"Carol for Another Christmas" is a 1964 American TV movie written by Rod Serling as a modernization of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." It tells the story of Daniel Grudge, a wealthy industrialist and fierce isolationist who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve, leading him to reconsider his attitude toward his son's death in World War II. The film was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and was the first in a planned series of television specials developed to promote the United Nations. It was initially televised on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) network on December 28, 1964, and was not shown again for 48 years. The movie features an all-star cast and is known for its unusual and thought-provoking take on the classic tale. The film's theme music was composed by Henry Mancini, and it was shot at the Michael Myerberg Studios in New York City. The Xerox Corporation underwrote the project, which cost $4 million and enabled the specials to air without commercial interruption.
Plot
"Carol for Another Christmas" is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" written by Rod Serling. The story follows Daniel Grudge, a wealthy industrialist and staunch isolationist who has lost his son in World War II and has become bitter and resentful. On Christmas Eve, he is visited by three ghosts who take him on a journey through time and space, showing him the consequences of his isolationist beliefs and his lack of empathy for others. The ghosts help him to see the error of his ways and to embrace the spirit of Christmas and the importance of human connection. The film is known for its unusual and thought-provoking take on the classic tale and its exploration of themes such as war, trauma, and the need for global cooperation.
Trailer
Cast
- Sterling Hayden as Daniel Grudge
- Eva Marie Saint as The Wave
- Ben Gazzara as Fred
- Barbara Ainteer as Ruby
- Steve Lawrence as Ghost of Christmas Past
- James Shigeta as The Doctor
- Pat Hingle as Ghost of Christmas Present
- Robert Shaw as Ghost of Christmas Future
- Peter Sellers as Imperial Me
- Britt Ekland as The Mother
Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Writer: Rod Serling
Distributor: The movie was initially televised on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) network on December 28, 1964.
Genre: Holiday, Drama, Fantasy
Release Date (Streaming): Dec 22, 2020
Theme
The theme of "Carol for Another Christmas" revolves around the consequences of isolationism and the importance of empathy and human connection. It explores the impact of war, the need for global cooperation, and the spirit of Christmas.
Reception
The reception of the movie "Carol for Another Christmas" was mixed. While it was praised for its thought-provoking take on the classic tale, some found its unusual approach challenging. The film's exploration of complex themes such as war and trauma was both lauded and criticized.
Production Challenges
The production of "Carol for Another Christmas" faced several challenges, including the need to convey its unique and thought-provoking narrative in a compelling manner. Additionally, the incorporation of visual effects and storytelling techniques posed technical and creative hurdles.
Settings
The movie is set on Christmas Eve and takes place in various locations, including the home of the protagonist, Daniel Grudge, as well as other settings that represent different periods of time and the consequences of isolationism.
Visual Styles and Techniques
"Carol for Another Christmas" employs a variety of visual styles and techniques to convey its narrative, including the use of different time periods, special effects to depict the visitation of the ghosts, and symbolic imagery to represent the central themes of the story.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- The film was the first in a planned series of television specials developed to promote the United Nations.
- It was shot at the Michael Myerberg Studios in New York City.
- The Xerox Corporation underwrote the project, enabling the specials to air without commercial interruption.
- The movie features an all-star cast, including Sterling Hayden, Eva Marie Saint, and Peter Sellers.