A scene from “Elf.” (Screenshot/IMGfave.com)
After learning about our life editor’s distaste for the movie “Elf,” the newly announced associate life editor chose to battle it out with her on whether or not the movie really is a modern day, Christmas classic.
Francesca Colturi, Associate Life Editor: “Elf” is by far one of the best Christmas movies around because of its lovable main character, Buddy the Elf, played by Will Ferrell. It’s basically a child in a grown man’s body in an elf costume. The unstoppable idiot has always been a great role for Ferrell, but in “Elf,” he is more of a Christmas superhero. Complete with tights and the super ability to deck the halls, craft snowballs and cultivate Christmas cheer. As bitter adults, we find joy in Buddy’s childlike wonder and imagination; he sees a tree in the elevator buttons and the making of rocking horses in boring television stands. Every year, come winter season, family channels proudly broadcast Buddy and his jolly screenplay reminding us “SANTA’S COMING!?!” and, “There’s room for everyone on the Nice List.”
Angie DeRosa, Life Editor: Let’s get one thing straight, “Elf” is not a funny movie. Will Ferrell is not a funny actor. If I wanted to see a grown man act like a 12-year-old boy I would go to Huskies. And no I am not a scrooge, I absolutely love Christmas. If I’m going to watch a holiday movie, I’ll choose one less overrated than “Elf” (See: Six Movies You Probably Forgot About To Get You In The Holiday Spirit). The only good thing about the movie is that Zooey Deschanel is in it, that is it. The entire movie is just annoying to watch, and was the go-to-movie for every high school teacher to play the day before winter break when they didn’t feel like teaching. I am literally haunted by everyone quoting “SANTA I KNOW HIM.” Ugh, honestly, just thinking about it gives me a headache. And can we also talk about his diet of spaghetti and MAPLE SYRUP. Like c’mon, who’s idea was that? It’s already cringe-worthy enough to watch him act, but having to watch him eat that makes me want to vomit.
FC: First of all “YOU SIT ON A THRONE OF LIES.” The true magic of this movie is in the way every generation can relate to Buddy and his spirit. “Elf” provides an experience for all including a budding romance, an action scene with an “angry elf” and even a steamy shower scene. Remember when everything tasted better with sugar? And the time you had a huge crush on that cute person in class or at work? What about the time you felt so out of place that all you could do was imagine running away to a whole new life? Turns out – just like any beautiful movie – Buddy finds his place as the hero of Christmas, despite being an obvious underdog. But Ferrell’s affinity for being a man-boy functions as the adult protagonist who has yet to lose his innocence. Buddy’s awkward social encounters and sheer immaturity bring laughter from deep in your belly that shakes like a ‘bowl full of jelly’ because you’re truly enjoying his discovery of a new, bigger world made for him. The upside to this movie is there isn’t a downside. The movie is full of giggles and little holiday miracles – no creepy ghosts or heart-breaking deaths – only spreading cheer by singing loud for all to hear.