Why I Love It

It seems like the moment Elf came out in 2003 it instantly became a Christmas classic. I was seven at the time, and even though I didn’t see the movie in the theater, I heard about it from multiple friends and family members. I loved Elf the moment I saw it. It’s a simple “fish-out-of-water” story full of silly jokes. But what makes it so special is how charming the movie is. The memorable score, the beautiful sets, the palpable love for Christmas that Buddy has. Every aspect of this film simply feels like Christmas.

Favorite Scene

It’s an odd choice, but I love the scene where Buddy decorates the toy store overnight. I’m a very creative person. I love art, decorating, and Christmas. Spending a night decorating a toy store for Christmas would be the best.

Favorite Character

Buddy the Elf is the biggest reason this movie works. Will Ferrel perfectly encapsulates the innocent joy for Christmas and the ignorance of the real world. He makes every silly line and moment work more than it should. Buddy’s passion only adds to the overall charm of this movie. He is the reason this movie stands out among all the others.

Favorite Random Thing

I love the classic look of the North Pole. It’s designed to look like it was pulled straight from the classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer television special. While beginning to tell a new story of an orphan adopted by an elf, the viewers are also experiencing some nostalgia from the environment around the story. The set also works as a great transition for Buddy as he begins his travel to New York. He is leaving the fantastical North Pole and heads into the real world, where Christmas is not as special, adding to the fish-out-of-water journey that Buddy embarks on.

Why You Should See It

I’m betting that most of you that are reading this have seen the movie. But if you haven’t, I definitely recommend giving this one a try during your holiday break. It’s equal parts funny and charming. During my most recent viewing with the family, I noticed that every one of us was laughing out loud at different parts. Some of us were even laughing before a punchline because the anticipation of the joke was just as hilarious! This movie just continues to warm my heart every year and I love it for that.

So those are a few of my quick thoughts on Elf. Sorry it was a bit late, I got distracted with other projects during the holidays. Next up is my list of the Top 10 Films of 2019, which will be posted in the next few days.

Thank you for reading!

-Manny 🙂

Twitter: lilwinwellfilms

Letterboxd: lilwinwell