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Mickey vs Muppets: Who did A Christmas Carol better?

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Mickey vs Muppets: Who did A Christmas Carol better?

As a lifelong fan of both Disney and the Muppets, I must say that comparing these two delightful adaptations of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale is like choosing between my favorite pair of comfy slippers – they’re both cozy, but serve different purposes.

Disney has played with A Christmas Carol before, but is Mickey or the Muppets better?

It’s quite probable that no book throughout history has been reinterpreted as frequently as “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. Each year sees a new television adaptation of the story, where Ebenezer Scrooge, the stingy man, undergoes a transformation due to three ghostly visitors on Christmas Eve. The number of versions is too numerous to count, ranging from TV series to movies.

In more casual terms, the 2009 Disney movie with computer-generated imagery (CGI) animation was a significant shift for them. Jim Carrey provided voices and performances for various characters in this film, including Scrooge. Although it wasn’t terrible, some parts felt a bit lengthy, and critics often pointed out the “uncanny valley” effect of the CGI.

Among Disney enthusiasts, two beloved adaptations of the tale stand out during the festive season: “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” from 1983 and “The Muppet Christmas Carol” from 1992. These timeless classics continue to enchant viewers each holiday season, with fans cherishing both. However, which version is a more captivating retelling of the story remains a matter of personal preference.

Scrooge

In the tale of Mickey’s Christmas Carol, the character to portray Scrooge was quite evident. Given that Scrooge McDuck is derived from the original character, it seemed only fitting for him to acknowledge his origins by embodying the role. With his witty humor and cynical tone, accent included, he proved to be an excellent fit. Moreover, Donald Duck served as a perfect stage for his nephew, Fred.

In a more conversational manner: This portrayal of Scrooge is noticeably exaggerated and full of drama, like when he broke up with Isabelle by her slamming a door, causing his stacks of money to tumble down. However, Alan Young imbues the character with an enchanting charm that ultimately results in Scrooge reforming. This transformation not only brought Scrooge renewed popularity but also paved the way for Duck Tales cartoon, making it worthwhile just for that reason alone.

In regards to the Muppets, Michael Caine was an unexpected yet brilliant casting choice for the role of Scrooge. This came during a time in his career where he was open to taking any well-paid roles, but his performance wasn’t lackluster. Instead, he delivered a compelling portrayal of Scrooge’s icy demeanor, avoiding any over-the-top antics and instead playing the character straight. This makes his performance all the more impressive given that it was performed alongside Muppets.

Observe Michael Caine masterfully portray Scrooge in scenes depicting his past, including encounters with Tiny Tim, glimpses into a bleak future, and his emotional journey as he reconciles these events, releases his resentment towards the world, and you’re reminded of why this actor has earned two Academy Awards. It’s breathtaking, captivating, one of Caine’s finest performances, and arguably one of the best Scrooges ever, providing a powerful impetus for the Muppets’ interpretation.

WINNER: Muppets

Bob Cratchit

It’s clear from the title that Mickey Mouse has been cast as Bob Cratchit, and this interpretation works well for his character’s timid and submissive nature, which effectively portrays his fear of his boss. The chemistry between Mickey and Minnie, playing as his wife, is also fitting. One particularly poignant scene features a future depiction of Bob placing Tiny Tim’s crutch on his grave, with a melancholic expression from Mickey that tugs at the heartstrings.

As a fan, I’ve got to say that while Kermit as Cratchit isn’t bad, there’s just something missing. He sings a great song, and I appreciate him in the role, but given how big he is in other productions, it feels strange seeing him as an abused underling. The lines he delivers are powerful, and Robin as Tiny Tim is lovely too, but I can’t help but wish for more depth to the story. And let’s not forget Miss Piggy, ready to take on Scrooge with her karate skills! Kermit, trying to keep the peace, seems a bit out of character in this context.

