"You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch"

It's Christmas coming early with this heart-warming gift of a live-action comedy fantasy. Ron Howard's enchanting screen adaptation of Dr. Seuss' story not only tells the tale of the Whos in Whoville but the imaginative screenplay by Jeffrey Price & Peter S. Seaman, narrated by silky-voiced Anthony Hopkins, delves deeply into the backstory of the grouchy, gruff Grinch (Jim Carrey), revealing what made him so bitterly malevolent, living alone in a cavernous cave on the top of Mt. Crumpit with only his dog Max as company.

The plot revolves around little Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen), whose parents (Bill Irwin, Molly Shannon) are immersed in the crass commercialism of Christmas preparations, particularly besting a neighbor (Christine Baranski) in the Whobilation lighting competition - under the watchful eye of the Mayor (Jeffrey Tambor). Curious about The Grinch - whose heart is two sizes too small - and his contemptible behavior, Cindy Lou investigates what seared his soul, made him an outcast, and inspired his vengeance. That's where the neighbor emerges as the Grinch's old love interest. Subsequently, the Grinch decides to love and celebrate Christmas again -and not just with tinsel and toys.

Buried under layers of rubbery make-up and green fur with his eyes covered by contact lenses and his mouth full of false teeth, Jim Carrey is, nevertheless, delightfully zany. He's so good, in fact, that I'm tempted to say you'll get Carrey-ed away.

Production designer Michael Corenblith has created a visual Who world worthy of the genius of Theodor S. Geisel, who wrote as Dr. Seuss. Clustered like a medieval European village, Whoville's haystack houses are decorated with, literally, thousands of twinkling lights. Rick Baker's make-up and Rita Ryack's padded costumes, particularly the hats, are inspired, and James Horner's music is terrific, particularly the song "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."

Those of you who are devoted to the original book and the 22-minute cartoon version will appreciate how deftly Ron Howard has captured its tenderness, warmth and charm - with an added cinematic zing. Sure, there's a little potty humor to amuse the kiddies but not enough to really offend their parents or grandparents.

On the Granger Movie Gauge of 1 to 10, "Dr. Seuss' How THE GRINCH Stole Christmas" is a classic 10. Children will adore it, teens will find it hip, and adults will flock back to see it. This magical package of pure pleasure leaves you a bit happier to be alive. Don't miss it!

Afterthought: The irony is, of course, is the paradox that this anti-commercialism of Christmas film is so heavily promoted in products - from postage stamps to toys to cereal boxes. Over the coming holiday season, it will make a mint!