How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Review

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a 1966 animated television special which is counted among the best cartoon specials out there.

It’s a famous Dr. Seuss story where the heartless Grinch wants to ruin everybody’s Christmas as he dislikes the holiday so much, but he eventually has a change of heart and learns to appreciate said holiday. Needless to say, this story is overly simple and not particularly deep while it’s too similar to so many message animated films out there. I also found the problem in narration as it was so overwhelming that the characterization suffered as a result.

The Grinch could have been meaner, but he’s still a strong creation and a very memorable character solidly developed. Others serve their purpose, but the animals in the film are cute. The animation is obviously of a TV quality, but still quite colorful and sweet. The soundtrack is easily the film’s biggest achievement as the songs are very catchy and endearing as they enliven this whole experience to pretty great heights. Boris Karloff narrated the film well while his voice in the title role is particularly terrific.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a flawed special which is not as amazing as most would say, but it’s well animated, well intentioned and with a particularly strong soundtrack.