Yeah....but don't forget the Muppets Christmas Carol with Michael Caine. Very good, word for word by the book mostly, in the important parts, and very underrated. My favorite of all of them.
This version of A Christmas Carol, despite it originally being a television special, ended up winning the 1972 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film
Very faithful to the book, if a bit rushed. Another 10 min. would’ve been perfect. I love that they included Marley’s jaw drop, the twins “ignorance” and “want,” the servants going through his possessions, and the men on the sea celebrating Christmas. Those are left out of several renditions. It just needed a bit more time to linger and take a breath.
To those scrolling through the comments: *Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!* No matter the year, whatever the circumstances; may peace, goodwill and cheer be with you and yours!
I betcha a nickle if Chuck Jones and Richard Williams were given a movie budget and enough time to make this a full movie, this could be one of the best adaptations of A Christmas Carol. Shame it's somewhat forgotten.
It IS one of the best, and it's hardly forgotten. And it covers most of the book; they'd really only need about thirty minutes more to get everything in.
It's a tiny gem. A small pearl. Not a full treasure chest over pouring with pirate's booty. It's a bagatelle and, for what it wistfully is, it is perfect in its runt of the litter status. Ha ha ha --- it's the "Readers Digest" version . Happy 😁 2023. Respectfully submitted for your consideration Gregg Oreo Long Beach CA etats unis
That fact that Alistair Sim, the ONLY Scrooge for most people, is voicing him again makes this worth while. (This was made exactly 20 years after the original 1951 A Christmas Carol)
I consider "A Christmas Carol" the greatest story ever written and on the eve of the 24th I always watch a version of it at midnight. Seeing this now, over fifty years after it aired is a treat.
I love this version so much. I grew up watching this in the 70s every year, and it was so haunting. There are some fantastic ghostly images that create such an atmosphere like no other version. I found it many years ago on VHS and was so glad to have it again after too many years without it. I watch this now every year again.
@@dtaylor4552 no, that's not the point. Carey as usual hams it up, but Alistair Sim and the whole cast of voice actors makes this version superb. The Disney one is ok, but it is what it is. For those who grew up with this and the black and white Alistair Sim versions they are just impossible to beat.
For 2009 Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey, I heard director Robert Zemeckis say that he wanted to really visualize Dickens's descriptions with his version of the story. While Zemeckis did manage to do that on certain points, I would say THIS version directed by Richard Williams actually nailed Dickens' descriptions to absolute perfection! And with hand-drawn animation and under 30 minutes no less! The art style even looks like the original illustrations brought to life
This truly is an underrated rendition of Charles Dickens classic. It's animation style is also very unique. It's what it would look like if the old 19th century print illustrations were animated. Richard Williams and Chuck Jones, tow of my favorite people in the animation industry, did a really great job adapting this timeless classic.
@@Robert-j6v4h I did find it on streaming this year but it looked like it was ripped from this one from youtube. I'd love to see a clean, HD edition some time. I'll have to look for that DVD compilation. I remember actress Jean Marsh hosting animation shorts on television in either the 1970s or 80s.
For me this will always be the definitive Christmas Carol. Sure it seems rushed at times and there are quite a few things left out from the Charles Dickens story but for all the things that are presented here are still quite impactful, not only from an artistic standpoint but from an emotional motif as well. I watch this almost every year at Christmas time and I shall continue to do so until the end of my days.
I didn't realize that the voice of Scrooge was done by the same man as who played the live version of Scrooge in the black and white 1951 version, until I heard him laugh towards the end. Very distinctive laugh, and it immediately brought me back to watching that version when I was young.
Yes! Also, along with Alastair Sim as Scrooge, Michael Hordern reprised his role of Jacob Marley from the same film. Wonderful and frightening to me as a child.
YEP! ONLY to be Equaled by the paring of Albert Finney and Alec Guinness in the musical "SCROOGE" from 1970! Also needs mention the "A Christmas Carol" with Lionel Barrymore as Scrooge! If you have NEVER Seen it... I HIGHLY Suggest trying to find it and see it!
For me, this is the definitive version. Although short, gives the full story with iconic lines, beautiful artwork and spookiness to boot. A joy to watch. Thanks for uploading in this quality.
Absolutely the best version and so true to the text. Marley's. Ghost is just like described in the story and profound. The ghosts having lost the power for good, startling powerful. The Ghost of Christmas Past is fascinating. All is startling beautiful and varied! Fabulous! Thank you for posting and with NO interruptions!
Hand-drawn animation can do things that computer-animation can't. Amazing stuff; thank you for uploading, I'd only seen a snippet of this when I was younger.
While only a half-hour long (with commercials) this version covers so many of the smaller moments of the story than most of the lavash two-hour productions. Thank you for the post and Merry Christmas.
