@@stephenbrown1622 Given what she likely had overheard about "Uncle Ebenezer" and her status in society at the time, her warm gesture is all the more charming. :)
The maid who in my mind makes this scene was my Grandmother - Teresa - she was as lovely and kind in person as the scene in the movie portrays - God Bless X X X
Hardly, it's widely considered the definitive version by which all others are compared; And if you like Simm, Two other films you might consider [four actually] 1: The Belles of Saint Trinians 1954 and the "Inspector Hornleigh" film series [three movies]. The Hornleigh films are all available on UA-cam
Such a tender and sweet scene of repentance and forgiveness and redemption. Oh you must read the book for the complete picture. Remember his nephew Fred was poor, so Scrooge, is in a position to help Fred too.
Sim's Scrooge is so multi dimensional, you see all emotions in his eyes and on his face. He is not just mean and then nice, but the entire gamut of emotions. What a great actor. No other Scrooge comes even close
@@smithtime79 I agree , this 1951 version of "Scrooge " Is the best one of all. I would rate this as the third best holiday film of all time, behind the other 2 holiday film classic's "It's A Wonderful Life " (1946) at number 1 and "Miracle On 34th Street " (1947) at number 2? Do you agree? I await your reply.
@@matthewbulger2549 My favorite is this, number two is “It’s a Wonderful Life,” followed by the great reminiscent “A Christmas Story” (1983) as number three. But “The Miracle on 34th Street” is innocent fun for all ages.
Where do I begin? This scene gets me every time. Omg the maid's sweet little encouraging face & her nod at 0:52! Beautiful. From 1:15 ("Uncle Ebenezer!!") on...omg.....how the wife is sitting looking at them....and when she rises, accepts Scrooge's apology, speaks to him so tenderly, gives him a hug & a kiss, and dances with him.....pulls the heartstrings like nothing else! And of course Alistair Sim's performance is brilliant, as always. Fred is the definition of unconditional love. "Too late, I'm delighed..delighted!!" gets me every time. Absolutely stunning. The scene is everything...it's the way life should be!
Your comment is Exactly the One I would have written , Darling, about my affection for this scene . I recognized all your Tender - hearted observations.
I just found the Inspector Hornleigh movies with Alistair Sim as the bumbling junior officer. Absolutely wonderful.( hope I've remembered the title correctly, there was a series of movies)
I once went to see this as a play at our local university. Right before this scene, the actor playing Scrooge came into the audience and asked me to come on stage to dance. Being shy, I objected, but he would not take no for an answer. I danced with Scrooge to this song. Every Christmas, I remember being on stage with Scrooge.
THERES no words to express how great this version of Scrooge was , ALASTAIR SIM , didn’t just play this part he lived it , he was the Best actor for this roll . This versions of Scrooge was the best by far .. NO ONE COULD HAVE DONE IT BETTER PERIOD !!!!
I rarely make comments but to me one of the best movies ever made and absolutely the best version of Scrooge Alastair Sim hit on everything that Charles Dickens was thinking
This scene is so poignant in the film because they used the music from the song Barbara Allen, without the singing, at many of the more emotionally charged points earlier on. For example, when Scrooge is taken by the Ghost of Christmas Past to see his sister on her deathbed, having just given birth to the nephew who also appears in this scene, the music is played very softly and slowly. That tune becomes subconsciously connected to a number of tense scenes throughout the film, the accumulated tension from which is released here when Scrooge finally goes to Christmas dinner at his nephew's. One of the many reasons why this is the best version of Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol on film.
The song, Barbara Allen, is played everytime Scrooge’s sister or Nephew pop up. Scrooge’s Nephew likes him because He never knew his mother but knows she loved Scrooge very much, and he probably heard how sweet of a person his mother was.
So true , great observation. It makes me cry every time. And Fred’s wife is stunning. When she says “ you’ve made Fred so happy”❤️MERRY CHRISTMAS this year everyone. Please be kind to kids , yours and everyone else’s as well.
This is the best Christmas movie. I watched it last night. Saw it so many times as a child in the '1950s-60s. This scene always makes me cry (in a good way).
Probably my favorite moment in the film…when Fred’s wife looks up at him, nervous & timid, and he looks down at her (no doubt seeing Fan and Alice as he does), and with a sad smile and a rueful shrug, asks for forgiveness
I've watched this film every xmas since I was very young. A wonderful Christmas film gets u in the true xmas spirit. That music as Alistair is walking towards Fred's house, that's all it takes. Lump in the throat. My absolute favourite xmas film. Will last forever!! xx
That's the part that always gets me teary when he actually asks for forgiveness "Can you forgive.......for having no eyes to see with...." and the music.
My beautiful kids and I sit with me every year to watch this wonderful film... Mr Simm was the first man to introduce me to non verbal acting... his eyes are emotional navigators... they hit me like a hammer xx
I totally agree, the way that a range of emotions and expressions play across his face after he sends Bob out ("I don't deserve to be so happy") are a master class in passive acting.
Fred portrays unconditional love and forgiveness. Truly a joyous scene from the moment of the maid nodding to Ebenezer Scrooge, Fred welcoming his Uncle Ebenezer, his tender wife and the joyful polka. ❤️FORGIVENESS! ❤️JOY! ❤️LOVE!
