MR. MAGOO’S CHRISTMAS CAROL
I know, it’s not even Thanksgiving yet. But planning ahead can get you this vintage, charming TV animated musical special in plenty of time to give as a gift for the holidays – and given the absurdly cheap price, you may want to stock up. Originally televised in 1962, this was TV’s first cartoon holiday special, and starred Jim Backus as the voice of nearsighted Mister Magoo – who, in this strange “real-world” framing device, is shown preparing for, and performing in, a theatrical production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. But once it starts, it’s the familiar story, supplemented by catchy tunes by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is scary, as it should be, some of the songs are truly touching or sweet, and the whole special is a delight, even more than 50 years later. And razzleberry dressing! – DB