Ranking Every Grinch Movie & TV Special / Grinch 1966 SPEED-ART
Hey everyone! I’m back with another Speed-Art, and this time it’s The Grinch from my latest animation! The Grinch is a holiday legend, but after diving deep into every Grinch adaptation for my animation, I’m ready to rank the best and worst onscreen Grinch media. So, let’s jump right in!
8. Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Musical Live! (2020)
In last place, is the filmed Broadway musical. It’s just… odd. While the set design and some songs are decent, Matthew Morrison’s portrayal of the Grinch is distractingly off. His makeup hits the uncanny valley, and the “man-dressed-as-a-dog” narrator doesn’t help, there’s just somethings that don’t translate from theatre to film. Unless you’re a hardcore musical fan, skip this one.
7. The Grinch Grinches The Cat In The Hat (1982)
In 7th is the odd mashup TV special, “The Grinch Grinches The Cat In The Hat”, which was written by Dr. Seuss. This bizarre TV special mashes up two Dr. Seuss classics but misses the mark. The animation is rough, the songs feel juvenile, and the story is painfully slow. The Grinch’s gadgets provide some fun, but it’s not enough to save this forgettable special.
6. The Mean One (2022)
In number 6 is a film that had a lot of potential, but ultimately ended up flat, and that is the parody film, “The Mean One”. Skirting around copyright laws with the grace of an elephant in a ballroom, this low-budget horror parody could’ve been great. The plot is a generic slasher, and the characters are one-note. The saving grace? David Howard Thornton’s chilling performance as the Mean One and the fantastic creature makeup. Horror fans might enjoy it for the novelty, but it’s not a holiday must-watch.
5. The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss (1996-1998)
In 5th is “The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss”. This puppet-based TV series is charming for kids, blending Muppet-style whimsy with Seussian characters like the Grinch. It’s more for young viewers, but as far as kids’ shows go, it’s solid entertainment.
4. The Grinch (2018)
4th place goes to the 2018 Animated Grinch film. Illumination’s take on the Grinch is polished but safe. Benedict Cumberbatch voices a surprisingly mild Grinch who’s more lonely than mean, and the animation is colorful but lacks the grit of earlier versions. It’s a crowd-pleaser, but it doesn’t leave a lasting impression.
3. Halloween is Grinch Night (1977)
Before I get to third, feel free to leave your own ranking in a comment or let me know your top 3. With that said, “Halloween is Halloween is Grinch Night” from 1977 comes in 3rd. This trippy prequel to the original special sees the Grinch stirring up Halloween mischief. While the animation isn’t as sharp, it leans into creepy vibes and delivers some wild visuals. It’s a fun change of pace if you’re in the mood for spooky Grinch antics.
2. How The Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
In number 2 is the original special from 1966—the classic that started it all! With Boris Karloff’s legendary narration, timeless songs, and Chuck Jones’ brilliant animation, this 25-minute masterpiece is essential holiday viewing. It’s short, sweet, and perfectly captures the magic of the original book.
1. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Of course, the 2000 Grinch movie, often called Jim Carrey’s Grinch, although it was directed by Ron Howard, takes the top spot. This movie expands the story with a heartfelt backstory, anti-consumerism themes, and hilarious moments. The makeup and set design are iconic, and Carrey’s performance brings the Grinch to life in a way no other version has and no one else ever could. It’s weird, bold, and a blast to watch every few years.
So that’s my ranking! What’s your favourite Grinch adaptation? Drop your picks in the comments! And don’t forget to check out my latest animation on Tell It Animated for a deeper dive into the Grinch’s Evolution. Special thanks to Michel Rivera and all my Patreon supporters! Until next time, I've been Aaron, and I'll tell you something later!