Michael Caine actually took on this role because his daughter was too young to see most of his other films at the time, and he had such a blast filming this that he actually considers this to be one of his favourite roles
11:43 "He sounds like Yoda." 12:08 "He sounds like Yoda, too!" Yep! Sam the Eagle and Fozzie Bear are two of the many muppets voiced by Frank Oz, just as Yoda was. 16:34 "Is a man voicing them?!?" Yep! "Yoda" provides the voice for Miss Piggy! 😝 He was also Bert, Cookie Monster, Grover, and Animal! (Frank Oz and Jim Henson were the two main voices for most of the Muppets for a very long time.)
Frank Oz does the voices of Yoda, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, Sam the Eagle. Seseme Street he does Cookie Monster, Bert and Grover. All the Muppet Christmas movies are in our annual festival but this one is our top favorite. Michael Caine did a fabulous job as Scrooge.
Caine's delivery of "Oh Spirit, must there come a Christmas that brings this awful scene?" still makes me tear up, even all these years later. Absolutely magnificent, that man.
This was the first Muppet movie to be made after the death of Jim Henson. As a result Kermit in this movie is portrayed by Steve Whitmire, who had worked a a a performer for the Muppets for 12 years, going all the way back to the original Muppet show when he was a teenager.
Michael Cain gave his all to this role. He took it extremely serious and was fantastic. He's by far the best part of this movie, he made everything more real and alive, an absolutely underrated performance!
In the book, young Ebenezer wasn't allowed to go home for the holidays, because his dad basically banished him from the house. It was his younger sister, Fran (Fred's mother) who finally convinced their father to relent and bring young Ebenezer home.
This was my mom's favorite Christmas movie. She passed away a few years ago, but I still watch it every year because it makes me feel like she's still here.
I'm sorry for that. I can understand that very well! My grandma liked Scrooge with Bill Murray every year and we watch the film twice a year and always think about my grandma as well.
I lost my dad a couple of years back myself and I get that same feeling when I watch certain movies me and him loved to watch together. So, I totally understand. It's good to keep them in our hearts any way we can.
I've always felt that when Scrooge says he feels "light as a feather" at the end, that was the sensation of the ghostly chains falling free from his spirit.
Frank Oz, the puppeteer and voice of Yoda, was also a puppeteer and voice for The Muppets. He did the voices for Miss Piggy, Fozzie the Bear, Animal, and Sam Eagle (which would explain why he sounded like Yoda).
He's also appeared in films as other characters, as well as directing films such as 1986's "Little Shop Of Horrors" & the original 2007 version of "Death At A Funeral".
There's a song missing from your version, "When Love Is Gone." Scrooge's fiance sings a song about how they're drifting apart and why she's leaving, and towards the end old Scrooge joins her in a duet, showing how much it still hurts him to remember it. It sucks that it was cut, it's an important moment for the character of Scrooge.
It's also important because the last song in the movie is set to the same tune and, thus, adds a bit of closure to one of the saddest parts of the movie. Unfortunately, Disney decided to make it less sad by simply cutting the song, which drains "The Love We Found" of all of its meaning.
This is a fantastic movie and a surprisingly solid adaptation of Charles Dickens’s book. It’s the only film that tries to capture his narrative voice (Dickens often addresses the reader as if he’s sitting across from you telling the story.) If you can, watch the 1951 adaptation starring Alastair Sim. No muppets, not much comedy, and not a musical, but still a really powerful and true adaptation of the story. It will warm you and touch you like a few other Christmas movies.
That is a point well made. Most people focus on how this is a fun adaptation, with songs that the whole family can enjoy, but it really does capture aspects of the book very well. The only other one that comes to mind, in terms of relating the narrative technique, is the Patrick Stewart version, where they put the discussion about "dead as a doornail" into a scene instead.
The only problem with the cameos is that the actors were really well-known at the time; that is to say, nearly 45 years ago. It's unlikely that anyone under the age of 50 is going to have more than a passing familiarity with Dom DeLuise, Telly Sevalas, Paul Williams, or Edgar Bergen. But I 100% agree with you on the songs.
It's impossible not to love this movie. All the characters are great and Michael Caine is fantastic as Scrooge. One of the greatest ever Christmas movies
He deliberately choose to play it as if it was set by the Royal Shakespeare Company. The fact that he plays it 110% straight makes the movie works so well.
we've watched this movie for 22 years in a row in my family, and never get tired of it. It's the BEST version. You should find the deleted song "love is gone" that Belle sings. It was cut and never restored. It's a tear jerker, and explains why Rizzo was crying so abruptly at the end of Belle's farewell song.
During "The Muppet Movie" (the first one!) we got to see Kermit's legs -- riding a bicycle! It was a treat! Kermi's my favourite Muppet. But miss Jim Henson's voice. No one could take his place.
Happy you enjoyed the film! I was once a Muppet performer, I worked on 'Muppets From Space.' Brings joy to my heart whenever I see someone discover the magic of the Muppets. Happy Holidays!
This is my favorite version of the Christmas carol, it is just the right blend of dark, and love to teach a lesson and make you smile with love. Plus the songs are amazing.
For almost 20 years now my wife and I have watched this movie every year to kick off the Christmas season! It is by far our favorite Christmas movie and a "must have" tradition in our home. We finally just watched it with our 6 year old and she loved it too!
Good that you waited, Disney finally restored the extra song with Scrooge's fiance - without it the film lacks a large amount of the emotional foundation.
Christmas is my favourite holiday for sure. In Germany I remember walking through the warm Christmas markets while snow touched my skin, and buying small wooden toys and carvings for family and friends and wrapping them in the last minute. Then the neighbor's friends and family would all meet in one house. (Usually my Grandparents or my parents.) And when I walked in I handed the presents to the people I bought them for by hand. And they would open in front of me and right after give me a hug. Then wed laugh drink and sing till Christmas morning. Now I'm in New Zealand. Here there is no snow or true Christmas market. And the Christmas partys are celebrated at the beach with a big bbq and a nice swim. And the presents we give here are usually beer and wine. I found it very interesting and nice at first but I'm starting to miss my family and home back in the fatherland. Not sure if I'll ever go back... but if I do go back it will have to be at Christmas. Frohe Weinachten! (Merry Christmas!) Stay safe guys, and have a happy new year!
"He sounds like Yoda" Yes he does, because the same person voiced both characters, Frank Oz. He voiced a lot of the Muppet characters (including Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear - Fozziwig in the MCC - and other roles too, such as Yoda), but he has such a distincive voice, that he had a real problem making them sound "different", so you can nearly always tell if a character is being voiced by him.
I grew up with the VHS which was the version with the song "When Love is Gone." It had been absent from the dvd, bluray, and streaming version because the original print was lost at the time but I heard that it had been found last year and they were in the talks about having it scanned and added to the Disney+ version.
I had it on my DVD version for the standard definition version of the movie (not the widescreen/theatrical release). But I guess it was one of the few rare DVDs that even included it!
Yes, thank you for noticing. My Dad is angry at Disney for removing it, It was in the theatrical version which he took me and my brother to see for Christmas 1993 as toddlers, I can almost remember that scene from the theaters but why the hell would Disney remove it later? Is it too "adult" themed or something?
This is the best Christmas Carol ever, no other version comes close. The Muppets are absolute giants of family entertainment and make everything better just by existing within it.
This was the first major Muppet project after creator Jim Henson's death and Richard Hunt's death. Hunt was best known as the voice of Scooter. I think that's one reason why this film ended being more even sweet, heartfelt, life-embracing and emotional than your usual Muppet movie. Not just because Henson and Hunt were greatly missed. But because they were trying to keep the warmth and goodness of those people's hearts alive and strong. And the hearts of The Muppets alive and strong.
This is actually one of the most faithful adaptations too. Much of the dialogue is quotes from the book. One of the biggest changes is having 2 Marleys (Jacob is from the book, Robert... or Bob Marley, was added) so they could be Statler and Waldorf who sit in the theater balcony and mock each show like they did at Fozziwig's party. The costumes are amazingly detailed too, and accurately change with the times.
The Extended version includes the song Belle sings that is cut out in the regular version. I watch this multiple times every christmas season. I grew up watching the original Muppet Show in the 70s-80s.
