Funny and sweet without too much substance

Rating: 7/10 (27 December 2019)

Light on plot (feels like the climax in Central Park was the first major event), and the "Christmas spirit" motif feels a little shoehorned in on top of the family/redemption arc, but Ferrell's goofy and (syrupy) sweet fish-out-of-water schtick is infectious (answering the phone: "Buddy the Elf, what's your favourite colour?") and is complemented by a good smattering of other delights (see Newhart's matter-of-fact Papa Elf and the rest of the solid supporting cast; stop-motion North Pole).
6.5/10