The Muppet Christmas Carol
Movie Details:
| Based on | The Muppet Show by Jim Henson A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genres | Comedy, Drama, Family, Fantasy, Musical |
| Release date | December 11, 1992 |
| Running time | 1hr 26min |
| Age rating | G |
| Starring | Michael Caine, Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire, Jerry Nelson |
| Directed by | Brian Henson |
| Screenplay by | Jerry Juhl |
| Produced by | Brian Henson, Martin G. Baker |
| Cinematography by | John Fenner |
| Edited by | Michael Jablow |
| Music by | Miles Goodman |
| Casting by | Suzanne Crowley, Mike Fenton, Gilly Poole |
| Production Design by | Val Strazovec |
| Art Direction by | Dennis Bosher, Alan Cassie |
| Set Decoration by | Michael Ford |
| Costume Design by | Ann Hollowood, Polly Smith |
| Production Company | Walt Disney Pictures, Jim Henson Productions |
| Distributor | Buena Vista Pictures Distribution |
Cast & Characters:
- Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge
- Edward Sanders, Theo Sanders, Kristopher Milnes, Russell Martin, and Ray Coulthard as Young Scrooge
- Steven Mackintosh as Fred, Ebenezer Scrooge’s nephew.
- Meredith Braun as Belle, Scrooge’s former love interest.
- Robin Weaver as Clara, Ebenezer Scrooge’s niece-in-law and Fred’s wife.
Storyline:
A retelling of the classic Dickens tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, miser extraordinaire. He is held accountable for his dastardly ways during night-time visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.
About The Muppet Christmas Carol Movie:
The Muppet Christmas Carol is an American Christmas musical film directed by Brian Henson, adapted from Charles Dickens’s classic novella A Christmas Carol. The film is notable for being the first Muppet production after the deaths of creator Jim Henson and performer Richard Hunt, and it is dedicated to their memory.
Plot Summary
The film closely follows the original story of Ebenezer Scrooge, portrayed by Michael Caine, who is a greedy and cold-hearted businessman. As Christmas Eve approaches, Scrooge dismisses his nephew Fred’s invitation to dinner and refuses to donate to charity. That night, he is visited by the ghosts of his former business partners, Jacob and Robert Marley, who warn him that three spirits will haunt him.
- Ghost of Christmas Past: This spirit takes Scrooge back to his childhood and early adulthood, showing him moments that shaped his miserly nature, including his lost love Belle.
- Ghost of Christmas Present: This jolly spirit reveals the joy and hardship experienced by others during Christmas, particularly focusing on Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog) and his family, including the ill Tiny Tim.
- Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come: This ominous figure shows Scrooge a future where he dies alone and unloved, prompting him to change his ways.
Awakening on Christmas morning with newfound joy, Scrooge embraces the spirit of Christmas by spreading happiness and generosity throughout London.
Production Details
The Muppet Christmas Carol features a screenplay written by Jerry Juhl and includes performances from Muppet veterans such as Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire, and Frank Oz. The film was released on December 11, 1992, by Buena Vista Pictures Distribution under the Walt Disney Pictures label. It was well-received at the box office and has since become a holiday classic.
Reception
Upon its release, the film garnered generally favorable reviews for its charming blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Critics praised Michael Caine’s performance as Scrooge amidst the whimsical Muppet characters. The film is celebrated for its ability to appeal to both children and adults, making it a staple during the holiday season.
Legacy
The Muppet Christmas Carol has been recognized as one of the best adaptations of Dickens’s work and remains a beloved part of holiday traditions. Its combination of music, humor, and poignant storytelling continues to resonate with audiences today.
Budget & Box Office Collection:
| Budget | $12,000,000 |
| Opening Day | $5,010,109 |
| Domestic Collection | $27,381,507 |
| International Collection | $5,892,522 |
| Worldwide Collection | $33,274,029 |