The references at the end are definitely a very valid point for its inclusion in the story but I would argue that that particular song holds itself very repetitive, cloying and drives the progression of the story to a screeching halt for too long, if it had been cut in half I think it would have fit in perfectly but as it was it was just too much and I think the film is generally better without it
I was a child raised on the Muppets. I had all of the dolls that Fisher-Price made and watched everything with Jim Henson's name on it. I WAS and STILL AM a huge fan. Enjoy watching these guys. You will start out thinking they are puppets... but then they become real. That is the Muppet magic. They were always treated as real characters and they have real heart. You may have to have a box of tissues when watching this one. Merry Christmas.
It drives me nuts that Belle’s song isn’t in this version. It was always my favorite part. It’s a beautiful song and Michael Caine’s performance as he watches her sing is narratively important. I’m very glad that you reacted to it anyway. It’s still my favorite Christmas movie and an annual tradition for our family.
Exactly, when it cuts back to Gozno and Rizzo they are crying, in the DVD version you dont see what they are crying about. Oh i am starting to sound Scroogey now, help
I have an especially fond memory about this movie. When I was a kid, my mom worked as a church secretary. During the summer she would take my brother and me with her. While she worked in her office, the two of us sat in the pastor’s office across the hall and watched this movie on VHS over and over. Every time I watch this I go back to that cool tile floor, those creaking bargain store sofas, the roaring AC, and the dim lighting. Boyhood memories. ❤️🎄
The instant you said you've never seen a Muppet movie, i went from shock to horror to excitement! The Muppets mean the world to me and it was so great to watch this with you for your first time. Btw, Elmo is not part of the Muppets- he's a Sesame Street character. He's a muppet, just not one of THE Muppets. :) Man, I'm a nerd lol
Characters from _Sesame Street_ , _The Muppet Show_ / _Muppet Babies_ (1984 original & 2018 CGI reboot) / _Muppets Tonight_ / the mockumentary ABC Muppets series AND _Fraggle Rock_ are ALL part of the Muppet Family (even with the 3-way company split nowadays with the former Children's Television Workshop buying the _Sesame Street_ Muppets from the Jim Henson Company in 2001, Disney buying THE Muppets from the Jim Henson Company in 2004 & the Jim Henson Company retaining ownership over _Fraggle Rock_ as well as the non-Muppet "Creature Feature" brands [the cult classics _The Dark Crystal_ & its Netflix prequel series, _Labyrinth_ headlined by a 14-year-old Jennifer Connolly as Sarah & Glam Rocker icon David Bowie as Jareth the Goblin King, the science fiction epic _Farscape_ et al]). The "Big 3" (Sesame, Muppet & Fraggle) crossed over in 1987's _Muppet Family Christmas_ (which also featured one of creator Jim Henson's final appearances before he died in 1990).
And the Fraggles. All Jim Henson but technically not part of the Muppets. ALTHOUGH the Fraggles appear in the Muppets Christmas movie and sing Pass It On.
They sound like Yoda because Frank Oz was a Muppeteer and voice artist and he was Yoda and operated the Yoda puppet :) In the Muppets he was the voice of Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, and Sam Eagle
I'm *quite* late, but this is my favorite Christmas movie by a wide margin. It doesn't just do the source material justice, it knocks it into orbit, and on top of that Michael Caine is obviously having the time of his life. I'm glad to see people appreciating it.
This is my favorite Christmas movie! I grew up watching the VHS with Belle's song, When Love Is Gone, included. Unfortunately, that scene was lost before it could be restored on a widescreen format, HOWEVER... Someone at Disney's archives recently found the lost scene and surprised Brian Henson by showing it to him last year. With luck, we'll see an anniversary edition of the film next year with both versions of the film properly restored.
@@Novouto yep. Cause than Scrooge and everyone closing out the movie singing The Love We Found seems funny. I first found out when watching the movie on HBO Family a couple years back. I thought I dosed off but remembered I didn’t and than was like guess they cut it for time but realized it’s HBO. They don’t cut shit.
My beautiful wife of 30 years passed away 8 years ago now on December 1st 2014. For 30 years we watched this movie with our daughter and even after she had left home to start her own life we still watched it. My wife just loved all the songs and music and Michael Caines performance. Even after she lost her sight we would still watch it, she had seen it so many times she knew what every scene was. I am glad so many other people love this film it is special to me and I will watch it the rest of my life. I can close my eyes and imagine she's still right here with me. God bless us all and merry Christmas
And my wife of 25 years but together for 30 had past away from Pancreatic cancer in Oct. 2009 at the age of 48. Her favorite Christmas movie was "the bishops Wife" and the Muppet Christmas was a very close second place, enough so that she also knew all the words to all the songs. The only Woman, oops I mean Elf I've ever kissed. My 3 Kids still carry on all our Family Christmas traditions ( of which there are quite a few ) with their Families. A Very Merry Christmas to you my good sir.
This was always a family tradition. Every year, we would watch this movie. Sadly, I lost my mother in September, and can't make myself watch this movie, yet. Maybe on Christmas day. Merry Christmas to all
I'm a year late to seeing this... and am very happy now. As someone who knows The Muppets well, I LOVED watching your reaction to seeing them pretty much for the first time!
"The guy who played Scrooge." I couldn't decide whether to laugh or weep that you don't know Michael Caine, one of the finest film actors of the 20th century. Sir Michael has been nominated for Oscars six times winning twice, for _Hannah and Her Sisters_ and _The Cider House Rules._ I think you'd particularly enjoy his 1969 heist comedy _The Italian Job,_
@Elliot Nesterman Also great in ALFIE, THE MAN WHO WOULD BE KING, DEATHTRAP, MONA LISA, EDUCATING RITA (outside this, arguably his finest role), LITTLE VOICE and of course THE PRESTIGE alongside those you mentioned, among others.
One of the sweetest Christmas programs ever. Super soundtrack, amazing acting by Michael Caine. Definitely a family favorite. And whoever doesn't love the Muppets... Incomprehensible.
Frank Oz, the voice of Fozzie, Miss Piggy and Sam the Eagle, was the voice of Yoda. The Ghost of Christmas Present was inspired by Father Christmas, one of the inspirations for Santa.
The genius of this movie is the way it manages to make you just accept the characters without really giving much thought to them being puppets. Michael Caine's performance as Scrooge was awesome. For me, this was actually the best version of A Christmas Carol that has been made.
I don't think anything can compare to the 1951 Scrooge with Alistair Sim... that, to me, is the definitive Christmas Carol... I watch it every Christmas Eve as I wrap presents and get things ready for Santa:)
My dad feels exactly the same way about the Sim version. I think it's iconic, but was never my favorite. I appreciate the George C. Scott version, I love the Muppet version, and I like a number of the "looser" adaptations, like Scrooged, but I think the traditional version I am drawn to the most is the 1999 TNT made-for-TV film starring Patrick Stewart. If you've not seen it, it's worth checking out. It won't change your view of the Sim film - I feel there's an intimate connection we all have to our preferred version of the story - but it's one that you'll find worthy and entertaining.
@@matthintz9468 I think that everyone likes a different Scrooge also has to do with the emotions or memories you associate with the film. I actually like all versions of Scrooge so far, except the cartoon version with Jim Carrey.
@@matthintz9468 I grew up with the George C Scott version, but the Alastair Sim one is peerless. Taped it the other day and will watch it again this week. The Muppet one is sheer joy however from start to finish.
The Sim version was my favorite version at one point. This Muppet version is now my favorite. BUT, most of my life I preferred the 1984 George C. Scott version once it came out, with the Sim one being right behind it. Over time I started preferring the Sim version to the Scott one tho. But they are both neck-and-neck to me
I grew up with the Muppet Show and Muppet babies. I had never watched the Muppet Christmas Carroll as I never fancied the notion of a "Muppet version" of an existing story. I decided to give it a try so I could enjoy your reaction. I am pleased to say I have rarely been more wrong. This is now my favorite version of this story and in a large part it is because of the masterful performance of Michael Caine who took this role as seriously as if he was playing against regular actors. Brilliant.
I feelbthe best thing about the Muppets is how they do such a great job representing the cultural anthems of their decade and generations. From the original to the modern, you can see the changes. I love that they began to include classic stories like Dickens Christmas and Treasure Island. I hope they continue.
I really loved this movie as an adult more than when I was a child. It's profound and seamlessly even flawlessly put together. I really love Michael Caine who really IS Scrooge here. You can't compare this with Broadway versions or others because I really believe this one really is better that all those others I've seen. You should have seen this one as a child... I'm sad you didn't.
