"Cotton-Headed Ninnymuggins": Elf

In the second installment of Shelf Christmas-ism, Stephen dives headfirst into the sugar-coated world of Elf (2003). Does Will Ferrell’s relentless enthusiasm and Buddy’s saccharine innocence melt Stephen’s frosty exterior? (Spoiler: Nope.) Along the way, we explore forced perspective, syrup-drenched humor, and why Zooey Deschanel’s voice is a gift to humankind. Stick around for critiques, trivia, and Stephen’s attempt to figure out why Elf is considered a modern Christmas classic. Plus, in this episode’s Shelfless Endeavors, Stephen shares his snap review of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim—a film that proves Middle Earth doesn’t always strike gold.