And they use one of the oldest songs in England, “Barbara Allen,” first with the instruments in the exterior shots, next with singing just inside the door, and finally with violins as Scrooge acknowledges Fred’s bride, in a marriage hitherto against his wishes, and which he now recants, asking her to forgive him. She recognizes Scrooge trying to make amends with Fred, and blesses him. What a happy day!
I’m glad to hear that - it’s a touching moment. It makes a good point about the simple fact of admitting you were wrong and being forgiven, with an action, rather than just words.
Looking for encouragement from a maid he would not even have acknowledged a few days earlier, entering the room with innocence of an apologetic child, ""Can you forgive a pigheaded old fool..." owning his past indiscretions, and Freds wife accepting Ebenezer's apology, not for herself but because it made her husband so happy,, All to the greatest rendition of Barbara Allen melodically tying the whole movie together. And Alister Sims performance,,, OH MAN.
The best part was Fred. Scrooge had been a major jerk to him the other day, and Fred brushes it off completely when Scrooge asks if he can join him, far too delighted to have his Uncle in his home for X-Mas to be even slightly concerned at his earlier rudeness.
How Scrooge goofs around with Bob Cratchit at the end is PURE CLASSIC!!!!! "I WON'T stand for this sort of thing ANY LONGER!!!!" "You leave me NO CHOICE but to RAISE YOUR SALARY!!!!" 😆😆😆😆😆😆😆 Poor Cratchit thought he would be FIRED.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
It is no coincidence that this tremendous production of this Dickens classic was made in England. The English regularly create such wonderful drama. This film is truly wonderful and poignant. The best Christmas Carol indeed!
Thank you. I just watched the scene and cried a tear myself. It’s the message I wanted to convey. This is one of my favorite movie moments. I’m the person who posted this video.
@@smithtime79 Thank you for posting, I only wish the entire (very short) Tiny Tim Christmas Goose scene, had been included as it was the important prelude to this scene.
This is the definitive for me. Admittedly, I have by far nit seen all the versions of Scrooge/A Christmas Carol, but almost every line in this version is classic. They particularly embellish the storyline in the ghost of Christmas past, and departs from the book, yet it all fits perfect with the storyline. My favorite line from Alastair Sim, and I quote it often: "I'll retire to bedlam!"
This is absolutely the best version in my opinion! Alastair Sim is amazing as both the horrible Scrooge and the now reformed philanthropist on Christmas day. This scene is an example. The remorse you see in his eyes when he apologizes. I like then they immediately go into the rock ‘n’ roll of that era: The Polka!
I first watched this version with Alistair Sim, on a NY city TV station, on christmas eve 1953, I was seven years old, it scared me to death! I have watched it ever since for the past 68 years, never watched any other versions. A great fan of A.Sim, Marley and the maid.
You fit right in with the rest of us, then. This version is the superior one in existence. I believe it’s the most reliant on Dickens’ book. Take the scene with Joe where they exchange bed curtains for money- the dialogue is lifted out verbatim from the book.
Here I am, 46 years old and it's about to be 2023 and I still tear up to this film. Not going to lie, I'm a big cry baby anyway but I also laugh my ass off when it comes to even the smallest detail in a film no matter how many times I see it. Like the side smirk Billy Idol gives to the nice lady that asked, "What's the Mile High Club?", in The Wedding Singer LMAO.
This is my favorite Christmas Carol film and, in my opinion, the best interpretation of the Dicken's novel. Alistair Sim was the best Scrooge ever, showing such vulnerability underneath the anger and lack of empathy. This is from 1951 though, not 1935.
It is the version most faithful to Dickens’ book. I have a nice deluxe version in hard cover, with text on the left, and Dickens’ own hand on the right pages.
This is the 1951 Alastair Sim version of "A Christmas Carol" & it's the BEST and it's my FAVORITE version? The " no eyes to see, no ears to hear'' quote is straight out of the Bible. Thanks to Charles Dickens for writing this wonderful story of redemption...
It most definitely is the best version of the Charles Dickens classic and that's largely due to Alastair Sim's portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge. He sometimes could say more in a scene through his facial expressions and not having to utter a word. A classic movie!
I'm glad that scrooge never forgot how to dance. Fred's guest ,asking for polka, has the presence of mind to keep the mood going. Brilliant stuff that couldn't be matched now. Incredible film
@@bshuler2185 Don't forget redemption too ! Scrooge was hellbound, but he changed his future, Jacob Marley accomplished that, maybe Jacob Marley merited Mercy and Heaven 👼 after that. Shhhh, I know it was a fictional character.
BY FAR THE GREATEST CHRISTMS CAROL EVER DONE. THIS CAME OUT IN 1951 AND WAS STUPENDOUS. NO COMPARISON TO THE REGINALD OWEN CHRISTMAS CAROL. ALASTAIR SIM WAS AND STILL IS THE ORIGINAL EBENEZER SCROOGE. THE OLD ENGLISH ACTORS OF THE 1940S TO THE 1960S WERE THE GREATEST.KATHLEEN HARRISON WHO PLAYED SCROOGES HOUSE MAID WAS BRILLIANT IN THIS VERSION OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL.THIS MOVIE WILL LIVE FOREVER.
One of the most endearing scenes in all of movie history. Redemption and forgiveness together easily bring one to tears. The nephew is such a special person in this story. He truly wanted his uncle to be happy.
I took dance classes at age 8, Polka was one of the dances, An elegant, sophisticated, yet simple dance. The Waltz was also a favorite. My dance partner's and my era correct costumes were somewhat costly 😮 but the memories priceless.