What a wonderful Christmas gift this is to finally find the show that I distinctly remember seeing as a young boy in 1972 on the TV! The scenes of the miner's shack, the lighthouse keepers, and especially the creatures of "Ignorance" and "Want" were so striking upon my young mind; their images have stayed vividly with me through all these long years and I can now look upon them again, along with the entirety of this excellent retelling of Dickens' book! A heartfelt "THANK YOU"! for sharing it here on YT, and, as Tiny Tim observed, God Bless us, everyone!
Born in 1967 and this scared the shyt out of me as a kid and it's my all time favourite adaptation. This and the 1951 live action with the same actor who voices Scrooge in both, Alistair Sims. A close second is the also made for TV movie, An American Christmas Carol with a great actor and all around person, Henry "The Fonz" Winkler. I watch all three, along with all the Rankin-Bass cartoons and Charlie Brown, as well as the classics. White Christmas, Holiday In, It's a Wonderful Life and to many others to mention. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night !!!!
Alistair Sim (Scrooge) and Michael Hordern (Marley) reprise their roles from the classic 1951 British version. Hordern is scarier here than he was in the earlier movie, and Sim is a lot mellower.
@craig taylor Will it be posted in a site any time soon? I don't have cable. I like viewing the various versions of this classic tale. Thank you for your reply. ^_^ Merry Christmas.
A simply superb film, that to this day manages to bring a tear to my eye. And let me join the chorus of those asking for someone to clean this up and create a better transfer. This film is glorious!
I watched this as a child many times in the 70s. I had completely forgotten about it until just recently. It really is the most satisfying and moving telling of the story. It's a shame it is not better known.
I haven’t seen this in more than 30 years! In 25 minutes they completely capture the entire novella, right down to the dialogue and the apparitions of Ignorance and Want. The animation is brilliant, inspired by the illustrations of the original printing. Interesting trivia, this novella has never been out of print. Brilliant! Thank you for uploading this! 🎄🎄🎄
This was actually one of the first Christmas special I was introduced to Richard William’s work, along with Who Framed Roger Rabbit. His hard work and dedication will always be remember as one of the best animators in Animation history. R.I.P Richard Williams, Thank you for giving us your Amazing Animation and wonderful masterpieces.
The animation of Christmas Past is probably what Charles had in mind when he wrote its description: "For as its belt sparkled and glittered now in one part and now in another, and what was light one instant, at another time was dark, so the figure itself fluctuated in its distinctness: being now a thing with one arm, now with one leg, now with twenty legs, now a pair of legs without a head, now a head without a body: of which dissolving parts, no outline would be visible in the dense gloom wherein they melted away. And in the very wonder of this, it would be itself again; distinct and clear as ever."
Watching this makes me realize even more how terrible it is that traditional animation has all but vanished from movie theaters. ....AND that Williams never finished "The Thief And The Cobbler".
Absolute perfection...Richard Williams' version has become my favourite telling of this classic tale, it's sheer beauty dazzles the eye and delights the ear....excellent.
The animation is dense & layered. The atmosphere is laden. I'm not sure Richard Williams' animation of A CHRISTMAS CAROL can be bettered. Joyous indeed.
I saw this on VHS as a kid in the early 90s. My aunt bought it for me as a Christmas present. I've been looking for this version for 10 years. Loved how dark and creepy it is. Still, I'm not too fond of Christmas, but this makes me feel lukewarm inside... Thanks for the upload!! Bah humbug!
* Richard Williams, Chuck Jones, Michael Redgrave, and Alastair Sim - no wonder it got an Academy Award. * I liked the image of the horse-drawn hearse preceding Scrooge up the stairs, symbolically bringing Marley into his home. * I loved that Christmas Past was much more like the description found in the book than other renditions. * They including Ali Baba and the parrot! * What was that brown object on Christmas Present's chest? Was it supposed to be hairiness or a strapless bra? * Ignorance and Want were portrayed wonderfully, much like Dicken's description. * Christmas Future was portrayed much like the book - a large, silent black robe and hood with only a pointing hand made visible. * The renderings are lovely as well as the layouts and the score. * And all this was presented in only 25 minutes!
Thank you so much for posting this. This is the version I grew up with in the 70s and remember so fondly. The music and the artwork always stuck with me and as an adult I would look for a copy or even a book with the artwork. It wasn't until I was about 40 that I discovered a VHS version on Amazon and bought it. Now that our VHS player just sits gathering dust I'll need to pick up a DVD version. Can't say enough how much I love this animated version of the Dickens classic.
Some beautifully done scenes in this. I try to watch every single "A Christmas Carol" version I can find - and this was a new one for me! (I was born in 1970 - they sure knew how to do very adult cartoons back then).
When I was in art school at the Dayton Art school , we would watch this as an example of the cutting edge Animation, Every one should realize that there are over 60 thousand drawings that flip by in the 28 minutes , Each one diffrent and hnad colored using the same range of colors that the orginal book did in 1843,
@@misselder1 From my understanding it took 4 years to make all the drawings for the film let alone put the final product together , My how times have changed !! If you noticed one of the producers was Chuck Jones He did Bugs Bunny , It was one of his attempts at making a series movie , Today some studio could put that film together in a month,
Rickey Smith I’ve always remind my wife the art work that goes into these old animated shows is why I enjoy watching them. I read years ago how expensive it is to make a 30 minute cartoon for Saturday morning verses a show using just people.
