Elf (2003) Review in 2025
Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves who goes to New York City to find his father and spread Christmas cheer.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
A classic Christmas comedy that's perfect for families with kids, but may not be suitable for very young children due to some mild humor and language.
CineReview Recommendation
A must-watch Christmas classic that's perfect for families and fans of Will Ferrell's humor, but may not be suitable for very young children due to some mild humor and language.
Spoiler Alert!
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Buddy's innocence and good-heartedness help him navigate the complexities of human relationships and the true meaning of Christmas, ultimately bringing his father and the city together.
Review Details
story9.00/10
A heartwarming and hilarious story about the importance of family, friendship, and believing in oneself, with a well-structured plot and engaging characters.
acting9.50/10
The entire cast delivers standout performances, with Will Ferrell's Buddy being the standout, bringing a sense of wonder and innocence to the role.
characters9.50/10
Will Ferrell shines as Buddy, bringing his signature energy and charm to the role, while the supporting cast delivers memorable performances, especially James Caan as Walter Hobbs.
direction8.50/10
Jon Favreau's direction is solid, balancing humor and heart, but sometimes relying on convenient plot devices and clichés.
cinematography8.00/10
The film's visual style is bright and colorful, capturing the magic of Christmas, but sometimes feeling a bit too slick and polished.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Will Ferrell's hilarious performance, heartwarming story, and memorable quotes make this a Christmas classic that's hard to resist.
Cons
Some plot devices and clichés feel convenient and overused, and the film's visual style can feel a bit too slick and polished at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'm a cotton-headed ninnymuggins!"
"Smiling's my favorite!"
"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!"
