Elf (2003)

I was concerned that Elf might be a bit dopey (passing gas jokes, etc.), given that it's Will Ferrell, but he really came through on the innocent Christmas elf angle and I was pleasantly surprised by the whimsical tone sustained by much of the movie. Bob Newman is wonderfully disarming as Will Ferrell's foster father and Zooey Deschanel is understated as his platonic love interest. Elf is Big meets Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town and maintains a childlike sense of wonder even in the big grownup world of New York City. (Even though Will was disgusting with his spaghetti-and-syrup trick, he gamely dives into it and stays completely in his character throughout the show. James Caan is his newfound curmudgeon of a birthfather who has a sudden change of heart just in time for the wrapup.) No, it's not a movie solely for adults, but if you are in touch with your inner child, you should find some laughs. Charming and a budding classic -- not greater than the Santa Clause movies but definitely better than Emmet Otter's Jug-band Christmas. 3.5 stars.