This is one of the few recreations that were ever made of a book, that actually captures the spirit of the author's and illustrator's intent. I remember reading that John Leech, originally did not illustrate the ghost of Christmas Present, because he admitted, that according to how it was written, it was impossible to illustrate such an ever changing spirit. It seems like, Chuck Jones, took the shot, and was extremely successful, not only in an illustrative sense but animated too! There is no better way to enjoy the true spirit of the Christmas Carol, outside of reading and understanding the book, than watching this short animated feature! It truly captures the essence of what Dickens intended to convey, along with probably the most perfect vehicle to watch it. I am sure that Charles Dickens is smiling from the grave.
Right? I always loved watching this on VHS as a kid! I'll never forget how Richard had an impact on my childhood with his beautiful animation and storytelling. I'd love to see these 2 on Criterion as well. Godspeed Richard Williams.
Richard Williams is a true master. When i studied animation i bought his animator´s survival guide and learned more with that book that with all my teachers combined.
I am a Christmas Carol junkie, and have reviewed virtually every version ever made. My web site has over 135 Christmas movie reviews, so I am serious about the Scrooge. For an animated version, this version is excellent. 5 STARS.
I remember this being advertised in the TV Guide. A friend of mine and I were very excited to see this since we were very much into art and movies. This did not disappoint except I wanted it to be longer. Talk about a laborious project. It is both beautiful and nightmarish at the same time. Wherever you are, Bryan, I hope you are doing well.
Have a look at the original John Leach illustrations, from A Christmas Carol book! The animation style was to copy that look... I think they did brilliantly!! Like the illustration have come to life!! Faults aside, this is still the best copy.... Thanks so much for posting! Wishing you a Peaceful New Year
What a tragedy that this couldn't have been made as a full-length film. Even as it is, it's an astonishing achievement, but it does seem to be at times a bit cramped and hurried.
If given at least 90 minutes this would of been a very good version of a Christmas Carol but you're right. Twenty five minutes is not enough time to tell a proper story. It is too cramped and too abbreviated.
Richard Williams one of the greatest animators of our time so beautiful so deep and meaningful. I love the design of the ghost of Christmas past so psychedelic and Jungian as the whole special felt that way. Really enjoyed it thank you so much for uploading it ❤️❤️❤️.
10 dislikes? Seriously? This is a work of art, and one of the best, if not THE best, versions of this classic story ever made. I suppose the haters prefer The Muppet version.
I watch this delightful Christmas tale around this time every year since it was posted. Thank you for having posted it. Lovely indeed. I'm soon to be 41 on December 23rd, and Yahweh God willing in Yeshua aka Jesus Name, I'd like to see it many eh' years to come. "Oh, tidings of comfort and joy!"
I have been trying, in vain, to describe the terrifying brilliance of this animation to the uninitiated. Now, I finally have a high quality youtube link to show. Thanks for this! GBUE!
Ahh, my childhood. They used to play this every year and I waited for it, always enraptured for the duration, then it was cut down from 25 minutes to 10, then stopped altogether. These are the Leach illustrations brought to life. The first book I bought for myself in my life was a copy of Dickens' A Christmas Carol with the illustrations and I'm sure this film was the reason I wanted that book. Alistair Sim was the perfect Scrooge, both in the live action film and in this version, but the addition of Michael Redgrave as narrator is perfect. This is the only version I remember that includes the hearse going up the stairs, setting the darker tone right out the gate. Love it. Thank you for such a clean copy!
This animation reminds me of The Snowman, except this looks like illustrations from the book coming to life before my eyes, it’s amazing! But what else do you expect from the late Richard Williams?
@@SomeRUclipsr1993 The animation was gorgeous, but the adaptation was dreadful; I don''t know how they managed to induce Simon Callow, of all people, to be in it.
Wow this is the first version of this story I remember ever seeing! My mom rented it for me when I was 4 or 5 years old from my church! I can't believe I'm just now seeing this again after 2+ decades!
This is a good example of a true friend who wants to stop Scrooge from ending up like him. Jacob Marley's ghost is in everlasting torment and suffering and has to wander aimlessly, carrying his heavy chains that represented his misdeeds of greed and selfishness, made up of Accountancy books, heavy purses, cashboxes, locks and keys, as his afterlife punishment. He came to warn Scrooge to change his misery ways or his own afterlife punishment will be much worse and his chains will be far far heavier to carry. He also helps Scrooge to change with the three ghosts especially the ghost of Christmas yet to come, who shows Scrooge what could happen if he does not change. He then joins the other wandering, tormented spirits who are also under afterlife punishments for their earthly sins committed in life. They, along with Marley, have been permanently stripped from helping others ever again. That should grant Marley forgiveness and his release from his punishment.
