December is finally upon us, and we all know what that means--we can finally listen to the Christmas music we've been hiding for a month in public! Nearly every store you enter is displaying it's best holiday flair and spirit. Almost every channel you turn on is playing another classic like "A Christmas Story." But there's one movie that goes above and beyond the rest, it's charming and an instant classic, Elf!
Will Ferrell's beloved character, Buddy the Elf, is a human "raised by elves" who travels to New York City to meet his biological father. His innocence, humor, and true Christmas spirit inspire us all to remember that the holidays are about making those around us happier every day.
This is one of the most quotable films from our generation. Buddy's one liners can be used in everyday conversation and everyone knows what you're referencing. Your friend didn't shower? "You smell like beef and cheese, you don't smell like Santa." Fail your biology exam? "Son of a nutcracker!" But don't worry, you're no "cotton-headed ninny muggins."
Elf teaches us that it's okay to be different. When Buddy is a little too slow at making toys, the other elves remind him of things he is great at, like bringing the elf choir down a whole octave, "in a good way" of course. An important lesson for us to remember is that everyone has different strengths, just like Buddy's is singing. Your strengths may be different from those of the people around you, and that's okay. It's good to be unique!
Elf reminds us of the power of believing. Whether you're believing in God, Santa Claus, or Christmas spirit, a strong belief is how amazing things can happen. When you believe in something, and share your beliefs; miracles can happen!
The movie teaches us all of the best ways to spread Christmas cheer, just look at The Code of Elves!
We can even learn from Walter! He might be an angry grinch year-round, but he ultimately accepts Buddy into his life. Each of us has at least one person in our lives who just annoys us or we don't enjoy to be around. But we should all learn from Walter and take steps to become a nicer, more accepting person every day!
And finally, if nothing else, we all love Mr. Narwhal.
