I love Christmas, and I love Christmas movies. Throughout the month of December I watch a lot of holiday movies, and I usually end up watching at least three different versions of A Christmas Carol. Over the years there have been live action versions, animated versions, and even one starring everyone’s favorite Muppets, however 1988’s Scrooged is definitely one of the more unique takes on the story.

Scrooged sets itself apart from the other versions of A Christmas Carol by moving the story into a contemporary setting, and placing a stronger emphasis on comedy. Bill Murray stars in the film as Frank Cross, a self centered TV executive who is trying to pull off a live televised version of A Christmas Carol on Christmas Eve. Over the course of a day Frank is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and like the character of Ebenezer Scrooge he is given the opportunity to change his ways to better himself and those around him. I like to think of Scrooged as a sequel to A Christmas Carol, where each year the ghosts visit new Scrooges and provide them with the opportunity to change and the knowledge that they need to accomplish the change.

If you are looking for something to watch this Christmas I recommend Scrooged. Billy Murray brings his usual charm and humor to the film, and is directed by Richard Donner (Lethal Weapon, Superman, The Goonies). Scrooged is not my favorite Christmas movie, it’s not even my favorite version of A Christmas Carol, but it is entertaining, funny, and it has Christmas spirit.

If you are interested in watching this movie it is currently available for streaming on Netflix, or maybe you just want to add it to your collection forever.

3.5 Popcorn Buckets