‘ELF’ movie review

By: Cade Sullivan & Joey Briseno

‘Elf’, directed by Jon Favreau and released in 2003, has firmly established itself as a timeless holiday classic. Starring Will Ferrell as Buddy, this heartwarming comedy follows the story of a human, born and raised as an elf in the North Pole, who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his biological father.

At the center of the film is Will Ferrell’s endearing and charming performance as Buddy the Elf. Ferrell’s portrayal is excellent at infectious enthusiasm, capturing the essence of a silly, childlike man. His dedication to spreading Christmas cheer, combined with his larger-than-life personality, is the main comedic element of the movie and hits more often than it misses.

The film’s humor comes from the stark contrast between Buddy’s festive spirit and the harsh realism of New York City. Watching Buddy navigate the bustling streets of the city, his naïve yet charming attempts to embrace human culture, and his pure joy at discovering everyday experiences make for fun and quality entertainment.

Supporting performances, including James Caan as Walter Hobbs (Buddy’s biological father), Zooey Deschanel as love interest Jovie, and Bob Newhart as Papa Elf, contribute significantly to the film’s charm. Caan’s character undergoes massive character development, going from a work-focused individual to a father embracing the magic of Christmas. Deschanel brings warmth and dry wit to her character, Jovie, providing a romantic subplot that complements Buddy’s journey of self-discovery.

Visually, ‘Elf’ captures the essence of the holiday season with its vibrant and festive cinematography. The set designs and costumes, especially in the scenes set in the North Pole, are cute and deliver the feeling of holiday cheer. While the CGI may not impress or look as good as it once did, it is used sparingly and complements the practical sets well.

John Debney’s musical score shouldn’t be ignored either, as it elevates the film’s emotional beats and captures the essence of Christmas. From cheerful tunes to low-key melodies, the soundtrack complements the story, positively impacting the film by adding a sense of festivity through tunes.

While ‘Elf’ might follow some predictable tropes common in holiday films, its unique warmth and earnest delivery of positive themes resonated with us. The movie makes sure to drive home its themes, heavily emphasizing the importance of love, family, and embracing uniqueness. Its long-lasting popularity lies in its ability to cause laughter, make its viewers genuinely happy, and spread that unmistakable holiday feeling.

The film’s appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while offering a fresh and heartwarming take on the holiday genre. Its feel-good factor makes it a go-to movie for families seeking a fun and joyful experience come Christmas time.

In the end, Elf’ stands tall, like its protagonist among his elf friends, as a heartwarming and uplifting holiday gem. Will Ferrell’s special performance, coupled with an endearing storyline, strong supporting cast, and great visuals, makes it a must-watch during the holiday season. Its ability to capture the magic of Christmas and deliver a message of joy and acceptance has secured its place as a beloved classic for generations to come. ‘Elf’ is a film that not only entertains but also manages to warm hearts with its universal themes.

Despite its comedic tone, it manages to deeply explore themes of acceptance, belonging, and the importance of embracing your true self. Buddy’s journey of self-discovery is one to root for, and it reminds audiences about the importance of staying true to your beliefs and finding joy in life’s simplest pleasures. 5/5 stars

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