Illumination Entertainment’s upcoming animated adaptation of the Dr. Seuss classic ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas!’ has tapped Benedict Cumberbatch (‘Sherlock,’ ‘Doctor Strange’) to lend his voice to the titular character.
Published in 1957, the classic tale follows the adventures of a bitter, grouchy, cave-dwelling green creature with a heart “two sizes too small.” Despising Christmas, the Grinch decides to sneak into the town of Whoville and deprive the Whos of their Christmas presents, dinners, and decorations, and thus putting a stop to the holiday. All goes well with his sinister plan until little Cindy Loo Who and her innocent Christmas spirit show him the true meaning of the holiday.
Chuck Jones and Ben Washam famously adapted the comical and heartwarming tale in 1966 into a half-hour animated special narrated by Boris Karloff. The special continues to air every holiday season.
Pete Candeland is directing the animated tale with Illumination Entertainment CEO Chris Meledandri producing. Audrey Geisel, widow of Dr. Seuss author Theodor Geisel, will serve as executive producer.
Illumination Entertainment’s latest, The Secret Life Of Pets, opens in Irish cinemas June 26th.