This version included in my opinion the biggest gut wrench of any version. When Scrooge finds out he left before he heard his sisters final wish for him to take care of Fred. Him crying saying sorry, gets to me everytime. Alastair Sim version is the best, George C Scott #2
A superlative film! Perfect casting of the maid. Her delicate features always reminded me of sweet, little mouse. The poignant melody of ' Barbara Allen ' underscoring Scrooge when asking to be forgiven is genius! A brilliant movie!
The moment when the maid nods is is just magnificent. This incredibly wealthy man who is a captain of the London business world looks to a housemaid to give him permission to go in.
Must say, that all three renditions of this tale have their own merits. This scene may have the most emotional impact. The look on Fred's wife's face blows me out of the water! However, in the 1984 version, the ghost of Christmas Past, played by Edward Woodward was most definitely my favorite of the three. This scene with Ebenezer, Fred and his wife grabbed me the most. What makes this movie so special is what happens to a man when he is transformed.
I loved the bit where he is so happy he wants to stand on his head. Looking in the mirror there is someone connected to the film relaxing, waiting to move scenery I'm guessing. I wait for that bit every time. Love the film
In 1941, my tiny I'll daddy played Bob Cratchet in the school play in Nitro, WV. He had to carry a much larger boy on his shoulders who was playing 'Tiny' Tim, haha. He recalled the ludicrous backwardness of it every Christmas. Miss you, daddy. Love this version most of all. God bless us everyone🕊🙏🏻
This is...to me at least...the very best cinematic version of A Christmas Carol...Sim's performance encapsulates Scrooge in the way Dickens wrote him...insinuating and proprietorial...an absolute gem of a film...with all supporting actors perfectly cast in their individual roles
Watch it every Yuletide especially the colourized version. Made in 1951 it's hard to believe it's now 70 years old and all characters have passed away. Time makes ghosts of us all 🎄🎄🔮❤
I agree with the comments below. This has always been, by far, my favorite version of this marvelous story, and this has always been my favorite scene in the movie, with the music and singing adding a profoundly rich emotional resonance to what is already a very moving part of the story. And for reasons I cannot articulate but know to be sound, it makes my heart swell to read that other feel the same way about it.
@@MrAitraining same here ..my Mom and I watched this movie every Christmas Eve for years and years....her favorite scene was the day after Christmas with Scrooge and Cratchit at the office....how he didn't deserve to be so happy ..."run out and buy a new coal scuttle before you dot another "i" Bob Cratchit"!..she would laugh and laugh at that...but now I watch the movie without her😞.....this probly my favorite all time movie it's neck and neck with the Good the Bad and the Ugly...lol
Another great George Minter film, of the same year (1951), is Tom Brown's schooldays. He produced the two definitive versions of greatly loved, and much produced classics. If you love this, seek out Tom Brown's schooldays.
I had a feeling. Even though I’ve watched this movie for over ten years, I was rather late to discover it and I am not familiar with George Minter. I remember his name from the credits, but besides that I don’t know anything. I am a fan of British actors like James Mason, Cary Grant, and Sir Michael Redgrave (and his daughters). And I love Jane Austen, Dickens, the Brontes, Thomas Hardy, and George Eliot. I love British Literature, in short, including poetry and Shakespeare. I love bands like the Beatles, Genesis, and the Police as well. I’ll look more into Minter, including the film you recommended. Thank you!
@@smithtime79 Films, books, music, there isn't much else, is there, and I wouldn't give you tuppence for the current movies, modern novels, nor nowadays pop, like you I prefer the older, tried and tested stuff. The Arts will always uplift us, no matter what. (By the way, I live in the hometown of George Eliot, though he never calls 'round) Keep collecting, keep using your imagination.
Lionel Barrymore (the actor who played the mean banker in "It's a Wonderful Life"), a member of the "first family of acting", ie. brother John Barrymore and sister Ethyl Barrymore, used to read Charles Dickens' novel "Scrooge A Christmas Carol", over the radio each Christmas in England. When they decided to make this version of the movie they wanted Barrymore to play Scrooge. I can't remember exactly why he turned them down but he recommended his "huckleberry friend" Alistair Sim (listen to "Moon River" by Andy Williams from the movie "Breakfast at Tiffanys" for exactly what a huckleberry friend is) and the rest is history. A big success in England it flopped in the U.S. until television popularized it into a big hit, much like "The Wizard of Oz"". This version is considered by most top movie critics to be the definitive version due to the many great stars of he day in it (even in minor roles), their fine performances, and the excellent script. In any event, make up your own mind as to which version is best. This is indeed my favorite.
Alistair Sim was brilliant in this role. George Cole, who lived with the Sim’s, played young Scrooge. A wonderful cast of British actors, including Hattie Jacques as Mrs Fezziwig! Too many to list. Don’t watch the “colourised” version! Black and white suits Dickens perfectly. Thanks for sharing this.
You’re welcome. People have objected to the way the video is presented and filmed, but those are few and an abundant number of glowing positive responses and memories have proliferated. UA-cam is a way to share what you care about- that’s all my channel is- music, film, video games.
Wonderful scene! Also explains what the Ghost of Christmas Past pointed out to Scrooge. His mother died giving birth to him as Fred's mother, ( Scrooge's sister, ) had also done. Scrooge's father blamed him as he had blamed Fred. This scene brought that full circle.
