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Elf (2003) Rank 3 Reviews

Expert Review Summary
Movie critics combined give Elf (2003) a score of 2.9556 out of 4
based on (300) reviews
Click on the numbers to the right of the graph to see reviews of that rating
Excellent
4
Excellent
(73)
Very Good
3
Very Good
(167)
Good
2
Good
(55)
Fair
1
Fair
(5)
Poor
0
Poor
(0)
Reviews by Score:
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.32 out of 4 stars for Entertainment Weekly (Lisa Schwarzbaum)Entertainment Weekly (Lisa Schwarzbaum)
The disarming comedic tone -- silly and novel in its lack of cynicism -- is driven by the fearless, cheerful unself-consciousness of Will Ferrell, a big man last seen streaking (all too unself-consciously) through ''Old ...read the complete Elf movie review at Entertainment Weekly (Lisa Schwarzbaum)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.28 out of 4 stars for San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)
To look at any advertisement for "Elf" is to suspect what isn't true -- that the movie is one joke hammered into the ground, that it exhausts itself after 15 minutes and then bludgeons the audience for an hour more, before finally releasing into some ...read the complete Elf movie review at San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Film Quips Online (John R. McEwen)Film Quips Online (John R. McEwen)
Will Ferrell, the recent Saturday Night Live graduate who could arguably be described as the most versatile cast member ever to appear on that show, has established a trend of brightening up the most stupid of movies, often salvaging what would otherwise ...read the complete Elf movie review at Film Quips Online (John R. McEwen)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Austin Chronicle (Marjorie Baumgarten)Austin Chronicle (Marjorie Baumgarten)
A movie that’s so profoundly ridiculous that it has to be admired, if for no other reason other than its sheer willingness to run with its premise and take it to the end of the line. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Austin Chronicle (Marjorie Baumgarten)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)
Comedian Will Ferrell (Old School, A Night at the Roxbury) and director Jon Favreau (Swingers, Made) have done funny work in comedies that are more adult, mean-spirited, and on many occasions, vulgar. Expectations for their Christmas comedy, Elf, would ...read the complete Elf movie review at Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for The Onion A.V. Club (Scott Tobias)The Onion A.V. Club (Scott Tobias)
Early in the mediocre holiday comedy Elf, as North Pole craftsmen busily prepare Monopoly sets and Etch-A-Sketches for kids on the "nice" list, two elves lament the decline of Christmas spirit in the modern world. Apparently, one of them reports, many ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Onion A.V. Club (Scott Tobias)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Tiscali UKTiscali UK
Nothing says Christmas quite like a six foot three elf in yellow tights. In the first holiday film of the season Will Ferrell teams up with director Jon Favreau in the silly and frequently hilarious Elf. Saturday Night Live alum Ferrell's natural sense ...read the complete Elf movie review at Tiscali UK
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for MovieWeb (B. Alan Orange)MovieWeb (B. Alan Orange)
called Hate, Actually, about how women just want to take advantage of you and ruin your life? "Smash the octopus! Kick it! Kick it!" According to Flattbush, we're all wrapped in the oppressive tentacles of some sea-dwelling cephalopod. ...read the complete Elf movie review at MovieWeb (B. Alan Orange)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Bullz-Eye.comBullz-Eye.com
Opening alongside "The Matrix Revolutions" may seem like box-office suicide, but with its charmingly simple humor and creative script, "Elf," starring SNL alum Will Ferrell, is a sweet treat for all ages to enjoy. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Bullz-Eye.com
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Haro OnlineHaro Online
Of all the things that Will Ferrell could do, and would do given his Saturday Night Live history, Elf seems like an unlikely choice. The film is about a man raised as an elf returning to the regular world to search for his biological father. Overall, the ...read the complete Elf movie review at Haro Online
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for JoBlo's Movie Emporium ("JoBlo")JoBlo's Movie Emporium ("JoBlo")
This is a fun movie that starts off a little cutesy, but really gets funny once the "elf out of water" concept kicks into full-gear when Will Ferrell prances around New York City acting foolish and doesn't let up until a somewhat corny final act which ...read the complete Elf movie review at JoBlo's Movie Emporium ("JoBlo")
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Exclaim! (Laura Francis)Exclaim! (Laura Francis)
Hey kids! Do you believe in Santa? When Buddy (Will Ferrell) is accidentally scooped into Santa’s sack one Xmas eve, he has no other choice. Embraced by elves and raised as one of their own, Buddy is crestfallen when he discovers that he is a human and ...read the complete Elf movie review at Exclaim! (Laura Francis)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for ViewLondon (Matthew Turner)ViewLondon (Matthew Turner)
That rarest of beasts: an extremely funny Christmas-themed family comedy with a great script and a performance of comedy gold from Will Ferrell. Comedian Will Ferrell is much better known in the States than he is over here, despite appearances in ...read the complete Elf movie review at ViewLondon (Matthew Turner)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for BeyondHollywood.comBeyondHollywood.com
lf", as most people who have seen it will tell you, is pretty funny. And to make a long story short, it's all due to Will Ferrell, who gives such an endearing and all-out performance that you just can't help but love the big guy. ...read the complete Elf movie review at BeyondHollywood.com
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Apollo Movie Guide (Brian Webster)Apollo Movie Guide (Brian Webster)
Will Ferrell stars in this Christmas movie as a misplaced elf from the North Pole, or rather a full-sized man who was raised as an elf and is now in search of his father (James Caan) in New York City. Directed by Jon Favreau (Made) and co-stars Zooey ...read the complete Elf movie review at Apollo Movie Guide (Brian Webster)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for UpcomingDiscs.com (David Annandale)UpcomingDiscs.com (David Annandale)
One Christmas Eve, an infant crawls into Santa’s sack while the big man is visiting an orphanage, and isn’t discovered until Santa (Ed Asner) is back at the North Pole. Adopted by the Papa Elf (Bob Newhart), the baby grows into Buddy (Will Ferrell). ...read the complete Elf movie review at UpcomingDiscs.com (David Annandale)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Film Threat, Hollywood's Indie VoiceFilm Threat, Hollywood's Indie Voice
“Elf” opens as any safe Christmas movie does – in an orphanage. One Christmas Eve, as Santa (Ed Asner) is visiting the orphanage, one of the babies crawls into his gift sack. Of course, Santa doesn’t discover the little boy until he gets back to ...read the complete Elf movie review at Film Threat, Hollywood's Indie Voice
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Sun Newspapers of Cleveland Sun Newspapers of Cleveland
Know an elf's four main food groups? "Candy," begins Will Ferrell's Buddy, the irrepressible ...read the complete Elf movie review at Sun Newspapers of Cleveland
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Movieman's Guide to the Movies (Kushmeer Farakhan)Movieman's Guide to the Movies (Kushmeer Farakhan)
Ho,Ho,Ho, it's Christmas time again, Charlie Brown! Well, not really. More appropriately, it's HOLLYWOOD'S Christmas time, i.e., the lucrative November-early January holiday box office season and we all know what that means. It means Christmas themed ...read the complete Elf movie review at Movieman's Guide to the Movies (Kushmeer Farakhan)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Movie Views (Ryan Cracknell)Movie Views (Ryan Cracknell)
A hilarious holiday film in which Ferrell continues to play the same adorable, naive persona he's adopted as his shtick. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Movie Views (Ryan Cracknell)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for MovieholeMoviehole
Will Ferrell, James Caan, Edward Asner, Bob Newhart, Jane Bradbury, Zooey Deschanel Every year it seems that Hollywood puts out a children's Christmas film, usually sometime in November, to get the holiday season rolling. These films have generally ...read the complete Elf movie review at Moviehole
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for ViewLondon (Matthew Turner)ViewLondon (Matthew Turner)
That rarest of beasts: an extremely funny Christmas-themed family comedy with a great script and a performance of comedy gold from Will Ferrell. ...read the complete Elf movie review at ViewLondon (Matthew Turner)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Rochester Democrat and Chronicle (Jack Garner)Rochester Democrat and Chronicle (Jack Garner)
