my top seven favourite versions of a christmas carol

At this point, there are hundreds of versions of A Christmas Carol in existence. From more faithful adaptations to more modern interpretations...there is a version of A Christmas Carol for everyone. The novella was originally published in 1843 and has been a holiday must ever since. There are few stories that have managed to have that kind of cultural significance. This enduring story is about positive change and generosity. No wonder it remains relevant all these years later! As mentioned, there are hundreds of different versions of A Christmas Carol out there. As we continue to countdown to Christmas Day, it only made sense to highlight a few of my personal favourites. Truth be told, this was originally intended to be a top five list, but there were so many meaningful versions that I had to expand it a little. On that note, here are my top seven favourite versions.

With so many different versions of A Christmas Carol to enjoy, it was extremely difficult to whittle down my list. There are several notable absences from this top seven (like the iconic Mickey's Christmas Carol, Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol, and An All Dogs Christmas Carol) but I did my best to highlight some real standouts. Without further ado, here are some favourites.... 

• Flintstones Christmas Carol. One of the versions of A Christmas Carol that I have watched the most is the Flintstones version from 1994. It features the iconic characters acting in a stage version of the classic tale. There is a side plot with the Bedrock bug that is going around and Fred acting like a real Scrooge off stage as well. 
• A Keaton Christmas Carol. I grew up watching Family Ties (and more recently have started to rewatch the series) and have a DVD with an assortment of classic television holiday episodes. A Keaton Christmas Carol is on that DVD and it has become a tradition that I watch it at the beginning of December. In this version, Alex learns to remember why Christmas is so important and why family should always be a priority. This is a fun, lighthearted, silly, but ultimately, meaningful version of A Christmas Carol - and one that stands out from the rest.
• The Muppet Christmas Carol. What list would be complete without the beloved Muppets classic? I am a huge fan of the Muppets in general and this version of A Christmas Carol highlights all the reasons why. There are incredible songs, special characters, and a unique take on this beloved classic that only the Muppets can provide. One of my favourite moments from the movie is the song, When Love Is Gone, which was included on my VHS copy but not my DVD copy. Thankfully, this heart wrenching song has been added back into the version streaming on Disney+.
• Barbie in a Christmas Carol. The first time I watched the Barbie version of A Christmas Carol, my expectations were low. I assumed it would be just another version of the story...but it was so much more than that. I love that the movie expanded on the original idea with a self-centered singer who has let down her friends and co-workers. There is a fantastic soundtrack and lots of familiar Barbie characters. This is a really sweet and earnest version.
•  A Jetson Christmas Carol. There is something special about the Jetsons. Especially when it involves a Christmas themed episode of the classic cartoon. In this version, a series of events leads to Astro becoming ill. Not to worry though, because Mr. Spacely receives the full-blown Scrooge treatment before coming in to save the day. 
• The Smurfs: A Christmas Carol. Though the Smurfs have been around for as long as I can remember, this version of A Christmas Carol was released in 2011. What I like about this version is that it starts with a more modern animation style (which is not my favourite) but switches to a more traditional 2D style. This ensures that Smurfs fans both old and new have something to enjoy. The story is focused on Grumpy Smurf, of course, and his failure to appreciate the holiday season. A little perspective allows him to appreciate the power of a thoughtful gift. 
• Ebbie. Looking for a different take on the Scrooge character? How about one through the eyes of a successful businesswoman? Well, Ebbie is the ideal choice. This television movie from 1995 stars Susan Lucci as the title character and focuses on her life - and the department store she owns. It is a fun twist on an old classic. 

What version of A Christmas Carol is your favourite? Have you seen the different versions on this list?