First Muppet movie I ever saw in the theater. I was 4. Saw it with my mom and my little sister and it's a very happy memory. This remains, to this day, one of my very favorite Christmas movies. I love the songs. Hearing Michael Caine (Scrooge) sing Thankful Heart is one of those things where it's not Christmas for me until I watch that scene or hear that song.
This is probably my 3rd favorite version of Christmas Carol - every year I watch about 5-6 versions. Michael Caine cannot sing, but he gives his all and he does give a solid performance as Scrooge.
My favorite Christmas movie, period! It's perfect! It's touching, and profound and also hilarious and funny! "Light the lamp, not the rat!" and "Thank you for making me a part of this experience.." are a part of my vocabulary year round! 🤣 I plan to watch it with my wife on Christmas Eve... Just one more sleep till Christmas 🎄 Merry Christmas!
20:04 This scene is sad for me because my late husband was named Tim and being parted from him was quite painful, even though I know I will see him again.
This is a classic! By the way, the spirit of Christmas present is Father Christmas from English folklore. Basically the traditional English version of Santa Claus, although nowadays they're one and the same. So you were basically right!
Yep. PAST = Angel. PRESENT = Father Christmas/Santa Claus. YET TO COME/FUTURE = Grim Reaper/Death. Basically, the 2 spirits that govern our lives until we die & the 3rd takes our soul to be judged by GOD & Satan, either sending us to paradise in Heaven, eternal damnation aflame in Hell or being stuck in the limbo that is Purgatory.
I absolutely love this movie, and Michael Caine's performance. I grew up with Sesame Street and The Muppets, and I'd really recommend watching Muppet Treasure Island next! That was my happy place movie as a kid, I had it on VHS and watched it pretty often growing up, it's a lot of fun!
I remember seeing this in the theater when it came out. Such a great movie, they don't make them like this anymore. It's not Christmas until you have seen this movie, Miracle on 34th Street (1947), It's a Wonderful Life (1946), Die Hard, and A Christmas Story.
The moment I found out you were going to watch this, it made my day. This is one of my best childhood memories and I watch it with my family every year. I'm glad you liked it. God bless you, Cassie. God bless us...everyone.
During the song "bless us all" there is a scene where it shows Scrooges’ face as he watches and listens, and Michael Caine appears to really be crying it’s great.
My absolute favourite thing about this film is Michael Caine’s performance. Director: “Okay, so it’s A Christmas Carol, but with Muppets, so… you know. Feel free to have fun with it. Be a little bit silly.” Michael Caine: “I am going to play this entire thing as serious as a car accident.”
This has been a constant in my holidays since the year it came out, when I was a child (was lucky enough to have the VHS version with Belle's song intact). Just about 30 years later, and I still get emotional every time, as I now I share it with my own little girls. Michael Caine insisted on playing it as if he was acting with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and it absolutely makes the film. The fact that it is arguably the most faithful adaptation of the book (with, as another youtube creator explained in a video, truly impeccable, Oscar worthy costuming), with an utterly charming soundtrack, makes it all the more magical. Thanks for giving it a try! Was a lovely experience, watching you discover what this film has to offer. Merry Christmas! 😀
I grew up with the George C. Scott performance of Scrooge, then the Muppets and then Sir Patrick Stewart. Sir Patrick's performance is something to behold!
I haven't seen this movie in probably at least 20 years, however I loved it when I was young. While it's definitely a little silly with the Muppets, one of the things that make it special is Michael Caine playing the movie completely straight.
In all honesty Muppets Christmas really is a great movie, but if you've never watched the og Miracle on 34th St you must. The scene where Chris talks with the Dutch girl gets me every time.
Cassie, this was a wonderful gift for me that you reacted to this movie! The Muppets are very very special to me. The Muppets first began in the late 1950's with a genius of a man named Jim Henson. He was only in his teens himself at the time. A local TV station in Washington D.C. was looking for a short little easy to produce show to air. Jim Henson came in with his idea of Muppets and started the show Sam and Friends. Kermit was a part of the show even then but his character was still being ironed out, he wasn't even called a frog yet. Sam and Friends was only on in Washington D.C. on that one station. My mother and her side of the family all grew up in D.C. and the D.C. suburbs. My mom was a teen herself then and her and my grandfather fell in love with Sam and Friends right from the start. I was born in 1975, just about the time The Muppet Show started. In 1978 we became one of the first families in the neighborhood to have a vcr, a Sony Betamax. My mom recorded all sorts of cartoons and kids specials for me to watch over and over. She also recorded The Muppet Show every week and those were my absolute favorite!!! I watched those tapes so many times I almost wore them out! I also loved Sesame Street and watched that every day. In 1979 The Muppet Movie came out. I loved it so much. My grandmother was so great, I kept asking to see it again and again and she would take me to the movies every Saturday to see it again while it was playing. As I grew up I stayed attached to the Muppets and Jim Henson following everything they did. From the other Muppet movies to Henson's experimental movies The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth, to the first live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. To the subsequent TV shows The Jim Henson Hour, The Storyteller, Fraggle Rock and the Muppet Babies. Also the Muppet specials, they made so many great ones!!! And half of them were Christmas specials. I highly highly highly recommend them!!! I think you would love A Muppet Family Christmas, Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas, and John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together. In 1990 a terrible thing happened. Jim Henson passed away. He was only in his fifties but he had a lingering cold and he continued working to exhaustion and neglected getting medical attention early enough. The cold turned into pneumonia and by the time he went to the hospital he was in too bad a shape and he died. I remember coming home from school that day and finding out. I felt like I had been gut punched hard! I couldn't believe it, it felt like I lost a family member. A few weeks later the people who worked with Jim and were almost as big a part of the Muppets as he was, made a tribute special. I was 15 at that time and I didn't think I was tough but I did think I was past being overly sensitive as.I was when younger. I remember watching the special. I was all by myself. When it got to the end *I was ugly crying* !!! It *hurt so bad* but at the same time *I was so touched* by this wonderful tribute special. The special was also the first time we got to see Kermit voiced and operated by someone who wasn't Jim. Kermit made only a brief appearance in the special, his voice was close but not quite right, but still it felt like even with Jim gone, Kermit lived on. This movie, A Muppet Christmas Carol, was the first movie they did after the death of Jim Henson. I think it was a wonderful choice to pick this story! Not only did they make a great movie but it was a statement the Muppets would all live on. The warm sentiment of the movie also felt like a healing balm to sooth the hurt from Jim's passing. Disney began to acquire The Muppets and The Jim Henson Company shortly before his passing. The projects they've put out since being owned by Disney have been a mixed bag. When people who had been with The Muppets since before Disney and/or someone who loved The Muppets and understood them, we usually got something pretty good to great (The Muppets 2011 movie, Muppets You Tube videos). But as corporate Disney takes more and more of hand in thing the projects don't turn out that well and the property suffers (Muppets Now). I more than highly recommend watching The Muppet Show, I supremely recommend it!!! The show is amazing, the writing, the music, the performances, the amazing guest stars...you get to see so many wonderful performers who are no longer with us (George Burns, Dom Deluise, Peter Sellers, Liberace to name a few) and other performers we thankfully still have but in their prime (Steve Martin, Elton John, Mark Hamil to name a few). I am so sorry for this way-too-long-comment! But I just felt a need to explain what The Muppets and Jim Henson has meant to me and how happy it made me to see you react to this movie! I sincerely hope you do check out other Muppet movies (and maybe even The Muppet Show and those specials). It's not the same as when you get into The Muppets as a kid, but I still believe there is so much to get out of them at any age! Thank you Cassie for all your wonderful videos, you are terrific!!! Warmest regards and have a very happy and joyous Christmas!!!
The wonderful soundtrack is by Paul Williams. He also did the music for "Phantom of the Paradise", "Bugsy Malone", and won an Oscar for co-writing Barbra Streisand's classic love song "Evergreen". He also wrote another Muppets song, the classic "Rainbow Connection", for the original "Muppet Movie". Great songwriter.
We watched this one for my Christmas party earlier this month by popular demand. I can't say it's my FAVORITE film rendition of A Christmas Carol ever - that belongs to the one starring Patrick Stewart as Scrooge - but it's certainly a delightful one. In fact nearly all the different adaptations have great value to them... though nothing will ever compare to the wonder and beauty of the original book. Speaking of which... Scrooge wasn't an orphan; he just had a father who didn't seem to care much about him (we never learn what happened to his mother). In fact, the only family member from his childhood who did care about him in the original novel was his little sister, who grew up to become his nephew's mother. In fact, after seeing her again during his vision of the past, Scrooge immediately regrets being so cross with his nephew, as he's pretty much all that's left of her. It's arguably the first sign that he's beginning to rethink his life choices.
