Former First Lady Michelle Obama recently shared her fondness for the Christmas film “Elf” during an episode of her podcast “The Michelle Obama Podcast,” inviting none other than Will Ferrell, the star who portrayed Buddy the Elf. In a delightful exchange, Obama expressed her affection for the 2003 classic, revealing that it ranks as her all-time favourite film.
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In an enthusiastic Instagram post announcing the episode, Obama wrote, “When I tell people Elf is my favourite movie of all time, I’m not joking! So for this week’s @imopodcasts, I was especially excited to sit down with Buddy the Elf himself, the one and only Will Ferrell.” Her excitement was palpable as she described the impact the film had on her life.
In the podcast, Obama recounted the film’s plot, which follows Buddy—a human raised by elves in the North Pole—realising his true identity and venturing to New York City to find his biological father. The film has become a modern classic, celebrated for its warmth, humour, and charm. Obama revealed that she enjoys re-watching “Elf,” calling it “hilarious, sweet, and the only movie I watch again and again.”
Ferrell shared insights into his decision to leave “Saturday Night Live” in 2002, which ultimately led to his casting in “Elf.” He explained that after seven years on the sketch comedy show, he felt it was time for a change. “I left, I’d been there seven years and you know, you always, you know you have to leave at some point,” he remarked. He admitted that while he did not have an abundance of scripts lined up, he was involved in developing the concept for “Elf,” which has since become a beloved holiday favourite.
Reflecting on the film’s reception, Ferrell noted the unforeseen success of “Elf.” He stated, “It’s such an interesting thing to have become what it’s become… I had no idea that we had like lightning in a bottle, but we did.” This sentiment echoes the feelings of many involved in the film, as its blend of comedy and heart continues to resonate with audiences every Christmas season.
In her conversation with Ferrell, Obama reiterated her affection for the film, asserting that it genuinely enriches her spirits. “It is my favourite movie of all time. I mean, it really is,” she affirmed. “I don’t re-watch movies, but it is hilarious every other second. And it is so sweet. And it definitely does all the things. It presses all the buttons.”
The former First Lady shared an endearing anecdote about how she often makes others watch “Elf” alongside her. Obama explained, “Whenever I want to feel better — no, literally — and then I make other people watch it with me so that I can say, ‘Wait, here it comes.’” This ritual not only highlights her love for the film but also demonstrates its ability to lift the spirits of those around her.
As discussions around holiday films continue to ignite warmth and nostalgia, Michelle Obama’s passionate endorsement of “Elf” has once again cemented its place in the hearts of many. Her reflections remind us of the joy that cherished films can bring—not just to individuals but to families and communities alike during the festive season.