MPAA Rating: PG
Distributor: New Line Cinema
Director: Jon Favreau
Actors: starring Will Ferrell as Buddy, James Caan as Walter Hobbs (Buddy’s biological father), Edward Asner as Santa Claus, Zooey Deschanel as Jovie, and Bob Newhart as the elf manager (Buddy’s adopted father).

Three decades ago on a Christmas Eve stop at a Catholic orphanage, Santa accidentally acquired a stowaway—a human baby who crawled into his toy sack. Upon realizing the mistake back at the North Pole, Santa and the elves unanimously decide to keep the boy—especially after the elf manager agrees to adopt him. Named Buddy, this human becomes educated in the elfin skills of toymaking, and acquires the more important character traits of concern for others, the joy of giving and maintaining a positive outlook.

When Buddy discovers that he’s not an elf, he sets out on an adventure to find his biological father in New York City. Once he arrives, Buddy discovers that his quest is bigger than he bargained for. Manhattan presents numerous obstacles and life lessons never encountered at the North Pole. Escalators. Revolving doors. And taxi cabs. The result is hilarious.

Elf shows the importance of family and fatherhood. Buddy is worth rooting for. He is innocent, caring, compassionate, loving and optimistic. On the opposite end of the spectrum is Buddy’s biological father Walter, a selfish workaholic who cheats at work. Buddy tries everything he can to win him over.

A dozen mild profanities earn this film its PG rating. Some characters drink alcohol. And there’s a bit of bathroom humor. Another big problem is that the true meaning of Christmas—a Savior born in Bethlehem—is never mentioned. Still, Buddy has a big heart, and positive lessons about the importance of the family make Elf heartwarming holiday fun.

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