How to watch Elf this Christmas

The Will Ferrell-starring film has become a Christmas classic

It’s been 15 years since Elf introduced the world to Will Ferrell's childish and hilarious Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves on a diet of candy canes and Christmas spirit.

Made on a budget of $33 million, the Jon Favreu-directed film went on to make $220.4 million at the box office and has firmly cemented its place as one of the nation's most beloved Christmas films.

As we get closer to the festive period, Elf is sure to make an appearance in many households. Here's where to watch the comedy, once described by critic Roger Ebert as "that rare Christmas comedy that has a heart, a brain and a wicked sense of humour".

Where to watch Elf

Elf can be watched free by Amazon Prime subscribers. For those who do not have a subscription, the film can be rented on YouTube and Google Play for £2.49.

Who stars in Elf?

The film boasts an impressive list of stars including Ferrell, a cameo appearance from Favreu, veteran actor James Cann and Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage. Zooey Deschanel prominently plays Buddy's love interest.

What's Elf about?

The family comedy tells the tale of a young infant who is mistakenly taken to the North Pole, and as a result is raised by Santa’s elves. Feeling as if he does not belong, Buddy – Ferrell – leaves in search of his real biological father. There are dozens of fun-filled slapstick comedy moments, as Buddy tries to acclimatise to an unfamiliar and alien-like environment.

Although a slightly absurd premise, Ferrell's upbeat performance holds the movie together, with Buddy's uplifting personality being infectious. The combination of childlike innocence with an endless glee is reminiscent of Tom Hanks’s character in Big.