Elfe

This was my 4th viewing and now ready to review.

The story is insane. This film should not have worked. But almost as a tribute to the X-Mas miracles it tries to riff off, it is an astonishingly entertaining film.

Behind the camera Favreau, Mr Money Shot, who has quietly without fanfare turned into one of the hottest directors in Hollywood history. In front of the camera Farell who I usually don't care for but may just give the performance of his career here. A script to die for. Probably the best use of Zoey D's looks in her career to date.

Way under rated and unappreciated.

As in my other reviews, most "recent" X-Mas films (since about 2000) are Canadian B-movies shot on a budget which would barely cover a reno on THIS OLD HOUSE What an unexpected treat See it

BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW TO THEIR NAME. NOW WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE MOVIE. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THE FILM . NOW I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 HOLIDAY FILMS. I HAVE NO AGENDA. I AM HONEST ABOUT THEM.

I saw "Elf" when it was first released theatrically in 2003. I did not see it again until 2016. I forgot everything about this film. What I can't believe was that I forgot how wonderful this film was. It does everything you want in a "Christmas" movie. This film is full of "Christmas Spirit" that most films never seem to capture.

In this film On Christmas Eve in 1973, an orphaned infant boy stows away on Santa Claus' sack. When discovered back at the North Pole, he is adopted by Papa Elf. Papa Elf names his son Buddy.

Buddy grows up at the North Pole believing he is an elf, but due to his human size is unable to perform elf tasks. When Buddy accidentally learns that he is human, Papa Elf explains that he was born to Walter Hobbs and Susan Wells, and was given up for adoption without Walter knowing. Susan died and Walter works at a book publisher in New York City. Buddy travels to find him, whom Santa indicates that Walter is on the naughty list due to his greed and selfishness. Buddy then is out to save Walter and Christmas itself.

This should be on your must see watch list.

This is the kind of Christmas movie you should be watching every 25th of December apart from your usuals. It's a wonderful story, with a strong Will Ferrell, playing an innocent, child-like, distracted elf who has no idea how the real world functions, as he is on the quest to search for his real family. He is willing to spread the Christmas spirit on a city which apparently hasn't got the spark in its eyes, so there is a hard task on his hands.

The rest of the cast is wonderfully completed by Zooey Deschanel, James Caan, Mary Steenburgen, Daniel Tay, with Peter Dinklage and Bob Newhart in small roles. Ferrell definitely steals the movie; and his troubled relationship with his father (Caan) provides some funny and touching moments as well. Jon Favreau did quite a good job from the director's chair, turning this seemingly childish film into a marvelous choice for your Christmas movies of every year. Some even regard it as a classic, but well, I will let you be the judge of that.

"Elf" is a delightful holiday comedy that brings the Christmas spirit to life with warmth, humor, and a touch of whimsy. Directed by Jon Favreau, this film has become a beloved classic since its release, enchanting audiences of all ages with its endearing story and memorable characters.

The movie follows Buddy, a human who mistakenly ends up in the North Pole as a baby and is raised as an elf. As Buddy grows older, he learns the truth about his origins and embarks on a journey to New York City to reconnect with his biological father. In the bustling metropolis, Buddy's innocent and childlike nature clashes with the cynicism of the modern world, leading to hilarious and heartwarming moments.

Will Ferrell's performance as Buddy is nothing short of brilliant. He fully immerses himself in the role, capturing the essence of Buddy's childlike wonder and boundless enthusiasm with impeccable comedic timing. His infectious energy and genuine charm make him instantly lovable, and his interactions with the other characters are a joy to watch.

The supporting cast, including James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, and Bob Newhart, delivers excellent performances, complementing Ferrell's comedic genius. Their chemistry and the genuine warmth they bring to their roles add depth and heart to the story.

"Elf" is a visual treat, with vibrant and colorful sets that evoke the magic of the holiday season. The film's humor is a delightful mix of slapstick comedy, clever wordplay, and heartwarming moments that will leave you with a smile on your face.

Beyond the laughs, "Elf" also carries a valuable message about the importance of family, kindness, and embracing the joy and wonder of the Christmas season. It reminds us to cherish the simple pleasures in life and to approach each day with childlike enthusiasm.

In conclusion, "Elf" is a heartwarming and hilarious holiday comedy that has earned its place as a beloved classic. With its unforgettable characters, clever humor, and genuine warmth, this film is a must-watch for anyone seeking a dose of Christmas cheer. It captures the spirit of the season and reminds us of the power of love, laughter, and the magic that resides in all of us.

ELF (2003) *** 1/2 Will Ferrell, James Caan, Mary Steenburgen, Edward Asner, Bob Newhart, Zooey Daschanel, Daniel Tay, Amy Sedaris, Faizon Love, Andy Richter, Kyle Gass, Michael Lerner, Artie Lange, Peter Billingsley, Peter Dinklage, Claire Lautier, Jon Favreau. Ferrell gives an inspired lunacy turn as a man who was raised by elves at The North Pole and discovers to his dismay he's actually human sparking his quest to be re-united with his long-lost father (Caan in an inspired bit of casting), a 'naughty-list' occupant, who works as a children's book publisher in New York City, just in time for Christmas. Hysterically funny thanks to the goofy yet sweet and wonderful turn by Ferrell (no one else could pull off the razor's edge of looking like an idiot yet retaining the innocent glee of a child and bares a striking resemblance to Tom Hanks' turn in 'BIG') with a great cast especially the beguilingly pretty Daschanel as his fellow Santa's Little Helper at Gimbels'who he falls in love with. Directed with style and witty warmth by Favreau (who has a cameo) and written by newcomer David Berenbaum with a smart, fun script that caters to all ages with a nostalgic nod to classic animated holiday specials for good measure. An instant holiday classic. Trivia note: Billingsley, best known as Ralphie from the yuletide cinematic classic, plays 'A CHRISTMAS STORY' the elf foreman!