Thanks to the sweet purity of Ferrell's portrayal -- and the script's fresh approach to time-worn traditions involving Santa and the Christmas spirit -- Elf might just qualify as a holiday perennial. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Rochester Democrat and Chronicle (Jack Garner)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)
Directed by Jon Favreau from a script by David Berenbaum, Elf returns to the hip but warm-hearted spirit of "Swingers," which Favreau both wrote and starred in. It brings sophisticated glee and a sense of innocent fun to what could have been a moribund ...read the complete Elf movie review at Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for CinemaBlend.com (Joshua Tyler)CinemaBlend.com (Joshua Tyler)
Ferrell proves himself an absolute comedic genius. ...read the complete Elf movie review at CinemaBlend.com (Joshua Tyler)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Netflix (James Rocchi)Netflix (James Rocchi)
Holiday comedy gives the talented Will Ferrell a chance to flail wildly -- yet warmly -- as a human raised by elves. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Netflix (James Rocchi)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)
Thankfully, it's never preachy -- though it does get a little gooey -- simply because in defining his own ideas of cool, Favreau is way too cool to preach. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Orlando Sentinel (Jay Boyar)Orlando Sentinel (Jay Boyar)
It's Ferrell's untethered turn as Buddy that makes Elf sparkle. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Orlando Sentinel (Jay Boyar)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for MovieWeb (Sean O'Connell)MovieWeb (Sean O'Connell)
For those of you with a belly laugh on your wish list, Christmas has come early this year. ...read the complete Elf movie review at MovieWeb (Sean O'Connell)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Mediasharx (Dustin Gast)Mediasharx (Dustin Gast)
...read the complete Elf movie review at Mediasharx (Dustin Gast)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Daytona Beach News-Journal (Fl.) (Jeff Farance)Daytona Beach News-Journal (Fl.) (Jeff Farance)
...read the complete Elf movie review at Daytona Beach News-Journal (Fl.) (Jeff Farance)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for filmcritic.com (Sean O'Connell)filmcritic.com (Sean O'Connell)
For those of you with a belly laugh on your wish list, Christmas has come early this year. ...read the complete Elf movie review at filmcritic.com (Sean O'Connell)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for eye WEEKLY (Kim Linekin)eye WEEKLY (Kim Linekin)
It's just good, clean fun. ...read the complete Elf movie review at eye WEEKLY (Kim Linekin)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for eFilmCritic.com (Scott Weinberg)eFilmCritic.com (Scott Weinberg)
The humor ranges from silly-sweet to actively arcane, and the schmaltzy stuff is offset by a hipness that could only come from the guy responsible for Swingers . ...read the complete Elf movie review at eFilmCritic.com (Scott Weinberg)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Matt's Movie Reviews (Matt Easterbrook)Matt's Movie Reviews (Matt Easterbrook)
How can you not love a guy who can say, "An elf's four major food groups are candy canes, candy CORNS, candy, and syrup," with a straight face? ...read the complete Elf movie review at Matt's Movie Reviews (Matt Easterbrook)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.17 out of 4 stars for Empire Movies (Liam Cullin)Empire Movies (Liam Cullin)
Ferrell plays Buddy, a human who hitched a ride in Santa's sack as an infant. Brough to the North Pole, he's raised as an Elf until one day, he discovers the awful truth - that he is indeed human. (Or that he isn't an elf. I'm not sure which news is ...read the complete Elf movie review at Empire Movies (Liam Cullin)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.16 out of 4 stars for Cinema BlendCinema Blend
However, Ferrell’s aw shucks attitude throughout all of this is completely convincing. He’s outrageously silly when he needs to be, but there’s some sincerity behind him too that inexplicably makes you really care about this elfman. Will believes ...read the complete Elf movie review at Cinema Blend
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.14 out of 4 stars for DVD Review e-zineDVD Review e-zine
"Elf" is a wonderfully hilarious warm-hearted Christmas story from popular director/actor Jon Favreau. Not only is this one of the best family films in years. But it is also refreshing to see something completely original outside of the typical ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD Review e-zine
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.14 out of 4 stars for DVD Review e-zineDVD Review e-zine
How cool is it that Peter Billingsley is connected with two of the best Christmas comedies on film? In a teaming that is becoming more and more common, Jon Favreau gave the man known to many as Ralphie "You'll Shoot Your Eye Out" Parker an uncredited ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD Review e-zine
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.13 out of 4 stars for Bangin' Banana (Joe Marchese)Bangin' Banana (Joe Marchese)
Elf starts off in an orphanage and one of the babies named Buddy sneaks out and goes into Santa's bag to get some toys but gets trapped inside and brought up to the North Pole with Santa. After they arrive one of the elves adopts the child and raises ...read the complete Elf movie review at Bangin' Banana (Joe Marchese)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.12 out of 4 stars for The Boston PhoenixThe Boston Phoenix
When word first came out that Will Ferrell would play a human raised by North Pole elves who travels to New York to find his biological father, it was fair to assume the worst — another talented Saturday Night Live alum stuffed into an assembly-line ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Boston Phoenix
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.10 out of 4 stars for The Digital BitsThe Digital Bits
Cute flick. Will Farrell plays Buddy, a young man who was raised by Christmas elves in the North Pole. When he finds out he's not really an elf, he is sent by Santa (Ed Asner) and his adoptive father (played by Bob Newhart) to New York to find his ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Digital Bits
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.10 out of 4 stars for Joe Critic.com (Sam Bear)Joe Critic.com (Sam Bear)
I’m gonna go out on a limb and say that Will Ferrell is the single best comedic actor in Hollywood today. I was extremely disappointed when he left SNL where I could see him every Saturday, but he has a long and auspicious movie career ahead of him. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Joe Critic.com (Sam Bear)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.02 out of 4 stars for DVD Authority.com (Matt Brighton)DVD Authority.com (Matt Brighton)
We meet Buddy (Will Ferrell) when he's an infant. Santa (Ed Asner) is on his rounds and Buddy mistakenly crawls in Santa's bag. He's then brought up in the North Pole where it's evident that he's not just "big for his age", he's human where ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD Authority.com (Matt Brighton)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for St. Paul Pioneer Press (Chris Hewitt)St. Paul Pioneer Press (Chris Hewitt)
Elf" sits on a throne of good cheer. Buddy is unabashedly nice and it's obvious that when he's sent to that notorious bastion of bad cheer, New York, the city will be no match for him. But the movie is smart, balancing Buddy's niceness with a ...read the complete Elf movie review at St. Paul Pioneer Press (Chris Hewitt)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Lee's Movie Info (Lee Tistaert)Lee's Movie Info (Lee Tistaert)
Elf is that kind of movie that not everyone will probably expect much from until either critics label it as a surprise, or audiences discover it and spread the word on to friends. With Will Ferrell?s comedic edge (in films) upgrading over time, it would ...read the complete Elf movie review at Lee's Movie Info (Lee Tistaert)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Film Threat, Hollywood's Indie VoiceFilm Threat, Hollywood's Indie Voice
Which, based on all that happens in the course of the next hour, would appear to be anyplace but the Big Apple. Some of the movie's most effective comic moments arise from the high concept contrast between Buddy's childlike sweetness and the, well, New ...read the complete Elf movie review at Film Threat, Hollywood's Indie Voice
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Palo Alto Weekly (Tyler Hanley)Palo Alto Weekly (Tyler Hanley)
Will Ferrell's uninhibited physical comedy ignites this fish-out-of-water family film. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Palo Alto Weekly (Tyler Hanley)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Goatdog's Movies (Michael W. Phillips, Jr.)Goatdog's Movies (Michael W. Phillips, Jr.)