This is one of my four go-to Scrooge/Christmas Carol films of the Christmas season, the others being the 1984 version with George C. Scott and the 1999 version with Sir Patrick Stewart, and a little-known "updated" Twilight Zone-esque version of the tale, Carol For Another Christmas, written by Rod Serling and starring Sterling Hayden and Ben Gazarra -- with Peter Sellers playing his most sinister character ever in the Christmas Future segment (with Robert Shaw as that ghost). Each has its own angle on the tale but the Alistair Sim version delves the most into Scrooge's past and how he gradually became warped into the greedy, heartless miser he ended up as.
The little nod by the serving girl is absolutely brilliant. So simple. So telling.
Truth! That nod and Mrs. Dilber's "To keep me mouth shut?" are just brilliant!
As though she's saying go on go in they will be delighted to see you
@@stephenbrown1622 Given what she likely had overheard about "Uncle Ebenezer" and her status in society at the time, her warm gesture is all the more charming. :)
The old Scrooge would have barged in and let his presence be known.
One of my favorite scenes, tiny as it is.
The maid who in my mind makes this scene was my Grandmother - Teresa - she was as lovely and kind in person as the scene in the movie portrays - God Bless X X X
That's incredible!
and cute to boot
Gave him that little extra boost to continue on. Your grandmother had some very good skills in those simple moments that spoke volumes.
You should create a Wikipedia page for her
She really did add a sweet dynamic to the scene. It is sad that we do not see movies made like this anymore. God bless you and your grandmother!
Am I the only guy here who willingly admits that it’s hard holding back the tears watching this powerful scene?
In the past few days, 2 other guys said the same. And I’m in their company.
i tear up every time i see it and i have seen it 30 times at least
I’m crying 😢 right now . Love this scene & movie .
I don't hold em back
Redemption and homecoming are worth crying for. God bless you.
It’s an unbelievably underrated film. The best film based around Christmas ever made, Alistair Sim at his best
Hardly, it's widely considered the definitive version by which all others are compared; And if you like Simm, Two other films you might consider [four actually] 1: The Belles of Saint Trinians 1954 and the "Inspector Hornleigh" film series [three movies]. The Hornleigh films are all available on UA-cam
Such a tender and sweet scene of repentance and forgiveness and redemption.
Oh you must read the book for the complete picture.
Remember his nephew Fred was poor, so Scrooge, is in a position to help Fred too.
Leonard Maltin's annual film guide gives it maximum stars and states it's too good a film to be seen
only at Christmas. High praise indeed.
I agree. The best film version of "Scrooge" ("A Christmas Carol"). Alistar Sim is THE best Scrooge.
Sim's Scrooge is so multi dimensional, you see all emotions in his eyes and on his face. He is not just mean and then nice, but the entire gamut of emotions. What a great actor. No other Scrooge comes even close
Every family should take time to watch this around Christmas. It's hands down the best version there is.
I agree.
@@smithtime79 I agree , this 1951 version of "Scrooge " Is the best one of all.
I would rate this as the third best holiday film of all time, behind the other 2 holiday film classic's "It's A Wonderful Life " (1946) at number 1 and "Miracle On 34th Street " (1947) at number 2? Do you agree? I await your reply.
@@matthewbulger2549 My favorite is this, number two is “It’s a Wonderful Life,” followed by the great reminiscent “A Christmas Story” (1983) as number three. But “The Miracle on 34th Street” is innocent fun for all ages.
@@smithtime79 Thank you for your reply.
Yes it is Outstanding!!!!!!!!
I love the way the servant gives him a little encouraging nod when he’s too nervous to go in.
I always thought she was cute as a button.
I love that, too. Thank you for mentioning it - it always seemed her nod is one of the kindest things one could do in such a moment.
His little smile to her too when she does it, the sort of top quality acting that just isn't seen anymore.
Superb film on so many levels.
Johnathan Ryan I agree.
A sweetly splendid moment! The young maid is the first to see the new, loving man Scrooge has become.
Even after all these years still the best version of this story ever told
Where do I begin? This scene gets me every time. Omg the maid's sweet little encouraging face & her nod at 0:52! Beautiful. From 1:15 ("Uncle Ebenezer!!") on...omg.....how the wife is sitting looking at them....and when she rises, accepts Scrooge's apology, speaks to him so tenderly, gives him a hug & a kiss, and dances with him.....pulls the heartstrings like nothing else! And of course Alistair Sim's performance is brilliant, as always. Fred is the definition of unconditional love. "Too late, I'm delighed..delighted!!" gets me every time. Absolutely stunning. The scene is everything...it's the way life should be!
Your comment is Exactly the One I would have written , Darling, about my affection for this scene .
I recognized all your Tender - hearted observations.
And of course the song. I love Barbra Allen. I first heard it by Joan Baez.
There shall only be one Ebenezer Scrooge and his name is Alistair Sim
Scrooge was hesitant about going in there the maid gave him the courage to go in there
I just found the Inspector Hornleigh movies with Alistair Sim as the bumbling junior officer. Absolutely wonderful.( hope I've remembered the title correctly, there was a series of movies)
Such an effective scene, that demonstrates how good an Actor Alistair Sim was.
Also the little nod of encouragement from the maid is sublime
Love this version of SCROOGE.
The absolute best.
Four stars.
All golden.
I agree - the best version of all.
@@smithtime79 And the greatest film Scrooge with the great Albert Finney is up there as well!!!!!!!!!
