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I am something of a purist, like many people, and I had always spurned opportunities to watch other renditions of 'A Christmas Carol" - I loved the Reginald Owens version. It was the first one I saw, and I couldn't imagine it being improved.

However, I watched the George C. Scott version when it was first telecast, and he won my heart. I always thought, from reading the story, that Scrooge's unpleasantness wasn't really just ingrained nastiness, but the result of being unloved as a child and ever after afraid to care for anyone. Scott portrays this magnificently. You can actually see the change from heartsick young boy to reserved and workaholic young man to embittered and withdrawn old man. This version, even more than my (formerly) beloved Reginald Owens version, clearly makes the point that no man is irredeemable, it's never too late to change, and all you really need is love.

There are a lot of versions of "A Christmas Carol" out there. Some are great, others are not so good. Among the very best is the George C. Scott version. The late, great actor is masterfully in command of every scene, and his enunciation and delivery are unmatched by any other Scrooge on-screen.

This version is also the most faithful to the classic. It also uses fabulous historic settings and period music. The supporting cast, including David Warner as Bob Crachitt, Edward Hardwicke as Christmas Present, and many other familiar faces, is also tops!

Buy this and you will watch it every year. Geoge C. Scott is a Scrooge enraptured with his parsimony, yet also joyous in his redemption. You will love it.

The Patrick Stewart version of this classic tale is also good, albeit darker and with a meaner, more tortured Scrooge who is more shy after redemption.

So? They are both good. You don't have to make it either-or; order both!

It is hard to say enough good things about this movie. The acting is moving and deep, the music and sound effects cover the emotions from warm to chilling (with the sounds of Christmas Future being especially terrifying). And there are some amazing camera shots. It is a shame there are only five stars to give to this one.