I remembered this one a few years ago. It is an exceptional work of animation - the voices were well selected . The Ghost of Christmas Present sequence stuck in my mind - images were haunting - it is very well done for a 25 minute version - and the networks have not shown it in 30 years. Too good really - maybe Netflix - If a DVD version would be available it would sell well. Other than this - the 1952 Alistair Sim version film is a personal favorite.
I love this version because it does not do the typical super happy ending where Scrooge ends up at Marley house with tiny Tim saying his famous line like every other version does. In this version it seems like Scrooge is still in the middle of a psychotic break from all the emotional and mental trauma the supernatural forces did to him. Excellent!!!!
Just found out that my great great great grandfather was called Ebenezer, and born in Shoreditch London he must have seen poverty in that part of the city, some amazing British actors voicing the characters and Tiny Tim’s voice was so sweet, I love how true to Dickens story & his descriptions of the spirits were sadly not long enough.
This is one of the only versions that includes Scrooge’s visits to the miners, lighthouse keepers, and the ship at sea. True to the book.
Y la version de 1999 que pasa con ella, esa película incluye esas escenas que dices
I also like this style of animation.
Sir Patrick’s version had that.
Yeah....but don't forget the Muppets Christmas Carol with Michael Caine. Very good, word for word by the book mostly, in the important parts, and very underrated. My favorite of all of them.
There's the one with Patrick Steward in it.
This version of A Christmas Carol, despite it originally being a television special, ended up winning the 1972 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film
Very faithful to the book, if a bit rushed. Another 10 min. would’ve been perfect. I love that they included Marley’s jaw drop, the twins “ignorance” and “want,” the servants going through his possessions, and the men on the sea celebrating Christmas. Those are left out of several renditions. It just needed a bit more time to linger and take a breath.
The Patrick Stewart version has those things.
@@LadyPakal I have seen that version so I can confirm that.
I love this story. I also love his work Our Mutual friend.
@@edajungck I forgot about that one. True classic.
Highly agree that another 10 minutes would go such a long way. Still perfectly fine with what we got.
To those scrolling through the comments: *Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!* No matter the year, whatever the circumstances; may peace, goodwill and cheer be with you and yours!
And to you as well sir!
❤Peace!❤
@JoshuaHeald - Merry Christmas and a Happy Forthcoming New Year!!
And right back at you. I first saw this when I was 9. So much nostalgia
It's December 2024 here now
I betcha a nickle if Chuck Jones and Richard Williams were given a movie budget and enough time to make this a full movie, this could be one of the best adaptations of A Christmas Carol. Shame it's somewhat forgotten.
It IS one of the best, and it's hardly forgotten. And it covers most of the book; they'd really only need about thirty minutes more to get everything in.
I watch it every year so I certainly have not forgotten it. IMO it's the best animated version.
@@canalesworks1247 Hear hear!
It's a tiny gem. A small pearl. Not a full treasure chest over pouring with pirate's booty. It's a bagatelle and, for what it wistfully is, it is perfect in its runt of the litter status. Ha ha ha --- it's the "Readers Digest" version . Happy 😁 2023. Respectfully submitted for your consideration Gregg Oreo Long Beach CA etats unis
They Should've Made a Hunchback of Notre Dame film Williams's Animation would've fitted perfectly
That fact that Alistair Sim, the ONLY Scrooge for most people, is voicing him again makes this worth while. (This was made exactly 20 years after the original 1951 A Christmas Carol)
The best and creepiest version of Ignorance and Want in any version, animated or live.
Even the Jim Carrey version, as scary as it is, has nothing on that depiction.
Especially ignorance.
I was about 10 years old when this was shown on TV, and that haunting scene still burns in my memories....and that was about 50 year ago!
Agreed!
Holy balls! You’re not kidding!
I consider "A Christmas Carol" the greatest story ever written and on the eve of the 24th I always watch a version of it at midnight. Seeing this now, over fifty years after it aired is a treat.
I love this version so much. I grew up watching this in the 70s every year, and it was so haunting. There are some fantastic ghostly images that create such an atmosphere like no other version. I found it many years ago on VHS and was so glad to have it again after too many years without it. I watch this now every year again.
The film with Jim Carrey was more realistic.
@@dtaylor4552 no, that's not the point. Carey as usual hams it up, but Alistair Sim and the whole cast of voice actors makes this version superb. The Disney one is ok, but it is what it is. For those who grew up with this and the black and white Alistair Sim versions they are just impossible to beat.
I agree with you 100 percent. Good show.😁
So true!
For me it's still the best interpretation of the book. The animation when Scrooge walks up the stairs with a candle is absolutely wonderful.
