Four star

FOR anyone who's already feeling a touch of humbug as the run-up to Christmas begins in earnest, this film is the perfect antidote.

Based on the book by the ever-so-slightly wierd Dr Seuss, it tells the tale of the Grinch, played superbly by Jim Carrey.

He's big, green, mean and absolutely hates the festive season thanks to the ghosts of Christmas past haunting him.

So he lives with his dog, Max, on his mountain, happily eating hazardous waste and hating the Whos, the people who live in the village below, Whoville.

The Whos adore Christmas and go over the top with celebrations every year, much to the Grinch's annoyance.

So he decides to steal Christmas from under their noses...

This is ideal for kids, who will delight in Carrey's antics as the titular character as he wreaks havoc of the most mischievous sort.

Adults will be able to appreciate the special effects and make-up department's efforts - apparently it took artists two and a half hours every morning to turn Carrey into his hairy counterpart.

And everyone will be able to realise the message behind the fun - that Christmas has been hijacked by commercialism.

Carrey is at his comic best, while newcomer Taylor Momasen is sickly sweet yet refreshing as Cindy-Lou Who, the girl who brings the Grinch back to humanity.

This should become a yuletide classic.

SC