Much agreed, which is why I was so surprised at the excellence of the '97 Carol version. I didn't think it would be easy, if at all possible to capture the feel of that era in color, but to my eye they did so. A general taste for somber colors and a somewhat less than well scrubbed appearance of sets and characters really helped.
My two favorite films are "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Citizen Kane" either of which I'd never consider watching if they were colorized (who could ever forget Jimmy Stewart's piercing green eyes, LOL!).
I'll have to check out the Sim version. That era really produced some classic movies. I only hope it doesn't ruin my love for the '97 version.
We couldn't explain to the kids when they were younger why we parents were in hysterics over the "Muppet Treasure Island" . . . now that the youngest is 18 it has been explained to them, much to their bemusement.
Do check out the Sim version - I have 4 or 5 versions of the story and I really think it is the best. You'll be disappointed in the audio, although after the introductory credits they do eventually get the sound level right, but the acting and the camera work couldn't be better. Sim is one of the most versatile and talented actors the British film industry ever produced.