Omg I love that too❤
For 2009 Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey, I heard director Robert Zemeckis say that he wanted to really visualize Dickens's descriptions with his version of the story. While Zemeckis did manage to do that on certain points, I would say THIS version directed by Richard Williams actually nailed Dickens' descriptions to absolute perfection! And with hand-drawn animation and under 30 minutes no less! The art style even looks like the original illustrations brought to life
This truly is an underrated rendition of Charles Dickens classic. It's animation style is also very unique. It's what it would look like if the old 19th century print illustrations were animated. Richard Williams and Chuck Jones, tow of my favorite people in the animation industry, did a really great job adapting this timeless classic.
Possibly the best adaption of the Charles Dickens' tale for the holidays. The ominous overtones have everything to do with it.
It's a crime this rendition is not available on DVD/BluRay. I grew up on this version. Every year on television. It's also one of the best.
@@bighuge1060 I got it on DVD as a compilation with a lot of experimental shorts that were done back in the 70s. Probably unauthorized
@@Robert-j6v4h I did find it on streaming this year but it looked like it was ripped from this one from youtube. I'd love to see a clean, HD edition some time. I'll have to look for that DVD compilation. I remember actress Jean Marsh hosting animation shorts on television in either the 1970s or 80s.
I am 56, i havent seen this since i was a boy in the early 70s!!! thanks for uploading it!!!
Me too I’ve searched for years for it.
@@robertpasquini4097 me also!!
Moi aussi!;
For me this will always be the definitive Christmas Carol. Sure it seems rushed at times and there are quite a few things left out from the Charles Dickens story but for all the things that are presented here are still quite impactful, not only from an artistic standpoint but from an emotional motif as well. I watch this almost every year at Christmas time and I shall continue to do so until the end of my days.
This short film won Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.
Alastair Sim was the best Scrooge. He passed away not long after this.
💯
I didn't realize that the voice of Scrooge was done by the same man as who played the live version of Scrooge in the black and white 1951 version, until I heard him laugh towards the end. Very distinctive laugh, and it immediately brought me back to watching that version when I was young.
Yes! Also, along with Alastair Sim as Scrooge, Michael Hordern reprised his role of Jacob Marley from the same film. Wonderful and frightening to me as a child.
YEP! ONLY to be Equaled by the paring of Albert Finney and Alec Guinness in the musical "SCROOGE" from 1970!
Also needs mention the "A Christmas Carol" with Lionel Barrymore as Scrooge! If you have NEVER Seen it... I HIGHLY Suggest trying to find it and see it!
I recognized it immediately.
@@matthewmoran4158 5:58 Jacob Marley in this film reminds me of Imhotep with his dislocated jaw-bone.
You mean 'hear' it. Barrymore was never in a screen version of the Carol, just several radio versions.
For me, this is the definitive version. Although short, gives the full story with iconic lines, beautiful artwork and spookiness to boot. A joy to watch. Thanks for uploading in this quality.
Beautiful! My family reads the book aloud, in its entirety, every year takes 4-5 hours. Fabulous.
Absolutely the best version and so true to the text. Marley's. Ghost is just like described in the story and profound. The ghosts having lost the power for good, startling powerful. The Ghost of Christmas Past is fascinating. All is startling beautiful and varied! Fabulous! Thank you for posting and with NO interruptions!
A stunning masterpiece of animation!
A well deserved Oscar winner!
Hand-drawn animation can do things that computer-animation can't. Amazing stuff; thank you for uploading, I'd only seen a snippet of this when I was younger.
While only a half-hour long (with commercials) this version covers so many of the smaller moments of the story than most of the lavash two-hour productions.
Thank you for the post and Merry Christmas.
What a wonderful Christmas gift this is to finally find the show that I distinctly remember seeing as a young boy in 1972 on the TV! The scenes of the miner's shack, the lighthouse keepers, and especially the creatures of "Ignorance" and "Want" were so striking upon my young mind; their images have stayed vividly with me through all these long years and I can now look upon them again, along with the entirety of this excellent retelling of Dickens' book! A heartfelt "THANK YOU"! for sharing it here on YT, and, as Tiny Tim observed, God Bless us, everyone!
Born in 1967 and this scared the shyt out of me as a kid and it's my all time favourite adaptation. This and the 1951 live action with the same actor who voices Scrooge in both, Alistair Sims. A close second is the also made for TV movie, An American Christmas Carol with a great actor and all around person, Henry "The Fonz" Winkler. I watch all three, along with all the Rankin-Bass cartoons and Charlie Brown, as well as the classics. White Christmas, Holiday In, It's a Wonderful Life and to many others to mention.
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night !!!!
I just love how the animation captures the illustrations of the book, as if they have come to life.
Alistair Sim (Scrooge) and Michael Hordern (Marley) reprise their roles from the classic 1951 British version. Hordern is scarier here than he was in the earlier movie, and Sim is a lot mellower.
This animation captures the world before the universal presence of electric lighting in a way very, very, rarely seen.
Amazing work this.
Beautiful animation, I remember this so well from television in the 70s.
This is the creepiest Christmas Carol I ever had seen ever. I love it
@craig taylor Will it be posted in a site any time soon? I don't have cable. I like viewing the various versions of this classic tale. Thank you for your reply. ^_^ Merry Christmas.
