Jessie and the Elf Boy

There is something about Disney movies these days which leaves me feeling dissatisfied. They seem to have lost an essence of innocence and care-free nature that I so enjoyed as a child. For me, this film recaptures that spirit - it is by no means perfect (difficult to do without the extraordinary budget of Hollywood films), but it is a wholesome movie with a heart and soul.

This is the only film in the last 4 years that I was genuinely disappointed when my was interrupted by my toddler needing my attention.

Films don't normally capture my attention these days, but Jessie and the Elf Boy had me gripped.

Jessie and the Elf Boy is a family-friendly film set in Edinburgh, Scotland. With a sweet storyline and its Scottish sense of humor, Jessie and the Elf Boy is one for the family to watch.

The story follows Ghillie Dhu (Huck Whittle), an elf that you can only see when wearing a special necklace. When a girl he meets in the forest moves away, he goes in search to find her, only to realize that that young girl has grown up. He then finds Jessie (Julia Brown), who he believes is that young girl from all those years ago. Jessie has just started a new job at her mother's salon, and it turns out that this elf may just be the thing she needs to become the next big hair stylist.

Jessie deals with her mother freezing her out as well as trying to get her to notice the amazing things she can do-Julia portrays these characteristics really well. Huck Whittle is a newcomer making his debut in this film-his character, Ghillie, is very comedic about how he searches for his childhood friend. He discovers various things that he didn't have in the woods-one of my favorites being fizzy juice. Jessie's mother, Valerie, (Gail Watson), the owner of the hair salon, plays a very big part in the end, but I won't say too much. My favorite part of the salon storyline is when Jessie discovers Ghillie, and he creates some amazing hairdos. I love the forest at the beginning of the movie where Ghillie's home is set-it is beautiful, and highlights the amazing scenery that Scotland has to offer.

The message of the film is that the truth will always come out in the end, and it will have its perks-good and bad.

I give Jessie and the Elf Boy 3 out of 5 stars, and I recommend it for ages 8 to 11, plus adults. The film will be released April 1, 2022 to digital platforms. By Katie F., KIDS FIRST.

This film reminded me of Ratatouille which is probably one reason I liked it so much as I love that film.

It is a very well made film given the low budget. The plot is easy to follow but there are also a few twists that keep you engaged. The child actors are also pretty good.

It is definitely a family film and I think it would be a good film to watch around Christmas time especially with the whole family together.

Loved watching this brilliant family film. It's got a fab storyline about friendship that endures. Brilliantly filmed with a great cast, I'd highly recommend it especially if your looking for a feel good factor film that's just that little bit different to watch with your children.

The plot is engaging with an element of mystery and there's a quirky little twist that I didn't see coming too.

Considering it's budget it punches well above it's weight and is a very fine example of what can be done with a dedicated and talented team of creatives, a great big tick from me 😀