In another miracle casting, Bob Newhart plays our narrator, a grumpy-looking Papa Elf. He tells us that one Christmas around thirty years ago, a baby from an orphanage crawled into Santa's (Ed Asner—yes, Ed Asner) pack and got whisked away to the ...read the complete Elf movie review at Goatdog's Movies (Michael W. Phillips, Jr.)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Toronto StarToronto Star
...read the complete Elf movie review at Toronto Star
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Steve Rhodes <Steve.Rhodes@internetreviews.com>Steve Rhodes <Steve.Rhodes@internetreviews.com>
We all have a general idea of what Christmas elves are like. They're tiny, they're happy, they're industrious, and if you grew up watching Herbie the aspiring dentist elf in the RankinBass TV specialRudolph the RedNosed Reindeer(or readingDavid ...read the complete Elf movie review at Steve Rhodes <Steve.Rhodes@internetreviews.com>
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)
Thankfully, it's good kitsch, an all-ages Christmas story that will actually appeal to people of all ages. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Reel.com (Franny French)Reel.com (Franny French)
Depending on how you look at it, there's something either creepy or endearing about a six-foot-three man in an elf get-up. Luckily for Elf, the latter is the case. When the elf is Will Ferrell, endearment turns to absolute hilarity pretty much right out ...read the complete Elf movie review at Reel.com (Franny French)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Mark Reviews Movies (Mark Dujsik)Mark Reviews Movies (Mark Dujsik)
I must first point out that I am not a fan of Will Farrell's work. Typically, he stands out awkwardly from the material presented him. He works way too hard for laughs, and that's one of the least funny things a comic actor can do. With Elf, Farrell ...read the complete Elf movie review at Mark Reviews Movies (Mark Dujsik)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Kvikmyndir.com (Hjorleifur Palsson)Kvikmyndir.com (Hjorleifur Palsson)
Í Elf segir frá Buddy (Will Ferrell), sem er mennskur en er tekinn í fóstur af álfum jólasveinsins á Norðurpólnum. Buddy missti móður sína ungur og varð munaðarlaus, og ein jólin villist hann óvart á sleða jólasveinsins þegar hann er a ...read the complete Elf movie review at Kvikmyndir.com (Hjorleifur Palsson)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Jigsaw Lounge (Neil Young)Jigsaw Lounge (Neil Young)
In autumn 2001, when Zoolander and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back were released within a month of each other in the UK, it would be fair to say that this critic was not a member of the Ferrell Fan Club. On JSBSB, I commented “Will Ferrell brings the ...read the complete Elf movie review at Jigsaw Lounge (Neil Young)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Peter SobczynskiPeter Sobczynski
Although "Elf" was directed by Jon Favreau-whose previous cinematic contributions have included writing "Swingers", directing "Made" and starring in films like "Very Bad Things"-it is hardly the dark, and subversive attack on the genre that his ...read the complete Elf movie review at Peter Sobczynski
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Reel Movie Critic (Lee Shoquist)Reel Movie Critic (Lee Shoquist)
I realized I was having fun about twenty minutes into Jon Favreau's directorial debut "Elf." Lumbering Will Ferrell, decked out in full-on Christmas elf attire, roaming the streets of Manhattan, marveling at revolving doors, elevator floors, street ...read the complete Elf movie review at Reel Movie Critic (Lee Shoquist)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for MovieFreak.com (Sara M. Fetters)MovieFreak.com (Sara M. Fetters)
Every now and then, I can’t help but feel a little like Ebenezer Scrooge when it comes to watching movies. I sit in a darkened theater, the audience around me eating the film up, all the while I slowly melt into the seat, fuming that I have to endure ...read the complete Elf movie review at MovieFreak.com (Sara M. Fetters)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Aisle Seat (Mike McGranaghan)Aisle Seat (Mike McGranaghan)
From here on out, Elf is going to be a Christmas movie-watching tradition for me. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Aisle Seat (Mike McGranaghan)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Pays homage to a sack of Christmas movies, from the department store Claus of "Miracle on 34th Street" to a standing-on-the-bridge-contemplating-suicide moment, a la "It's a Wonderful ...read the complete Elf movie review at Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago Tribune (Robert K. Elder)Chicago Tribune (Robert K. Elder)
Elf, formulaic but lovable, is essentially "Big" in pointy shoes. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Chicago Tribune (Robert K. Elder)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Boston Globe (Wesley Morris)Boston Globe (Wesley Morris)
The movie sets Ferrell's assaultive and juvenile physical comedy in a less-combative playground, and the result might leave the Ferrell-intolerant exiting the theater on a high. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Boston Globe (Wesley Morris)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
If I were to tell you "Elf" stars Will Ferrell as a human named Buddy who thinks he is an elf and Ed Asner as Santa Claus, would you feel an urgent desire to see this film? Neither did I. I thought it would be clunky, stupid and obvious, like "The ...read the complete Elf movie review at Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Exclaim! (--)Exclaim! (--)
Hey kids! Do you believe in Santa? When Buddy (Will Ferrell) is accidentally scooped into Santa’s sack one Xmas eve, he has no other choice. Embraced by elves and raised as one of their own, Buddy is crestfallen when he discovers that he is a human and ...read the complete Elf movie review at Exclaim! (--)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Denver Rocky Mountain News (Robert Denerstein)Denver Rocky Mountain News (Robert Denerstein)
Falls short of a laugh riot but proves generally pleasing nonetheless. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Denver Rocky Mountain News (Robert Denerstein)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for New York Post (Megan Lehmann)New York Post (Megan Lehmann)
Ferrell's manic, overgrown-kid energy sweeps all before it, announcing him - after his standout turn in "Old School" - as a major leading-man talent who can charm as well as amuse. ...read the complete Elf movie review at New York Post (Megan Lehmann)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Slate (Michael Agger)Slate (Michael Agger)
It's irony-free fun for the whole family. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Slate (Michael Agger)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Movie Parables (Michael Elliott)Movie Parables (Michael Elliott)
It may not be a classic but it is a fun and enjoyable holiday film. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Movie Parables (Michael Elliott)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for TheMovieBoy Review (Dustin Putman)TheMovieBoy Review (Dustin Putman)
