The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)

 On Christmas Day, in keeping with the theme, I decided that the movie du jour should be The Man Who Invented Christmas. This star-studded cast boasts some acting greats such as Christopher Plummer, Ian McNeice, Simon Callow, Donald Sumpter, Jonathan Pryce, Bill Paterson, and Miriam Margolyes. The story this time is not A Christmas Carol, the most beloved Christmas tale, but the story behind the story; how Charles Dickens came to write this 1843 novella. It makes for very interesting viewing, especially if one is a writer. The plot of the movie revolves around how Dickens, facing financial failure, conceives of and writes the story in just six weeks. He comes up with names, characters, ideas, and plot twists based on the people and events around him. But soon one wonders if the author is writing the book, or the characters are writing the book…

Dan Stevens plays Dickens rather frenetically as the somewhat self-absorbed, eccentric author who can’t stand failure and/or criticism, and very nearly loses his friends and family while he wallows in the mire of writer’s block and the pressure of creating a new work. The characters appear in his imagination but very quickly assume more corporeal proportions and offer their opinions of him, his attitudes, his character, his behaviour, and his words. Christopher Plummer is utterly superb as Ebenezer Scrooge, a mean old scoundrel who knows the value of a penny but not of love. Can he change? Will he survive the three phantom visitations? I can’t think of any other actor being able to play Scrooge with the nuances that Plummer gives the character. He is brilliant. The excellent supporting cast is too large to mention everyone, but Donald Sumpter is wonderful as the ghost of Jacob Marley. 

The sets are fantastic as well, giving the right atmosphere and ambiance, with famous names of the era dropped in here and there. The audience is transported right into Victorian England. The scenes are well fleshed out, giving background to the period, and highlighting some of the sadder social issues. Dickens, as a writer and social critic, highlights the issues and desperate plight of the poor at the time. The movie epilogue says that Charles Dickens changed the way people viewed Christmas and revived the spirit of goodwill and giving. A bit of research shows that yes, the novel was so wildly popular that it reinvigorated the Christmas season and people’s interest in an ancient custom. Is it worth watching? Absolutely, it's a must-see. Stevens is chaotic in his interpretation of Dickens but the solid cast and superb performances, plus the poignant nature of the story, make this an excellent movie to both enjoy and ponder a little more thereon. This is a perennial Christmas movie the family can watch year after year without tiring of it.

 The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) has several strong points that make it an enjoyable film, especially for the holiday season:

These are just some of the good things about "The Man Who Invented Christmas." It might not be for everyone, especially those who prefer strict historical accuracy, but it offers a charming and imaginative take on the creative process with a generous helping of holiday cheer.

 "The Man Who Invented Christmas" captivates audiences with its enchanting portrayal of Charles Dickens' creative process and the birth of a holiday masterpiece. Directed by Bharat Nalluri, this film offers a delightful blend of historical fiction and timeless storytelling.

Dan Stevens delivers a captivating performance as Charles Dickens, portraying the author's inner struggles and moments of inspiration with nuance and depth. Through Stevens' portrayal, viewers witness Dickens' journey from a frustrated writer battling writer's block to a man fueled by determination and imagination.

The supporting cast, including Christopher Plummer as the iconic Ebenezer Scrooge, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Plummer's portrayal of the miserly Scrooge is both menacing and poignant, capturing the character's transformation from a cold-hearted miser to a symbol of redemption.

What truly sets "The Man Who Invented Christmas" apart is its exploration of the creative process. The film offers a fascinating glimpse into Dickens' mind as he weaves together the characters and themes that would come to define "A Christmas Carol." From chance encounters to personal experiences, every aspect of Dickens' life serves as fodder for his literary masterpiece.

Visually stunning and filled with festive charm, the film transports audiences to Victorian England, immersing them in the sights and sounds of the holiday season. The period detail is meticulously crafted, capturing the essence of Dickens' era and adding to the film's overall authenticity.

At its core, "The Man Who Invented Christmas" is a heartwarming tale of redemption and the power of storytelling. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope and the possibility of transformation. As Dickens himself once wrote, "There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor."

In conclusion, "The Man Who Invented Christmas" is a must-watch for fans of Charles Dickens, holiday classics, and the magic of storytelling. With its stellar performances, engaging narrative, and festive spirit, this film is sure to warm the hearts of audiences for years to come.