The evolution of Christmas Movies

Rating: 8/10 (8 November 2003)

"Elf" has made such an impression - from Will Ferrel's rollicking brand of humor to Jon Favreau's excellent work behind the scenes - that it will hopefully reignite a genre that includes movies that have become staples - the kind of films that you have to watch year after year.
From "It's a Wonderful Life" to "A Christmas Story" and now to "Elf" the mantle has been tossed. Annual viewings will be a must.
Incorporating elements from the stop motion christmas specials of our youths, paying homage to George Bailey's contemplative bridge scene -- and even employing little Ralphie as an Elf - all master works of some genius powers that be.
We won't even discuss the movie version of "The Grinch", but how about allowing Jim Carrey to redeem himself starring as George Bailey in a remake of "It's a Wonderful Life"? The Donna Reed part would be fittingly played by Reese Witherspoon. I realize it's treading on sacred ground here to even consider recasting the movie, but why not?
It would be great to see a resurgence in well done holiday movies, perhaps even claymation specials, and I don't mean cheesy sequels like "Rudolph's Shiny New Year"...where are the great stories and writers out there? Where are the people with the imagination? "Elf" is a good start, but what's next?
There is a CGI movie playing in the IMAX format called "Santa vs. the Snowman", but it just doesn't even sound appealing.