Patrick Stewart's has probably the only far journey of the Ghost of Christmas present as told in the book. He visits a prison, a light house and a ship at sea. He's one of the happiest Scrooge's but doesn't do grumpy as well. George C. Scott is the reverse. Alistair Sim has all the range though.
It’s been years since I read the book. But I’m pretty sure the story is. Scrooge’s father resents him because Scrooges mother died while giving Birth to Scrooge. His sister Fan is the only person that ever loved him while he was growing up. But eventually Scrooges father mellows out in old age. Also Scrooge’s sister dies giving birth to his nephew, so Scrooge in turn resents his nephew. The pattern repeats itself. Scrooge realizes his resentment is wrong. There’s also a scene where Scrooge leaves upset from Fan’s deathbed believing she has died. But after he leaves she has one last breath of life and says “Ebeneezer, look after my boy”. He sees this when the ghost lets him see it. He cries, “forgive me Fan. Forgive me!!!”
@@pauljackson2473 Yep. Scrooge’s Dad resents him because his mother died while giving birth to him, and his sister, who shielded Ebenezer from his father’s abuse, died in childbirth, so Scrooge resents his nephew.
Every year we watch 30 odd Christmas Movies and 80 or so half hour Christmas specials. This is our favourite Christmas Carol and it has been part of our December for 25 years. Everyone must see it. Really glad you got to. Merry Christmas !!
I had this on VHS growing up and we would watch it all the time. I watch it every year now and it always makes me emotional since it reminds me of my childhood during Christmas time, plus Michael Caine does an amazing job. Looking forward to the 4k release where they will include "When Love is Gone" which was on the VHS version.
Michael Caine who played Scrooge is one of Britain's most successful and popular actors. Classic films he starred in include Zulu, Get Carter, Educating Rita, The ipcress file, Alfie, The man who would be king, Harry Brown, The Italian Job and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels as well as playing Alfred in The Christopher Nolan Batman trilogy.
Michael Caine, on Muppet Christmas Carol: “I'm going to play this movie like I’m working with the Royal Shakespeare Company. I will never wink, I will never do anything Muppety. I am going to play Scrooge as if it is an utterly dramatic role and there are no puppets around me.”
This is my must watch every year. Love it to bits and pieces, the soundtrack plays all season, it is THE Christmas movie for me. There is another version by the way - one where Belle has a song “When Love is Gone.” Owe it to yourself to track it down, just a little extra boost and covers your “Go after her!” thought. And between this and Die Hard, you’ve covered my Christmas. Except for Little Women from 1994. Add that, you have the trifecta.
The Muppets and their legacy is simply magic. It's an example of true creativity, free from the influence of greed. Should you get the chance the show "Fraggle Rock" is very good but everything they did while Jim Henson was still alive is simply magic. After he passed there was a gradual decline in quality but his influence will probably/hopefully never fade from the world. Another Jim Henson Xmas classic, though much sadder, is "Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas".
There is a great film "The Muppet Movie" (first one they ever made) about how the muppets met and made "The Muppet Show" - I still revisit that movie now and again. I still remember seeing it on the big screen in 1979.
Cassie is the best. I love how she's even trying to save the dammed. Barely and Marley. HILLLLLL...ARRRRRRR...IIIIIIII...OUS!!!!! HILARIOUS. Cassie finds new ways to make me laugh I didn't know was possible.
I believe this film teaches you how the spirit of love, giving, kindness, generosity, honesty, forgiveness, devotion and truth. Has great rewards of love, friendship, kindness, generosity and compassion for all people in such a way that cannot be explained but its a gift worth more than we know.
Michael Cane didn’t have to give his all for this movie, but he did. This movie holds such a dear place in my heart. Glad you watched it Cass!
The Muppets: You still haven’t given up on us, Michael.
Michael: Nevah.
Cain doesn't do "phone in" performances. That's why he was chosen for the role
@@jordanbolm8517 ehhhh Jaws 4
Michael Caine actually took on this role because his daughter was too young to see most of his other films at the time, and he had such a blast filming this that he actually considers this to be one of his favourite roles
@@roywilson4514 "I have never seen the film, and by all accounts it is terrible. However, I have seen the house that it built, and it is terrific."
11:43 "He sounds like Yoda." 12:08 "He sounds like Yoda, too!" Yep! Sam the Eagle and Fozzie Bear are two of the many muppets voiced by Frank Oz, just as Yoda was. 16:34 "Is a man voicing them?!?" Yep! "Yoda" provides the voice for Miss Piggy! 😝 He was also Bert, Cookie Monster, Grover, and Animal! (Frank Oz and Jim Henson were the two main voices for most of the Muppets for a very long time.)
Frank Oz does the voices of Yoda, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, Sam the Eagle. Seseme Street he does Cookie Monster, Bert and Grover. All the Muppet Christmas movies are in our annual festival but this one is our top favorite. Michael Caine did a fabulous job as Scrooge.
I hope she sees this. I wanna see her reaction to piggy and Yoda 🤣
@@mxnolis Same. This was the one comment I was looking for and thank you for making it.
Loved seeing him in Knives Out. Total treasure.
She recognized Frank's voice in Sam the Eagle but wasn't sure haha
Frank Oz did in the past, but since Disney wants nothing to do with Oz, he cannot perform them any more.
Caine's delivery of "Oh Spirit, must there come a Christmas that brings this awful scene?" still makes me tear up, even all these years later. Absolutely magnificent, that man.
This was the first Muppet movie to be made after the death of Jim Henson. As a result Kermit in this movie is portrayed by Steve Whitmire, who had worked a a a performer for the Muppets for 12 years, going all the way back to the original Muppet show when he was a teenager.
Then Disney fired him.
And Rizzo was never seen again.
Apparently Steve had a dream before doing this movie in which Jim spoke to him in a hotel lobby and assured him he would do fine.
Michael Cain gave his all to this role. He took it extremely serious and was fantastic. He's by far the best part of this movie, he made everything more real and alive, an absolutely underrated performance!
So true. A truly committed performance.
Michael Caine has never phoned in a performance in his life, not matter what movie he was in.
@@everforward5561 So true! He's brilliant!
Yes. He flat refused to perform the role with the usual goofiness you get with the Muppets. It really made the movie.
Supposedly, he would only agree to do it at all if he could play the part like he was in the Royal Shakespearean Theatre.
Rip Jim Henson. One of the first major Muppet productions after the world lost him. There will never be another
You maybe interested to know that it was his son Brain who directed this movie, in fact I believe that it was his debut.
In the book, young Ebenezer wasn't allowed to go home for the holidays, because his dad basically banished him from the house. It was his younger sister, Fran (Fred's mother) who finally convinced their father to relent and bring young Ebenezer home.
This was my mom's favorite Christmas movie. She passed away a few years ago, but I still watch it every year because it makes me feel like she's still here.
Oh I’m sorry for your loss, man
Thoughts at you man
I'm sorry for that. I can understand that very well! My grandma liked Scrooge with Bill Murray every year and we watch the film twice a year and always think about my grandma as well.
I lost my dad a couple of years back myself and I get that same feeling when I watch certain movies me and him loved to watch together. So, I totally understand. It's good to keep them in our hearts any way we can.
R.I.P. sorry for your loss 😢🙏
I've always felt that when Scrooge says he feels "light as a feather" at the end, that was the sensation of the ghostly chains falling free from his spirit.
Frank Oz, the puppeteer and voice of Yoda, was also a puppeteer and voice for The Muppets. He did the voices for Miss Piggy, Fozzie the Bear, Animal, and Sam Eagle (which would explain why he sounded like Yoda).
He was a founding member of Henson's Muppet troop.
He's also appeared in films
as other characters,
as well as directing films such as
1986's "Little Shop Of Horrors"
& the original 2007 version of
"Death At A Funeral".
@@nsasupporter7557 It's not easy being green.
There's a song missing from your version, "When Love Is Gone." Scrooge's fiance sings a song about how they're drifting apart and why she's leaving, and towards the end old Scrooge joins her in a duet, showing how much it still hurts him to remember it. It sucks that it was cut, it's an important moment for the character of Scrooge.
