'A Christmas Carol' Hits Home the Message of Giving

In an economic time of turmoil, fear, greed and anger, it is almost hard for Americans to find their Christmas spirit as we quickly approach the holiday season. But Disney pictures delivers an animated movie, "A Christmas Carol," that will hit home the true message of Christmas and bring that spirit back out.

"A Christmas Carol" has been made into numerous different movies over the past decades, including animated features. However, this animated film raises the bar and often makes you forget you aren't watching live action.

Ebenezer Scrooge is played by Jim Carrey, and he does a fantastic job. It is quite easy to despise Mr. Scrooge and his hate for all things Christmas in this movie, as the voice and animation display him in such a dark manner. And perhaps this is one of the best portrayals of Mr. Scrooge, I think Charles Dickens himself would get chills watching Scrooge scowl, sulk, and dismiss all notions of love, sacrifice and care.

Disney did a terrific job sticking to the story, making sure that although the animation was over the top, they never strayed from the true meaning that echoes every year around this season. However, I wasn't expecting to be as frightened at some points in the movie as I was. I caution parents, if you are taking young children to see this movie, beware of a darker side of Disney digital animation than you may be used to; you will find no pixie dust in this movie.

An incredible compliment to the movie is the soundtrack, composed by Alan Silvestri. The Christmas carols in the movie enhance the viewers' experience and bring about the glee and pure joy that is Christmas. And, the dark, ominous score helps to better paint the picture of Scrooge's feelings.

But overall, besides the fantastic work of the Disney digital animation crew, the star-studded cast who lend their voices to bring characters to life, and the fantastic direction of the movie, by far the best part is the story. In a time when we need it most, Disney delivers a movie that can provide comfort during a season of doubt. They remind us that although we may be struggling more this year than Christmases past, there is so much more to Christmas than just material items. And hopefully, this movie will help you take a page straight from Scrooge's manual on Christmas - it is always better to give than receive, even if the only gift you can give is love.