How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Movie Details:
| Based on | How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genres | Family, Comedy, Slapstick, Short, Christmas |
| Release date | December 18, 1966 |
| Running time | 26min |
| Starring | Boris Karloff, June Foray, Thurl Ravenscroft, Dallas McKennon |
| Directed by | Chuck Jones, Ben Washam |
| Screenplay by | Dr. Seuss |
| Voices by | Boris Karloff, June Foray, Thurl Ravenscroft, Dallas McKennon |
| Narrated by | Boris Karloff |
| Composers by | Albert Hague (songs), Eugene Poddany (additional music) |
| Produced by | Chuck Jones, Ted Geisel |
| Edited by | Lovell Norman, John O. Young |
| Production Design by | Maurice Noble |
| Production Company | The Cat in the Hat Productions MGM Animation/Visual Arts MGM Television |
| Distributor | 20th Century Fox Video |
| Network | CBS |
| Budget | $315,000 |
Cast & Characters:
- Boris Karloff as the Grinch / Narrator
- June Foray as Cindy Lou Who
- Dallas McKennon as Max
- Thurl Ravenscroft as Vocalist
- MGM Studio Chorus as Citizens of Whoville
Storyline:
A grumpy hermit hatches a plan to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville.
About How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Movie:
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (also known as Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!) is an American animated television special directed and co-produced by Chuck Jones. Based on the beloved 1957 children’s book by Dr. Seuss, the special features the iconic voice of Boris Karloff, who narrates the story and voices the Grinch himself.
Plot Summary
The story centers around the Grinch, a curmudgeonly creature who lives atop a mountain overlooking the cheerful town of Whoville. Disgusted by the Whos’ festive Christmas celebrations, he devises a plan to ruin their holiday by stealing all their Christmas gifts, decorations, and food. Accompanied by his loyal dog Max, the Grinch sneaks into Whoville on Christmas Eve to execute his scheme.
As he steals from the Whos, he encounters a young girl named Cindy Lou Who, who innocently questions his actions. Despite his efforts to steal Christmas, the Grinch is ultimately moved when he hears the Whos singing joyfully on Christmas morning, even without their material possessions. This moment leads to his transformation as he realizes that Christmas means more than just gifts and decorations.
Production Details
Produced by The Cat in the Hat Productions in association with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, How the Grinch Stole Christmas! was completed in about a year. It originally aired on CBS on December 18, 1966, and has since become a perennial holiday favorite.
Reception
The special has been praised for its animation style, memorable songs—including “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”—and its faithful adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s original story. It is celebrated as one of the best Christmas specials ever made and continues to be watched annually during the holiday season.
Legacy
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! has left a lasting impact on popular culture and is often regarded as a classic representation of the Christmas spirit. Its themes of redemption and community resonate with audiences of all ages, ensuring its place in holiday traditions. The special has inspired various adaptations, including live-action films and stage productions, further solidifying its status as an enduring holiday classic.