
Bringing Dr. Seuss’s whimsical world to life on screen presented huge creative hurdles. The filmmakers embraced these challenges, using incredibly detailed costumes, sets, and a unique blend of innocent and slightly strange humor. While computer-generated effects were becoming more common, this film relied heavily on practical effects – especially Jim Carrey’s remarkable Grinch costume, created by special effects master Rick Baker, which was both adorable and a little creepy, allowing for maximum facial expression. The production wasn’t easy. They had to satisfy Dr. Seuss’s widow, who was dedicated to protecting her husband’s legacy, and overcome massive technical difficulties with makeup and prosthetics. Plus, the large cast was hampered by bulky, single-use foam costumes that made even simple tasks, like moving around or using the restroom, difficult.