About A Carol for Another Christmas

A Carol for Another Christmas is an American television movie, which aired on ABC on December 28, 1964. Anchored by the storyline of Charles Dicken's "A Christmas Carol", this Rod Serling's script takes a different twist and portrays the story of a rich, bitter industrialist, Daniel Grudge who has a change of heart through the visitation of four spirits, one from his past and three from the future. It attempts to portray the essence of humanity and the importance of peace through its adapted plot.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, and written by acclaimed writer Rod Serling. It was produced as part of a TV series promoting the United Nations and was one of the first extended productions by television networks in the early days of TV movies. The music was composed by Henry Mancini.

Actors

• Sterling Hayden as Daniel Grudge: Hayden skillfully portrays the reclusive, war-scarred industrialist, Daniel Grudge, a man opposed to the idea of international cooperation.
• Peter Sellers as Imperial Me: Sellers plays the character of Imperial Me, a demagogue, in his haunting performance that serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of nationalism and ego.
• Ben Gazzara as Fred: In the role of Fred, Gazzara represents the voice of reason and love, trying to preserve the spirit of Christmas in the cold heart of his uncle, Daniel.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film was Peter Sellers' first American television role.
• After its initial airing in 1964, the film was not shown again until Turner Classic Movies broadcasted it on December 16, 2012.
• The movie was made as a sponsorship deal between the sponsoring company, Xerox, and the United Nations.

Awards

No awards were received by the movie.

Quotes

• "The phrase is 'Peace on Earth.' It isn't 'The Piece on Earth' - Imperial Me
• "It's the power of love, not the love of power, that heals us." - Fred

Music, Soundtrack

• The movie's original score was composed by renowned composer, Henry Mancini. However, no official soundtrack was released for the movie.