Ian McKellen and Tramell Tillman join Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol

An absolute Christmas classic is returning to the big screen: "X" director Ti West is set to film Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" with Jonny Depp. As the industry magazine Deadline reports, "Severance" star Trammell Tillman and Ian McKellen have now also joined the cast of "Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol".

While it is still unclear which role McKellen will take on, rumors are growing that Tillman could play the Ghost of Christmas Present. However, this information has not been confirmed. Also on board is Andrea Riseborough, who attracted attention with "Birdman" and the horror film "Possessor", among others. The screenplay was written by Nathaniel Halpern, who is also known for his work on the series "Legion".

The story of "A Christmas Carol" is one of the most adapted literary works in the world. Dickens' tale about the hard-hearted businessman Scrooge, who undergoes a profound transformation through his encounter with three ghosts, has been adapted countless times for film, stage and television since the 19th century.

And in addition to the version with Johnny Depp, another adaptation of the classic is currently being made! Horror specialist Robert Eggers, known for "The Lighthouse" and "Nosferatu", is responsible for this. Willem Dafoe will be seen in the leading role.

While Eggers is apparently focusing on a dark, atmospherically dense ghost story, Ti West wants to place more emphasis on the emotional dimension and inner transformation of the characters in his interpretation. "Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol" opens in cinemas on November 13, 2026.

Why "A Christmas Carol" is timeless: the everlasting magic of Charles Dickens' Christmas story

For almost two centuries, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" has touched people all over the world. Hardly any other work of world literature has such cultural appeal: it has been filmed, adapted, parodied and reinterpreted countless times – from classic stage versions and animated films to modern remakes with science fiction or horror elements. But why does this story, which was first published in 1843, still exert such a strong fascination today? The answer lies in its universal message, its timeless themes and the deep humanity that Dickens put into every line.

The universal message of humanity

At its core, "A Christmas Carol" tells the story of redemption. Ebenezer Scrooge, a cold-hearted, miserly businessman, lives a life of loneliness and resentment. It is only when he is haunted by three ghosts on the night before Christmas – the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future – that he realizes the emptiness of his existence and finds his way back to compassion, generosity and charity.

This transformation from selfishness to empathy is at the heart of the story – and it is more relevant than ever. In a world where economic success, pressure to perform and social division are becoming more and more prevalent, Dickens' story is a reminder of what really counts in life: Humanity, compassion and community. The central message is that it is never too late to change. This hope for personal and moral renewal is a timeless promise that every generation can understand anew.

Social criticism that never gets old

Dickens wrote "A Christmas Carol" not only as a sentimental Christmas story, but also as a sharp criticism of the social ills of Victorian England. Poverty, child labor and social injustice shaped the lives of many people – themes that Dickens relentlessly addressed in his work.

Another reason for the timelessness of "A Christmas Carol" lies in its masterful narrative structure. The three ghosts function not only as supernatural figures, but also as mirrors of human experience: memory, consciousness and fear of the future. The Ghost of Christmas Past confronts Scrooge with his lost innocence and the decisions that have made him hard. The Ghost of Christmas Present shows him what he is missing out on by shutting himself off from the lives of others. And the Ghost of Christmas Future leads him to the precipice of his own destiny – a harrowing vision that ultimately leads to redemption.

This journey through time and conscience is an allegory of self-reflection and self-knowledge. Everyone carries within them moments they regret and dreams they could still realize. Dickens' story reminds us to pause and look at our own lives with fresh eyes.

Christmas as a symbol of hope

Last but not least, "A Christmas Carol" is so timeless because it understands Christmas not as a religious dogma, but as a human ideal. For Dickens, Christmas was a symbol of compassion, solidarity and the opportunity to start afresh. At a time when many people tend to associate the holiday with consumerism and commercialism, his story reminds us that the true spirit of Christmas lies in giving – in sharing warmth, love and hope.

Conclusion

A "Christmas Carol" is far more than a Christmas story. It is a moral parable, a socially critical manifesto and an emotional journey to humanity. Charles Dickens has created a tale that will stand the test of time because it is based on a truth that never grows old: Every human being carries within them the capacity for change. As long as greed, indifference and loneliness exist, Scrooge's transformation will remain relevant – as a reminder that kindness and compassion are the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and others.