Elf (2004)

Heavy on Will Ferrell's little-big-man mannerisms and unapologetic sentimentality, this rascally comedy could easily have suffered from the same seasonal affliction disorder that limits most Christmas-themed comedies. But thanks to director Jon Favreau's yen for strangeness — including wisecracking stop-motion characters and a hilariously blunt local news anchor — Elf plays well year-round, and Ferrell's wide-eyed mailroom break-dance sequence is a career highlight.

EXTRAS With videogames, karaoke sing-alongs, and depth-devoid docs such as ''Kids on Christmas,'' the two-disc set is a virtual Criterion Collection starter kit for preteens. And while grown-ups won't find much in Ferrell's and Favreau's earnest commentary tracks — though Favreau does point out the hidden cameo from A Christmas Story's Peter Billingsley — they will get a laugh courtesy of Johnny Grant, ''Honorary Mayor'' of Hollywood, who notes that ''in Hollywood, if they want to see snow, they can see it. All they have to do is make a phone call.'' Not gonna touch that one.

You Might Also Like

• All About Elf
• Movie Review Elf (Nov 07, 2003) | Lisa Schwarzbaum
• In the News Will Ferrell may star in ''Elf'' sequel (Nov 07, 2003) | Gary Susman
• News + Notes Elf to Neo: Buh-Bye! (Nov 07, 2003) | Joshua Rich
• Box Office 'Elf' Worth (Nov 07, 2003)
• News + Notes Burning Question (Nov 07, 2003) | Joshua Rich