Just wonderful! I'm struggling to find something to criticise about. This is a fun, comical and heart warming Christmas movie that hits the sweet spot.
This movie shouldn’t work so well but it does. Will James Caan is perfect casting as a stiff who’s son Buddy (Will Ferrell) is an orphan brought up by a Papa elf (Bob Newhart) at the North Pole.
Well, I liked this one way better than Love Actually, that's for sure.
I know what this thing wants to be, it's very clearly aimed at children. It feels like a children's book brought to life and it is definitely filmed like it too. If done well, something like that can be charming and heartwarming, but this movie is neither of those things.
A lot of scenes feel like excuses to have Will Ferrel do what Will Ferrel does best, play a big child. Now, this fits his character well enough, but I got to wonder that during 30 years living at the North Pole, Santa or his wife didn't educate him thoroughly about how the world works outside of their magical Christmas land. Especially when Buddy decides to leave the safety of his home and venture somewhere he is very unfamiliar with. He doesn't know social cues, customs or how anything really works. The least he could do is give him some safety tips but he leaves it with some funny quips about peep shows and gum on the street being not for eating. (I gagged when he actually put some in his mouth from a filthy looking iron bar).
Buddy's supposed innocence gets really tiresome halfway through the movie. I mean, after a couple of days, wouldn't he realize that he needs to adapt to be able to be accepted in this world? Even after being beat up by a wonderfully great Peter Dinklage, he remains positive. He doesn't even wonder /why/ he was beat up or ask what he did was wrong. Instead he just accepts the beating and makes a quip about Peter Dinklage (he calls him an elf because he's small, har har) being a South Pole elf. Even if he grew up as an elf, he still has human emotions. I mean, even the elfs at the North Pole are mean to him, as he overhears a conversation that he's pretty useless in the shop. Words hurt more than physical violence, huh? In any case, watching Peter Dinklage kick Will Ferrel's ass was very satisfying.
The movie features a lot of movie tropes that are forgiveable, because it's aimed at movies and the rest of the actors are charming enough that it elevates the movie for me. It's not bad, but it's not good either.
Robert Egbert looks like he doesn't know what the hell is going on half of the time and the lines do not feel right to him at all. Zoey Deschanel is very charming, but doesn't add a lot more to the story besides being a love interest. James Caan pulls an incredible amount of patience from... somewhere. He must love his wife very much (a forgettable Mary Steenbruggen) because it's her that convinces him to let Buddy into his life. A selfless choice from her that's only there to have Buddy move in with the family and cause mayhem.
Not everything in this movie is annoying, I was pretty charmed with it. I loved the scene in the shop where he spends the entire night decorating the place. It shows that his background as living as an Elf is good for something in the real world, and feels like it's something that he can contribute to society over there. Despite that, there's not a lot going on that makes him a valuable character to society. That's not something he actively persues, not even if he wants to impress his dad. But at the end he ends up being a writer for a children's book that gets popular? There's not a single mention about him being interested in that anywhere. His father just took the story of his arrival and adventures in NYC and cashed it. Well done Dad.
Conclusion:
I didn't hate this, but I didn't love it either. It's a good attempt at making a child-friendly Christmas story, but the charm is partially ruined by Will Ferrel's man-child acting.
A great excuse for Will Ferrell to run around in holiday garb, drawing sidelong glances from the sidewalk-strollers of Manhattan. Ferrell is the ultimate man-child, a six-and-a-half foot mess of arms and legs in green tights, buckled shoes and a pointy hat, matching the elvish wardrobe of 1964's Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
As physical comedy and ridiculous enthusiasm is his forte, Elf makes for a great vehicle, but it's also loaded with a swath of supporting talent (admittedly, another of the comedian's calling cards). Zoey Deschanel (somewhat unrecognizable in blonde hair) is a good fit as his skeptical, frayed love interest, but the best work comes from James Caan, Peter Dinklage, Amy Sedaris, Andy Richter, Kyle Gass and especially Bob Newhart as his sweet, yet long-suffering, adoptive father on the North Pole.
Genuinely funny, warm, sugary and spirited; an unexpectedly effective successor to the Christmas classics it seemingly sets out to roast. Worth adding to the annual rotation.
I never did get what everyone sees in Will Ferrell. Same here. Meh-
One of my all-time favorite Christmas movies!
Love this movie. Simply one of my favorites.
Watched this one at a Friendsmakkuh gift exchange, so it doesn't feel right to do a full review, but this is still as an enjoyable and charming modern X-Mas movie as you’re likely to find. Will Ferrell channels his ability to do childlike innocence perfectly, and Jon Favreau’s choices pay off in a big way. Part parody of Rankin Bass holiday stories and part standard fish out of water tale, the silliness of the premise and Ferrell’s ability to capture Buddy’s shock and delight at visiting the real world makes the movie work. Some of the beats are a little broad or standard, particularly the trite business vs. family conflict, but the heart and humor of the film wins out. A definite modern day classic.
