"Elf"

And with perfect timing, we find ourselves writing about a wonderful modern Christmas movie.  "Elf" is a great film that captures you from the opening credits all the way through to the end.  For those that may have missed this one, it is the story of Buddy the elf who is actually an orphaned human that hitched a ride to the North Pole in Santa's toy bag,  Buddy is reared by elves at the North Pole, but when he discover that he is a human and not an elf, he embarks on an adventure to 'a magical land' called New York City to find his father and discover his identity.  What ensues is hilarity and a truly wonderful Christmas story.

 Buddy is played perfectly by Will Ferrell, and he is supported by a number of wonderful actors including Zoe Deschanel who lends her sultry voice to the picture.  Elf is a story that truly captures the Christmas spirit and is so beautifully woven that you forget the sheer ridiculousness of the whole thing!  'Elf' is a great film, and I would highly recommend watching it this holiday season....even if you have already seen it every year since it was released.

-David

As far as timing goes, this movie worked out perfectly as we find ourselves only a day and half away from Christmas. Elf is such a fun film, and really puts a smile on your face. Will Ferrell is brilliant as Buddy the Elf, who was adopted by elves as a baby, but after discovering he is in fact a human, he travels to the magical New York City to find his father...who is on the naughty list. :(

Through a series of hilarious mishaps, such as trying to hug a raccoon or cutting down a tree in Central Park to use as a Christmas tree, Elf is a film that will make you laugh out loud. It's also a film that will warm your heart. As Buddy says, "The best way to spread Christmas Cheer is to sing loud for all to hear!"

In addition to Will Ferrell, Zooey Deschanel does an excellent job as a toy shop worker who catches Buddy eye, and the two do a lovely rendition of "Baby it's Cold Outside."

Overall, Elf is a feel good movie that will definitely put you in the Christmas mood, and give you some good laughs along the way.

Merry Christmas!!!!

-Bethany

"Edward Scissorhands"

Next in our lineup of Tim Burton films is Edward Scissorhands.  There are few that don't know the story of this film, but for those that don't, it is basically a Frankenstein tale.  The story of a highly sympathetic 'monster' who is misunderstood, misused and feared by society.  There are several main themes in this film however, and one must watch the film to fully appreciate all that can be gleaned from it.

One of the things that this film focuses on is the contrast between the 'drabness' of suburbia and the wonderful creation that is Edward.  Burton's commentary is one that shows up in his films regularly.  'Scissorhands' is truly a masterpiece of a film, and while heartbreaking, is a perfect film to remind us of the value of creation, the value of tolerance, and the value of love.

-David

Edward Scissorhands is a beautiful, bittersweet, and heart-breaking story. Johnny Depp does such an amazing job of making you feel compassion for Edward, whose sees his new surroundings with the wide eyed wonder of a child. His soft, gentle words work their way into your heart. Even though he is just a fictional character, for almost two hours you find yourself lost in his world, seeing things through his innocent eyes.

The haunting music, vibrant colors and sincere goodness of some of the characters, such as the Avon Lady, make this a film worth watching, though be prepared to shed a few tears or at least be left with a sense of melancholy.

If you have seen this film, you know exactly what I mean. If you have not seen this film, I would very much encourage you to take the time to experience Tim Burton's brilliant masterpiece.

-Bethany