Scrooged (1988)

Director: Richard Donner

Starring: Bill Murray, Karen Allen, John Forsythe

A selfish, cynical television executive is haunted by three spirits bearing lessons on Christmas Eve.

I guess I should probably lighten up, but I suppose I’m the scrooge here for not enjoying this ‘classic’ movie. I’m beginning to think its unfair for me to rate comedies, since I’m clearly not a fan of the genre. At least ‘Scrooged’ wasn’t slapstick; I hate slapstick.

Bill Murray stars as Television executive Frank Cross, a selfish and arrogant man with very little consideration for his staff, or anyone for that matter. On the night before their big Christmas show, Frank is visited by his ex mentor Lew Hayward – who has been dead for seven years. Lew tells Frank that another three ghosts will be visiting him.

One of these ghosts come in the form of a taxi driver, who takes Frank on a journey through time to his past. I actually rather enjoyed this part of the movie and made me wish I could go back to watch myself when I was just a child – now from an adult’s perspective. This part of the film was a rather emotional journey. (There’s also a moment during the third act involving one of the homeless characters which stirred my emotions.)

The love interest comes courtesy of Claire Phillips (Karen Allen) who works at a homeless shelter. Claire and Frank used to date when they were much younger and when Frank was just starting at the television studio. Now, as an executive, he has no time for Claire.

Yes, there are many (valuable) lessons here, but in general the film suffers from over-acting, and silly events to the point where it actually becomes weird. Sort of ironic, but most of the times I don’t find comedies funny. Maybe I’m just too serious, who knows? This is not one of the movies I will be watching every year around Christmas time…or ever again.

‘Scrooged’ was a huge box office success, earning more than $100 million on a $32 million budget. It was nominated for an Oscar for Best Makeup (and yes, I agree here; the make-up was good).

Would I watch it again? No.