Ok adaptation of this classic tale that closely followed the basic Dickens plot, but the modernized dialog was definitely a distraction. Also, the contrast between the bleak emotions in the first part of the story and the Christmas cheer at the end were not as defined as earlier films which took some of the impact out of the change in Scrooge and was a weakness in this version. Ok performance by Patrick Stewart as Scrooge, though, that demonstrates his talent as an actor. Only so-so performances by the supporting cast especially the important role of Bob Cratchit who seemed too wooden, and Tiny Tim who definitely seemed a little too healthy. This film also included more special effects than earlier productions which often seemed out of place, but not annoyingly so (with the exception of Christmas Past and his glowing 1960’s “sci-fi” eyes!) Ok filming but the sets and costuming must have had a small budget and weren’t up to par with earlier films. Still, as a fan of this story in all its variations (even the cheesy ones) this is an enjoyable addition to the “Christmas Carol” family. ***
