In December 1843, one of Charles Dickens’ most famous literary works would be published — “A Christmas Carol.” Since then, there have been hundreds of adaptations of the story of Mr. Scrooge and the Christmas ghosts who helped him see the error of his ways. From the stage to the screen, every generation in the last 179 years has witnessed some version of this classic tale. Though different in their delivery or genre, all the adaptations focus on the mean person needing a serious attitude adjustment. This year, the tale is turned on its side in the musical Spirited.
The Ghosts of Christmas Past (Sunita Mani), Present (Will Farrell), and Yet-To-Come (voiced by Tracy Morgan) have just wrapped up another successful night of haunting to change someone for the better. It’s now time to prepare for next year. While checking out a potential dark soul, Present sees Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds). Although dubbed unredeemable, Present is determined to see Clint reformed, but may have bitten off more than he can chew. A master of manipulation, Briggs’ haunting proves to be more challenging than Present could’ve imagined. So much so, that Present is forced to look at his own past, contemplate his present, and question his own future.
Directed by Sean Anders (Daddy’s Home, Instant Family), Spirited is Dickens’ tale told from the side of the ghosts, making them more of the focus instead of just props. Written by Anders and John Morris, this point of view refreshes the story that is revisited every holiday season in a way that doesn’t take away from the original. In fact, knowing the classic story so well is actually of benefit to the viewer. It makes the twists and turns of the story within the film that much more enjoyable.
Reynolds and Farrell make for a great on-screen duo, which is to be expected. Both actors deliver their roles (and songs) well. Their chemistry is excellent as they play off each other from scene to scene. This is true for the remainder of the cast. The ghosts are central to this story and are given unique personalities displayed by Mani and Morgan and Patrick Page, who plays Jacob Marley. Rounding out the cast and bringing a sense of warmth to the screen is Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer as Kimberly, executive vice president of Briggs’ company.
Throughout the story, the film does touch on some sensitive themes. You can’t do Dickens correctly without having some pain in the characters’ lives. It’s through experiencing these moments that you come to understand the why behind someone’s behavior and the consequences if they continue. There may be scenes that carry a trigger for some viewers. However, these scenes don’t weigh the film down. Instead, they ground the film by giving it relevance and balance.
Spirited is a wonderful and fun take on a tale that never seems to get old. With a reimagined story and wonderful cast, Dickens’ work is once again given a new look and feel without losing its heartfelt message. Add in original songs by Oscar-winning duo Pasek & Paul (LaLa Land, Greatest Showman) and amazing choreography from Emmy-nominated international tap star Chloe Arnold, and you have an instant holiday classic that you’ll want to watch again and again.
Spirited premiers globally on November 18 on Apple TV+.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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