Funny, enjoyable and...if only!

Rating: 7/10 (10 January 2009)

One of the best of the more recently-made Christmas movies, "Elf," for the most part, impressed me as a throwback to wholesome, quality holiday movies of the past. I say "most part" because the last fifth of the film suddenly switches gears and turns from being about Elf and his relationship with his dad into the sappy and clichéd "do you believe in Santa Claus" routine reminiscent of "the Polar Express."
Up until that point, though, the film is consistently funny and enjoyable with Will Ferrel playing the title character to innocent and charming perfection. There are lots of funny scenes and bits, following each other one after another. Most of the cast is excellent, especially with James Caan's straightforward, deadpan portrayal as Elf's dad. (The lone exception is Santa played by Ed Asner, who comes off as a grumpy, unappealing curmudgeon.)
But-drat! If not for that ending, this is the kind of movie I otherwise would love to have as part of my Christmas DVD collection.