The '51 spent a lot more time in the past, far more than any other version. It does a lot to tell the story, but does a much better job explaining his redemption arc. Not true to the book, to be fair, but a better narrative all the same. That is why I cherish this version above all others. 4/4

Scrooge refuses to leave work early to visit his dying business partner, citing it as an inconvenience. He barely sees him alive. Marley already sees the error of his ways in his last words and tries to warn Scrooge to no avail. As current day Scrooge looks on, he is just now starting to get it 3/4

Scrooge has some regrets, obviously. But we later see how shrewd he is during a business meeting, also a scene unique to this version. It's a business takeover, and he shows little humanity this time, further descent into greed above all else. In yet another unique scene involving Marley's death 2/4

It's not a bad rendition. But just another 15 minutes longer - or two less vocal performances - and they could have visited his childhood at the boarding school, or Fred's flat. Fan could've made an appearance. The bones are there, but this one falls short.

PS - This is the only version in are of that show Belle in the aftermath. Interesting, yes. But it doesn't add to the story about Scrooge's retribution arc.

I guess my point is that I don't understand why so many put this near the top of the list. Faithful to the source material, yes. But also bland and unexciting. It lacks emotion (and so does the relationship between Young Scrooge and Belle in this version). 4/4

The acting is more reminiscent of stage work. Scott is great, as is David Warner (Cratchett). Even the great Frank Finlay (Marley) came off as a vaudeville act. Other supporting roles were palatable. The production as a whole is unimpressive, especially considering earlier entries. 3/4

A movie based on a book must take some artistic license to bring it to life. Some aspects didn't translate well to the screen. The presentation feels like a soap opera, and the weaknesses shine through. the FX doesn't hold up, even compared to other films from the 80s (or the 1951 Alstair) 2/4

Cratchet, poor as he is, raises his children to be thankful for what they have. They are happy for what they have, in spite of their position. It's beautiful. But it also hides the elder's fears about Tim. It sets up the story beautifully... Incredible story telling in this version. 5/5

As the night progresses, you are the wealthy buying higher end produce and wine. Cratchet buys discount fruits and vat spirits (to make the punch). Yet the trio seem happy and thankful. I love this scene so much. Music is great, but the message is clear....4/5

As the scene progresses, they but groceries and spirits for the holiday feast. Cratchet buys "the finest bird in the shop" when a much grander bird is obviously on display. The children don't question, they simply accept. They are simply thankful for the 15 Shillings in Cratchet's pocket...3/5

The scene starts with the children looking into a toy store window. The elder asks his children what they want. The young girl talks about a doll in the corner. Tim says he loves all of it... He can't have any of it, so he might as well wish for all... "Gentleman and a Scholar" says the father...2/5

And two Marleys (Statler & Woldorf). But the best was Michael Caine as Scrooge, delivering an Oscar-worthy performance. He never broke character, and the seriousness of his portrayal made the Muppet antics so much better. 2/2

Scrooge resented Fred for the death of his sister. He didn't know that he was the one person she trusts to take care of Fred. He failed his sister, and he is suddenly struck with guilt. The '51 is the only version to show this, and it's so crucial to the character. That is why it's my favorite. 2/2