Over the years I’ve watched many versions of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. I thought I should review at least one, so I chose the 1999 made-for-TV version by Peter Barnes with Patrick Stewart, one of my favorite actors.

It would be difficult not to have seen a version of this movie at some point in one’s life, so I won’t repeat the plot line in depth. Suffice to say, we get to see, through Ebeneezer Scrooge’s “ghosts” how he came to be the man he is (Past), how his view of the world is limited to himself (Present), and how he will be remembered if he stays on the same path (Yet-To-Come).

Ghost of Christmas Past

Ghost of ChristGmas Present – harboring Ignorance and Want

Ghost of Christmas Yet-To-Come

The message is clear, no matter who’s telling it.  There’s no better time than now – which happens to be Christmas, to evaluate where you’ve been, who you are now, and more importantly, where you’re going?

Are you living the life you envisioned living? Are you happy? Do you have relationships that make you happy? What can you do to help others and make the world a better place?

This is the universal theme of all the presentations of A Christmas Carol.

Specifically, I’m reviewing Patrick Stewart’s version. The beginning held my interest, as I loved the actor’s opening portrayal of Scrooge. Though only 95 minutes long, I admit I grew restless and felt the movie dragged. I think it was the lengthy one-man speeches and because I’ve seen so many versions over the years. I hoped to find a fresher take in this film, and sadly, I did not.

Interestingly enough, on the same day I watched this movie (Dec. 15), an article was published touting a new 53.42 minute video which has combined clips from 400 versions which you can watch online here. I do intend to watch it. This could be fun!

Bolstered by Patrick Stewart, this movie earns 2.5 of 5 Christmas ghosts. ♥♥.5