I once went to see this as a play at our local university. Right before this scene, the actor playing Scrooge came into the audience and asked me to come on stage to dance. Being shy, I objected, but he would not take no for an answer. I danced with Scrooge to this song. Every Christmas, I remember being on stage with Scrooge.
THERES no words to express how great this version of Scrooge was , ALASTAIR SIM , didn’t just play this part he lived it , he was the Best actor for this roll . This versions of Scrooge was the best by far .. NO ONE COULD HAVE DONE IT BETTER PERIOD !!!!
Alastair Sim should have been nominated for an Acadamy Award
I agree 👍
I absolutely love this version. Watch it every year without fail. Happy Christmas all
@@derbyoaksdouble2013 same here Sean , i just watched it again lol , MERRY XMAX TO YOU ,,,
ABSOLUTELY CORRECT....nobody has played Ebenezer better than Alistair Sim....
Sim is the definitive Scrooge and this original (non-colorized) version is the best. I watch this every Christmas.
I watch it with my family every year and we enjoy that immensely. I’m a big fan of Charles Dickens’ novels as well.
True. Something get lost when they remaster and color old black and white movies. 🙂
Oooh, a Christmas Goose would be great after seeing that movie, with the new generation.
I rarely make comments but to me one of the best movies ever made and absolutely the best version of Scrooge Alastair Sim hit on everything that Charles Dickens was thinking
I agree, the scene where Tiny Tim says I think Scrooge sent the Christmas Goose, has me crying like a baby every time.
I was a child the first time I saw this rendition. I loved it then and I love it even more now.
This scene is so poignant in the film because they used the music from the song Barbara Allen, without the singing, at many of the more emotionally charged points earlier on. For example, when Scrooge is taken by the Ghost of Christmas Past to see his sister on her deathbed, having just given birth to the nephew who also appears in this scene, the music is played very softly and slowly. That tune becomes subconsciously connected to a number of tense scenes throughout the film, the accumulated tension from which is released here when Scrooge finally goes to Christmas dinner at his nephew's. One of the many reasons why this is the best version of Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol on film.
Yes, the scene at her deathbed, the last straw that drove Scrooge away from humanity- until three spirits brought him back.
The song, Barbara Allen, is played everytime Scrooge’s sister or Nephew pop up. Scrooge’s Nephew likes him because He never knew his mother but knows she loved Scrooge very much, and he probably heard how sweet of a person his mother was.
So true , great observation. It makes me cry every time. And Fred’s wife is stunning. When she says “ you’ve made Fred so happy”❤️MERRY CHRISTMAS this year everyone. Please be kind to kids , yours and everyone else’s as well.
Wow, so wonderfully said. This is not only my favorite version, but my all time Favorite CHRISTMAS MOVIE
Spot on. The use of the music in this classic Christmas film was inspired...all credit to the composer
and the producers.
The best version hands down . The joy of redemption, reconciliation that only comes from Jesus Christ. Oh how God’s mercy is new every day
This is the best Christmas movie. I watched it last night. Saw it so many times as a child in the '1950s-60s. This scene always makes me cry (in a good way).
Hi Marti i agree , thanks Kevin...
Probably my favorite moment in the film…when Fred’s wife looks up at him, nervous & timid, and he looks down at her (no doubt seeing Fan and Alice as he does), and with a sad smile and a rueful shrug, asks for forgiveness
Great perspective on this, thanks for that!
Love your take on this. Totally agree. Beautiful. I love their open hearts to forgive and welcome him.
I've watched this film every xmas since I was very young. A wonderful Christmas film gets u in the true xmas spirit. That music as Alistair is walking towards Fred's house, that's all it takes. Lump in the throat. My absolute favourite xmas film. Will last forever!! xx
My favorite scene of the entire film. This is the best version of "A Christmas Carol" ever put on film.
Yes. It's been the official version in my family for over 50 years. None better
Fred's wife sees Ebenezer and waits with the hope of hopes he's changed. And he has. A beautiful scene in a beautiful movie.
That's the part that always gets me teary when he actually asks for forgiveness "Can you forgive.......for having no eyes to see with...." and the music.
My beautiful kids and I sit with me every year to watch this wonderful film... Mr Simm was the first man to introduce me to non verbal acting... his eyes are emotional navigators... they hit me like a hammer xx
I totally agree, the way that a range of emotions and expressions play across his face after he sends Bob out ("I don't deserve to be so happy") are a master class in passive acting.
My favorite Scrooge ever made, love Alistair Sim and the entire cast. Looking forward to watching it again before Christmas 2022.
This is my favorite version of Scrooge. When he turns good and scares his housekeeper so she screams in terror was so funny.
Fred portrays unconditional love and forgiveness. Truly a joyous scene from the moment of the maid nodding to Ebenezer Scrooge, Fred welcoming his Uncle Ebenezer, his tender wife and the joyful polka. ❤️FORGIVENESS! ❤️JOY! ❤️LOVE!
And they use one of the oldest songs in England, “Barbara Allen,” first with the instruments in the exterior shots, next with singing just inside the door, and finally with violins as Scrooge acknowledges Fred’s bride, in a marriage hitherto against his wishes, and which he now recants, asking her to forgive him. She recognizes Scrooge trying to make amends with Fred, and blesses him. What a happy day!
Scrooge is so repentant, he figured he had no right to be there, as even the Maid knew how badly he had behaved.
Charles Dickens would have been so pleased with this version.