WINNER: Mickey

The Ghosts

In the Disney adaptation, each ghost represents a character from Disney’s old animated films. For instance, Marley transforms into Goofy, making his comical stumbles even more amusing, despite being a ghost. Instead of being frightening as expected, he takes on a humorous tone. Jiminy Cricket, on the other hand, is brilliantly cast as the Ghost of Christmas Past, given his heartwarming dialogue. The choices for Christmas Present (the Giant from Mickey’s Beanstalk) and Christmas Future (Silent Pete) may seem unusual, but they manage to fit well within the storyline. Pete, in particular, is effectively menacing, with only his cigar providing light before he finally speaks, sending Scrooge plummeting into his own grave in a chilling manner.

Initially, it appears as though the Muppets are replicating Marley’s dual role with Statler and Waldorf. Yet, it cleverly employs classic puppet characters for the Three Spirits instead, which seems to be a better fit. By mirroring the original designs from the book, the Past is made bright and radiant, the Present is large and lively, and the Future is appropriately ominous. Choosing lesser-known Muppets over famous ones for these roles might have been fan service, but sticking with original versions proves to be more enjoyable.

WINNER: Muppets

The Music

Mickey Mouse’s Christmas Carol features a charming soundtrack by Irwin Kostal that skillfully blends traditional Victorian holiday melodies with a contemporary twist to suit the storyline. The score doesn’t include any original songs, but the choir renditions of classic Christmas carols fit seamlessly and can transition from light and jovial to ominous to lively at key moments. While it may not be Disney’s finest music, it effectively carries out its purpose.

Contrastingly, The Muppets are brimming with tunes, some of which are truly exceptional. Kermit takes on “One More Sleep Til Christmas,” while Christmas Present boasts “It Feels Like Christmas” and more. However, not all the tracks resonate as strongly, but they maintain a delightful atmosphere. The standout is “When Love is Gone,” originally cut from the cinema version but fortunately restored for home viewing. This tune serves as the heart of the film, depicting when Scrooge opts for greed instead of love, and underscoring that he made a mistake. This song alone adds significant depth to this Disney or Muppet production.

WINNER: Muppets

The Cameos

Each movie creatively weaves characters into their narratives in unique manners. The Disney adaptations stand out by incorporating lesser-known figures such as Toad as Fezziwig, Ratty and Moley as collectors, and the Three Little Pigs as carolers. These characters don’t overshadow the main plot, instead appearing briefly, adding humor, and serving as a charming backdrop for the storyline.

In their eagerness to include numerous characters, the Muppets overstep the mark, resulting in an overcrowded scene. While personalities like Fozzie as Fezziwig and Electric Mayhem as the band add charm, others such as Bunsen and Beaker as collectors, Bean Bunny as Scrooge’s interlocutor, and the Swedish Chef cooking become distracting elements. The movie seems to pause frequently to highlight these characters excessively. Unlike Disney with its subtle cameos, the Muppets go too far by overemphasizing so many of their own cast members.

WINNER: Mickey

The theme 

The methods employed by both movies are intriguing, as they predominantly maintain a light-hearted tone. The Disney adaptation initiates with a more cartoonish style, incorporating some witty dialogue and even a touch of slapstick in Scrooge’s interactions with the ghosts. There are occasional humorous asides, but the Christmas Future sequences can become quite grim. Compared to the Muppet version, it maintains a more conventional feel yet ends on a warm note while still retaining Disney’s unique touch.

The use of Gonzo as Dickens and Rizzo for narration in the Muppets’ movie might not have worked given their fourth-wall-breaking humor and Rizzo’s mischief. However, the film manages to portray the darker aspects of the story brilliantly with exceptional production values that accurately depict the period. Despite the occasional forced humor, it successfully honors the original story as would any Muppets venture. It’s almost like you forget these are puppets being handled by live actors.

WINNER: TIE

VERDICT

This is a toughie as really either version of the story is a marvelous watch. Mickey has gorgeous animation, a warm take on the characters, and Scrooge is delightful. But the Muppets have the edge with Caine’s performance one of the best Scrooges ever, the songs lovely to listen to, the production is stellar and the Muppet touch making it shine. The real winners are viewers, as both movies do justice to A Christmas Carol as a reminder of why this story still shines bright every holiday season.

Mickey’s Christmas Carol and The Muppet Christmas Carol both streaming on Disney+.

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2024-12-08 18:27

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