I admit Will Ferrell is a sort of a Marmite-like  actor, either you like him or truly despise every curly hair on his oversize noggin. Personally, no matter how many lame comedies he has made recently or anything he could be roped into doing if the cash is right in the future he is, and always will be, Ron Burgundy. However, for this festive treat from Iron Man director Jon Favreau, the idea of chunky American blokes in such garish attire seems very fitting as, combining a sense of slap-sick humour, happy feel good moments, James Caan and a whole pile of sugar, syrup and dollops of Christmas cheer, Elf could have been very easily a movie that would not only rot your teeth but also your brain. However, Elf, like a good Christmas pudding, combines all the right ingredients in just the right amounts; yes it’s sickly in places and after a while you may have had enough, but it’s just this side of feel good, and even with the saccharine-covered message, has enough dark humour and slapstick to keep even the most cynical reviewer happy. As you can see, the film is just packed with feel good cliché and festive cheer, from the stereotypical workaholic bosses to the bit of soul-searching, the revelation of the importance of family and the ‘need to believe’ in Santa, it’s all here, wrapped up in a tidy hour and a half movie of modern Christmas classic fun. Whether it’s the ‘soul-man’ animated snowman or the great ‘bonding’ snowball fight in central park against some bullies, and the cheery and fun race on Santa’s sleigh at the end, all the elements you need for a festive movie are here, and while maybe not as well-loved or as timeless as Miracle on 34th Street. Muppets Christmas Carol or A Wonderful Life, Elf has enough cheer and feel good factor to help you through even the toughest turkey and mince pies. My favourite xmas film: Batman ReturnsMy favourite xmas film: Home AloneMy favourite xmas film: Trading PlacesMy favourite xmas film: Die HardMy favourite xmas film: It’s A Wonderful LifeMy favourite Christmas TV Programme: Knowing Me, Knowing Yule