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Amazon.co.uk Review
A mixed bag as variations on A Christmas Carol go, this 1970 British musical tells the usual story of Scrooge (Albert Finney) and his spirits on Christmas Eve, although the whole thing is set to music by Leslie Bricusse. Except for Finney's feisty and involved performance, however, there isn't much to recommend this. The songs, which absorb so much of the evolving story line and emotions, are not all that good. Plenty of support, however, from the likes of Roy Kinnear (Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory) and Dame Edith Evans (Tom Jones), the handsome production is directed by veteran Ronald Neame (The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie). --Tom Keogh
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43 of 43 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
Long underestimated, this 1970 version of 'A Christmas Carol' mixes a fine feast of popular songs (by Leslie Bricusse) and a vintage performance of the old miser by Albert Finney.The latter manages to achieve what only Sim has done before or since in making the transition from crotchety old humbug to reformed philanthropist believable.One of the few actors to play himself as a young man as well, this is vintage Finney in a lavish spectacular as well-proportioned as Pinewood's previous epic 'Oliver' There's a great suporting cast as well - Kenneth More as the Ghost of Christmas Present, the great Edith Evans as Christmas Past and a truly frightening Alec Guinness as Marley. Laurence Naismith and a young Anton Rodgers also appear in a couple of notable numbers 'December 25th' and the popular 'Thank You Very Much'.
Grossly under-rated by reviewers for years this musical has spawned two great stage shows with Anthony Newley and Tommy Steele following in Albert's footsteps. Both have played to packed houses, the latter continues to do so.The audience, as usual, has the last laugh ! If you buy no other version of Christmas Carol, you should make this one yours.
Grossly under-rated by reviewers for years this musical has spawned two great stage shows with Anthony Newley and Tommy Steele following in Albert's footsteps. Both have played to packed houses, the latter continues to do so.The audience, as usual, has the last laugh ! If you buy no other version of Christmas Carol, you should make this one yours.
38 of 39 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
I have read A Christmas Carol several times; and though this is a musical, I do not think it takes away at all from Dickens' classic story. Rather, I believe it is a wonderful tribute to it. Ebenezer Scrooge is one of my favorite literary characters of all time; and Albert Finney brings him to life perfectly, making the miser loveable and sympathetic throughout. As in the written work, I love Scrooge both before and after his epiphany. I was especially touched by his feelings of abandonment at being left at school for Christmas in his youth, and the deep regret he experiences over the breaking of his engagement to Fezziwig's daughter.
Tiny Tim is well cast in this movie. He has a beautiful voice and touching expressions, and is perfect in size, tiny, which is not the case in some other film versions.
Leslie Bricusse's song lyrics are every bit as wonderful as those written for Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. The costuming, scenery, and props are very lavish and beautiful, adding to the richness of the story. The DVD version is perfect in this respect with good color and clarity.
The story is wonderfully staged in five acts (Introduction, Past, Present, Future, Conclusion), the first four building perfectly to the final, which is every bit as heartwarming as the conclusions of It's a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street. It is impossible not to smile as Scrooge buys out the toy store, purchases other gifts, wipes the slate clean for his debtors, and makes charitable contributions. His transformation from miser and loan shark to a genuine Father Christmas is absolutely beautiful.
When I was growing up, we always decorated our tree on Christmas Eve; and I remember watching this movie many years in a row during that family tradition. I recommend this as a yearly family Christmastime movie, but it is also wonderful to watch at other times of the year, especially to cure a blue funk because it has the power to warm viewers all the way down to their toes.
28 of 29 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
OK so the Amazon review didn't rate it but I truly love this film. It's not the best film ever made and never will be but it really gives you a feel good factor.
Albert Finney is excellent (isn't he always?) as are Edith Evans, Kenneth More, Anton Rodgers, Alec Gunness and the chap that plays Bob Cratchitt (sorry, can't think of his name off hand!)
Everyone harps on about the Alastair Sim version but I truly prefer this one. The perfect film to watch late on Christmas Eve. It really gets you into the Christmas spirit (pardon the pun!)
Why on Earth is it only available on region 1??????
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
Scrooge
I loved this film as a child so re-ordered it. Not a disappointment at all! Hugely enjoyable film - the dvd was delivered promptly and without problems.
Published 3 months ago by J
scrooge 1970 version
In the moment of christmas time , this firm version takes you to the heart of what matters. a lovely version of the christmas carol, taking you through the experiences and coming... Read more
Published 4 months ago by michael
pegasus
Excellent and highly recommended. Transaction very speedy and the product was well packaged and promptly received. No further details necessary
Published 4 months ago by PEGASUS
My favourite feel good Christmas film
I can't relate to the Amazon review of this film.
I have always loved it, but hadn't watched my video of it for years.
This Christmas I tried but trashed the tape. Read more
I have always loved it, but hadn't watched my video of it for years.
This Christmas I tried but trashed the tape. Read more
Published 5 months ago by BruceB
Marvellous!
This has been a favourite Christmas film since it first came out. Finney makes a truly believable old miser, with the supporting cast lending more than capable assistance,... Read more
Published 5 months ago by Kittymummy
great festive fun!
Contrary to what the mealy-mouthed Amazon review says, this musical version of Dickens' A Christmas Carol is tremendous seasonal fun and some of the much-maligned songs such as... Read more
Published 8 months ago by Kraftwerker
this is the greatest musical ever
I enter the basia kulesza residence.I say that's a magnificent christmas turkey.I notice the burnt ring of leather around its neck.I look at the pet tag.it says tibbles on it. Read more
Published 8 months ago by these are the new house rules
another great Scrooge!!
this film of scrooge is a must at xmas second only to Alistair Simms version but still a must to watch it shows a more caring world during the mad run up to christmas it should... Read more
Published 9 months ago by AllenWynne10
Scrooge DVD 1970
Really enjoyable. The Christmas Carol story by Dickens is so popular and this has the bonus of the music without losing any of the story. Highly recommended.
Published 15 months ago by JaniceMG
Scrooge 1970 Albert Finney
This is the best Christmas Carol film there is, Albert Finney at his best,would recommend it to anyone with a great sense of humour.
Published 15 months ago by Tezzer
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