Exactly one year ago to this weekend, the holiday movie season officially began with "The Santa Clause 2," a cute but hollow confection that was made for the sole reason of cashing in on its successful predecessor. This year's holiday introduction, ...read the complete Elf movie review at TheMovieBoy Review (Dustin Putman)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Baltimore Sun (--)Baltimore Sun (--)
...read the complete Elf movie review at Baltimore Sun (--)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Cinema in Focus (Denny Wayman and Hal Conklin)Cinema in Focus (Denny Wayman and Hal Conklin)
Walter (James Caan) is a greedy publisher of children’s books who doesn’t love children. Too busy to care for his own son Michael (Daniel Tay), Walter doesn’t even know that his first-born son, Buddy (Will Ferrell) was placed in an orphanage by ...read the complete Elf movie review at Cinema in Focus (Denny Wayman and Hal Conklin)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Shot Away Reviews (Jager McConnell)Shot Away Reviews (Jager McConnell)
I heard Jon Favreau, the director of this movie, in an interview before I watched this movie. He said that he wanted this movie to be a classic Christmas movie - a movie which would become associated with Christmas and would always be played on TV - much ...read the complete Elf movie review at Shot Away Reviews (Jager McConnell)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Susan GrangerSusan Granger
Problem is: neither director Jon Favreau nor writer David Berenbaum has a clear comedic vision as reality and fantasy collide. The story is underwritten and the pacing uneven. While Will Ferrell radiates wide-eyed wonder, his weird goofiness in the elf ...read the complete Elf movie review at Susan Granger
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Steve RhodesSteve Rhodes
In this fish-out-of-water story, Buddy, a man who acts like a child, ends up getting a job working in the Christmas department of a large store. While working there, he finds his first girlfriend in Jovie (Zooey Deschanel, the sarcastic clerk in THE GOOD ...read the complete Elf movie review at Steve Rhodes
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Cinema Confidential (Thomas Chau)Cinema Confidential (Thomas Chau)
One of the funniest family comedies... ...read the complete Elf movie review at Cinema Confidential (Thomas Chau)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Boston Herald (James Verniere)Boston Herald (James Verniere)
...read the complete Elf movie review at Boston Herald (James Verniere)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Doncinema.com (Flavio J. Arosemena)Doncinema.com (Flavio J. Arosemena)
Si usted desea una -siempre saludable- dosis de espíritu navideño y comedia sana, envueltas en una historia predecible pero contada con talento, vaya a ver Elf . ...read the complete Elf movie review at Doncinema.com (Flavio J. Arosemena)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Los Angeles Daily News (Bob Strauss)Los Angeles Daily News (Bob Strauss)
Ferrell's natural ability to play the earnest, holy fool man-child, coupled with the immense slapstick potential of this 6-foot-plus oaf having been raised to act like one of Santa's teensy elves, makes for a central figure who is always fun. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Los Angeles Daily News (Bob Strauss)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for The Popkorn JunkieThe Popkorn Junkie
I rather enjoyed this film, despite the fact that I'm not a real big fan of Will Ferrell. I did like his Bush impersonation, but his only other role I loved was the Federal Wildlife Ranger in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back...I will add "Elf" to that ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Popkorn Junkie
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Minneapolis Star Tribune (Jeff Strickler)Minneapolis Star Tribune (Jeff Strickler)
Ferrell has found the ideal starring vehicle -- and it turns out to be Santa's sleigh. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Minneapolis Star Tribune (Jeff Strickler)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Seattle Post-IntelligencerSeattle Post-Intelligencer
The real gift of Elf is the simple pleasure of a sweet and funny comedy that genuinely embraces its message of holiday cheer and still has fun goofing with it. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for DVDork.com (Ryan Keefer)DVDork.com (Ryan Keefer)
While parts of the film set Buddy in New York, adjusting to city life and the little nuances with it, the main plotline is a Christmas one, where Santa’s sleigh has been stopped in Central Park. The sleigh is powered by Christmas spirit, so there’s ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVDork.com (Ryan Keefer)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Sacramento Bee (Joe Baltake)Sacramento Bee (Joe Baltake)
The film works not only as an innocuous family movie, but also as something of a hipster's pipe dream. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Sacramento Bee (Joe Baltake)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Charlotte Observer (Lawrence Toppman)Charlotte Observer (Lawrence Toppman)
Even when he's being a prize idiot, eating chewed gum stuck on a subway entrance or walking in front of a moving cab, Ferrell stays peculiarly endearing. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Charlotte Observer (Lawrence Toppman)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Filmtracks (Christian Clemmensen)Filmtracks (Christian Clemmensen)
Imagine any plethora of strong, but rather non-descript Debney scores for romantic comedies. That's the base for Elf, with a decent, though not particularly overwhelming theme for the manchild 'Buddy' utilized throughout the score. More enjoyable than ...read the complete Elf movie review at Filmtracks (Christian Clemmensen)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Nitrate Online (Gregory Avery)Nitrate Online (Gregory Avery)
In Elf, Will Ferrell is cast in the role he was born to play -- that of Buddy, who, as a baby, toddled into Santa's toy bag one Christmas Eve and ended up at the North Pole, where he was raised by the toymaking elves (played by, fortunately, adult actors ...read the complete Elf movie review at Nitrate Online (Gregory Avery)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for kids-in-mindkids-in-mind
A woman kisses a man, a man kisses a woman, a man and a woman hug and kiss, a man kisses a woman on the cheek. A man looks at sheer lingerie in a department store. We see a woman in a shower (her bare shoulders are evident) and a man sits outside the ...read the complete Elf movie review at kids-in-mind
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Arizona Daily Star (Phil Villarreal)Arizona Daily Star (Phil Villarreal)
Makes us believe that maybe Ferrell really was raised by elves. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Arizona Daily Star (Phil Villarreal)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Decent Films - faith on film (Jimmy Akin)Decent Films - faith on film (Jimmy Akin)
Elves love to tell stories, or so Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) tells us at the beginning of this elf story. It is an unusual tale in that it is the other side of all the changeling stories that have circulated in folklore for centuries. Instead of being the ...read the complete Elf movie review at Decent Films - faith on film (Jimmy Akin)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for filethirteen.comfilethirteen.com
