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There is something very alluring about a well-crafted villain, and there is something even more alluring about stories that focus mainly on them. That is perhaps one of the reasons why the story of The Grinch, and how he stole Christmas, has been so popular to the point where it has been re-depicted throughout the years. But, when the intrigue of the Grinch’s villainy is withered down to a sprinkle, will the audience’s intrigue dwindle?

The Grinch is based on Dr. Seuss’s book of rhymes “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and some of the rhymes are used throughout the film as narration to the story. The plot follows the mean and green Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch) who lives all alone outside Whoville, and hates Christmas so much he decides to end it once and for all. With his faithful dog Max and a reindeer called Fred, the Grinch dresses up as Santa Claus and goes house to house stealing Christmas gifts and decorations. But, at the last house the Grinch runs into Cindy-Lou Who (Cameron Seely), a young girl with the warmest heart. Cindy-Lou had devised a plan to capture Santa Claus to ask for the most selfless of wishes, and instead captures the Grinch. Can her warmth melt the Grinch’s icy heart?

If you know anything about the original story, you’ll know the answer, as the plot doesn’t stray too far from that story. However, the film was able to capture joy, warmth, laughter, and give audiences the old story they all loved and cherished, in the form of an animated feature adapted for the audiences of today.

The Grinch’s visuals were also very noteworthy, with great attention to detail in Whoville’s jolly Christmas decorations, a beautifully vivid colour palette throughout the animation, and Whoville citizens who are perfectly and authentically Seussian.

Where the film disappoints for older audiences is the Grinch’s mean streak. If you are going to go mean you might as well go big or go home, but the filmmakers depict the Grinch as grumpy, wounded soul rather than a full-on devious storm. This takes away so much potential from the film. By playing it safe in that aspect, the film turned from a “could be unforgettable Christmas classic” to “a nice, one-time watch feature.”

However, Benedict Cumberbatch voiced his role perfectly as the Grinch, and made sure to show both his vulnerable side as well as his evil side. Cameron Seely was also able to give her character the warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm needed to break down the Grinch’s cynicism, all with her voice.

The Grinch is a nice watch; you will definitely get a laugh here and there, you will reminisce on an old story you know so well, and if you have young kids, they will probably enjoy it. It may not be unforgettable but, for the here and now, its sweet, funny, and Christmassy.