And it’s the same tune as the final song, which brings it full-circle.
I only watch the VHS version, because it is the one that hasn't had the song cut yet.
Apparently it'll be added to the Disney Plus version soon, they just weren't able to do it in time for this Christmas because of... reasons.
That song wrecks me every time!
It's also important because the last song in the movie is set to the same tune and, thus, adds a bit of closure to one of the saddest parts of the movie. Unfortunately, Disney decided to make it less sad by simply cutting the song, which drains "The Love We Found" of all of its meaning.
This is a fantastic movie and a surprisingly solid adaptation of Charles Dickens’s book. It’s the only film that tries to capture his narrative voice (Dickens often addresses the reader as if he’s sitting across from you telling the story.)
If you can, watch the 1951 adaptation starring Alastair Sim. No muppets, not much comedy, and not a musical, but still a really powerful and true adaptation of the story. It will warm you and touch you like a few other Christmas movies.
That is a point well made. Most people focus on how this is a fun adaptation, with songs that the whole family can enjoy, but it really does capture aspects of the book very well. The only other one that comes to mind, in terms of relating the narrative technique, is the Patrick Stewart version, where they put the discussion about "dead as a doornail" into a scene instead.
Alastair was a great actor.
Agreed, the 1951 version with Alastair Sims is the benchmark of this tale. Merry Christmas!
Alastair is probably one of the grumpiest and one of the happiest Scrooge's. Remember, Scrooge is the hero of A Christmas Carol.
That's my favorite version.
The 1st muppet movie, "THE MUPPET MOVIE". . . is probably the best of all, partly because of the cameos and partly because of the quality songs.
Love The Rainbow Connection as well as the version Debra Harry did with Kermit on the TV show.
The only problem with the cameos is that the actors were really well-known at the time; that is to say, nearly 45 years ago. It's unlikely that anyone under the age of 50 is going to have more than a passing familiarity with Dom DeLuise, Telly Sevalas, Paul Williams, or Edgar Bergen. But I 100% agree with you on the songs.
It's impossible not to love this movie. All the characters are great and Michael Caine is fantastic as Scrooge. One of the greatest ever Christmas movies
He deliberately choose to play it as if it was set by the Royal Shakespeare Company. The fact that he plays it 110% straight makes the movie works so well.
I have to admit that I like but don’t love this movie 😬
we've watched this movie for 22 years in a row in my family, and never get tired of it. It's the BEST version. You should find the deleted song "love is gone" that Belle sings. It was cut and never restored. It's a tear jerker, and explains why Rizzo was crying so abruptly at the end of Belle's farewell song.
I can’t believe this movie turns 30 this year!
It’s every bit as good as it has ever been!
This and Alistair Begg's version.
Good news for you all, they actually managed to recover the song and include it with the Disney+ release this year c:
@@ThatGuyHarvey that makes sense, because the old Disney Channel used to air the full uncut version back in the 90s.
"you never see their legs, just like mine!" 🤣🤣 This is a wholesome joy that brings be back each video
Thankfully I wasn’t drinking anything when she said that. I would’ve spit all over my phone.
So Cassie is a muppet? I can see that 😆
During "The Muppet Movie" (the first one!) we got to see Kermit's legs -- riding a bicycle! It was a treat! Kermi's my favourite Muppet. But miss Jim Henson's voice. No one could take his place.
Scrooge is an example that it's never too late to redeem yourself, shatter the shell, or thaw out the cold heart!
Happy you enjoyed the film! I was once a Muppet performer, I worked on 'Muppets From Space.' Brings joy to my heart whenever I see someone discover the magic of the Muppets. Happy Holidays!
This is my favorite version of the Christmas carol, it is just the right blend of dark, and love to teach a lesson and make you smile with love. Plus the songs are amazing.
For almost 20 years now my wife and I have watched this movie every year to kick off the Christmas season! It is by far our favorite Christmas movie and a "must have" tradition in our home. We finally just watched it with our 6 year old and she loved it too!
Good that you waited, Disney finally restored the extra song with Scrooge's fiance - without it the film lacks a large amount of the emotional foundation.
it's a must watch for sure. and you gotta love those bookeeping rats, sorry mice.
Christmas is my favourite holiday for sure. In Germany I remember walking through the warm Christmas markets while snow touched my skin, and buying small wooden toys and carvings for family and friends and wrapping them in the last minute. Then the neighbor's friends and family would all meet in one house. (Usually my Grandparents or my parents.) And when I walked in I handed the presents to the people I bought them for by hand. And they would open in front of me and right after give me a hug. Then wed laugh drink and sing till Christmas morning.
Now I'm in New Zealand.
Here there is no snow or true Christmas market. And the Christmas partys are celebrated at the beach with a big bbq and a nice swim.
And the presents we give here are usually beer and wine.
I found it very interesting and nice at first but I'm starting to miss my family and home back in the fatherland.
Not sure if I'll ever go back... but if I do go back it will have to be at Christmas.
Frohe Weinachten! (Merry Christmas!) Stay safe guys, and have a happy new year!
We're the same, and yes near 20 years too :). I love how she laughed out loud :).
@@lalangner2253 Christmas as we know it comes from German traditions. So Xmas in Germany will feel like its on steriods.
"He sounds like Yoda" Yes he does, because the same person voiced both characters, Frank Oz. He voiced a lot of the Muppet characters (including Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear - Fozziwig in the MCC - and other roles too, such as Yoda), but he has such a distincive voice, that he had a real problem making them sound "different", so you can nearly always tell if a character is being voiced by him.
I grew up with the VHS which was the version with the song "When Love is Gone." It had been absent from the dvd, bluray, and streaming version because the original print was lost at the time but I heard that it had been found last year and they were in the talks about having it scanned and added to the Disney+ version.
Film isn't the same without that song in it. It doesn't work!
I always wonder why it wasn't in the movie on it and dvd.
I hope so!
I had it on my DVD version for the standard definition version of the movie (not the widescreen/theatrical release). But I guess it was one of the few rare DVDs that even included it!
Yes, thank you for noticing. My Dad is angry at Disney for removing it, It was in the theatrical version which he took me and my brother to see for Christmas 1993 as toddlers, I can almost remember that scene from the theaters but why the hell would Disney remove it later? Is it too "adult" themed or something?
This is the best Christmas Carol ever, no other version comes close. The Muppets are absolute giants of family entertainment and make everything better just by existing within it.
This was the first major Muppet project after creator Jim Henson's death and Richard Hunt's death. Hunt was best known as the voice of Scooter. I think that's one reason why this film ended being more even sweet, heartfelt, life-embracing and emotional than your usual Muppet movie. Not just because Henson and Hunt were greatly missed. But because they were trying to keep the warmth and goodness of those people's hearts alive and strong. And the hearts of The Muppets alive and strong.
This is actually one of the most faithful adaptations too. Much of the dialogue is quotes from the book. One of the biggest changes is having 2 Marleys (Jacob is from the book, Robert... or Bob Marley, was added) so they could be Statler and Waldorf who sit in the theater balcony and mock each show like they did at Fozziwig's party. The costumes are amazingly detailed too, and accurately change with the times.
The Extended version includes the song Belle sings that is cut out in the regular version. I watch this multiple times every christmas season. I grew up watching the original Muppet Show in the 70s-80s.
I feel it's a vital part of the film. It makes the reprise (the love we found) so much more poignant.
This song is vital because they play it again with different lyrics in the final scene.
The references at the end are definitely a very valid point for its inclusion in the story but I would argue that that particular song holds itself very repetitive, cloying and drives the progression of the story to a screeching halt for too long, if it had been cut in half I think it would have fit in perfectly but as it was it was just too much and I think the film is generally better without it
I was a child raised on the Muppets. I had all of the dolls that Fisher-Price made and watched everything with Jim Henson's name on it. I WAS and STILL AM a huge fan. Enjoy watching these guys. You will start out thinking they are puppets... but then they become real. That is the Muppet magic. They were always treated as real characters and they have real heart. You may have to have a box of tissues when watching this one. Merry Christmas.
It drives me nuts that Belle’s song isn’t in this version. It was always my favorite part. It’s a beautiful song and Michael Caine’s performance as he watches her sing is narratively important. I’m very glad that you reacted to it anyway. It’s still my favorite Christmas movie and an annual tradition for our family.
