The budget for the animated film "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" in 2000 was approximately $125 million. The production involved extensive sets, costumes, and visual effects to bring the beloved story to life. This budget allowed for a high-quality production, bringing Dr. Seuss's classic tale to the big screen. The movie became a box office success, earning over $260 million worldwide and receiving critical acclaim for its adaptation of the classic story.