How the Grinch Stole Christmas

REVIEW:

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) remains, to this day, the crown jewel of Christmas movies in my household. Directed by Ron Howard and starring Jim Carrey in a career-defining role, this festive masterpiece perfectly captures the magic, mischief, and spirit of the holiday season. For me and my older brother, this movie is more than just entertainment—it’s tradition. Every single Christmas Eve, without fail, we sit down to watch The Grinch. It’s a ritual we’ve held onto for as long as I can remember, and no matter how many times we revisit it, the movie still feels as magical and hilarious as the first time.

At the heart of this Christmas classic is, of course, Jim Carrey. His comedic delivery as the Grinch is nothing short of exceptional, and the result is a movie that’s endlessly quotable. From his sarcastic remarks to his over-the-top physical comedy, Carrey brings Dr. Seuss’s character to life with a chaotic energy that no other actor could have replicated. Lines like, “Am I just eating because I’m bored,” and “Hate, hate, hate. Double hate. LOATHE ENTIRELY!” have become permanently etched in my memory, and I’d argue it’s impossible to watch this film without quoting along at least once.

Of course, a lot of credit must go to the team responsible for transforming Jim Carrey into the Grinch. The make-up is nothing short of phenomenal. We’ve all heard the infamous behind-the-scenes stories about how painstakingly difficult it was for Carrey to endure the hours-long process of becoming the green, fuzzy recluse. But the effort was more than worth it—his Grinch is visually perfect, and it’s hard to imagine any other version coming close to this one. Every detail, from the wild expressions to the fur, feels larger than life, and it’s a testament to the magic of practical effects.

Beyond Carrey’s performance and the make-up artistry, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a true visual spectacle. The sets are absolutely breathtaking, transporting audiences straight into the quirky, whimsical world of Whoville. The snow-covered village brims with festive cheer, and every scene feels like it’s been dipped in tinsel and sprinkled with holiday magic. From the crooked homes to the over-the-top decorations, the movie’s aesthetics are a feast for the eyes—there’s no better film to get you into the Christmas spirit.

What makes The Grinch stand out is its timeless quality. Despite watching it every year for what feels like a lifetime, it has never become boring. The humour still hits, the message of the story still warms the heart, and the over-the-top antics of the Grinch still make me laugh. There’s something comforting about its consistency—it’s like an old friend you can rely on every Christmas to lift your spirits and remind you what the season is really about.

No other Christmas movie, in my opinion, comes close to this one when it comes to embodying pure holiday joy. While it starts with the Grinch’s bitterness and comical attempts to ruin Christmas, it ends with a beautifully heartfelt message about kindness, love, and community. The final moments, with the Grinch’s heart growing “three sizes,” never fail to leave me feeling joyful. It’s the kind of ending that stays with you, making the season feel a little brighter and a little warmer.

For me, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is untouchable. It’s my all-time favourite Christmas movie, and no matter how many times I watch it, I know it will always hold that title. Whether it’s Jim Carrey’s unmatched comedic brilliance, the dazzling sets, or the heartwarming message, everything about it feels magical. My Christmas Eve tradition wouldn’t be complete without this film, and I can’t imagine another movie ever taking its place as the definitive Christmas classic.