Exactly, when it cuts back to Gozno and Rizzo they are crying, in the DVD version you dont see what they are crying about. Oh i am starting to sound Scroogey now, help
I have an especially fond memory about this movie. When I was a kid, my mom worked as a church secretary. During the summer she would take my brother and me with her. While she worked in her office, the two of us sat in the pastor’s office across the hall and watched this movie on VHS over and over. Every time I watch this I go back to that cool tile floor, those creaking bargain store sofas, the roaring AC, and the dim lighting. Boyhood memories. ❤️🎄
"His heart is slowly dethawing, I think." Brilliant summary of the whole story.
Except that to "dethaw" something you would have to freeze it wait for it to thaw then freeze it again.
@@platinumspider7859 No one likes a pedant...
The instant you said you've never seen a Muppet movie, i went from shock to horror to excitement! The Muppets mean the world to me and it was so great to watch this with you for your first time. Btw, Elmo is not part of the Muppets- he's a Sesame Street character. He's a muppet, just not one of THE Muppets. :) Man, I'm a nerd lol
Characters from _Sesame Street_ , _The Muppet Show_ / _Muppet Babies_ (1984 original & 2018 CGI reboot) / _Muppets Tonight_ / the mockumentary ABC Muppets series AND _Fraggle Rock_ are ALL part of the Muppet Family (even with the 3-way company split nowadays with the former Children's Television Workshop buying the _Sesame Street_ Muppets from the Jim Henson Company in 2001, Disney buying THE Muppets from the Jim Henson Company in 2004 & the Jim Henson Company retaining ownership over _Fraggle Rock_ as well as the non-Muppet "Creature Feature" brands [the cult classics _The Dark Crystal_ & its Netflix prequel series, _Labyrinth_ headlined by a 14-year-old Jennifer Connolly as Sarah & Glam Rocker icon David Bowie as Jareth the Goblin King, the science fiction epic _Farscape_ et al]).
The "Big 3" (Sesame, Muppet & Fraggle) crossed over in 1987's _Muppet Family Christmas_ (which also featured one of creator Jim Henson's final appearances before he died in 1990).
No need to apologize! I'm a Muppet nerd too - and proud of it! We need to wear that badge with pride!!
And the Fraggles. All Jim Henson but technically not part of the Muppets. ALTHOUGH the Fraggles appear in the Muppets Christmas movie and sing Pass It On.
@@borochifox YES!!! I loved that one so much - they need to put it on dvd!!
It’s a heartwarming movie. I think it’s one of the best Christmas Carol adaptations if not the best
My favorite version of the Christmas Carol. Simply kills it on all levels. Every year, this is the first Christmas movie I watch. It's just so good.
They sound like Yoda because Frank Oz was a Muppeteer and voice artist and he was Yoda and operated the Yoda puppet :)
In the Muppets he was the voice of Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, and Sam Eagle
I'm *quite* late, but this is my favorite Christmas movie by a wide margin. It doesn't just do the source material justice, it knocks it into orbit, and on top of that Michael Caine is obviously having the time of his life. I'm glad to see people appreciating it.
This is my favorite Christmas movie!
I grew up watching the VHS with Belle's song, When Love Is Gone, included. Unfortunately, that scene was lost before it could be restored on a widescreen format, HOWEVER... Someone at Disney's archives recently found the lost scene and surprised Brian Henson by showing it to him last year. With luck, we'll see an anniversary edition of the film next year with both versions of the film properly restored.
We want the scene restored. But I feel she'd be a wreck were it included
@@bemasaberwyn55 yep. She will. Hell I was.
I was so pissed when I found out it was cut. That song is integral to the movie.
@@Novouto yep. Cause than Scrooge and everyone closing out the movie singing The Love We Found seems funny. I first found out when watching the movie on HBO Family a couple years back. I thought I dosed off but remembered I didn’t and than was like guess they cut it for time but realized it’s HBO. They don’t cut shit.
That song absolutely destroys me lol
My beautiful wife of 30 years passed away 8 years ago now on December 1st 2014. For 30 years we watched this movie with our daughter and even after she had left home to start her own life we still watched it. My wife just loved all the songs and music and Michael Caines performance. Even after she lost her sight we would still watch it, she had seen it so many times she knew what every scene was. I am glad so many other people love this film it is special to me and I will watch it the rest of my life. I can close my eyes and imagine she's still right here with me. God bless us all and merry Christmas
And my wife of 25 years but together for 30 had past away from Pancreatic cancer in Oct. 2009 at the age of 48. Her favorite Christmas movie was "the bishops Wife" and the Muppet Christmas was a very close second place, enough so that she also knew all the words to all the songs. The only Woman, oops I mean Elf I've ever kissed. My 3 Kids still carry on all our Family Christmas traditions ( of which there are quite a few ) with their Families. A Very Merry Christmas to you my good sir.
This was always a family tradition. Every year, we would watch this movie. Sadly, I lost my mother in September, and can't make myself watch this movie, yet.
Maybe on Christmas day. Merry Christmas to all
I'm a year late to seeing this... and am very happy now. As someone who knows The Muppets well, I LOVED watching your reaction to seeing them pretty much for the first time!
"The guy who played Scrooge." I couldn't decide whether to laugh or weep that you don't know Michael Caine, one of the finest film actors of the 20th century.
Sir Michael has been nominated for Oscars six times winning twice, for _Hannah and Her Sisters_ and _The Cider House Rules._ I think you'd particularly enjoy his 1969 heist comedy _The Italian Job,_
"You were only supposed to blow the bloody doors off" !!!
Surprised that she hasn't reacted to Nolan's Batman trilogy as well.
@Elliot Nesterman
Also great in ALFIE, THE MAN WHO WOULD BE KING, DEATHTRAP, MONA LISA, EDUCATING RITA (outside this, arguably his finest role), LITTLE VOICE and of course THE PRESTIGE alongside those you mentioned, among others.
His comedic work is also top-notch. I personally will never forget "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," "Without A Clue" and "Austin Powers: Goldmember"
Loved Hannah and Her Sisters & loved him in it. Are we still allowed to watch Woody Allen films?
One of the sweetest Christmas programs ever. Super soundtrack, amazing acting by Michael Caine. Definitely a family favorite. And whoever doesn't love the Muppets... Incomprehensible.
Frank Oz, the voice of Fozzie, Miss Piggy and Sam the Eagle, was the voice of Yoda.
The Ghost of Christmas Present was inspired by Father Christmas, one of the inspirations for Santa.
We still call 'santa' Father Christmas here in England :)
Not only the voice, he was also the puppeteer for all of them.
@@tomorrowsclassic505 True, but it's a bit of a fossil. The "real" Father Christmas had a laurel wreath on his head.
The genius of this movie is the way it manages to make you just accept the characters without really giving much thought to them being puppets. Michael Caine's performance as Scrooge was awesome. For me, this was actually the best version of A Christmas Carol that has been made.
"And the guy who played Scrooge... he did so good... " really made me smile.
That's almost like "The guy that brings the presents... he's so nice" ;-)
Michael Caine has literally been in every movie ever made.
My mom loves this movie, she watches it every Christmas Eve, because the song “One more sleep till Christmas” hits so much harder
I don't think anything can compare to the 1951 Scrooge with Alistair Sim... that, to me, is the definitive Christmas Carol... I watch it every Christmas Eve as I wrap presents and get things ready for Santa:)
My dad feels exactly the same way about the Sim version. I think it's iconic, but was never my favorite. I appreciate the George C. Scott version, I love the Muppet version, and I like a number of the "looser" adaptations, like Scrooged, but I think the traditional version I am drawn to the most is the 1999 TNT made-for-TV film starring Patrick Stewart. If you've not seen it, it's worth checking out. It won't change your view of the Sim film - I feel there's an intimate connection we all have to our preferred version of the story - but it's one that you'll find worthy and entertaining.
@@matthintz9468 I think that everyone likes a different Scrooge also has to do with the emotions or memories you associate with the film. I actually like all versions of Scrooge so far, except the cartoon version with Jim Carrey.
@@matthintz9468 I grew up with the George C Scott version, but the Alastair Sim one is peerless. Taped it the other day and will watch it again this week. The Muppet one is sheer joy however from start to finish.
The Sim version was my favorite version at one point. This Muppet version is now my favorite. BUT, most of my life I preferred the 1984 George C. Scott version once it came out, with the Sim one being right behind it. Over time I started preferring the Sim version to the Scott one tho. But they are both neck-and-neck to me
Do you like Tom Petty?
