For the most part I find the Muppets very much an acquired taste, but there is one exception. The Muppet Christmas Carol is a classic that trots out every year on UK TV. This is charming throughout, with Michael Caine a suitable crusty foil (but let’s try and forget the singing). The characters are pretty rounded, certainly as developed as the many other remakes and versions.

My favourite part is something you probably don’t notice, even if you’re very familiar with the film. The reason for this post is to pass on this hidden gem. Look out for the scene where the two charitable fellows approach Scrooge. When Beaker and the Professor are thrown out, you can very clearly see Beaker giving what can only be described as ‘the finger’. Thanks to Empire magazine for publishing this last year, now you all have the ultimate fall back present, the Muppet Christmas Carol meme.