A Christmas Carol

Image credit: A Christmas Carol: Kobal Collection

SCROOGING AROUND Sim is no feather weight -- in fact, his portrayal of Ebenezer makes this film a classic

Other Christmas Carols need not apply. The definitive version of the Dickens tale is, appropriately enough, straight out of England. This flick is not only the gold standard against which all other holiday films should be measured, but also one of the greatest films ever made, period. Chalk it all up to Alastair Sim's pitch-perfect performance as Scrooge. Whether expressing goggle-eyed horror, heartrending sorrow, or gleeful giddiness, Sim is equally adept at wringing tears and peals of laughter from the viewer. Throw in a stirring, weep-worthy score, a witty script, and a sparkling supporting cast, and you've got a film you'll want to watch year-round.