family comedy elf When it was released in theaters in 2003, the film didn't seem like it had the makings of becoming an instant Christmas classic, but time has a way of proving society wrong. Almost 20 years later, in 2022, Americans will rank elf Ranked 17th favorite Christmas movie by YouGov list Among the 50 Holiday Classics, it ranks second only to established titles such as: It's a wonderful life and home alone. Additionally, the film was the 8th most-watched film on the list.
elf Finished even higher in Fandango in 2017 investigation Americans rated this movie as the #1 Christmas movie of the 21st century.
This is a rare PG-rated comedy in a genre where outrage is often king.
Produced by film director Todd Komarnicki elf and recently directed a faith-based film. bonhoeffersays he was pleasantly surprised by the 2003 film's long-running success. He says it took him a few years to realize that the film had staying power.
“When it came out, it was kind of accepted with a laugh,” Komarnicki told Crosswalk Headlines.
“After seven or eight years, I realized that it's not going away, but the level of appreciation for it has increased,” he said.
However, director Komarnicki admits that he never expected the film to achieve classic status: “I certainly didn't know that when I made the film.”
The film tells the comical and heartwarming story of Buddy (Will Ferrell), a human raised as an elf in the North Pole who travels to New York to find his biological father. Legendary actor Bob Newhart plays Papa Elf.
The film was directed by Jon Favreau, who up until then was best known as a director of R-rated comedies. made.
“That movie was mainly about [filmed] “It was almost two guys yelling at each other in the back seat of the limousine,” Komarnicki said with a smile.
Favreau's previous work didn't suggest he was an obvious choice to direct a family-friendly Christmas movie.
But other director candidates didn't seem to understand the family nature of the project.
“Other managers we met seemed to be in leadership positions, but they kept saying the same thing: It's not edgy enough. It's not hip enough. 'Jovie What would you do if your boyfriend was a pimp?'' They were very confident in themselves,'' Komarnicki said. “And my producing partner Jon Berg and I were disappointed. Is there no one who can understand the script that they're reading? They just came in to rewrite it. [But] This is a beautiful script. ”
But Favreau got it.
“Jon Favreau came to me and said, 'I have a one-year-old son and I want to make a movie that he'll watch for the rest of his life. I want to make a classic Christmas movie. ’ he said in the room,” Komarnicki said.
Favreau wanted the film to be an homage to Rankin/Bass Productions, the company that produced such stop-motion classics as the film. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and frosty the snowman.
“He had everything planned out,” Komarnicki said. “But in our first meeting he said, 'I want to make something classic for Christmas,' and he did that.”
Director Komarnicki said the secret to the film's success was its uplifting approach to comedy.
“American comedy for at least the last 30 years has been a comedy of humiliation. In the worst possible way. [it’s a] Kick him in the groin. And even great shows that are so beautifully written that I love everyone loves raymond — like honeymooner — [it’s] humiliate your husband. Dad is stupid — I have to bail you out somehow.
“what elf is the opposite. elf A comedy of hope and heart. The main man is the one who would normally be humiliated. [Buddy]Joy made of Teflon. He cannot be humiliated. And indeed, the darkness that overtakes him turns into light. That's why this movie lasted. Because, Mr. A, it feels good to see that, and Mr. B, that's what we sincerely hope for and hope to see in our lives as well. ”
Meanwhile, director Komarnicki, with a playful smile, insisted that the film was based on a true story.
“Please promise not to tell anyone.”
Elf is rated PG for some rude humor and language.
Watch: Elf – Original Theatrical Trailer
Photo provided by: ©YouTube/movie clip
michael faust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His articles have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, Christian Post, Leaf Chronicle, Toronto Star, and Knoxville News Sentinel.
Listen to Michael's podcast! he is the host of crosswalk talka podcast where he speaks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christians are making their faith a priority in Hollywood, and discover the best Christian movies, books, TV and other entertainment. can be found crosswalk talk above LifeAudio.comor subscribe at apple or spotify So, never miss an interview that is sure to encourage your faith.
