Manuel Frangis reviewedMarch 21, 2025
I just watched The Grinch (2018) and I would give it 2.5 out of 5 stars. I do like Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch but that is it. The movie looks good and has some fun moments but overall it does not have the same magic as other versions of this story.
The animation is bright colorful and well done. Illumination always knows how to make their movies look visually appealing and this one is no different. Whoville looks great the characters are expressive and the snowy Christmas setting is beautiful. The animation is not the problem here.
Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch is actually one of the best parts of the movie. He gives the character a different voice than I expected but he still makes it work. His version of the Grinch is more sarcastic and tired than truly mean spirited which is an interesting take. While he is fun to watch he does not feel as iconic as Jim Carrey’s version or the classic animated Grinch.
The humor in the movie is hit or miss. Some jokes land but a lot of them feel forced or unnecessary. The Grinch is supposed to be grumpy and mean spirited but this version softens him way too much. Instead of being a true villain he just feels like a mildly annoyed guy who does not like Christmas. It takes away a lot of the fun of watching him be a classic holiday grouch.
Max the dog is still as lovable as ever. He is one of the highlights of the movie bringing in a lot of the humor through his reactions and loyalty to the Grinch. The bond between them is one of the few things that actually works well.
The biggest issue with The Grinch is that it feels unnecessary. The 1966 animated version is a timeless classic and the 2000 Jim Carrey version brought its own unique style to the story. This one does not really add anything new. It follows the same basic story but does not take any risks or do anything that makes it stand out.
The pacing is a little slow in some places. The movie stretches out scenes that do not need to be that long while rushing through parts that could have used more time. It makes the story feel uneven and a little boring at times.
The message is still there about the true meaning of Christmas and the power of kindness but it does not hit as hard as it should. The Grinch’s transformation feels rushed and not as emotional as in the other versions. Instead of a real change in his heart it just kind of happens and does not feel earned.
The reason I am giving it 2.5 instead of a higher rating is that while it is not a terrible movie it just does not feel special. Benedict Cumberbatch does a solid job as the Grinch but the rest of the movie is forgettable. The humor is okay but not great the story is predictable and it does not bring anything new or exciting to the table.
Overall The Grinch (2018) is a decent looking but forgettable animated movie that does not live up to the other versions. If you are looking for a fun Christmas movie there are better options. I liked Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch but that is it.