It's the very best!
My favorite version. Just got my husband to watch it for the first time. He liked it and even laughed out loud more than once.
Best version of Christmas Carol
This always makes me tear up.
I’m glad to hear that - it’s a touching moment. It makes a good point about the simple fact of admitting you were wrong and being forgiven, with an action, rather than just words.
I always 😪 too. It touches my ❤
It makes me wish I could make peace with my younger brother and depend Christmas with him and his wife and daughter 😪
@@SamuelBlack84 I feel the same way about my sister. I pray everyday for resolution.
This gets us in part because this how it would be in Heaven....all misunderstandings pasting away and the love freed
Looking for encouragement from a maid he would not even have acknowledged a few days earlier, entering the room with innocence of an apologetic child, ""Can you forgive a pigheaded old fool..." owning his past indiscretions, and Freds wife accepting Ebenezer's apology, not for herself but because it made her husband so happy,, All to the greatest rendition of Barbara Allen melodically tying the whole movie together. And Alister Sims performance,,, OH MAN.
The best part was Fred. Scrooge had been a major jerk to him the other day, and Fred brushes it off completely when Scrooge asks if he can join him, far too delighted to have his Uncle in his home for X-Mas to be even slightly concerned at his earlier rudeness.
I think Fred's wife is super pretty, so cute!
How Scrooge goofs around with Bob Cratchit at the end is PURE CLASSIC!!!!! "I WON'T stand for this sort of thing ANY LONGER!!!!" "You leave me NO CHOICE but to RAISE YOUR SALARY!!!!" 😆😆😆😆😆😆😆 Poor Cratchit thought he would be FIRED.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I keep watching this and have to say I love the maid's nod when Scrooge pauses at the door.
It is no coincidence that this tremendous production of this Dickens classic was made in England. The English regularly create such wonderful drama. This film is truly wonderful and poignant. The best Christmas Carol indeed!
This is my favorite part of this movie. I love the song/singing and the expressions on the faces here!!!
I watched this version with my family every Christmas time as I grew-up and still do to this day. I just love it.....enough said.....
Brings tears to my eyes. Such a wonderful message.
Thank you. I just watched the scene and cried a tear myself. It’s the message I wanted to convey. This is one of my favorite movie moments. I’m the person who posted this video.
1:38 best line in cinema history!
@@smithtime79
Thank you for posting, I only wish the entire (very short) Tiny Tim Christmas Goose scene, had been included as it was the important prelude to this scene.
Brilliant Adaptation of a Dickens classic with an excellent cast of actors & Alister Sim was without doubt Scrooge in the flesh
Let's not overlook the use of the highly emotional ' Barbara Allen ' in this incredibly poignant scene.
This is the definitive for me. Admittedly, I have by far nit seen all the versions of Scrooge/A Christmas Carol, but almost every line in this version is classic. They particularly embellish the storyline in the ghost of Christmas past, and departs from the book, yet it all fits perfect with the storyline. My favorite line from Alastair Sim, and I quote it often: "I'll retire to bedlam!"
I love to watch this version every Year and it’s been at least 45!
Same.
Alastair Sim was my maternal grandfather's first cousin. Their fathers were brothers. One stayed in Scotland and one came to America.
This is absolutely the best version in my opinion! Alastair Sim is amazing as both the horrible Scrooge and the now reformed philanthropist on Christmas day. This scene is an example. The remorse you see in his eyes when he apologizes. I like then they immediately go into the rock ‘n’ roll of that era: The Polka!
I first watched this version with Alistair Sim, on a NY city TV station, on christmas eve 1953, I was seven years old, it scared me to death! I have watched it ever since for the past 68 years, never watched any other versions. A great fan of A.Sim, Marley and the maid.
You fit right in with the rest of us, then. This version is the superior one in existence. I believe it’s the most reliant on Dickens’ book. Take the scene with Joe where they exchange bed curtains for money- the dialogue is lifted out verbatim from the book.
The maid, played by Theresa Derrington, stole the scene without a single line.
Considered by many to be the "Gold Standard" of The Christmas Carol on film.
Fantastic actor portraying a massive part of English storytelling.
God bless you all
The goal of Charles Dickens was to share what life was like in Victorian England, with future generations.
Here I am, 46 years old and it's about to be 2023 and I still tear up to this film. Not going to lie, I'm a big cry baby anyway but I also laugh my ass off when it comes to even the smallest detail in a film no matter how many times I see it. Like the side smirk Billy Idol gives to the nice lady that asked, "What's the Mile High Club?", in The Wedding Singer LMAO.
This is my favorite Christmas Carol film and, in my opinion, the best interpretation of the Dicken's novel. Alistair Sim was the best Scrooge ever, showing such vulnerability underneath the anger and lack of empathy. This is from 1951 though, not 1935.
It is the version most faithful to Dickens’ book. I have a nice deluxe version in hard cover, with text on the left, and Dickens’ own hand on the right pages.
This is the 1951 Alastair Sim version of "A Christmas Carol" & it's the BEST and it's my FAVORITE version? The " no eyes to see, no ears to hear'' quote is straight out of the Bible. Thanks to Charles Dickens for writing this wonderful story of redemption...
My favourite version. Christmas morning wouldn't be the same without its become a bit of a tradition ..
It most definitely is the best version of the Charles Dickens classic and that's largely due to Alastair Sim's portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge. He sometimes could say more in a scene through his facial expressions and not having to utter a word. A classic movie!
