Elf, released in 2003, is a near-perfect Christmas movie that deserves an annual viewing during the holiday season. However, one aspect of the film holds it back from being perfect – its romance storyline between Buddy and Jovie.
On paper, the premise sounds problematic. A grown man in an elf costume navigating New York City should be considered nightmare fuel, not a heartwarming tale. But Jon Favreau’s direction and Will Ferrell’s commitment to the character made Elf a hit despite this concern.
The story of Buddy reconnecting with his father and discovering life outside the North Pole works well, thanks to heartfelt performances from Ferrell and James Caan. The film’s aesthetic, reminiscent of Rankin/Bass-style animation, adds to its charm. However, the romance between Buddy and Jovie falls short.
Their meet-cute, which involves Buddy sneaking into the bathroom while Jovie takes a shower, is uncomfortable to watch. Moreover, Buddy’s childish behavior undermines their romantic moments, making it difficult to accept an adult relationship with someone who doesn’t seem emotionally mature. This echoes the problematic love story from Big.
The film’s ending, where Buddy and Jovie move to the North Pole and live happily ever after, has a dark subtext. Jovie’s ability to relocate without issue implies that she lacked meaningful relationships in her life, leaving behind an unaddressed void. This aspect of her character is never explored further, making their happily-ever-after ending less satisfying than expected.
Despite its flaws, Elf remains a beloved holiday classic due to its well-crafted storylines and performances. However, the uncomfortable romance between Buddy and Jovie holds back its full potential as a perfect film.
Source: https://screenrant.com/elf-will-ferrell-zooey-deschanel-romance-op-ed