Elf
Elf

Elf

2003Movie97 minEnglish

When young Buddy falls into Santa's gift sack on Christmas Eve, he's transported back to the North Pole and raised as a toy-making elf by Santa's helpers. But as he grows into adulthood, he can't shake the nagging feeling that he doesn't belong. Buddy vows to visit Manhattan and find his real dad, a workaholic.

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Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes84%
Metacritic61/100
Google Users86%
Director: Jon FavreauGenres: Comedy, Family, Fantasy

Plot Summary

Buddy, a human raised as an elf in the North Pole, travels to New York City to find his biological father. Upon arrival, he discovers his father is a cynical children's book publisher who is on Santa's naughty list. Buddy's unwavering Christmas spirit and childlike innocence begin to change the hearts of the New Yorkers he encounters, ultimately helping his father rediscover the joy of the holiday season.

Critical Reception

Elf was a critical and commercial success, widely praised for its humor, heartwarming story, and Will Ferrell's performance. It has since become a modern Christmas classic, beloved by audiences of all ages for its festive cheer and Ferrell's unique portrayal of Buddy the Elf.

What Reviewers Say

  • Will Ferrell's hilariously endearing performance as Buddy the Elf is the heart of the film.
  • The movie masterfully blends slapstick comedy with genuine holiday sentiment.
  • Jon Favreau's direction provides a charming and nostalgic Christmas movie experience.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly loved Elf, praising Will Ferrell's iconic portrayal of Buddy and the film's pure, unadulterated Christmas spirit. Many found it to be a holiday essential that brings joy and laughter to families year after year.

Fun Fact

The movie was filmed in New York City during the spring and summer, with fake snow being used extensively. For scenes depicting snow falling, the production used a mix of soap flakes, sugar, and shaving cream.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

6 reviews
tmdb51616167

tmdb51616167

"Elf" is a holiday movie that has become a beloved classic over the years, despite some reservations about Will Ferrell's acting style. While not initially drawn to Ferrell's comedic performances, the film's charm and heartwarming storyline...
Andre Gonzales

Andre Gonzales

In my opinion this is the best Christmas movie ever made. Its so hilarious that you laugh throughout. If you havent seen this, i highly suggest that you do.
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Whilst delivering toys to an orphanage, a curious baby crawls into Santa's sack. Back at the North Pole shortly after, this young lad makes his presence felt, is named "Buddy" and put in the care of "Papa Elf" (Bob Newhart). Years later, "B...
Wuchak

Wuchak

_**Destined to be played on TV every Christmas the rest of your life**_ Released in 2003 and directed by Jon Favreau, "Elf" is a Christmas dramedy/fantasy starring Will Farrell as an orphaned infant who stows away on Santa Claus' sleigh ...
Kamurai

Kamurai

Good watch, will likely watch again, and can recommend. For all the good this movie has in it, there is a fair amount of annoying as well, which is what keeps it from being a great movie. A family reconnection trope, with a character ...
Peter McGinn

Peter McGinn

Okay, this is a fun movie, what I consider to be one of those classic Christmas movies I am willing to watch every year. And for me, that is a fairly short list, such as A Christmas Story and the ubiquitous It’s a Wonderful Life. (Interesti...