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.