This version of "A Christmas Carol" hasn't been run on any TV channel that I could find for at least two years, and it was driving me crazy! I had no choice but to purchase a copy of the best rendition of Dicken's beloved story. Alistair Sim's portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge is the prototype against whom all others must be compared to, and they all fall short of the mark. Sim manages to embody the spirit of the character, not merely play the part. The supporting cast is no less inspired, especially Michael Horndern as Marley's Ghost- he conveys the torment of a tortured soul like no other. If you find yourself trying to describe this wonderful movie to someone who's never seen it because you can't find it airing during the Christmas season, you owe it to yourself to buy it now. You won't be disappointed!