Elf (2003)

Each year, Elf makes my list of must-see holiday films. It's quickly becoming a new classic. One you just can't help loving year after year.

Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human, raised (by Bob Newhart) in the North Pole as a toy-making elf. The trouble is, he's no good at it. Confronted with the truth, Buddy decides to travel to Manhattan to find his real dad (James Caan)

Directed by Jon Favreau, Elf is a holiday riot. It doesn't ask much from it's audience. The cast goes for the gusto with Ferrell leading the way. Buddy is this innocent man/boy discovering the evils of the real world, but he's so innocently clueless--it's hysterical. Ferrell plays him straight with delightful physical comedy and random joyous dialogue. Zooey Dechanel plays Buddy's love interest. Their courtship is sweet without being cloying. Caan is perfectly hateful. Ed Asner plays Santa {that's weird}.

Don't be a cotton-headed ninny-muggins. Take Elf for what it is--holiday fun--and you'll enjoy every minute {and won't mind feeling incredibly goofy while doing so.}