Movie Review: Elf (2003)

The film stars Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart and Zooey Deschanel, 

I have always had some mixed opinions about Will Ferrell movies. Some of his films aren't very good while others are just fantastic. This movie falls into that latter category and has been a favorite in our home for years as a result.

I think the thing that I really like about this film is how well written it is. The writers thought of just about everything when it comes to Buddy (Ferrell), such as how he ended up in the North Pole, who raised him (Newhart) and even what kind of foods he and the other elves eat. The last one, in particular, was  very clever and I can't help but laugh every time I see him doctoring up spaghetti with maple syrup, pop tarts and various other sweets.

I also love how he possesses a great deal of Christmas-related skills ranging from being a master of snowball fights to fashioning toys and other decorations out of whatever he can find. This, to me at least, is somewhat funny because, compared to real elves, his skills are lacking and only seem impressive when he's around other humans.

Heck, I even liked the love story between him and Jovie (Deschanel). It was simple, sweet and didn't fall into the trap of using the same tired cliches I've grown so used to seeing in romantic comedies. Of course, to be fair, it was more of a story about a man finding his father and some of those cliches were used in that story. But, having him find a woman that made him happy was still great. 

As far as being a Christmas movie goes, this film was also more than just a comedy. That scene with Santa (Edward Asner) being trapped in Central Park was funny. But, it does manage to get me into the Christmas spirit every time I see it. And, to be very honest, there aren't a lot of movies that I can say that about.

This is a great holiday film that is a must-watch movie for anyone that is looking for a good laugh and wants to get in the Christmas spirit. Will Ferrell is excellent and his surrounding cast make this a very fun and memorable movie.

My Grade: A