‘Elf’ is a Christmas Comedy film that follows Buddy, (Will Ferrell), a human who was raised as an Elf at the North Pole, one day Buddy starts to question why he doesn’t look like everyone else and, find out that he is adopted; after learning this he quests to New York City to find his biological father and, a place to belong.
‘Elf’ is a lot of people’s favourite Christmas film and, the reason for this is because of how sweet it is to see this pure soul, Buddy, who isn’t bogged down by any of the pressures of modern life and, is just a jolly person who wants to make other people happy and, spread Christmas cheer. This film definitely came out when Ferrell was at his comedic peak, at this point in time all of his films were hits and, guaranteed to be good for at least a chuckle or two. Ferrell plays Buddy with all the innocence and, sweetness of a kid unwrapping their presents on Christmas morning; which is incredibly endearing to see, he definitely nails the tone of this film.
This film talks a lot about the meaning of the season and, the love of family. To this extent, it is heartbreaking when we see Buddy’s dad Walter Hobbs, (James Caan), reject him but, it is a cheer-worthy moment when Walter changes his mean and cold ways, and realises the power of family. Seeing Buddy, who is effectively a child, interact with his dad and his step mum is very sweet, it doesn’t come across in the same way Billy Madison does when it almost feels mean spirited.
My one issue with this film is that Buddy’s relationship with Jovie, (Zoey Deschanel), can feel a bit icky at times. Jovie works alongside Buddy in the department store and, they form a bond together. A lot of the scenes the two share are happy and, nice but, there are a few mainly the shower scene that feels a bit uncomfortable. What I mean by this is if we ignore the fact that Buddy has the mentality of a child and, view it for what it is a grown man hanging around the showers as a young woman sings it just feels off. Whatsmore the fact that we are supposed to think this scene is endearing and, wholesome makes it far worse. However, on the whole, their relationship is cute.
To conclude this a very good-natured film and, it will definitely make you smile if not laugh out loud, Ferrell and, Deschanel both to a good job; this should be on your Christmas viewing list.
4/5
Reviewed by Luke
Another Millennial Reviewer 