The scene begins as the Ghost of Christmas Present, embodied by a jolly, exuberant spirit played by Edward Woodward, whisks Scrooge away to witness scenes of Christmas joy, abundance, and camaraderie. Scrooge is initially resistant and dismissive of these displays of happiness, but as the Ghost guides him through various vignettes, he gradually starts to soften and feel the warmth and spirit of the holiday season.
One particularly poignant moment occurs when the Ghost brings Scrooge to the humble home of his underpaid clerk, Bob Cratchit (David Warner). Scrooge witnesses the Cratchit family's modest yet joyful Christmas celebration, centered around a meager meal and a makeshift Christmas tree. Despite their circumstances, the Cratchits exude love, gratitude, and appreciation for what they have, highlighting the true essence of the holiday.
As the scene progresses, the Ghost shows Scrooge the consequences of his selfish and callous behavior, such as the poor and destitute families living in squalor and the lonely, neglected child known as "Tiny Tim" (Richard O'Brien). These scenes serve as a powerful reminder of the impact Scrooge's actions have on others and gradually evoke a sense of empathy and compassion within him.
Visually, the sequence is marked by its vivid colors, lavish costumes, and the captivating performance of Woodward as the Ghost. The cinematography, editing, and music all contribute to the overall impact and emotional resonance of the scene.
The "Ghost of Christmas Present" scene in this adaptation of "A Christmas Carol" is a masterful blend of storytelling, emotion, and artistic execution, making it a truly memorable moment in cinematic history. It captures the heart and soul of Dickens' classic tale and serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of compassion and the true spirit of Christmas.