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“Elf” Movie | Indian Lake Theater | December 18, 2025

Thursday, December 18, 2025
7:00 PM 9:00 PM

Indian Lake Theater 6311 New York 30 Indian Lake, NY, 12842 United States (map)

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Holiday Classic "Elf" Comes to Indian Lake Theater

Enjoy a favorite holiday movie starring Will Ferrell on December 18, 2025.

Will Ferrell stars in Elf — “Elf” starring Will Farrell.

The historic Indian Lake Theater rings in the holiday season with a special screening of Elf, the 2003 modern Christmas classic starring Will Ferrell. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly night out or just need an excuse to watch Buddy the Elf spread Christmas cheer one more time, this is the perfect midweek escape.

An Elf’s journey to find himself.

Buddy (Will Ferrell) spent his entire childhood believing he was an elf at the North Pole—because, well, he was raised by them.

When he discovers he's actually human, the overgrown elf heads to New York City in search of his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan), a cynical businessman who's more Grinch than Santa.

Decked out in full elf regalia and armed with nothing but boundless enthusiasm and a talent for decorating, Buddy crashes into Manhattan like a six-foot candy cane.

Santa's workshop in the movie Elf, playing at Indian Lake Theater.

What follows is a collision of worlds: Buddy's wide-eyed innocence meets New York's holiday hustle. Along the way, he wins over a skeptical department store employee named Jovie (Zooey Deschanel), reconnects with his estranged family, and reminds everyone—including a certain jaded dad—what Christmas is really about.

Embraced by audiences and critics.

When Elf hit theaters in 2003, it could've easily been another forgettable holiday cash grab. Instead, it became a rare Christmas comedy with heart, brains, and a wicked sense of humor.

Critics praised the film as spirited and good-natured, with Will Ferrell delivering a funny and charming performance. Roger Ebert admitted he expected the worst but was won over within seconds, calling it a movie that charms the socks right off the mantelpiece.

Zooey Deschanel stars with Will Ferrell in Elf at the Indian Lake Theater. — “Elf” star Zooey Deschanel and Will Ferrell.

Director Jon Favreau strikes a clever balance between slapstick comedy and genuine warmth. One reviewer noted the film's disarming comedic tone—silly and novel in its lack of cynicism—while another appreciated that it favors slapstick over treacle (at least until the inevitable "true spirit of Christmas" finale).

What really sells Elf is Ferrell's commitment. He goes all-in on Buddy's childlike wonder, turning his wide eyes and big body into a potent comic weapon. The supporting cast—including Bob Newhart as Papa Elf, Ed Asner as Santa, and James Caan as the reluctant father—adds depth and humor to what could've been a one-note premise.

More than two decades later, Elf has earned its place as a holiday staple, largely because it refuses to wink at the audience or apologize for its sweetness. It's earnest without being saccharine, silly without being stupid.

Perfect for families (and big kids).

With a PG rating, Elf is appropriate for just about everyone. There's some mild language and a few bathroom jokes, but nothing that'll make you regret bringing the kids.

The humor works on multiple levels—children will love Buddy's fish-out-of-water antics, while adults will appreciate the more satirical jabs at holiday commercialism and big-city cynicism.

And here's a bonus: kids 17 and under get in free with an adult ticket. So grab the family, bundle up, and head to the historic Indian Lake Theater for a night of laughs, Christmas cheer, and maybe a newfound appreciation for syrup on spaghetti.

Plan your visit.

The Indian Lake Theater, built in 1937, is a beloved community gathering space in the heart of the Central Adirondacks. Catching a movie here isn't just about the film—it's about experiencing cinema the old-fashioned way, in a historic venue that's been lovingly preserved by the local community.

Doors open before the 7 pm showtime, so arrive early to grab your seat and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. For more information and to buy tickets online, visit the Indian Lake Theater website or Facebook page.