I love it too! So creepy good! But still Christmassy! Merry Christmas!
What about the Jim Carrey version? That had plenty of creepy in it.
A simply superb film, that to this day manages to bring a tear to my eye. And let me join the chorus of those asking for someone to clean this up and create a better transfer. This film is glorious!
The 1951 Alistair Sim "Christmas Carol" is the filmed gold standard. But this is by _far_ the finest animated portrayal.
I watched this as a child many times in the 70s. I had completely forgotten about it until just recently. It really is the most satisfying and moving telling of the story. It's a shame it is not better known.
I haven’t seen this in more than 30 years! In 25 minutes they completely capture the entire novella, right down to the dialogue and the apparitions of Ignorance and Want. The animation is brilliant, inspired by the illustrations of the original printing. Interesting trivia, this novella has never been out of print. Brilliant! Thank you for uploading this! 🎄🎄🎄
Is this cartoon exactly like the book?
I just love the artwork...It conveys perfectly of that time, that feeling of that eras of the 1800's...Love love it...Thank you for sharing..
This was actually one of the first Christmas special I was introduced to Richard William’s work, along with Who Framed Roger Rabbit. His hard work and dedication will always be remember as one of the best animators in Animation history.
R.I.P Richard Williams, Thank you for giving us your Amazing Animation and wonderful masterpieces.
All ghosts looks very good though, very good design. it is frightning!
The animation of Christmas Past is probably what Charles had in mind when he wrote its description:
"For as its belt sparkled and glittered now in one part and now in another, and what was light one instant, at another time was dark, so the figure itself fluctuated in its distinctness: being now a thing with one arm, now with one leg, now with twenty legs, now a pair of legs without a head, now a head without a body: of which dissolving parts, no outline would be visible in the dense gloom wherein they melted away. And in the very wonder of this, it would be itself again; distinct and clear as ever."
I love all the older cartoons cause it's b4 CGI, my son is showing his 6 year old, these shows. Let the tradition continue
Watching this makes me realize even more how terrible it is that traditional animation has all but vanished from movie theaters.
....AND that Williams never finished "The Thief And The Cobbler".
@@lukeperkins1024
Mind telling me?
@@krstv1823 Yeah...
Never mind, it wasn’t that interesting anyway
Traditional animation is very much alive in Japan.
@@ayushchaudhari5655 AND in Europe.
It was thanks to the Nostalgia critic that I was introduced to this master.
Absolute perfection...Richard Williams' version has become my favourite telling of this classic tale, it's sheer beauty dazzles the eye and delights the ear....excellent.
The animation is simply gorgeous...
Well, what did you expect?
It’s Richard Williams.
And that’s why this film won the Oscar
Absolutely brilliant adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic
I remember having the crap scared out of me by Marley's ghost. Effective animation. Timeless tale!
By far and away the best animated version of this wonderful story .Merry Christmas Everyone !
The animation is dense & layered. The atmosphere is laden. I'm not sure Richard Williams' animation of A CHRISTMAS CAROL can be bettered. Joyous indeed.
This was always my favorite version of A Christmas Carol.
I saw this on VHS as a kid in the early 90s. My aunt bought it for me as a Christmas present. I've been looking for this version for 10 years. Loved how dark and creepy it is. Still, I'm not too fond of Christmas, but this makes me feel lukewarm inside... Thanks for the upload!! Bah humbug!
As of this date [12-23-17] this is the absolute BEST print of this VERY hard to find film.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
* Richard Williams, Chuck Jones, Michael Redgrave, and Alastair Sim - no wonder it got an Academy Award.
* I liked the image of the horse-drawn hearse preceding Scrooge up the stairs, symbolically bringing Marley into his home.
* I loved that Christmas Past was much more like the description found in the book than other renditions.
* They including Ali Baba and the parrot!
* What was that brown object on Christmas Present's chest? Was it supposed to be hairiness or a strapless bra?
* Ignorance and Want were portrayed wonderfully, much like Dicken's description.
* Christmas Future was portrayed much like the book - a large, silent black robe and hood with only a pointing hand made visible.
* The renderings are lovely as well as the layouts and the score.
* And all this was presented in only 25 minutes!
RIP for Richard Williams :'-(
Thank you so much for posting this. This is the version I grew up with in the 70s and remember so fondly. The music and the artwork always stuck with me and as an adult I would look for a copy or even a book with the artwork. It wasn't until I was about 40 that I discovered a VHS version on Amazon and bought it. Now that our VHS player just sits gathering dust I'll need to pick up a DVD version. Can't say enough how much I love this animated version of the Dickens classic.
I remember seeing this as a young child and the ghosts, particularly Marley , scared me to death! Thanks for posting this!
Some beautifully done scenes in this. I try to watch every single "A Christmas Carol" version I can find - and this was a new one for me! (I was born in 1970 - they sure knew how to do very adult cartoons back then).
