The film is based on Dr. Seuss's 1957 book 'How The Grinch Stole Christmas' about an outcast bent on revenge.

Against a sickly sweet backdrop the chipmunk-faced inhabitants of Whoville are gearing up for Christmas.

Don't you like me?

However, The Grinch, Jim Carrey, who lives in a dump in the hill, is bitter after being bullied by schoolkids as a child and sets out to scupper their plans.

The film is another that leans heavily on Jim Carrey's performance and the reputation that comes with his name.

As a family film in 2000 it appears fatally flawed - no 'cutesy factor' for the children, no dalmatians, no moving soundtrack.

Taylor Momsen, a shocked little girl

There is no hook to get you embroiled in the plot, no spectacular opening sequence such as with 'Dinosaur'.

For a family film there is also little to entertain the adult. You would expect a deep undertones or a cleverly worded script but there is not.


Due to the publicity budget I am sure this film will fare well in the first weekend. However, for your sake, I would take the kids to 102 Dalmatians which opens on December 8th.