Charles Dickens' immortal classic, “A Christmas Carol” may be the most adapted story of all time. Not only has there been hundreds of film and Broadway productions, but countless books and nearly every sitcom ever have also used the storyline of a Scrooge-like character changing their way with the help of a ghostly Christmas entity. The story has been parodied, deconstructed and retold in nearly every conceivable way. So, how can you even get anyone excited about a new version?
Ryan Reynolds as “Scrooge” and Will Ferrell as the Ghost of Christmas Present.
If that incredible casting isn’t enough, the film is a lavish musical comedy that promises to tell the story in a brand-new way – as a musical told through the ghost’s perspective.
Just Friends With An Elf
Will Spirited be Will Ferrell’s next Christmas classic?
While Daddy’s Home 2 might not have become quite a perennial holiday favorite, there is no denying that Elf is one of the most beloved Christmas movies of all time and one that makes Will Ferrell Christmas royalty. Ryan Reynolds also has two Christmas movies under his belt, although one may not technically qualify. (Cue the "Is Deadpool 2: Once Upon A Deadpool a Christmas movie? articles) Just Friends; however, has gained a bit of a following since its original release and is actually one of the better Christmas rom-coms this side of Hallmark. Octavia Spencer also has two Christmas movie on her resume, appearing in both Bad Santa and Bad Santa 2.
A SPIRITED Dickens Adaptation
The story of Scrooge has been told countless times, in nearly every format imaginable. Whether its tone is deathly serious, heartfelt, comedic, or in some cases, all 3 (looking at you The Muppet Christmas Carol) the story is universal and known by all. That is why this meta approach, similar to the one seen in Bill Murray's Scrooged, is an excellent take on this story. In fact, taking a musical approach is also similar to the final 5 minutes of Scrooged so fans of the 80s Christmas Classic may be in for a real treat.
When Is Spirited Streaming?
Spirited will make its debut in theaters on November 11, 2022. For those who don't want to make the trip to the cinema, you won't have to wait long to be visited by Ferrell's Ghost of Christmas Present. In fact, you will only have to wait a week because Spirited will stream on Apple TV+ starting November 18, 2022.
Until then, here's the official trailer, which offers a taste of some of the humor and reveals how visually stunning this film will be.
The Elf Squad is certainly intrigued by what is "behind the door" and can't wait to see Spirited this November. As Super Small Steve would say, “God Bless us, everyone!”