i like the first film and love the second one and but be highly disappointed with the 3rd film . the first two film go together . the third film be just spin out there for no reason other than try to make more money for the studio . the magic of the first two film simply be not present in this film . martin short do a good job but the plot be silly and stupid . the exclusion of david krumholtz a bernard the elf leave a big hole in the link between the elf and santa . he be definitely too old look to reprise the role and spencer breslin a curtis be sad too see consider how big he have grow and that cute little big boy be no longer there . the attempt to bring a bunch of family member to the north pole seem to also take away from the formula that make the first two film so successful . it be if the writer throw every conceivable plot device at the audience to try and make u laugh . then and tie in some sentimental christmas message to it . it like a big box of brick throw at a christmas tree . a real holiday mess . this film be rarely funny and confused and poorly execute and and the only real escape clause should have be for the audience . to get out of the theater within the first 15 minute .