25 we will be watching this year
Chuck Jones did this?! I shouldn't be surprised, the man's a genius, and this was fantastic.
Rest in Peace Richard Williams. You were one of my greatest inspirations.
When I was in art school at the Dayton Art school , we would watch this as an example of the cutting edge Animation, Every one should realize that there are over 60 thousand drawings that flip by in the 28 minutes , Each one diffrent and hnad colored using the same range of colors that the orginal book did in 1843,
Rickey Smith - And I was complaining that it was too rushed and needed an extra ten min. :))))
@@misselder1 From my understanding it took 4 years to make all the drawings for the film let alone put the final product together , My how times have changed !! If you noticed one of the producers was Chuck Jones He did Bugs Bunny , It was one of his attempts at making a series movie , Today some studio could put that film together in a month,
Great comment, thank you!
Rickey Smith I’ve always remind my wife the art work that goes into these old animated shows is why I enjoy watching them.
I read years ago how expensive it is to make a 30 minute cartoon for Saturday morning verses a show using just people.
Rickey Smith - the animation technique is stunning!
In 25 minutes this wonderful piece of animation manages to both haunt and to enchants its viewer
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is perfect for animation.
This is one of the few recreations that were ever made of a book, that actually captures the spirit of the author's and illustrator's intent.
I remember reading that John Leech, originally did not illustrate the ghost of Christmas Present, because he admitted, that according to how it was written, it was impossible to illustrate such an ever changing spirit. It seems like, Chuck Jones, took the shot, and was extremely successful, not only in an illustrative sense but animated too!
There is no better way to enjoy the true spirit of the Christmas Carol, outside of reading and understanding the book, than watching this short animated feature! It truly captures the essence of what Dickens intended to convey, along with probably the most perfect vehicle to watch it. I am sure that Charles Dickens is smiling from the grave.
Thank you for posting this video! One of my favorite stories!
Criterion needs to put this out. Along with the re assembled Thief and the Cobbler
Right? I always loved watching this on VHS as a kid! I'll never forget how Richard had an impact on my childhood with his beautiful animation and storytelling. I'd love to see these 2 on Criterion as well. Godspeed Richard Williams.
@America Reigns the hell man
neilwetmore & America Reigns- Chill out you guys. It’s Christmas.
@@misselder1 Kay?
Richard Williams is a true master. When i studied animation i bought his animator´s survival guide and learned more with that book that with all my teachers combined.
Juan Gracia Marques he will be missed.
Who’s watching this on Christmas 2022, 51 years since this short movie was released in the cinemas?
My first time 2024
2024
I am a Christmas Carol junkie, and have reviewed virtually every version ever made. My web site has over 135 Christmas movie reviews, so I am serious about the Scrooge. For an animated version, this version is excellent. 5 STARS.
Merry Christmas to all watching in 2020!
Superb! Genuinely creeped me out at the start with the hearse on the stairs.
I love this version's Marley and Ghost of Christmas Past. Its so creative and visually interesting.
I remember this being advertised in the TV Guide. A friend of mine and I were very excited to see this since we were very much into art and movies. This did not disappoint except I wanted it to be longer. Talk about a laborious project. It is both beautiful and nightmarish at the same time. Wherever you are, Bryan, I hope you are doing well.
Have a look at the original John Leach illustrations, from A Christmas Carol book!
The animation style was to copy that look... I think they did brilliantly!! Like the illustration have come to life!!
Faults aside, this is still the best copy.... Thanks so much for posting!
Wishing you a Peaceful New Year
Excellent and my favourite animated Christmas Carol film, the Jacob Marley is pure nightmare fuel! 🙀 👻
The best of the Animation Art, this should be showed in the TV
I love the look of this animation.
The scene where Marley moans and you can see the lost souls creeps me out every year I watch this ❤
Richard Williams also Animated Who Framed Roger Rabbit for Academy Award.
What a tragedy that this couldn't have been made as a full-length film. Even as it is, it's an astonishing achievement, but it does seem to be at times a bit cramped and hurried.
If given at least 90 minutes this would of been a very good version of a Christmas Carol but you're right. Twenty five minutes is not enough time to tell a proper story. It is too cramped and too abbreviated.
Richard Williams one of the greatest animators of our time so beautiful so deep and meaningful. I love the design of the ghost of Christmas past so psychedelic and Jungian as the whole special felt that way. Really enjoyed it thank you so much for uploading it ❤️❤️❤️.
10 dislikes? Seriously? This is a work of art, and one of the best, if not THE best, versions of this classic story ever made. I suppose the haters prefer The Muppet version.
I suppose they were hoping for the Mr Magoo or Scooby-do versions.
and this is Chuck Freaking Jones, FFS!!!
Well given how cancerous animation on RUclips can be, I suppose it's from people expecting memes or some other form of nonsensical humor.
Paired with Richard Williams. A match made in heaven.
Merry Christmas To All!!
8 year old me checked under his bed for Marley's ghost for a few years after watching this as it was originally broadcast.
