Scrooged

Frank Cross is a ruthless television executive who values success and control over friends and family. His days are filled with flashy specials, ruthless decision making, and a chilling lack of sympathy for those who get in his way. On Christmas Eve, after firing a loyal employee, Cross finds himself haunted by spirits who force him to confront the damage his cold ambition has caused the people around him. Over the course of a night, he is shown the costs of his choices in the lives of colleagues, lovers, and strangers, all while a chaotic, surreal comedy of supernatural encounters unfolds. Throughout the night he faces odd visions that test his pride and compassion and hint at redemption for viewers.

Directed by Richard Donner, Scrooged reimagines Dickens's A Christmas Carol in an 80s television world, with a screenplay by Michael O'Donoghue and Mitch Glazer. It was released by Paramount Pictures and stars Bill Murray in the lead alongside Karen Allen.

The film grossed about $60.3 million worldwide against a $32 million budget, reflecting solid domestic and international appeal for a holiday fantasy comedy released during the winter season and enjoying repeat TV airings in the United States and abroad.

Scrooged has endured as a holiday staple on TV and streaming, underscored by Bill Murray's sharp wit trading barbs with a bright, over-the-top ensemble. The movie helped shape a late 80s vibe that fuses satire with sentiment in Christmas cinema, influencing later festive comedies and sitcoms.

Critics generally praised Murray's performance and the film's sharp jokes while noting its tonal shifts between spoof and sentiment. Core themes include the cost of corporate ruthlessness the value of empathy and the idea that the holiday spirit can redeem even a hardened heart, making Scrooged a defining holiday classic. That blend still resonates with viewers today.