veteran) - these are the speaking spirits, and both are stunning muppet creations. True to tradition, Christmas Yet to Come does not speak, and manages to be chilling and stern without being too frightening to children (this creation is faceless, and for some reason that spooks grownups more than kids.)

Michael Caine is an absolutely fantastic Scrooge, very human and real. It's no small feat to interact realistically with non-human counterparts - even if they are the wonderful muppets - and Caine does this with vigor, gusto, and humility.

The only weak spot in the film is the detail on Scrooge's lost love; no one really seems to do this well. It's not very interesting for children (uck, the kissing stuff!) and it's too tired for adults. This section of the film also sports the only disappointing musical number (the rest are great.) Don't let this stop you, though - it's brief.

Why such a long review for the muppets? Because I think Brian Henson is simply doing the best family filmaking out there today. As I stated in a review of Muppet Treasure Island, such films must have appeal for all family members, and A Muppet Christmas Carol is no exception. Make it part of your family tradition this year.

92 It wouldn't be Christmas without it!
This is the most enjoyable versions of "A Christmas Carol" ever made. Dickens should be flattered. You can't get any better than the muppets, and Michael Caine is delightful. I have made watching it one of my Christmas traditions. It wouldn't be Christmas without it!

93 'Tis the Season to be Jolly and Joyous...FA LA LA!
Anyone who knows anything about Jim Henson's Muppets, needs no introduction to "The Muppet Christmas Carol". Your favorite muppet characters retell the story of Charles Dickens' enduring Christmas tale of redemption with Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchitt, Ms. Piggy as Mrs. Cratchitt, Fozzy the Bear as Mr. Fezziwig and the rest of the Muppet Family. Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, plays delightfully off the touching and humorous Muppet family. It's funny and joyous and will surely make a treasured addition to any VHS family library.

94 Best Version of "A Christmas Carol"
Since first seeing this movie, I have been unable to watch any other version of the story. It is nearly word for word at times with Dickens' story - yes, I followed along! There is a lot of humor and fun in this movie, but also some touching scenes. I even cried at one point!

I can watch this movie all year round and it is always wonderful. It never gets old and starts the holiday season off on the right foot!

95 It's Christmas Time
It is not Christmas unless this movie has been watched. With a fun twist on a classic story, this is a movie that is not to be missed!

96 First Muppet movie since the death of Jim Henson
Brain Henson son of the late Jim Henson directed this movie. And which I'm sure you all know it is the first muppet movie since the death of Jim Henson in 1990. In the movie, Kermit The Frog, and other muppets play characters from a Christmas Carol. Note that there are humans like Micahel Caine in this movie, but more muppets. As the movie opens, Scrooge hates chritmas and gets invited to spend Christmas with his nephew Fred and his wife Clara.

Scrooge: Why did you even get married?
Fred: Why? Because I fell in love.

Isn't that why a lot of people get married? But to you think since 1990 the muppets has gotten long with out Jim Henson as thier director? But why did it take 2 years to make a new Muppet movie?

97 The Muppets Christmas Carol
I think The Muppets Christmas Carol is one of the best movies I have ever seen. The music is spectacular as well as the theme. I have watched it over and over again and never tire of it. I am just waiting for it to come out on DVD.

98 Two beloved classics combined
Charles Dickens' classic tale "A Christmas Carol" has probably been adapted for stage, screen, and TV more than any other story in the history of literature. Many have been really great -- the Mr. Magoo animated version, Patrick Stewart's one-man stage show, the George C. Scott version, etc. But one of the best is definitely "The Muppet Christmas Carol," directed with heart and intelligence by Brian Henson. This version is particularly noteworthy because it combines two beloved pop-culture icons: Dickens' story and the Jim Henson Muppets.

It's been a long time since I read Dickens' original text, but from what I remember, the MCC is quite faithful to Dickens. Like the other Muppet films, MCC combines human actors with the whimsical Muppet characters (just in case you don't know what a Muppet is, it's a sort of puppet). The great Michael Caine plays Scrooge, and the Muppets play other Dickens characters: Kermit the Frog is Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy is Mrs. Cratchit, etc.

One clever touch is having Charles Dickens (portrayed by Muppet Gonzo the Great) appear as a narrator in the film. Gonzo/Dickens is accompanied by Rizzo the Rat, and the two have some great comic banter and slapstick humor. This device nicely complements the main story without distracting from it. The film is enhanced by some lovely songs; my favorite is the one sung by the Ghost of Christmas Present.

Dickens' original "Carol" is, at its core, a compassionate and life-affirming story, and the Muppet version is right on target in preserving the soul of the tale. There are some genuinely sweet and moving touches (such as one Muppets' gift to Scrooge) that combine well with the trademark Muppet humor. Add to this good special effects, fine performances (both human and Muppet), and impressive sets and costumes, and you have a true classic: a film for every member of the family. In "The Muppet Christmas Carol," Brian Henson and his Muppets prove that, with imagination and skill, new life can be breathed into a favorite old story.

99 Lots of Laughs!!!!
This story is about an old, selfish, money-loving man named Ebenezer Scrooge. He HATES Christmas and he's as worse as ever on that traditional holiday;he's a real old sourpuss. He hates it because everyone is so happy! So, on Christmas Eve, he is visited by 3 ghosts. Before that, his long-dead partner, Marley, comes back, tied up by heavy chains. He warns him that if he is is selfish, he would get these chains, much heavier chains, all around him. It'll be made by his own selfishness. Marley tells him that 3 ghosts are going to visit him: The Ghost of Christmas Past, Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Future.

This movie is so funny and fun! Gonzo as the hilarious Dickens and Rizzo as his sidekick. The songs are fun to listen. You'll love this movie, especially in Christmas!

100 Greatest Muppet Movie
This movie has great songs. It is a wonderful movie to watch at Christmas; my family watches it every year. Gonzo is a hilarious Dickens, and Rizzo is really funny, too. This movie always makes me laugh. Besides this, it's full of Christmas spirit. If you liked the book A CHRISTMAS CAROL, you will love this!