It isn't a faithful period adaptation, but it is a direct adaptation that retains the core narrative structure: Frank Cross is the modern equivalent of Ebenezer Scrooge. Jacob Marley is replaced by Frank's deceased former boss, who appears as a ghostly warning. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future all appear (albeit reimagined). The protagonist is forced to confront his life and undergoes redemption. The story ends with his moral transformation. It changes: Setting: Victorian London → 1980s New York. Occupation: Miser → ruthless television executive. Tone: Gothic morality tale → dark comedy/satire.