One of the best ones. Wonderful illustration.
A wonderful production. Thank you for sharing this.
I watch this delightful Christmas tale around this time every year since it was posted. Thank you for having posted it. Lovely indeed. I'm soon to be 41 on December 23rd, and Yahweh God willing in Yeshua aka Jesus Name, I'd like to see it many eh' years to come. "Oh, tidings of comfort and joy!"
I have been trying, in vain, to describe the terrifying brilliance of this animation to the uninitiated.
Now, I finally have a high quality youtube link to show.
Thanks for this!
GBUE!
Ahh, my childhood. They used to play this every year and I waited for it, always enraptured for the duration, then it was cut down from 25 minutes to 10, then stopped altogether. These are the Leach illustrations brought to life. The first book I bought for myself in my life was a copy of Dickens' A Christmas Carol with the illustrations and I'm sure this film was the reason I wanted that book. Alistair Sim was the perfect Scrooge, both in the live action film and in this version, but the addition of Michael Redgrave as narrator is perfect. This is the only version I remember that includes the hearse going up the stairs, setting the darker tone right out the gate. Love it. Thank you for such a clean copy!
CHRISTMAS TIME IS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!🎄🎄🎄🎄
All the Christmas Carols are my favorite Christmas movies behind It’s a Wonderful Life
I first saw this in the early 1970s. Loved "A Christmas Carol " ever since. Any film version
This animation reminds me of The Snowman, except this looks like illustrations from the book coming to life before my eyes, it’s amazing! But what else do you expect from the late Richard Williams?
Ironically, the animator of The Snowman animated his own Christmas Carol in 2003. Though sadly it was terrible.
@@SomeRUclipsr1993 The animation was gorgeous, but the adaptation was dreadful; I don''t know how they managed to induce Simon Callow, of all people, to be in it.
MOST EXCELLENT ! IT HAS IT ALL ! AMEN and THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH ! #MERRYCHRISTMAS EVERYONE ! GOD KEEP US SAFE AND WELL !
Wow this is the first version of this story I remember ever seeing! My mom rented it for me when I was 4 or 5 years old from my church! I can't believe I'm just now seeing this again after 2+ decades!
Merry Christmas to everyone watching in 2019 🎁❄⛄🎄🎀🎅
Chris Evans yep ME in November 2019.
@@TheGava4 Dec 22-23rd 2019
Merry Christmas to everyone watching in 2020 🎁❄⛄🎄🎀🎅
@@labrynianrebel Merry Christmas 2020! I watched this for christmas but forgot to comment haha
This is a good example of a true friend who wants to stop Scrooge from ending up like him.
Jacob Marley's ghost is in everlasting torment and suffering and has to wander aimlessly, carrying his heavy chains that represented his misdeeds of greed and selfishness, made up of Accountancy books, heavy purses, cashboxes, locks and keys, as his afterlife punishment.
He came to warn Scrooge to change his misery ways or his own afterlife punishment will be much worse and his chains will be far far heavier to carry.
He also helps Scrooge to change with the three ghosts especially the ghost of Christmas yet to come, who shows Scrooge what could happen if he does not change.
He then joins the other wandering, tormented spirits who are also under afterlife punishments for their earthly sins committed in life.
They, along with Marley, have been permanently stripped from helping others ever again.
That should grant Marley forgiveness and his release from his punishment.
You and me both. The only unresolved moment in the story.
That isn't how *eternal* punishment works.
@@iamemjarrobinson8713 Marley's story is over. Dickens doesn't leave anything unresolved.
Almost like the Catholic "purgatory" concept. One would hope that Marley is also redeemed and released from his torment.
There's actually a recent play, Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol, where that happens. Saw it staged 10 years or so ago.
Terrified and fascinated me as a kid!
I remembered this one a few years ago. It is an exceptional work of animation - the voices were well selected . The Ghost of Christmas Present sequence stuck in my mind - images were haunting - it is very well done for a 25 minute version - and the networks have not shown it in 30 years. Too good really - maybe Netflix - If a DVD version would be available it would sell well. Other than this - the 1952 Alistair Sim version film is a personal favorite.
Awesome art work. Thanks for sharing.
I love this version because it does not do the typical super happy ending where Scrooge ends up at Marley house with tiny Tim saying his famous line like every other version does.
In this version it seems like Scrooge is still in the middle of a psychotic break from all the emotional and mental trauma the supernatural forces did to him.
Excellent!!!!
Just found out that my great great great grandfather was called Ebenezer, and born in Shoreditch London he must have seen poverty in that part of the city, some amazing British actors voicing the characters and Tiny Tim’s voice was so sweet, I love how true to Dickens story & his descriptions of the spirits were sadly not long enough.
I have been trying to find this for years! I was 11 when it aired and never forgot it.
Wow you remembered for years in Christmas....but me I had a lost memory of it...heheh
Amazing but far toooo short 😢
Somebody, should do an update in a similar manner
Thank you Richard Williams, you made my childhood