The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) Movie Review – A Heartwarming Tale of Creativity and Redemption
The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017), directed by Bharat Nalluri, is a charming historical drama that delves into the creation of Charles Dickens’s beloved holiday classic, A Christmas Carol. Starring Dan Stevens as Charles Dickens and Christopher Plummer as Ebenezer Scrooge, the film provides an imaginative and heartwarming portrayal of the struggles and inspirations behind one of literature’s most iconic Christmas stories.
Plot Summary: The Making of a Classic
The film is set in 1843 London and follows Charles Dickens (Dan Stevens) as he faces financial difficulties and personal struggles. With his career in jeopardy and his finances in disarray, Dickens decides to write a Christmas story that he hopes will revive his career and provide financial stability.
As Dickens begins to craft the story of A Christmas Carol, he encounters numerous challenges, including writer’s block, personal doubts, and the looming pressure of meeting a deadline. Throughout his creative process, Dickens finds himself haunted by the characters he creates, particularly the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge (Christopher Plummer), who takes on a life of his own and engages in an ongoing dialogue with the author.
The film explores Dickens’s journey as he draws inspiration from his own life and the people around him, ultimately leading to the creation of a story that captures the spirit of Christmas and resonates with readers across the world. The Man Who Invented Christmas blends historical facts with imaginative storytelling to present a heartwarming tale of creativity, redemption, and the enduring power of a good story.
Performances: Engaging and Authentic
Dan Stevens delivers a compelling performance as Charles Dickens, capturing the author’s determination, vulnerability, and creative spirit. Stevens’s portrayal brings depth to Dickens’s character, portraying both his struggles and his passion for storytelling with authenticity.
Christopher Plummer’s performance as Ebenezer Scrooge is equally noteworthy. Plummer brings a blend of gravitas and charisma to the role, embodying the essence of the character who plays a significant part in Dickens’s creative process. The interactions between Stevens and Plummer add a layer of intrigue and humor to the film, making the relationship between author and character a central focus.
The supporting cast, including Miriam Margolyes, Jonathan Pryce, and Laura Morante, also contribute strong performances that enhance the film’s historical and emotional depth.
Direction and Screenplay: Heartfelt and Imaginative
Bharat Nalluri’s direction of The Man Who Invented Christmas effectively balances historical context with imaginative storytelling. Nalluri’s approach to the film ensures that it remains engaging and accessible while offering a fresh perspective on the creation of A Christmas Carol.
The screenplay, written by Susan Coyne, weaves together historical events with fictional elements in a way that captures the essence of Dickens’s creative process. The dialogue is both witty and heartfelt, reflecting the film’s themes of redemption, inspiration, and the transformative power of storytelling.
The film’s pacing is well-managed, with a blend of humor, drama, and historical detail that keeps the narrative engaging throughout. The depiction of Victorian London and the challenges faced by Dickens provide a rich backdrop for the story, adding depth and authenticity to the film.
Themes: Creativity, Redemption, and the Spirit of Christmas
The Man Who Invented Christmas explores themes related to creativity, redemption, and the impact of storytelling. The film highlights the struggles and triumphs of Charles Dickens as he creates A Christmas Carol, shedding light on the personal and professional challenges he faced.
The film also emphasizes the power of storytelling to inspire and transform. Dickens’s journey reflects the idea that a well-crafted story can have a profound impact on both its creator and its audience. The themes of redemption and the spirit of Christmas are central to the narrative, echoing the messages found in A Christmas Carol itself.
Where to Watch The Man Who Invented Christmas Online
As of 2024, The Man Who Invented Christmas is available on several streaming platforms and digital rental services. Here are the options:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The Man Who Invented Christmas is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film in high definition and may have access to additional features such as subtitles and audio options.
- Hulu: The film is available on Hulu through additional packages or special content collections. Verify Hulu’s current catalog for availability.
- Disney+: The Man Who Invented Christmas might be available on Disney+ as part of its holiday content offerings. Check Disney+ for current availability.
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or own The Man Who Invented Christmas, several digital platforms offer these options:
- Apple iTunes: You can rent or purchase The Man Who Invented Christmas on Apple iTunes, with options for HD and Ultra HD viewing. The platform supports all Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the film for rental or purchase, with various resolution options to suit different devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for The Man Who Invented Christmas, often with deals or bundles that include other holiday films.
Conclusion: A Heartwarming and Creative Holiday Film
The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) is a delightful and imaginative film that offers a heartwarming look at the creation of Charles Dickens’s iconic Christmas story. With its engaging performances, inventive storytelling, and historical insights, the film provides a meaningful and enjoyable experience for viewers.
For fans of historical dramas, holiday films, and the enduring legacy of A Christmas Carol, The Man Who Invented Christmas is a must-watch. Its availability on various streaming platforms and digital rental services ensures that this charming film can be enjoyed by a wide audience, especially during the holiday season.