I'm glad that scrooge never forgot how to dance. Fred's guest ,asking for polka, has the presence of mind to keep the mood going. Brilliant stuff that couldn't be matched now.
Incredible film
Johnathan Ryan ~ He can pick his knees up as high as Dick Van Dyke! Awesome parts of the film, repentance, forgiveness...God Bless.
@@bshuler2185
Don't forget redemption too !
Scrooge was hellbound, but he changed his future,
Jacob Marley accomplished that, maybe Jacob Marley merited Mercy and Heaven 👼 after that.
Shhhh, I know it was a fictional character.
By far the best version of A Christmas Carol.
BY FAR THE GREATEST CHRISTMS CAROL EVER DONE. THIS CAME OUT IN 1951 AND WAS STUPENDOUS. NO COMPARISON TO THE REGINALD OWEN CHRISTMAS CAROL. ALASTAIR SIM WAS AND STILL IS THE ORIGINAL EBENEZER SCROOGE. THE OLD ENGLISH ACTORS OF THE 1940S TO THE 1960S WERE THE GREATEST.KATHLEEN HARRISON WHO PLAYED SCROOGES HOUSE MAID WAS BRILLIANT IN THIS VERSION OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL.THIS MOVIE WILL LIVE FOREVER.
He was from Edinburgh. Not English but Scottish.
One of the most endearing scenes in all of movie history. Redemption and forgiveness together easily bring one to tears. The nephew is such a special person in this story. He truly wanted his uncle to be happy.
I LOVE the way she says happy. Like "hyeppy"
Yes, that old British charming voice.
I could watch this scene anytime of the year to cheer me up
I've watch this movie a hundred times. And one of my favorite scenes is when they dance the Polka. I always wanted to dance that.
Alastair Sim as a young man: c1.staticflickr.com/6/5694/22060409501_9177c6ac03_b.jpg
TheraP2014 ~ It looks exhilarating! !
I took dance classes at age 8, Polka was one of the dances, An elegant, sophisticated, yet simple dance.
The Waltz was also a favorite.
My dance partner's and my era correct costumes were somewhat costly 😮 but the memories priceless.
This is the best movie version of A Christmas Carol, but they are all good.
This version included in my opinion the biggest gut wrench of any version. When Scrooge finds out he left before he heard his sisters final wish for him to take care of Fred. Him crying saying sorry, gets to me everytime.
Alastair Sim version is the best, George C Scott #2
A superlative film! Perfect casting of the maid. Her delicate features always reminded me of sweet, little mouse. The poignant melody of ' Barbara Allen ' underscoring Scrooge when asking to be forgiven is genius! A brilliant movie!
My 10 year old daughter is called mousey... so I respect your point of view
I didn't know what he meant by it, but it seemed an insult at the time.
Best version of this story.
The best ever watching it for a lifetime and I am 68
The moment when the maid nods is is just magnificent. This incredibly wealthy man who is a captain of the London business world looks to a housemaid to give him permission to go in.
It’s an interesting, poignant moment- a shift in his attitude, to say the least!
Yes, they are on even ground in that moment. One human being being kind to another
Must say, that all three renditions of this tale have their own merits. This scene may have the most emotional impact. The look on Fred's wife's face blows me out of the water! However, in the 1984 version, the ghost of Christmas Past, played by Edward Woodward was most definitely my favorite of the three. This scene with Ebenezer, Fred and his wife grabbed me the most. What makes this movie so special is what happens to a man when he is transformed.
There are many more than three versions.
(why are there four D's in Edward Woodward?
otherwise he'd be Ewar Woowar)
that old joke
Woodward was the Ghost of Christmas Present, not Past. Other than that, you're spot on though. One of the best performances in any version
@@mrray4015 I stand corrected. Woodward was the ghost of present...Thanks. Woodward was really great. Cannot stop watching it.
I watch this movie every Christmas Eve
I watch it every year also. I’ve seen all the incarnations- and this one’s the finest.
My favorite version of this classic.
I loved the bit where he is so happy he wants to stand on his head. Looking in the mirror there is someone connected to the film relaxing, waiting to move scenery I'm guessing. I wait for that bit every time. Love the film
Ah- there’s something I’ve evidently missed over the years- gives me one more reason to watch this classic again.
I like the part in the same scene where he says he doesn't deserve to be this happy but just can't help it and then he tosses his pen away.
I watch this every year. Love it
Who would have ever thought that Scrooge knew how to party all this time??
In 1941, my tiny I'll daddy played Bob Cratchet in the school play in Nitro, WV. He had to carry a much larger boy on his shoulders who was playing 'Tiny' Tim, haha. He recalled the ludicrous backwardness of it every Christmas. Miss you, daddy.
Love this version most of all. God bless us everyone🕊🙏🏻
The small, almost imperceptible chuckle, right before speaking to her... What a marvelous actor.
This story is deep and moving a classic
This is...to me at least...the very best cinematic version of A Christmas Carol...Sim's performance encapsulates Scrooge in the way Dickens wrote him...insinuating and proprietorial...an absolute gem of a film...with all supporting actors perfectly cast in their individual roles
George C Scott said it best, “...Alistair Sim completed the definitive work on that subject”.
Yet, Scott himself delivered a wonderful performance as Scrooge.
I spotted this 47 years ago when I saw the film at Christmas at the Odeon In 1974
Best version by far no doubt, nothing compares to the films from the past .
