The youngest network president in television history, IBC’s Francis “Frank” Xavier Cross (Bill Murray) will stop at nothing to “own” Christmas in the Nielsen ratings. His holiday lineup features shows like “The Night the Reindeer Died” (in which a far-from-defenseless Santa and his elves are attacked by terrorists) and “Bob Goulet’s Cajun Christmas.” In his view, it’s not enough for audiences to want to see a show; they have to be “scared to miss it.”
Cross has cut himself off from everyone who cares about him, delights in humiliating colleagues, and he leads a lonely life, sitting in his proper office, watching TV and drinking vodka. His next planned production is multi-million dollar Christmas Eve adaptation of “Scrooge” starring Buddy Hackett in the title role. Joining Hackett are Jamie Farr as Jacob Marley, Mary Lou Retton as Tiny Tim, David Johansen as the Ghost of Christmas Past, and Carol Kane as the Ghost of Christmas Present. Cross isn’t impressed with the ‘weak’ spots produced by his junior executives to promote the Christmas extravaganza, nor does he like his own violent, blood-soaked ad for the show denigrated by lackey Eliot Loudermilk (Bobcat Goldthwait), whom Cross promptly cans for his unsolicited opinions. Cross’ put-upon secretary, Grace (Alfre Woodard), is horrified that Cross would do such a thing at Christmastime (she has her own problems, including rotten pay from Cross and a child who won’t speak, slipping away into his own world).
Unmoved by his employees troubles, Cross’ only concern is the television special, and his burgeoning career. However, his rise to the top is threatened by the network’s crazy owner, Preston Rhinelander (Robert Mitchum), who hires unctuous “L.A. slimeball” Brice Cummings (John Glover) as Cross’ assistant—a move that sends the already paranoid Cross into fits of rage and fear. Needless to say, it’s a major shock when he’s visited by the mummified ghost of his former boss, Lew Hayward (John Forsythe), who warns Frank that he’ll be visited by three more ghosts on Christmas Eve. Lew warns him that he best concerning himself with others, much in the way Frank’s old girlfriend Claire (Karen Allen) has, or face dire consequences.
The Ghost of Christmas Past takes Cross through his painful childhood: On Christmas Eve, young Frank is in front of the television. His mother drinks a lot and avoids her husband, a snarling butcher who gives four-year-old Frank five pounds of milk-fed veal for Christmas instead of the choo-choo train he really wants. When Frank complains, his father tells him to get a job. It’s no wonder he grew into a man obsessed with his career.
The Ghost of Christmas Present then appears as a life-size pixie who delights in punching and slapping Frank; she shows him how his secretary’s family lives in poverty because of his stinginess. Nonetheless, looking in her window makes Cross realize how much happiness is missing in his life. He also learns how much his brother (John Murray) misses him.
The most controversial scene involves Cross standing center stage on television ranting and raving about the spirit of spirit of Christmas. It’s not really an inspirational speech, nor is it particularly funny. It sounds like it might have been ad-libbed as an afterthought. It just doesn’t work for me. Though the message he delivers definitely rings true.
While Scrooged has some weaknesses, It also has lots of humorous moments. Bill Murray took some chances with this adaptation of A Christmas Carol. If you’re a fan of the comedian, this film is well worth checking out.
This 1.78:1 1080p transfer is pretty good surprisingly good for a 1988 film. The films color palette looks quite strong, and detail and texture is well represented. DNR or other digital issues are not an issue. Fans should be pleased.
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is equally satisfying. Danny Elfman’s score is breezy and, utilizing plenty of dynamic range. Effects are centered with the occasional breakout to the left and right channels. Surround use is frequent and well used. Dialogue is clear throughout.
French Dolby Digital 2.0 and Spanish Dolby Digital 1.0 mixes are included, as are English, English SDH, French, Spanish, and Portuguese subtitles.
Unfortunately, this Blu-ray release of Scrooged contains no special features other than the film’s theatrical trailer (1080p, 2:37).