For kids, the film is tame and fairly innocuous. This is a great comedy for families because the humor is so goofy and silly, everyone can get it. It's funny to kids when an elf freaks out after he sees a department store Santa and rips off his beard ...read the complete Elf movie review at filethirteen.com
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Killer Movie Reviews (Andrea Chase)Killer Movie Reviews (Andrea Chase)
Our hero is Buddy (Ferrell), a human infant put up for adoption who somehow finds himself stowed away in Santa�s toy bag on Christmas Eve. Once discovered, he�s adopted by a childless elf (Bob Newhart in all his deadpan, stuttering glory) and brought ...read the complete Elf movie review at Killer Movie Reviews (Andrea Chase)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)
Will Ferrell�s greatest gift as a comedic actor is his ability to convey a complete lack of self-awareness. All of his best characters from his seven-year run on Saturday Night Live, from his clueless Spartan cheerleader, to his hilarious impersonation ...read the complete Elf movie review at Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Jam! MoviesJam! Movies
Say, here's a concept -- how about taking an elf out of Santa's workshop in the North Pole and plunking him down, pointy hat and silly tights and all, in mean old New York ...read the complete Elf movie review at Jam! Movies
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for TheMovieBoy.com (Dustin Putman)TheMovieBoy.com (Dustin Putman)
Filled to bursting with joy, creativity, and good cheer, Elf is one early Christmas gift that does not disappoint. ...read the complete Elf movie review at TheMovieBoy.com (Dustin Putman)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for That Cow (Andrew Bradford)That Cow (Andrew Bradford)
Finally, a vehicle that works for Will Ferrell. I mean, the guy seems talented, but almost every movie I've seen him in, he is so out of whack with the other characters it takes me out of the experience. Here, this actually works. ...read the complete Elf movie review at That Cow (Andrew Bradford)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Palo Alto Online (Tyler Hanley)Palo Alto Online (Tyler Hanley)
Will Ferrell's uninhibited physical comedy ignites this fish-out-of-water family film. But a helping of familiar holiday schmaltz and some poor visual effects nudge "Elf" off the must-see list reserved for essentials like "Scrooged" and "A Christmas ...read the complete Elf movie review at Palo Alto Online (Tyler Hanley)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for One Guy's Opinion (Frank Swietek)One Guy's Opinion (Frank Swietek)
“Elf” joins the ranks of amusing contemporary Christmas comedies oriented to the family trade, in the tradition of “The Santa Clause.” It surprises me to be writing these words, since it stars Will Ferrell, who’s always rather creeped me out, ...read the complete Elf movie review at One Guy's Opinion (Frank Swietek)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for New York Magazine (Peter Rainer)New York Magazine (Peter Rainer)
I love watching Ferrell do his gangly, clueless shtick, and even here, there’s something inherently funny about just seeing him in a big, green elf suit. There’s something inherently funny about Ferrell -- period. ...read the complete Elf movie review at New York Magazine (Peter Rainer)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Karate PartyKarate Party
You know that feeling you get when you see a really lame movie poster. It could be a remake of a classic film starring Gwyneth Paltrow in place of Grace Kelly, or Keanu Reeves as a serial killing gynaecologist, or perhaps Will Ferrell dressed as a ...read the complete Elf movie review at Karate Party
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Hollywood Reporter (Michael Rechtshaffen)Hollywood Reporter (Michael Rechtshaffen)
While the words 'instant holiday classic' might be pushing it, Elf is at the very least a breezily entertaining, perfectly cast family treat. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Hollywood Reporter (Michael Rechtshaffen)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for IndependentCritics.com (Richard Propes)IndependentCritics.com (Richard Propes)
I have attempted several times to view this film, and always seemed to arrive a few minutes late and ended up seeing another film. Finally, the day after Christmas I was able to see this film. ...read the complete Elf movie review at IndependentCritics.com (Richard Propes)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for The Movie Insider (Kyle Smith)The Movie Insider (Kyle Smith)
When the first shot of your film is Bob Newhart dressed as an elf, you know you've done something right. Forever underrated, Newhart is the perfect peripheral character to build a Hollywood movie around—familiar, friendly and warm. Elf matches that ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Movie Insider (Kyle Smith)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for MovieCrypt.com (Kevin A. Ranson)MovieCrypt.com (Kevin A. Ranson)
Against every odd imaginable... emerges as the little holiday film that could. ...read the complete Elf movie review at MovieCrypt.com (Kevin A. Ranson)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Tyler Morning Telegraph (Texas) (Jonathan R. Perry)Tyler Morning Telegraph (Texas) (Jonathan R. Perry)
With Ferrell's charm, this knowing wink to the Yuletide fuzzies of yore survives the saccharine assault that claims most "family" films released between Nov. 1 and Christmas. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Tyler Morning Telegraph (Texas) (Jonathan R. Perry)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.99 out of 4 stars for The Spinning Image (Joshua Dudley)The Spinning Image (Joshua Dudley)
As I was leaving the movie Elf, I saw a bald frowning man with his two daughters. Looks like you could use some Christmas cheer, I said. I asked him if he was going to see Elf, and he asked me how it was. “Big, dumb, and silly” I told him. His face ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Spinning Image (Joshua Dudley)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.99 out of 4 stars for UGO Screenwriter's VoiceUGO Screenwriter's Voice
It seems impossible to designate a film a "classic" before it's even been released in theaters. That appellation comes with time. Just think about the wonderful children's films of the last decade or so. The brand name Disney seems to have been ...read the complete Elf movie review at UGO Screenwriter's Voice
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.97 out of 4 stars for A Guide to Current DVD (Aaron Beierle)A Guide to Current DVD (Aaron Beierle)
Obviously, Buddy has a lot to learn when it comes to interacting with humanity, given that his interactions have previously been limited to the other elves at the North Pole. Stumbling into a job working at a department store, Buddy manages to inject the ...read the complete Elf movie review at A Guide to Current DVD (Aaron Beierle)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.97 out of 4 stars for 3 Black Chicks ("The Diva")3 Black Chicks ("The Diva")
