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David and the Elves
By Jennifer Borget,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Slow holiday comedy has mild language and a grumpy Santa.
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David and the Elves
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What's the Story?
In DAVID AND THE ELVES, an overworked elf named Albert (Jakub Zajac) doesn't understand why Santa stays invisible while he delivers gifts. Albert feels underappreciated and wants to witness and prove he has the love of the people, so he runs off to the real world in hopes of witnessing the magic of Christmas. There he runs into a young boy named David (Cyprian Grabowski) who is anxious about his first Christmas in a new home, far from his grandparents. Together they set off to discover what makes Christmas special. Along the way they discover people aren't grateful for Albert's magical gifts, and Albert's powers begin to fade. Will they be able to find the answer to save Albert in time?
Is It Any Good?
Family Christmas movies usually bring on the warm and fuzzies, but in David and the Elves we get a grumpy Santa who swears and smokes and doesn't seem to like people. Though there are some positive messages about friendship and love sprinkled through the movie, these messages aren't really clear and the story is slow going. The movie starts out promising as we get the idea of where it's headed, but then the plot loses momentum and it takes a while to get to the point. Then once we do reach it, it feels a bit anticlimactic and rushed.
The production quality is fine, with some fun special effects and decent acting, including the English dubs, and it's nice seeing two parents in prominent roles in the film, as well as Mrs. Claus, who helps bring Santa to his senses. The movie does have some laughs and fun moments, but the surprising amount of swearing and smoking for a Christmas movie might turn families off.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about expectations surrounding Christmas. How did the various characters have different outlooks on Christmas? What do you think about David's mom's preference for sentimental gifts compared to his father's wish for a drum set?
How does this story compare to other Christmas movies you've seen?
Did the portrayal of Santa and Mrs. Claus fit with traditional images of these characters? Why or why not?
How do the characters demonstrate courage and friendship? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 8, 2021
- Cast: Cyprian Grabowski , Jakub Zajac , Cezary Zak
- Director: Michal Rogalski
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Holidays
- Run time: 105 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 28, 2022
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