HOW THE GRINCH STOLE STOLE CHRISTMAS! (1966) *** Dr. Seuss is probably the greatest children's writer in the history of mankind (remove "probably" at your own peril, unless you don't count Astrid Lindgren), his illustrations lend themselves perfectly to animation, the animation is brilliant (Chuck Jones rules), the underlying literary work is unquestionably a masterpiece for the ages, and one of such length as can be quoted in its entirety, and Boris Karloff is an icon of appropriate stature for the work. But, but...I, acting like a critic, have to say this: some of the things that make it such a wonderful half hour of cartoons detract from the genius at the heart of the matter. Karloff's narration, no matter how appropriate in tone, cannot help but detract from Seuss' crystalline pure meter, particularly when pausing to give way to animated activity, sound effects, or even the celebrated musical interludes. It is all of the Grinch/but the Grinch it is not/there is more here than it/and it allows for such not. Still and all, it is, first and foremost, a tale of redemption, to the relief of us all, and especially so for the sub-tundran reindeer dog. It's a story, and example, much needed, particularly by those whose hearts are so small as to allow them to say anything at all negative about such a wonderful work of art properly beloved by billions.
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