30 years ago, Santa (Ed Asner) was delivering presents to an orphanage when one of the babies crawls into his sack. Without realizing it, he takes the baby back to the North Pole and upon the discovery turns the baby over to a workaholic elf who always ...read the complete Elf movie review at 3 Black Chicks ("The Diva")
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.96 out of 4 stars for Entertainment Insiders (Stephen Wong)Entertainment Insiders (Stephen Wong)
The story of a human being adopted by Christmas elves, who returns to the human world (New York City) to find his father, may not seem like an idea that could support 95 minutes worth of movie. But the character of Buddy is so well performed by Ferrell, ...read the complete Elf movie review at Entertainment Insiders (Stephen Wong)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.95 out of 4 stars for Crosswalk.com Movies (Holly McClure)Crosswalk.com Movies (Holly McClure)
In the company of “It’s a Wonderful Life”, “The Christmas Story” and “Rudolph,” Director Jon Favreau has created a holiday classic that could easily become a family tradition. It’s a film for all ages filled with heart, humor and lots of ...read the complete Elf movie review at Crosswalk.com Movies (Holly McClure)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.95 out of 4 stars for Comingsoon.netComingsoon.net
"Will Ferrell stars as the ultimate fish out of water, Buddy, who as a baby crawls into Santa's toy bag and is whisked off to the North Pole, where he is raised as an elf. A cheerful misfit who grows to be three times the size of his elf family, Buddy ...read the complete Elf movie review at Comingsoon.net
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.95 out of 4 stars for St. Louis Post-DispatchSt. Louis Post-Dispatch
Will Ferrell is hilarious in "Elf," a holiday comedy that really doesn't amount to much, but gets by on sheer goofiness. Ferrell is Buddy, a human being who slipped into Santa's bag as a baby, wound up in the North Pole, and grew up among the bearded ...read the complete Elf movie review at St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.93 out of 4 stars for Comingsoon.netComingsoon.net
Thirty years ago, a human baby crawled into Santa Claus' sack and was brought to the North Pole where he was adopted by an elderly elf. When he hits adulthood, "Buddy the Elf", played by Saturday Night Live alum Will Ferrell, realizes that he's ...read the complete Elf movie review at Comingsoon.net
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.92 out of 4 stars for ninth symphony films ninth symphony films
By giving his character an impressive dose of honesty and generosity, Elf star Will Ferrell turns a movie with no originality in script or plot into an entertaining and usually heartwarming theatrical experience. Though the entire cast was suitably ...read the complete Elf movie review at ninth symphony films
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.90 out of 4 stars for DVD Town (Tim David Raynor)DVD Town (Tim David Raynor)
It is every year around the holiday season that Hollywood inundates us with at least a few holiday-style films. They are usually meant to be warm and heartfelt and to lift our spirits in hopes that we may make it through the most stressful period of the ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD Town (Tim David Raynor)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.90 out of 4 stars for musicOMH (Ben Lee)musicOMH (Ben Lee)
It's been a busy Christmas for holiday-themed films. Bad Santa and Love Actually have proved popular, but the one which has garnered the most money and the most acclaim is Elf. Treading a fine line between family and adult comedy, Elf hits just the ...read the complete Elf movie review at musicOMH (Ben Lee)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.90 out of 4 stars for Deseret News, Salt Lake City Deseret News, Salt Lake City
How audiences will react "Elf" may depend on their tolerance for star Will Ferrell, who plays the title character, an orphan who, as a baby, sneaked into Santa's toy bag. As a result, he's christened "Buddy" and is raised at the North Pole by Papa ...read the complete Elf movie review at Deseret News, Salt Lake City
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.90 out of 4 stars for U.S. Conference of Catholic BishopsU.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
An orphan raised by Santa's tiny toymakers journeys to New York City in search of his real father in the goofy yuletide comedy "Elf" (New Line). Despite narrative holes more glaring than Rudolph's shiny nose, director Jon Favreau, trying to jump-start ...read the complete Elf movie review at U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.90 out of 4 stars for The Cranky Critic (Chuck Schwartz)The Cranky Critic (Chuck Schwartz)
Let's start a dumb story checklist, okay? Walter, apparently, has no idea that he and his first wife had children. Santa (Ed Asner), apparently, didn't honor any kind of return policy. Cranky, apparently, knows when to look the other way during a dumb ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Cranky Critic (Chuck Schwartz)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.89 out of 4 stars for DVD Net (Tristan Lutze)DVD Net (Tristan Lutze)
Likewise, Ferrell’s over-active turn as the human-turned-elf is not surprising. ‘Buddy’ steals every scene, just as we expect him to, and director Jon Favreau (who, as seen in his cameo as a doctor, seems to have inflated since his last directorial ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD Net (Tristan Lutze)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.88 out of 4 stars for Guess the GrossGuess the Gross
Flash forward many years to when Buddy is all grown up. So much so that he towers over his co-workers , friends and father elf. Since its not getting through Buddy’s thick-yet-lovable skull, he is informed that he is actually a human and belongs in ...read the complete Elf movie review at Guess the Gross
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.88 out of 4 stars for Film Monthly (Gary Schultz)Film Monthly (Gary Schultz)
Buddy is taken in by Papa Elf played by Bob Newhart (another famous television star) and raised as an Elf for thirty years. One of the many problems a human can have when living in the North Pole with elves is an obvious one that The Elf plays up to the ...read the complete Elf movie review at Film Monthly (Gary Schultz)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.88 out of 4 stars for dvdfuture.com (Randy Spiros)dvdfuture.com (Randy Spiros)
For those of you that thought Will Ferrell had only been lucky to dodge the "Saturday Night Live" curse with "Old School" and "A Night At The Roxbury" rest assured that it was not luck. Will Ferrell scores again with the quirky and offbeat comedy ...read the complete Elf movie review at dvdfuture.com (Randy Spiros)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.86 out of 4 stars for digitallyOBSESSED.com (Kevin Clemons)digitallyOBSESSED.com (Kevin Clemons)
Buddy the Elf (Ferrell) is the biggest and best known elf at the North Pole, and while that may at first seem like a compliment, it really isn't. The reason he towers above all of the other elves is because he is in fact a human, brought to the North ...read the complete Elf movie review at digitallyOBSESSED.com (Kevin Clemons)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.83 out of 4 stars for Juicy Cerebellum (Alex Sandell)Juicy Cerebellum (Alex Sandell)
