For over six decades, Dr. Seuss' timeless tale How The Grinch Stole Christmas! has captivated generations.
Originally published as a child's storybook in 1957 by the celebrated author, How The Grinch Stole Christmas! follows the story of the Grinch, a mean (yet beloved) “Who-hating” creature with a heart defect and inability in purchasing size-appropriate footwear. He aims to disrupt the festive plans of the cheerful residents of Whoville on Christmas Eve by stealing their Christmas gifts and decorations, leaving them with a ruined holiday.
The first adaptation of How The Grinch Stole Christmas! released in the form of the iconic 25-minute 1966 animated version, a perpetual favorite during the holiday season. Fast forward 34 years to the year 2000 with Jim Carrey taking on the role of the titular lead in the first live-action interpretation. This Ron Howard-directed version expanded upon Seuss' original tale while utilizing Carrey’s trademark wackiness to craft a memorable performance of the revered character.
Following an almost twenty-year hiatus between adaptations, the studio behind Despicable Me and Minions, Illumination, released 2018’s The Grinch featuring Benedict Cumberbatch as the voice behind the cherished lead. 2022’s The Mean One marks the latest film to feature a furry, green-skinned creature who hates Christmas, however it serves more as a parody of the Grinch rather than a direct adaptation. Starring the actor behind Terrifier’s Art the Clown, The Mean One reimagines the Grinch as a slasher horror, adding a thrilling twist to the beloved story which is definitely worth a watch.
What makes How The Grinch Stole Christmas! special is that everyone has their own preferred adaptation of the story. Whether you're drawn to the classic ‘60s animated version or the 2018 rendition, or prefer the captivating live-action adaptations, the Grinch remains a top pick for settling in for a Who-tastic movie night.
Here is a list of every animated and live-action movie featuring The Grinch and where you can stream them.