I don't know why or how I missed this hilarious Christmas hit! I was literally rolling in laughter all by myself at 3 a.m. watching this movie. Will Farrow is just brilliant:thumbsup_tone1::joy:
Full Review: https://www.jake-s-entertainment-reviews.com/movies-and-televison/home-alone-1990-1
Some of what I am saying is pure nostalgia, but “Elf” is a near-perfect Christmas movie that always manages to put me in the holiday spirit no matter my mood. Its high-energy story, lovable characters, impressive visuals and cinematography, and subtly sweet music score make this an undying classic with everything a Christmas geek like myself could ever want out of a Christmas-themed movie. Sure, the rest of you can love your “Home Alone,” “A Christmas Story,” and even Die Hard Christmas films, and I can understand why cause I love them too. To me, though, Elf will always and forever be my favorite out of all the well-known Christmas classics, and I will keep watching this film every holiday season every year for the rest of my life.
(Final Grade: A)
This is one of my favorite Christmas movies of all time, I enjoy it every Christmas.!! It's a movie that captures the little kid inside of you.
This is the Christmas movie that the ladies of my house like to watch over the Holidays. For the men, "Christmas Vacation" is the preferred flick. This past Christmas, I agreed to watch "Elf" again but I griped about how I didn't really like it. But, once I sat down and paid attention I realized that this fish-out-of-water tale is a lot of fun.
Will Farrell is as subdued as is possible (for him) and the first half of the movie is really good. When he helps Santa get his sleigh out of Central Park on Christmas Eve in the final act, it really loses momentum.
The best part of this is the interaction between Buddy the Elf and his gruff, businessman father, played by James Caan.
It has become a tradition in my family to watch this film every Christmas Eve for the past, who knows, how many years and honestly it never gets old. The film is very cringy at points but at its core is a fun light-hearted Christmas film for the whole family to enjoy.
Will Ferrell in an elf costume - in terms of concept, this is a 10/10 movie (I am a big Ferrell fan). The finished product isn't as fresh and funny as it used to be, however - a consequence of repeated viewings - but it's still one of the better Christmas movies. And as I said, it has Will Ferrell in an elf costume, and that alone is worth the price of admission!
Adorable, and a new one for the Christmas movie rotation. I really wanted to hate Will Ferrell, who I find over-the-top most of the time, but he really sold the manic energy and wide-eyed optimism of someone not used to our society. Lots of fun. And loved Dinklage's turn as an evil children's book writer: "call me an Elf again. Call me an ELF!"
I have a new found appreciate for Will Ferrell after this. What a spectacular movie! The shower duet scene is now one my favorites.
Honestly guys??? Who is rating this movie a 10?
This could be a contender for the best Christmas film ever made, if it wasn't for Tim Allen's "The Santa Clause", which will always have a special place in my heart. I can definitely identify with the main character of this film, Buddy, whose positivity and endless enthusiasm for Christmas has no boundaries. His enthusiasm is infectious and if you need reminding why Christmas is one of the most exciting times of the year, then this film will certainly provide you with the festive spirit.
As with all great family films, it can be enjoyed by kids and grown ups too. It has lots of slapstick, as well as more subtle gags. Due to his naivety and lack of understanding the world outside of the North Pole, Buddy gets himself and others into some hilarious situations.
The soundtrack and background music help provide the feel-good factor in the film. The acting provides us with some really loveable characters. Like all of the best Christmas films, it can be viewed year after year without ever going stale. A must-watch for every human being with a heart and a sense of humour.
It's Christmas time. Introduced C to this, always a fun watch
A must watch ever Christmas. Will Ferrell is a perfect elf.
A hilarious, fun and dramatic Christmas movie.
By reading the synopsis, I had very low expectations for the movie but boy was I wrong.
The movie will make you shed tears for its laughter and drama moments.
Seeing Will Ferrell dressed up as an elf alone was hilarious.
The story is solid with a couple of subplots which converge well.
Elf is one the best Christmas movies and will surely become a classic in the near future.
Santa's real, shut your filthy mouth and enjoy your coal...ps..say hi to Krampus
Funniest Christmas Movie Of All Time!
It's so hilarious, I watch it every year :D
"Elf" is an entertaining movie. I watched it primarily because it's almost Christmas season. However, this film didn't really give me the same festive feels I experienced with "Polar Express." Nevertheless, it's enjoyable. I just wish there was a movie that delved deeper into the elf island.
Did I enjoy this film? Yes.
Do I recommend it? I guess.
Will I watch it again? No.
My favorite Christmas movie. A must watch every season!
