(Jon Favreau, US 2003, 97 min., DCP)
Over the last twenty years, this Christmas comedy has worked its way into the roster of annual must-watch holiday films. When his size begins to affect his toymaking ability, Buddy (Will Ferrell) is told by Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) that he is actually an adopted human who happened to crawl into Santa’s sack at an orphanage thirty years ago. Learning that his father (James Caan) lives in New York City and is on the naughty list, Buddy sets out to track him down. Seeking connection with his own family and people of his own kind, Buddy struggles to adapt to life in the city, away from the inherent goodness of the North Pole residents, and ultimately sets out on a mission to save Christmas.
Special note on Holiday Matinee Screenings: Admission to a film screening does not permit you access into the rest of the museum, such as the Sweet Creations exhibits.