Scrooged (1988) Review in 2025
A modern retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, starring Bill Murray as a cynical TV executive who's haunted by three ghosts on Christmas Eve.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for older children and adults, but may not be suitable for younger children due to some mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves Christmas movies, comedy, or fantasy. It's a classic tale with a modern twist, and it's sure to leave you feeling merry and bright.
Spoiler Alert!
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Frank Cross, a cynical and arrogant TV executive, is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve, forcing him to confront his past, present, and future, and ultimately leading to a transformation that changes his life forever.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a clever and witty retelling of A Christmas Carol, with a modern twist that adds freshness to the classic tale. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of humor, drama, and heart.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Bill Murray delivering a career-best performance as Frank Cross. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Karen Allen and John Forsythe.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with Bill Murray delivering a standout performance as Frank Cross. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Karen Allen and John Forsythe.
direction9.00/10
Richard Donner's direction is top-notch, bringing a sense of energy and enthusiasm to the film. He expertly balances the tone, making the movie feel both funny and heartwarming.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is solid, with a good use of lighting and camera angles to create a visually appealing film. However, it's not particularly memorable or standout.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's witty script, memorable characters, and standout performances make it a joy to watch. The modern twist on the classic tale adds freshness to the story, and the pacing is well-balanced.
Cons
The cinematography is not particularly memorable, and some of the supporting characters feel a bit underdeveloped.
Notable Quotes
"Bah humbug!"
"I don't want to be a Christmas freak! I don't want to be a Scrooge!"
"I'm not a miser, I'm a businessman!"
