Starring: Jim Carrey
Director: Ron Howard
Rated: PG
THE Grinch is an anti-consumption parable about reclaiming the essential message of “peace on earth and goodwill to all”.
Based on Theodore Geisel’s Dr Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas, this charming film is filled with colour and energy.
The mythical citizens of Whoville are at fever pitch buying presents and sending cards for Christmas. The shopping countdown is on in earnest. Behind the idyllic and courteous facade of the town, however, is a scapegoat, Mr Grinch (Jim Carrey). Raised in the town, Grinch was tormented at the Whoville school for his odd appearance and nasty manner. In anger he takes flight from the town on the nearby mountain from where he pours scorn and mischief on the do-gooding Whovillians. The Grinch hates Christmas and tries to stop the festivities by stealing all the town’s gifts and decorations. A small girl, Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen), befriends the Grinch, asks what Christmas is all about and saves the day.
More than 60 make-up artists worked on this film and their skill shows.
Jim Carrey’s work as The Grinch is of the highest calibre. Because there are no surprises in the story the success of the film rests on selling the audience a bitter and twisted character that we can like. Even though he is buried deeply in make-up and costume, Carrey’s dramatic range, expressive face and extraordinary voice, make it all look easy.
