How the Grinch Stole Christmas

NZ release: 14 December 2000

Parental guidance recommended for younger viewers Rated on: 14 December 2000

How the Grinch stole Christmas

What’s it about?

On the outskirts of Whoville lives the notoriously cranky and isolated Grinch. Destined to get back at those who tormented his childhood, the Grinch plans to ruin their favourite tradition – Christmas.

The facts

  • Directed by Ron Howard (Apollo 13)
  • English language
  • Runtime: 101 minutes
  • Starring Jim Carrey, Christine Baranski and Jeffrey Tambor
  • Based on Dr. Seuss’s 1957 novel The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

Why did it get this rating?

This film was cross-rated by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can find out more about cross-rating here.

Content that may disturb

The Grinch is seen eating the top of a glass bottle, eating hot coals, and lighting his alcoholic breath with a blowtorch. The Grinch often showcases his rude humour. For example, his hand landing on a woman's chest, turning his backside and telling characters to "kiss it", and placing a dog's rear end next to the face of a man dreaming about kissing a woman.

Cruelty

We see through flashbacks how the Grinch was bullied at school.

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