I grew up with the Muppet Show and Muppet babies. I had never watched the Muppet Christmas Carroll as I never fancied the notion of a "Muppet version" of an existing story. I decided to give it a try so I could enjoy your reaction. I am pleased to say I have rarely been more wrong. This is now my favorite version of this story and in a large part it is because of the masterful performance of Michael Caine who took this role as seriously as if he was playing against regular actors. Brilliant.
I feelbthe best thing about the Muppets is how they do such a great job representing the cultural anthems of their decade and generations. From the original to the modern, you can see the changes. I love that they began to include classic stories like Dickens Christmas and Treasure Island. I hope they continue.
The Muppets Treasure Island is seriously one of my favorite films. Tim Curry, Billy Connolly, Jennifer Saunders. What a great cast.
“I love Christmas Eve night, maybe even better than Christmas morning.”
I think I just found my soulmate!
I really loved this movie as an adult more than when I was a child. It's profound and seamlessly even flawlessly put together. I really love Michael Caine who really IS Scrooge here. You can't compare this with Broadway versions or others because I really believe this one really is better that all those others I've seen. You should have seen this one as a child... I'm sad you didn't.
I grew up on the muppets, both movies and the show. Warm place in my heart. A recent movie of theirs, The Muppets Most Wanted, is actually really good
I never expected so much of a Muppet movie to take place in a gulag...
So excited for this one! It was a staple of my childhood that I still watch every year.
"You never see their legs. Just like mine."
I knew it! She's a muppet! She admitted it! It's on record!
First Muppet movie I ever saw in the theater. I was 4. Saw it with my mom and my little sister and it's a very happy memory. This remains, to this day, one of my very favorite Christmas movies. I love the songs. Hearing Michael Caine (Scrooge) sing Thankful Heart is one of those things where it's not Christmas for me until I watch that scene or hear that song.
That's awesome!
This was absolutely wonderful, you and the muppets were made for each other, so adorable 🥰👏🥳🧑🎄🎄
This is probably my 3rd favorite version of Christmas Carol - every year I watch about 5-6 versions. Michael Caine cannot sing, but he gives his all and he does give a solid performance as Scrooge.
Watch the extended version. This is by far the best and most faithful retelling of A Christmas Carol to appear on screen.
My favorite Christmas movie, period!
It's perfect! It's touching, and profound and also hilarious and funny!
"Light the lamp, not the rat!" and "Thank you for making me a part of this experience.." are a part of my vocabulary year round! 🤣
I plan to watch it with my wife on Christmas Eve...
Just one more sleep till Christmas 🎄
Merry Christmas!
John Williams wrote all of the wonderful original music in the Muppet movies. They are all so lovely!
There was a song they cut out the dvd version, when Belle leaves Scrooge there's a song called "the love is gone", its a tear jerker
Actually, the one dvd version I have keeps that song in.
@@brianrogers7360 damn bro you're lucky, i have the original vhs version and the dvd, I'll never understand why they removed it
20:04 This scene is sad for me because my late husband was named Tim and being parted from him was quite painful, even though I know I will see him again.
This is a classic! By the way, the spirit of Christmas present is Father Christmas from English folklore. Basically the traditional English version of Santa Claus, although nowadays they're one and the same. So you were basically right!
Yep. PAST = Angel. PRESENT = Father Christmas/Santa Claus. YET TO COME/FUTURE = Grim Reaper/Death. Basically, the 2 spirits that govern our lives until we die & the 3rd takes our soul to be judged by GOD & Satan, either sending us to paradise in Heaven, eternal damnation aflame in Hell or being stuck in the limbo that is Purgatory.
I absolutely love this movie, and Michael Caine's performance. I grew up with Sesame Street and The Muppets, and I'd really recommend watching Muppet Treasure Island next! That was my happy place movie as a kid, I had it on VHS and watched it pretty often growing up, it's a lot of fun!
This movie is a Christmas Day tradition. My daughters and I watch it while eating orange Danish rolls. They are 38 and 26, BTW. :)
Recipe for those rolls, please!
@@jonjohns65 Sorry to disappoint; they're the Pillsbury brand in the popping tube. :)
@@wiccantexan no disappoint! I love those orange rolls!
how fun would it be if we all shared our favourite recipes!! haha :)
@@PopcornInBed don't even get me started!!! Let's do a Superbowl week party treats recipe exchange!?
I remember seeing this in the theater when it came out. Such a great movie, they don't make them like this anymore. It's not Christmas until you have seen this movie, Miracle on 34th Street (1947), It's a Wonderful Life (1946), Die Hard, and A Christmas Story.
The moment I found out you were going to watch this, it made my day. This is one of my best childhood memories and I watch it with my family every year. I'm glad you liked it. God bless you, Cassie. God bless us...everyone.
My son & I shared this movie from the time he was a littlie boy, we would sing the songs together. I long for those days, a simple & sweet time.
I love that you find these specialized letter fonts for each movie! Very cool.
Thanks to Mike, the editor, who is from the U.K. and does an amazing job for the channel!
During the song "bless us all" there is a scene where it shows Scrooges’ face as he watches and listens, and Michael Caine appears to really be crying
it’s great.
Of all the movie adaptations of "A Christmas Carol" this one is my favorite version so far.
My absolute favourite thing about this film is Michael Caine’s performance.
Director: “Okay, so it’s A Christmas Carol, but with Muppets, so… you know. Feel free to have fun with it. Be a little bit silly.”
Michael Caine: “I am going to play this entire thing as serious as a car accident.”
This has been a constant in my holidays since the year it came out, when I was a child (was lucky enough to have the VHS version with Belle's song intact). Just about 30 years later, and I still get emotional every time, as I now I share it with my own little girls.
Michael Caine insisted on playing it as if he was acting with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and it absolutely makes the film.
The fact that it is arguably the most faithful adaptation of the book (with, as another youtube creator explained in a video, truly impeccable, Oscar worthy costuming), with an utterly charming soundtrack, makes it all the more magical.
Thanks for giving it a try! Was a lovely experience, watching you discover what this film has to offer. Merry Christmas! 😀
I grew up with the George C. Scott performance of Scrooge, then the Muppets and then Sir Patrick Stewart. Sir Patrick's performance is something to behold!
Not gonna lie, this is almost definitely my favorite Christmas Carol adaptation!
This is one of my favorite movies of all time! Not even just for Christmas
I haven't seen this movie in probably at least 20 years, however I loved it when I was young. While it's definitely a little silly with the Muppets, one of the things that make it special is Michael Caine playing the movie completely straight.
Greatest Christmas movie hands down, so glad you liked it Cassie.
16:45 when it squeak happens I always laugh. Don’t know what she’s grabbing but the noise and her reaction always cracks me up
My girls and I watched this movie every year while we set up the Christmas tree. It still brings tears to my eyes!
In all honesty Muppets Christmas really is a great movie, but if you've never watched the og Miracle on 34th St you must. The scene where Chris talks with the Dutch girl gets me every time.
@@Caseytify oh I like the remake also, but the original does it better imo.
Every Christmas this film is a must 👍❤ childhood Gem.
Cassie, this was a wonderful gift for me that you reacted to this movie!
The Muppets are very very special to me.
The Muppets first began in the late 1950's with a genius of a man named Jim Henson. He was only in his teens himself at the time.
A local TV station in Washington D.C. was looking for a short little easy to produce show to air. Jim Henson came in with his idea of Muppets and started the show Sam and Friends. Kermit was a part of the show even then but his character was still being ironed out, he wasn't even called a frog yet.
Sam and Friends was only on in Washington D.C. on that one station.
My mother and her side of the family all grew up in D.C. and the D.C. suburbs. My mom was a teen herself then and her and my grandfather fell in love with Sam and Friends right from the start.
I was born in 1975, just about the time The Muppet Show started. In 1978 we became one of the first families in the neighborhood to have a vcr, a Sony Betamax.
My mom recorded all sorts of cartoons and kids specials for me to watch over and over. She also recorded The Muppet Show every week and those were my absolute favorite!!! I watched those tapes so many times I almost wore them out!
I also loved Sesame Street and watched that every day.
In 1979 The Muppet Movie came out. I loved it so much. My grandmother was so great, I kept asking to see it again and again and she would take me to the movies every Saturday to see it again while it was playing.
