🎅 The Green Monster Returns: Meeting Him in the Theaters of 2025
It's already December 18th. When carols ring through every street and the cold wind brushes the tip of your nose, there's a movie that always comes to mind: <How the Grinch Stole Christmas>. As soon as I heard about the 2025 winter re-release, I joined the ticket-buying war. To be honest, we can watch it at home on OTT, right? But strangely, I wanted to see Whoville again with the large screen and booming sound of a theater.
Coming out of the movie, how should I put it... scenes I once thought were just funny comedy felt a bit different this time. I think I saw the loneliness hidden within Jim Carrey's exaggerated movements? Oh, of course, it was still hilariously funny. I almost spat out my popcorn a few times from laughing.
🎭 Jim Carrey is the Genre: Irreplaceable Energy
In fact, this movie is more of a one-man show by Jim Carrey than a 'story.' While the 2018 animated version voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch is cute and sophisticated, it can't match the bizarre yet human charm unique to the live-action film.
There's a famous anecdote that Jim Carrey found the makeup so agonizing that he learned 'how to endure pain' from a CIA torture expert. Every time he twitches an eyebrow or contorts his body on screen, you can't help but marvel, 'Wow, that's real acting.' The detail of creating expressions using real muscles rather than CG is incredible. The quality of this re-release is so good that you can see the movement of every single strand of fur.
🎬 2000 Live-Action vs. 2018 Animation
Many people seem to wonder which one to watch. Let me settle it for you. Personally, I highly recommend the 2000 live-action version for 'grown-ups.' It has a touch of kitsch and black comedy that makes it feel more profound.
| Category | 2000 Live-Action Film | 2018 Animation |
|---|---|---|
| Starring | Jim Carrey (Acting) | Benedict Cumberbatch (Voice) |
| Atmosphere | Kitsch and slightly bizarre | Cute and warm |
| Key Emotion | Grinch's solitude and trauma | Family love and harmony |
❤️ In the End, Love, and Christmas
In the latter half of the film, during the scene where his heart grows three sizes, I found myself sniffing back tears. I lived a very busy life throughout 2025, and yet that cliché line, "Christmas isn't about gifts, it's about the heart," was so comforting. The catharsis when Cindy Lou Who's pure eyes melt the Grinch's mischievous smile into one is still effective 25 years later.
Oh, have you not booked your tickets yet? Plan a trip to the theater with your loved ones this weekend. It doesn't have to be 4DX or a massive screen; it's good enough as it is. Just stepping into that story and coming back out is enough to get you into the holiday spirit.
- ✅ Jim Carrey's performance is shocking even now: Legendary acting that overwhelms with facial expressions alone, without CG.
- ✅ The charm of a re-release: The details and brilliant colors of Whoville seen in clearer resolution.
- ✅ A fairy tale for adults: A deep story that goes beyond simple comedy to handle themes of isolation and healing.
- ✅ A 2025 year-end must-watch: The best choice if you want to properly feel the Christmas atmosphere.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A. Yes, it is rated for all ages. However, the Grinch's live-action makeup might be a little scary for very young children. But the story is educational and warm.
A. I absolutely recommend subtitles. To properly feel Jim Carrey's unique accent and changes in vocal tone, it's much better to hear it in the original language.
A. Usually, re-released movies have a short screening period. It is expected to run through late December for the Christmas season, but I recommend watching it as soon as possible.
What movies are you planning for this Christmas? Recommend them in the comments! 🎄