Elf proves that Christmas Spirit has indeed been replaced by commercialism. It almost seems proud to be the film that finally proves it. The movie doesn't even give the audience a chance to breathe between product placements. The marketing masters ...read the complete Elf movie review at Juicy Cerebellum (Alex Sandell)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.82 out of 4 stars for DVDwolf (Rob Paul)DVDwolf (Rob Paul)
Basically a fish out of water film Buddy (the Elf of the title) wanders through the film completely wide eyed and innocent telling anyone who will listen of his journey as he ‘ passed through the seven levels of the Candy Cane forest, through the sea ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVDwolf (Rob Paul)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.82 out of 4 stars for Frank's Reel ReviewsFrank's Reel Reviews
Although the plot is a bit thin and predictably unoriginal, its significance of serving as a thespian playground for Ferrell to display his slapstick brand of oafish shenanigans mustn't be overlooked. Ferrell plays Buddy, an orphaned baby who, after ...read the complete Elf movie review at Frank's Reel Reviews
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Dallas Observer (Robert Wilonsky)Dallas Observer (Robert Wilonsky)
Elf may be no more than a pleasant, amusing trifle, a grin that fades well before Thanksgiving, but it also will endure in the way all decent Hollywood-made Christmas fairy tales last if they're rendered with good cheer and good will. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Dallas Observer (Robert Wilonsky)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for This is Lancashire (--)This is Lancashire (--)
...read the complete Elf movie review at This is Lancashire (--)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Citysearch (Erich Scholz)Citysearch (Erich Scholz)
Not aspiring to be much more than a simple fish-out-of-water comedy, Elf is sweet and a little hokey -- and has the makings of a holiday classic. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Citysearch (Erich Scholz)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Variety (David Rooney)Variety (David Rooney)
Will Ferrell graduates to his first solo leading role with flying colors in Elf, a disarming holiday comedy about a clueless innocent who saves Christmas and fosters a renewed sense of family in his reluctant father. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Variety (David Rooney)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for LA Weekly (Ella Taylor)LA Weekly (Ella Taylor)
Love Actually, yet another Richard Curtis movie about shy Brits rowing strenuously toward a positive outcome, is the most shamelessly calculating bit of fluff I’ve seen since Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill and Bridget Jones’s Diary — all ...read the complete Elf movie review at LA Weekly (Ella Taylor)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Washington Post (Desson Thomson)Washington Post (Desson Thomson)
Ferrell provides just enough humor to get us through the familiar fare and enjoy the ride. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Washington Post (Desson Thomson)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.77 out of 4 stars for The Trades (R.J. Carter)The Trades (R.J. Carter)
An orphaned baby crawls unseen into Santa's sack one Christmas Eve night, setting into motion a series of Yuletide hijinks. Rather than return the child to the orphanage upon his discovery, Santa Claus (perfectly portrayed by veteran Ed Asner) decides to ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Trades (R.J. Carter)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.77 out of 4 stars for DVD MovieGuideDVD MovieGuide
The adult Buddy (Will Ferrell) becomes his dad’s apprentice but he proves to lack great skill as a toy maker. Eventually Buddy overhears the elves talk about his human origins, so Papa finally reveals his true origins. We learn that his mother put him ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD MovieGuide
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.77 out of 4 stars for Entertainment Insiders (Stephen Wong)Entertainment Insiders (Stephen Wong)
Budgeted at a mere $33 million (peanuts in today's big budget environment), New Line took a mildly funny premise and turned it into box office gold when it cast perfectly suited SNL funny man Will Ferrell as the lumbering, dumbfounded human raised by ...read the complete Elf movie review at Entertainment Insiders (Stephen Wong)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for DVD Verdict (Patrick Naugle)DVD Verdict (Patrick Naugle)
I think it's pretty hard to make a good movie in a specific genre. While I mostly enjoy almost any horror movie that's released in theaters (reason: I have the movie tastes of a 15 year old after a dozen Jolt sodas), it's hard to make a "classic" ...read the complete Elf movie review at DVD Verdict (Patrick Naugle)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Portland Tribune (Dawn Taylor)Portland Tribune (Dawn Taylor)
... a cute -- if insubstantial -- movie. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Portland Tribune (Dawn Taylor)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Crazy for Cinema (Lisa Skrzyniarz)Crazy for Cinema (Lisa Skrzyniarz)
Favreau merges old-fashioned holiday charm with 21st century physical humor in the character of Buddy, a 30-year-old human raised by elves in the North Pole. Ferrell gives his most complete and charming performance to date, perfectly capturing the ...read the complete Elf movie review at Crazy for Cinema (Lisa Skrzyniarz)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Laramie Movie Scope (Robert Roten)Laramie Movie Scope (Robert Roten)
The main part of the film is pretty lame, but there are some nice touches around the edges. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Laramie Movie Scope (Robert Roten)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for The Cinema Source (Jennifer Krieger)The Cinema Source (Jennifer Krieger)
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that now, in mid-November, retailers are already trying to cash in on the whole “Christmas spirit” thing. Fluffy balls of cotton snow and light-up Santa clause are already appearing in store windows, and Starbucks has ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Cinema Source (Jennifer Krieger)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for High Plains Reader (Greg Carlson)High Plains Reader (Greg Carlson)
When popular SNL alum Will Ferrell left the show for the treacherous waters of feature filmmaking, he followed a long line of performers whose careers have met with varying degrees of success. For every Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray and Mike Myers, there ...read the complete Elf movie review at High Plains Reader (Greg Carlson)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.74 out of 4 stars for Exclaim!Exclaim!
For the past several years, Christmas films have either been unbearable piles of sap or tailored to the tastes of eight year olds. Like the holiday, films that have a Christmas theme have lost the magic in exchange for merchandise tie-ins and recycling ...read the complete Elf movie review at Exclaim!
