There are many, many versions of this song, and before Zooey Deschanel and Leon Redbone cut their version for the Elf soundtrack, I didn’t like any of them. They were too fast, too slow, or worse — too peppy and cute. The Deschanel/Redbone cut is, by far, the perfect combination of silk and jazz that makes this “classic” finally memorable, in my opinion.

The movie Elf, in its own right, is becoming a holiday classic for its simple tale of what may come if we all do our part in believing in the magic of Christmas. It’s embedded firmly in the contemporary genre of holiday movies like The Santa Clause trilogy, where both children and adults have plenty to keep them entertained.

Perhaps one of the reasons why this song made the countdown is its grown-up appeal, the notions of love and romance heightening at this time of year. I absolutely love the relationship between Buddy and Jove in the movie, one based on kindness, respect, and love. While Buddy never tries to be anybody but himself, Jove takes a little more time to believe in who she is, and to believe that Buddy is genuine. When she does, though, it’s automatic that they will, indeed, live happily ever after as Elf and Wife.

To be yourself. Sincere. Genuine. Kind. Loving. . . . .

The movies may be corny, as might the songs that get wrapped up in them. But their simple messages to us should not be taken lightly. There’s plenty to learn from movies like Elf; we just need to take the time to embrace those lessons and live our lives a little more genuinely, that’s all. It doesn’t matter if the message comes from this movie or It’s A Wonderful Life or even Miracle on 34th Street; the message is the same:

Love yourself, love others, and for goodness sake, believe in the magic of Christmas. 🙂