As I grew up I stayed attached to the Muppets and Jim Henson following everything they did. From the other Muppet movies to Henson's experimental movies The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth, to the first live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. To the subsequent TV shows The Jim Henson Hour, The Storyteller, Fraggle Rock and the Muppet Babies.
Also the Muppet specials, they made so many great ones!!! And half of them were Christmas specials.
I highly highly highly recommend them!!!
I think you would love A Muppet Family Christmas, Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas, and John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together.
In 1990 a terrible thing happened. Jim Henson passed away. He was only in his fifties but he had a lingering cold and he continued working to exhaustion and neglected getting medical attention early enough. The cold turned into pneumonia and by the time he went to the hospital he was in too bad a shape and he died.
I remember coming home from school that day and finding out. I felt like I had been gut punched hard! I couldn't believe it, it felt like I lost a family member.
A few weeks later the people who worked with Jim and were almost as big a part of the Muppets as he was, made a tribute special.
I was 15 at that time and I didn't think I was tough but I did think I was past being overly sensitive as.I was when younger.
I remember watching the special. I was all by myself. When it got to the end *I was ugly crying* !!! It *hurt so bad* but at the same time *I was so touched* by this wonderful tribute special. The special was also the first time we got to see Kermit voiced and operated by someone who wasn't Jim. Kermit made only a brief appearance in the special, his voice was close but not quite right, but still it felt like even with Jim gone, Kermit lived on.
This movie, A Muppet Christmas Carol, was the first movie they did after the death of Jim Henson. I think it was a wonderful choice to pick this story! Not only did they make a great movie but it was a statement the Muppets would all live on. The warm sentiment of the movie also felt like a healing balm to sooth the hurt from Jim's passing.
Disney began to acquire The Muppets and The Jim Henson Company shortly before his passing.
The projects they've put out since being owned by Disney have been a mixed bag. When people who had been with The Muppets since before Disney and/or someone who loved The Muppets and understood them, we usually got something pretty good to great (The Muppets 2011 movie, Muppets You Tube videos). But as corporate Disney takes more and more of hand in thing the projects don't turn out that well and the property suffers (Muppets Now).
I more than highly recommend watching The Muppet Show, I supremely recommend it!!!
The show is amazing, the writing, the music, the performances, the amazing guest stars...you get to see so many wonderful performers who are no longer with us (George Burns, Dom Deluise, Peter Sellers, Liberace to name a few) and other performers we thankfully still have but in their prime (Steve Martin, Elton John, Mark Hamil to name a few).
I am so sorry for this way-too-long-comment! But I just felt a need to explain what The Muppets and Jim Henson has meant to me and how happy it made me to see you react to this movie!
I sincerely hope you do check out other Muppet movies (and maybe even The Muppet Show and those specials). It's not the same as when you get into The Muppets as a kid, but I still believe there is so much to get out of them at any age!
Thank you Cassie for all your wonderful videos, you are terrific!!!
Warmest regards and have a very happy and joyous Christmas!!!
The wonderful soundtrack is by Paul Williams. He also did the music for "Phantom of the Paradise", "Bugsy Malone", and won an Oscar for co-writing Barbra Streisand's classic love song "Evergreen". He also wrote another Muppets song, the classic "Rainbow Connection", for the original "Muppet Movie". Great songwriter.
We watched this one for my Christmas party earlier this month by popular demand. I can't say it's my FAVORITE film rendition of A Christmas Carol ever - that belongs to the one starring Patrick Stewart as Scrooge - but it's certainly a delightful one. In fact nearly all the different adaptations have great value to them... though nothing will ever compare to the wonder and beauty of the original book.
Speaking of which... Scrooge wasn't an orphan; he just had a father who didn't seem to care much about him (we never learn what happened to his mother). In fact, the only family member from his childhood who did care about him in the original novel was his little sister, who grew up to become his nephew's mother. In fact, after seeing her again during his vision of the past, Scrooge immediately regrets being so cross with his nephew, as he's pretty much all that's left of her. It's arguably the first sign that he's beginning to rethink his life choices.
Patrick Stewart's has probably the only far journey of the Ghost of Christmas present as told in the book. He visits a prison, a light house and a ship at sea. He's one of the happiest Scrooge's but doesn't do grumpy as well. George C. Scott is the reverse. Alistair Sim has all the range though.
I agree. The Patrick Stewart one is my favorite, too.
It’s been years since I read the book. But I’m pretty sure the story is. Scrooge’s father resents him because Scrooges mother died while giving Birth to Scrooge. His sister Fan is the only person that ever loved him while he was growing up. But eventually Scrooges father mellows out in old age.
Also Scrooge’s sister dies giving birth to his nephew, so Scrooge in turn resents his nephew. The pattern repeats itself. Scrooge realizes his resentment is wrong. There’s also a scene where Scrooge leaves upset from Fan’s deathbed believing she has died. But after he leaves she has one last breath of life and says “Ebeneezer, look after my boy”. He sees this when the ghost lets him see it. He cries, “forgive me Fan. Forgive me!!!”
@@pauljackson2473 Yep. Scrooge’s Dad resents him because his mother died while giving birth to him, and his sister, who shielded Ebenezer from his father’s abuse, died in childbirth, so Scrooge resents his nephew.
The tunes by Paul Williams are just so damn catchy. He's also the guy that wrote "Rainbow Connection" and tons of other pop hits.
After a year of Pulp Fiction, The Shining and Predator, this is a welcome palate cleanser.
She needed a break
@@coyotefever105 ... and then on to John Carpenter's "The Thing" January 1, 2022!
Every year we watch 30 odd Christmas Movies and 80 or so half hour Christmas specials.
This is our favourite Christmas Carol and it has been part of our December for 25 years. Everyone must see it. Really glad you got to.
Merry Christmas !!
I had this on VHS growing up and we would watch it all the time. I watch it every year now and it always makes me emotional since it reminds me of my childhood during Christmas time, plus Michael Caine does an amazing job. Looking forward to the 4k release where they will include "When Love is Gone" which was on the VHS version.
Michael Caine who played Scrooge is one of Britain's most successful and popular actors. Classic films he starred in include Zulu, Get Carter, Educating Rita, The ipcress file, Alfie, The man who would be king, Harry Brown, The Italian Job and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels as well as playing Alfred in The Christopher Nolan Batman trilogy.
“You never see their legs, kinda like mine”
Cassie is a muppet, confirmed.
i had a feeling..
~cue _Man (or Woman) OR Muppet_ from the 2011 movie~
The Muppets are iconic. The Muppet Show and the original Muppet movie are the my favs
If you enjoyed this, then I hope you will look forward to more Muppet movies!
Michael Caine, on Muppet Christmas Carol: “I'm going to play this movie like I’m working with the Royal Shakespeare Company. I will never wink, I will never do anything Muppety. I am going to play Scrooge as if it is an utterly dramatic role and there are no puppets around me.”
This is my must watch every year. Love it to bits and pieces, the soundtrack plays all season, it is THE Christmas movie for me.
There is another version by the way - one where Belle has a song “When Love is Gone.” Owe it to yourself to track it down, just a little extra boost and covers your “Go after her!” thought.
And between this and Die Hard, you’ve covered my Christmas. Except for Little Women from 1994. Add that, you have the trifecta.
A Muppet Family Christmas is another fantastic Christmas special from them where you get a lot more Muppet comedy.
The Muppets and their legacy is simply magic. It's an example of true creativity, free from the influence of greed. Should you get the chance the show "Fraggle Rock" is very good but everything they did while Jim Henson was still alive is simply magic. After he passed there was a gradual decline in quality but his influence will probably/hopefully never fade from the world. Another Jim Henson Xmas classic, though much sadder, is "Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas".
she also needs to see the old Wilkin's Coffee commercials, it was Henson's first televised work
I find Emmet otter even better than Muppet Christmas Carol, but I saw it when I was very young and impressionable.
There is a great film "The Muppet Movie" (first one they ever made) about how the muppets met and made "The Muppet Show" - I still revisit that movie now and again. I still remember seeing it on the big screen in 1979.
Cassie is the best. I love how she's even trying to save the dammed. Barely and Marley.
HILLLLLL...ARRRRRRR...IIIIIIII...OUS!!!!! HILARIOUS. Cassie finds new ways to make me laugh I didn't know was possible.
I believe this film teaches you how the spirit of love, giving, kindness, generosity, honesty, forgiveness, devotion and truth. Has great rewards of love, friendship, kindness, generosity and compassion for all people in such a way that cannot be explained but its a gift worth more than we know.