Actor Benedict Cumberbatch says he could not say no to "The Grinch" when he got to know that the makers are planning to explore Grinchs back story.

Illumination and Universal's animated feature is based on Dr. Seuss' beloved holiday classic. The original children's book tells the tale of the titular grouch who plots to ruin Christmas for the residents of his neighbouring village of Who-ville. The film opened in India on Friday. It has been brought to the country by Universal Pictures International India.