This was always my favorite scene😢
Watch it every Yuletide especially the colourized version. Made in 1951 it's hard to believe it's now 70 years old and all characters have passed away. Time makes ghosts of us all 🎄🎄🔮❤
But how wonderful for families of those involved to have it all immortalized on film - and now on DVD/UA-cam.
This is the Very Best Scrooge with Alistair Sym
Yes I cried…every year, watching this very film…😢
This is my favorite version of A Christmas Carol. Alistair Sim is amazing.
I’ve watched this so many times over the year a fantastic Christmas movie one of the best
I agree with the comments below. This has always been, by far, my favorite version of this marvelous story, and this has always been my favorite scene in the movie, with the music and singing adding a profoundly rich emotional resonance to what is already a very moving part of the story. And for reasons I cannot articulate but know to be sound, it makes my heart swell to read that other feel the same way about it.
"Can you forgive a pigheaded old fool for having no eyes to see with and no ears to hear with.. all these years" that pretty much sums it up
That scene always gets me. For 50 yrs
@@MrAitraining same here ..my Mom and I watched this movie every Christmas Eve for years and years....her favorite scene was the day after Christmas with Scrooge and Cratchit at the office....how he didn't deserve to be so happy ..."run out and buy a new coal scuttle before you dot another "i" Bob Cratchit"!..she would laugh and laugh at that...but now I watch the movie without her😞.....this probly my favorite all time movie it's neck and neck with the Good the Bad and the Ugly...lol
Alastair IS Scrooge. The official version in my family for 50 years.
Another great George Minter film, of the same year (1951), is Tom Brown's schooldays. He produced the two definitive versions of greatly loved, and much produced classics.
If you love this, seek out Tom Brown's schooldays.
Will do. Incidentally, are you from the UK?
@@smithtime79 Yes, English.
I had a feeling. Even though I’ve watched this movie for over ten years, I was rather late to discover it and I am not familiar with George Minter. I remember his name from the credits, but besides that I don’t know anything. I am a fan of British actors like James Mason, Cary Grant, and Sir Michael Redgrave (and his daughters). And I love Jane Austen, Dickens, the Brontes, Thomas Hardy, and George Eliot. I love British Literature, in short, including poetry and Shakespeare. I love bands like the Beatles, Genesis, and the Police as well. I’ll look more into Minter, including the film you recommended. Thank you!
@@smithtime79 Films, books, music, there isn't much else, is there, and I wouldn't give you tuppence for the current movies, modern novels, nor nowadays pop, like you I prefer the older, tried and tested stuff.
The Arts will always uplift us, no matter what.
(By the way, I live in the hometown of George Eliot, though he never calls 'round)
Keep collecting, keep using your imagination.
@@smithtime79 Are you aware of the films of Powell & Pressburger, ( also known as The Archers ) ?
Lionel Barrymore (the actor who played the mean banker in "It's a Wonderful Life"), a member of the "first family of acting", ie. brother John Barrymore and sister Ethyl Barrymore, used to read Charles Dickens' novel "Scrooge A Christmas Carol", over the radio each Christmas in England. When they decided to make this version of the movie they wanted Barrymore to play Scrooge. I can't remember exactly why he turned them down but he recommended his "huckleberry friend" Alistair Sim (listen to "Moon River" by Andy Williams from the movie "Breakfast at Tiffanys" for exactly what a huckleberry friend is) and the rest is history. A big success in England it flopped in the U.S. until television popularized it into a big hit, much like "The Wizard of Oz"". This version is considered by most top movie critics to be the definitive version due to the many great stars of he day in it (even in minor roles), their fine performances, and the excellent script. In any event, make up your own mind as to which version is best. This is indeed my favorite.
Love this movie...it's my tradition....Alistair Sim is fantastic
Alistair Sim was brilliant in this role. George Cole, who lived with the Sim’s, played young Scrooge. A wonderful cast of British actors, including Hattie Jacques as Mrs Fezziwig! Too many to list. Don’t watch the “colourised” version! Black and white suits Dickens perfectly. Thanks for sharing this.
You’re welcome. People have objected to the way the video is presented and filmed, but those are few and an abundant number of glowing positive responses and memories have proliferated. UA-cam is a way to share what you care about- that’s all my channel is- music, film, video games.
I'm proud to say that this is the version I grew up with.
This is my favorite scene in this movie 🎄
That wonderful music
A magnificent production.Dickens himself would surely approve and enjoy it!
This and It's a Wondeful life are my absolute favorites! ❤️❤️
Wonderful scene! Also explains what the Ghost of Christmas Past pointed out to Scrooge. His mother died giving birth to him as Fred's mother, ( Scrooge's sister, ) had also done. Scrooge's father blamed him as he had blamed Fred. This scene brought that full circle.
This is the best version by far.
My favorite version, very moving scene.
This is one of my four go-to Scrooge/Christmas Carol films of the Christmas season, the others being the 1984 version with George C. Scott and the 1999 version with Sir Patrick Stewart, and a little-known "updated" Twilight Zone-esque version of the tale, Carol For Another Christmas, written by Rod Serling and starring Sterling Hayden and Ben Gazarra -- with Peter Sellers playing his most sinister character ever in the Christmas Future segment (with Robert Shaw as that ghost). Each has its own angle on the tale but the Alistair Sim version delves the most into Scrooge's past and how he gradually became warped into the greedy, heartless miser he ended up as.