If you’re expecting a new animated version of the “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” don’t see this movie. But, if you’re like me and think that version is incredibly creepy, the new “The Grinch” movie is a refreshing and modern replacement.

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is a classic story and a classic Christmas movie from 2000. Kids, parents, and grandparents enjoy it and watch it every year as a Christmas tradition. “The Grinch,” is not just a remake of that movie. Many of the key scenes are left out, the “Where are you Christmas?” song is nowhere to be found, and it’s a lot lighter. The storyline is also tweaked to fit this version of the movie.

For example, Cindy Lou has a single mother and wants something good to happen to her mom for Christmas. The family dynamic is completely different. Also, she and the Grinch really don’t have any sort of connection until Christmas Eve, whereas in the original version, Cindy Lou meets him and tries to make him feel better and more in the holiday spirit before Christmas Eve, and when it all goes downhill, he decides to steal Christmas. I actually enjoyed this version of Cindy Lou. She’s a sweet and adorable little girl and it’s so cute to see watch her get ready for Christmas. You definitely get half and half in “The Grinch;” half Cindy Lou and half of the Grinch. The new additions––including one of a reindeer named Fred––don’t feel out of place and actually provide a pretty compelling storyline for the predictable story of the Grinch.

In “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” the Grinch is nasty and horribly cruel, but in “The Grinch” he is more lonely and sad and ends up stealing Christmas because he feels left out. This not only made the movie feel more lighthearted, but it brought about a message of spreading empathy and love, especially for those who may be struggling. Benedict Cumberbatch, who voices the Grinch, matches the emotionally scarred and scheming personality of the Grinch perfectly while Pharrell Williams provides a calm, but invigorating narration throughout the entire film.

I think that this version, just like the old one, could be enjoyed by all ages. It is animated, but it may be too modern and too new for those who absolutely adore the classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” but I think it’s worth seeing. Take your kids or cousins or neighbors, they will surely like it, and you might too. I know I did.