Ebenezer Review

Ebenezer Scrooge, the central character in Charles Dickens' novella A Christmas Carol, is brought to life in the 2022 film Ebenezer, directed by Ti West and starring Johnny Depp. The film, released on November 13, explores the miserly Scrooge's transformation as he confronts the ghosts of his past in hopes of a brighter future. West's take on the classic tale leans heavily on the darker corners of Dickens' story, utilizing practical sets, a spooky score, and a haunting performance from Depp to create a chilling adaptation.

While the film remains faithful to the novella, West and writer Nathaniel Halpern add some embellishments to the plot, such as a new prologue featuring Scrooge's partner Jacob Marley (Ian McKellen) and expanded scenes on Scrooge's childhood and his failed romance with Belle. However, these additions don't feel impactful enough to justify the time spent on them due to Depp's Scrooge being emotionally inaccessible.

Depp's energetic and physical portrayal of Scrooge, while lively, feels better suited for the stage than the screen, ultimately making the film's emotional impact less than resonant.

Despite the flaws, the supporting cast, including Rupert Grint as Bob Cratchit, Ellie Bamber as Belle, and Sam Claflin as Fred (Scrooge's nephew), help ground the story in more recognizable emotions. Tiny Tim, played by Freddie Lee-Grey, delivers a standout performance with his simple yet powerful line, "God bless us, everyone." The spirits that visit Scrooge are portrayed as dead and hateful, reflecting the grim nature of the story and allowing the audience to focus on Scrooge's transformation.

In conclusion, Ebenezer is a faithful adaptation of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, but it's ultimately held back by Johnny Depp's performance as Ebenezer Scrooge. While the film's production design and score create an unsettling atmosphere, the character of Scrooge remains emotionally distant, making the story's message less impactful.