The following is an editorial in which all views, thoughts or opinions belong to the author and do not represent those of The Drury Mirror.

“The Grinch” – a mean, green, Christmas-hating machine – is Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale. It is the story of how the Christmas spirit can change even the most stubborn of hearts. It’s a story we all know and love, but it’s also a story that has been three times retold.

The first is the classic TV special, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” the second is the live action edition, “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch,” and the third is the newest film, “The Grinch.” Each of these has their pros and cons, but only one can be called the best.

Three versions of the story

The original animated movie, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” first aired in 1966. Out of all the movies, it is the closest to Seuss’ story since he wrote its screenplay. It runs for 26 minutes and had a budget of $315,000. Rotten Tomatoes proclaims it to be 100 percent “fresh” and even critics regard it as a classic. The song, “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” that was featured in the film went on to win a Grammy.

“Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch” is the live action movie. It was released in 2000, runs for 105 minutes and had a budget of $123 million. It starred Jim Carrey as the Grinch and was the first full-feature length film to be based on the story. It was also the first film to give the Grinch a backstory and an explanation as to why he hates Christmas so much.

While it did win an Academy Award for Best Make-up, it was not enough make it an audience favorite. This Grinch only scores a 52 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, and one critic said that you would be better off watching the cartoon.

The newest adaptation, “The Grinch,” is also a feature-length film, with a run time of 86 minutes. Universal and Illumination released it earlier this month and, while it’s score is not much higher than the live action, Rotten Tomatoes still gives it a 56 percent. Many critics say that while the film can’t come close to replacing the classic, it still captures the essence of the story better than the Jim Carrey version.

But which one is the best?

All three movies are good in their own way, but the best is easily the classic 1966 Grinch. A combination of sentimentality and the elegant simplicity of the show is what has made it such a timeless classic. It’s short, sweet and tells Seuss’ story.

The newest Grinch is the second best. It doesn’t stray from the canon, but it still gives the viewer a broader perspective. It develops Cindy Lou Who, and in the process clearly shows what Christmas is supposed to be about. Not to mention the absolutely gorgeous animation.

Jim Carrey’s Grinch sits at the bottom. While it certainly told a good story, it was also a tad crass and even a bit scary at times. It told the story of the Grinch and, while it happened to include stealing Christmas, it didn’t feel like much more.

Article by Afton Jagels.