In 2000, this character was featured on the big screen. A character so green, so evil, and yet hilarious. But who could it be… “The, the, the…THE GRINCH”.
Jim Carrey’s version of the Grinch has became a Christmas symbol for the past 25 years. In most theaters the movie will be played in celebration of this landmark on December 12th. First brought to life by the talented Dr. Seuss in 1957, first animated in 1996, and re-animated in 2023 in its newest form.
The film follows the story of a green and grumpy creature named the Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small” as he attempts to stop the spread of Christmas cheer. He steals all the presents, food, and decorations from the nearby town of Whoville. With his green fur and mean smile, Jim Carrey phenomenally illuminates the Grinch’s cynical personality.
Director Ron Howard, also gives the Grinch several iconic one-liners like “Am I just eating because I’m bored?” or “Hate, hate, hate. Double hate. Loathe entirely”.
But despite the grouchiness that radiates from this character, The Grinch eventually finds comfort and purpose in an unusual friend: Cindy Lou Who, a little girl from Whoville. Played by young Taylor Momsen, Cindy Lou helps him realize Christmas is not about presents or material things, but about love, community, and togetherness.
Her innocence and bravery when confronting the Grinch and accepting a Whoville “outsider” is truly heartwarming.
As the movie ends, the Grinch decides to give back the gifts and decorations he previously stole from the Whos. In fact, once they accepted his apology he had never felt more included. “And what happened then? Well… in Whoville they say that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day!”
The ironic ending conveys the importance of kindness and love within a community. The Grinch’s initial desire to punish the Whos for their happiness reflects a very human tendency toward revenge and bitterness when feeling slighted. Someone who seemed so small-hearted became kinder than he ever was before.
Everyone is deserving of love and inclusion– but especially on Christmas. Or in the words of Cindy Lou, “nobody should spend Christmas alone.”
