Elf: A Holiday Classic Revisited

The holiday season is in full swing, and one of the most beloved Christmas comedies, ‘Elf,’ is once again captivating audiences. Directed by Jon Favreau and written by David Berenbaum, the 2003 film stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves in the North Pole.

Buddy’s journey to New York City to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs (played by James Caan), is filled with humor and heart. The film also features Zooey Deschanel as Jovie, an unenthusiastic Gimbels employee who becomes Buddy’s love interest, and Ed Asner as Santa Claus, who found an infant Buddy in one of his Christmas bags.

The movie has become a modern classic, praised for its Yuletide cheer and Will Ferrell’s charming performance. It has inspired various adaptations, including a Broadway musical and an NBC stop-motion animated television special.

Recently, ‘Elf’ has been featured in special holiday events. For instance, Theatre Cedar Rapids is hosting a live screening of the film on December 21, 2024, with live appearances by TCR‘s Buddy The Elf and Friends, themed concessions, and merchandise.