30 Across

NYT Daily • August 20, 2025

2003 Will Ferrell film

Answer:

ELF

Hint:

Buddy’s cheerful chaos begins when he leaves the North Pole for New York City.

Explanation:

The clue refers to the popular Christmas comedy "Elf," released in 2003 and starring Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole. The title is straightforward—no wordplay or puns—just a direct reference to the movie’s name. It’s a well-known film, so the clue relies on recognition of Ferrell’s role and the year to confirm the answer.

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