The Christmas Carol Poster

The Christmas Carol 1949

★ 5.818 votes25 min📅 1949-12-25

The Christmas Carol (1949) brings Charles Dickens' timeless tale to life in a haunting television adaptation that showcases Vincent Price's masterful narration.

Director: Arthur Pierson

Cast

Vincent Price
Vincent Price
Narrator
Taylor Holmes
Taylor Holmes
Ebeneezer Scrooge
Patrick Whyte
Bob Cratchit
Nelson Leigh
Nelson Leigh
Ghost of Christmas Past
Robert Hyatt
Robert Hyatt
Tiny Tim
Jill St. John
Jill St. John
Missie Cratchit
Robert Clarke
Robert Clarke
Fred
Earl Lee
Ghost of Marley
Queenie Leonard
Queenie Leonard
Mrs. Cratchit
Mike Miller
Peter Cratchit

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Christmas Carol (1949) about?

This television adaptation follows the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly man who encounters supernatural visitors on Christmas Eve. Through these ghostly encounters, Scrooge learns the error of his ways and discovers the true meaning of Christmas and human compassion.

Who directed The Christmas Carol?

The film was directed by Arthur Pierson, who helmed this early television adaptation of the Dickens classic.

Who stars in The Christmas Carol?

The cast features Vincent Price, Taylor Holmes, Patrick Whyte, Nelson Leigh, Robert Hyatt, and Jill St. John in key roles.

Is The Christmas Carol (1949) worth watching?

At just 25 minutes, this unrated TV production offers a unique glimpse into early television holiday specials. Vincent Price's narration alone makes it worthwhile for classic film enthusiasts, though modern viewers may find the pacing slow compared to contemporary adaptations.

How long is The Christmas Carol?

The runtime is 25 minutes.

The Christmas Carol (1949): Vincent Price's Gothic Holiday Narration — Full Movie Info

The Christmas Carol (1949) brings Charles Dickens' timeless tale to life in a haunting television adaptation that showcases Vincent Price's masterful narration. Directed by Arthur Pierson, this black and white fantasy-drama special originally aired as a syndicated holiday program, offering viewers a concise yet atmospheric retelling of Ebenezer Scrooge's supernatural journey. With its 25-minute runtime, the production focuses on the essential elements that make Dickens' story enduring: redemption, compassion, and the transformative power of Christmas spirit.

Price's distinctive voice work elevates this television production, supported by Taylor Holmes, Patrick Whyte, Nelson Leigh, Robert Hyatt, and a young Jill St. John. The film captures the gothic undertones of Victorian literature while maintaining the warmth of traditional holiday storytelling. Though brief, this TV movie delivers the emotional weight of Scrooge's midnight encounters with the ghostly visitors, making it a memorable entry in early television Christmas programming.