Buddy’s Whimsical New York Quest

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MOVIE REVIEW
Elf
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Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family
Year Released: 2003, 2023 4K
Runtime: 1h 37m
Director(s): Jon Favreau
Writer(s): David Berenbaum
Cast: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart, Ed Asner, Mary Steenburgen, Zooey Deschanel, Daniel Tay, Faizon Love, Peter Dinklage, Amy Sedaris, Michael Lerner
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Will Ferrell has danced across and tackled many comedy types for years. However, in ELF, he’s neither following a well-trodden path nor leading us down a familiar one; he’s forging an entirely new trail. ELF has (since its release, has been one of my favorite additions to my Christmas viewing list every year.)

In ELF, we’re greeted by Buddy, flawlessly portrayed by Ferrell. This isn’t the average elf story that you’re used to. Picture this: a baby sent to the North Pole, growing up among Santa’s crew, believing he’s one of them. But a twist awaits Buddy, leading him to navigate the neon-lit streets of New York in search of his true lineage. I want to know who attended this pitch meeting and how it went; I can only imagine the initial reactions!

What’s genuinely mesmerizing about ELF is Ferrell’s rebirth as a performer. He brings an unmatched purity to Buddy, harmonizing seamlessly with the film’s core sentiment. The tandem genius of director Jon Favreau (yep, him) and writer David Berenbaum crafts a tale that’s both refreshing and heartwarming in a sometimes all-too-familiar movie genre.

Diving deeper into the narrative, we discover Walter Hobbs (James Caan,) whose life Buddy’s arrival in the Big Apple suddenly and hilariously upends. This isn’t just comedy; it explores family ties, belonging, and rediscovering relationships.

A pivotal charm of ELF is its brave approach. Not every day you watch a grown man in an elf costume charmingly disrupt New York’s daily rhythm (and everyone he comes across, for the better). Add to this the enchanting depiction of the North Pole, reminiscent of vintage stop-motion animation classics, and you’re in for a visual feast.

A delightful feature in ELF is the candid filming style, which snatches raw, unscripted responses from unsuspecting New Yorkers as Ferrell frolics around. This realism, blended with a minimalistic approach to CGI, bestows a unique flair upon ELF.

Among the many nuances, the film weaves a delightful subplot featuring the luminous Zooey Deschanel as Jovie, enhancing the story’s layers and textures. Their onscreen chemistry and unforgettable introduction make the film relatable without feeling overwhelming.

In the universe of holiday films, ELF glimmers uniquely, heralding a fresh chapter in Ferrell’s illustrious career. The film remains a delightful treat, warming the hearts of audiences, young and old.

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[photo courtesy of WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY HOME ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals’ extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I’m steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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