As an adult, I found this fil. nite entertaining than I thought it would be. There were unexpected jokes as well as ones which were done so perfectly they worked even if expected. Will Ferrel's performance is exceptional. He finds so many levels of childlike enthusiasm, it's charming. I would recommend for family viewing which is palatable to adults. I'm not sure Id watch this again but a montage in YouTube would certainly make me smile.
Elf is a classic Christmas movie that is sure to bring joy to the whole family. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised as an elf in the North Pole. After discovering his true identity, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, including a cynical children's book author, a department store Santa, and a beautiful department store worker. The movie is full of laughs, heartwarming moments, and a few lessons about family and friendship. The cast is excellent, with Ferrell delivering a hilarious performance as Buddy. The movie also features some great music, including a memorable duet between Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel. Elf is a great holiday movie that will bring joy to all who watch it.
Will Ferrell's energy has never been more perfectly focused. This is a timeless Christmas movie that everyone from 5 to 107 can watch over and over again.
When this originally came out, I didn’t particularly like it. I wasn’t a Will Ferrell fan (even if there was some decent stuff). As years have passed, this has grown on me a bunch. It’s easily the most recent Christmas classic that we have gotten! It’s officially entered the annual rotation!
Rating: 4.5/5 - 9/10 - Highly Recommend
"I'm a cotton-headed ninny-muggins."
This film tends to warm up even the coldest hearts during the holiday season. Will Ferrell usually plays someone who is self centered or not a good person, but he truly is a lovable goof in this. Everyone else is perfectly cast to help Buddy on his quest and it truly does bring the Christmas spirit.
A great holiday film to watch with anyone, whether that be your children or friends. This movie has something for everyone.
Yet another Christmas American movie for children. The ending is rushed and underwhelming.
"Well, there are some things you should know. First off, you see gum on the street, leave it there. It isn't free candy."
Elf is always a fun Christmas film to watch during or near the holidays. So innocent, so funny, still love Will Ferrell as Buddy. Especially when he discovers New York City. Him vs. Mail Santa and the Angry Elf, fantastic stuff!
James Caan, Bob Newhart, Kyle Gass, Mary Steenburgen, Amy Sedaris, Peter Dinklage , this whole cast is great top to bottom. I truly do believe this is a Christmas Movie classic up there with the best of them. It's another one I can't wait to watch with my niece when she's a tiny bit older! I bet Buddy can make her smile!
And I must confess, watching Elf in the morning is a great way to start off your day!
"Elf" is such an enjoyable movie and reached cult status for a reason.
I don't think every joke hits or that everything in this movie aged perfectly well, but it is just so earnest in what it is trying to reach. It could've easily been mean-spirited and cynical, but thankfully avoids that sentiment and instead just tells a nice little story about family, acceptance and love for Christmas.
Listen to me, I don't care what Hollywood reviewers or "experts" say, it was a good movie!
Still really funny, and will usually watch it during the Holidays if it's on TV
Elf is a magical Christmas tale that’s fun for the whole family. The story follows one of Santa’s elves named Buddy who, after finding out that he’s adapted, goes looking for his human father in New York City. The film stars Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, and Bob Newhart, who all give great performances. Ferrell in particular is good at this kind of physical comedy, and there’s a certain charm to his performance. However, the film is unable to avoid falling into the usual clichés and stereotypes that Christmas films usually follow. But despite being a tad formulaic, Elf still delivers a wondrous adventure and is sure to become a Christmas classic.
December 1st. The countdown to Christmas begins and what better way to start than Elf? A modern Christmas classic that will live on past me. I still really want to try that spaghetti desert but i don't want to lose the magic.
I would not have bet on that, but Elf was a pleasant surprise.
I will be honest and admit that I have been avoiding this movie for years. I have not been a huge fan of some of Will Ferrells movies and I was reluctant to say the least about this one. Overall, it wasn't the crude, stupid humor I was expecting. It was still pretty silly but all in good fun, and overall a lot better than I was expecting
Elf is a delightfully slapstick Christmas caper that almost always stays ahead of the saccharine sweet competition. Hilarious holiday fun.
The ultimate Xmas movie, its a pure classic!
This is one of my favorite Christmas movies ever, strongly recommended.
I love this movie, I have had it all through my childhood. My girlfriends favourite movie. Will Ferrell plays the part perfect, and his height just makes it better. Probably my favourite Christmas film. 8/10
Shout by kltiBlockedParent2014-11-29T20:43:12Z
There is something very special going on in this movie. Normally, I'm not a huge fan of Christmas movies, and I'm not a fan of Will Ferrells comedy, but this movie just hits the sweet spot. After watching it, I'm always smiling like an idiot.
The basic idea is really quite weird, but the story is told with a sweetness that really sells it. Will Ferrells performance is spot on, his over the top kind of comedy just fits with the character perfectly. And it has Zooey Deschanel (even singing), which never hurts.
My absolute favorite Christmas movie, miles ahead of everything else.