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.74 out of 4 stars for Pittsburgh Post-GazettePittsburgh Post-Gazette
By Barbara Vancheri, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Unlike "Old School," the holiday comedy "Elf" allows Will Ferrell to keep his pants -- or yellow tights -- on. Well, except for one quickie, clean scene. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.72 out of 4 stars for Reeling Reviews (Robin and Laura Clifford)Reeling Reviews (Robin and Laura Clifford)
Santa Claus (Edward Asner) is making his rounds, as usual, on Christmas Eve and one of his stops is a small orphanage. One of the babies crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is accidentally taken all the way to the North Pole. Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) ...read the complete Elf movie review at Reeling Reviews (Robin and Laura Clifford)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.71 out of 4 stars for The Flick Filosopher (MaryAnn Johanson)The Flick Filosopher (MaryAnn Johanson)
If only there really were a Santa, and he really had a Naughty list, and there really were consequences for getting oneself on that list. Then we could at least hope for lumps of coal to be distributed to the guilty parties behind Elf. But there is ...read the complete Elf movie review at The Flick Filosopher (MaryAnn Johanson)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.70 out of 4 stars for The New York Times - Family Movie Guide (Peter M. Nichols)The New York Times - Family Movie Guide (Peter M. Nichols)
When Buddy (Mr. Ferrell) was a baby at the orphanage, he crawled into Santa's sack and wound up at the North Pole, where he was reared as an elf. Elves make shoes and cookies and toys, ...read the complete Elf movie review at The New York Times - Family Movie Guide (Peter M. Nichols)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.69 out of 4 stars for Movies 101 (Robert Glatzer)Movies 101 (Robert Glatzer)
"Elf" is the kind of feel-good Christmas movie that makes you feel, well, pretty good. Jon Favreau's new film could be called "Miracle on 33rd Street," because much of it is set in Gimbel's annual North Pole center. (I recommend rereading David Sedaris's ...read the complete Elf movie review at Movies 101 (Robert Glatzer)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.68 out of 4 stars for In Review (Adam Suraf)In Review (Adam Suraf)
The film has been hyped to no end since the summer, so what you’ve seen on previews is exactly the story you’ll get, no surprises, twist endings, or letdowns. It is, quite plainly, about a man-child, played by Will Ferrell, who one Christmas Eve, as ...read the complete Elf movie review at In Review (Adam Suraf)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.67 out of 4 stars for Screen It! Entertainment Reviews for Parents Screen It! Entertainment Reviews for Parents
Long ago, on Christmas Eve, a baby in an orphanage climbed into Santa's (ED ASNER) gift sack and made a surprise trip to the North Pole. Raised by Papa Elf (BOB NEWHART) and with his human heritage kept secret from him, Buddy (WILL FERRELL) grew up ...read the complete Elf movie review at Screen It! Entertainment Reviews for Parents
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.67 out of 4 stars for Moviepie.comMoviepie.com
Elf is cute. It’s a sweet little movie with some clever jokes, good performances and a nice message. I liked it. But, as my sister so wisely pointed out as we were leaving the theater, Elf could have been great. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy ...read the complete Elf movie review at Moviepie.com
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.67 out of 4 stars for Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)
Will Ferrell is a rarity; he's one of today's most non-ironic comedians. In character, he basically plays a little girl with an open heart, but with absolutely no conception of any alternate meanings or implications. He's perfect here as Buddy, a ...read the complete Elf movie review at Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.65 out of 4 stars for Time OutTime Out
Comedy legend Bob Newhart immediately raises a smile as the elderly elf framing the story of Santa's biggest little helper. Buddy (Ferrell) is different because he's a human, brought back to the North Pole as a baby when he strayed into the old boy's ...read the complete Elf movie review at Time Out
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.60 out of 4 stars for Film Frat Film Frat
Will Ferrell plays Buddy, a human who grew up among Santa's elves. When he was a baby, he snuck into Santa's bag on Christmas Eve and wasn't discovered until Santa was back at the North Pole. Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) "adopted" Buddy and raised him. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Film Frat
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.52 out of 4 stars for Cinopsis Cinopsis
Alors que le Père Noël dépose ses cadeaux dans un orphelinat, un bébé parvient à se glisser dans son sac et repart à son insu avec lui. Adopté par les Elfes, Buddy sera le premier humain à vivre au pays de Noël. Les années passent, et ...read the complete Elf movie review at Cinopsis
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Moovees.com (Bill Payne)Moovees.com (Bill Payne)
Need a big, bright jolt of Christmas spirit (in early November)? Elf is here to fit the bill. Former Saturday Night Live funnyman Will Ferrell makes a strong play for movie stardom in this predictable, fish-out-of-water family comedy. His goofy, wildly ...read the complete Elf movie review at Moovees.com (Bill Payne)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for ReelViews (James Berardinelli)ReelViews (James Berardinelli)
Elf is being hailed in some quarters as the next great Christmas classic. The people making such a pronouncement must have seen a different cut of the movie than the one shown to me. Elf is a feather-light motion picture that embraces the Christmas ...read the complete Elf movie review at ReelViews (James Berardinelli)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for SPLICEDwire (Rob Blackwelder)SPLICEDwire (Rob Blackwelder)
Buddy the elf's inherent kindheartedness and selfless good intentions are the saving-grace elements that Ferrell's performances have always been missing, and even though I've always had a hard time stomaching the guy, I have to admit, I loved him in ...read the complete Elf movie review at SPLICEDwire (Rob Blackwelder)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Newark Star-Ledger (Lisa Rose)Newark Star-Ledger (Lisa Rose)
A resounding success in the laugh department, but it tries to warm hearts as well, and eventually collapses under the weight of its own sugarplum schmaltz. ...read the complete Elf movie review at Newark Star-Ledger (Lisa Rose)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Shadows on the Wall (Rich Cline)Shadows on the Wall (Rich Cline)
Based on the kind of goofy premise Adam Sandler might have gone for, this film doesn't deserve to be half as funny and engaging as it actually is! Buddy (Ferrell) is a man who was raised at the North Pole by Santa's elves. He doesn't realise he's ...read the complete Elf movie review at Shadows on the Wall (Rich Cline)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Soundwaves Cinema (Dale Jay Dennis)Soundwaves Cinema (Dale Jay Dennis)
"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night.” Virtually everyone will recognize the above quote from the Gospel of Luke. Or at the very least, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS. But you won't ...read the complete Elf movie review at Soundwaves Cinema (Dale Jay Dennis)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Three Movie Buffs (Eric Nash)Three Movie Buffs (Eric Nash)
Christmas movies usually follow one of two themes. The first one is where a character reawakens his faith and or Christmas spirit. This is the theme of It's a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, Miracle on 34th Street, The Santa Clause and The Grinch. The ...read the complete Elf movie review at Three Movie Buffs (Eric Nash)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for mazzyboi's movie page (Angelo Aquino)mazzyboi's movie page (Angelo Aquino)
"Elf" is a formulaic fish out of water comedy routine (a 6'3" human thinking he is an elf), mixed in with a Christmas tale hoping to inspire goodwill for all. However, despite the already known comedic talents of Will Ferrell, the film only ...read the complete Elf movie review at mazzyboi's movie page (Angelo Aquino)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Ed Blank)Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Ed Blank)
Charming first act. Middling middle act. Needs whole new third act. The comic fable "Elf" has some of the stylized storybook look of "Pee-wee's Big Adventure," a strong thematic relationship to the parenting issues in "The Santa Clause 2" and moments ...read the complete Elf movie review at Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Ed Blank)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Light Views (John Larsen)Light Views (John Larsen)
"Elf" may not be a modern classic holiday movie...but as my mother said when the doctor yanked me from her loins, "It's a keeper." ...read the complete Elf movie review at Light Views (John Larsen)
Elf (2003) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for The MovieHamlet (Stefan Hedmark)The MovieHamlet (Stefan Hedmark)
A young man (Ferrell), who was raised as an elf at Santa’s workshop at the North Pole, arrives in New York to find his real father. Director Favreau’s Christmas comedy is funny without being too cute. It takes a look at the relationship between ...read the complete Elf movie review at The MovieHamlet (Stefan Hedmark)
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How do you spread christmas cheer?
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by tiffany on January 23, 2009 Ogden, Utah
There is just nothing better then a good Will Ferrel movie. I'm sure there are plenty who will agree. And when you take that and add an elf costume, and words like 'cotton-headed ninny muggins', you have the makings of a very silly, very ...
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Movie Reviews: Christmas
Elf (2003) Reviews
Elf (2003)

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Overall Rating:
3.0004
Elf (2003) is ranked overall as out of 4 stars
Avg Critic Score:
2.9556
Elf (2003) is ranked overall as out of 4 stars
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