The Christmas movie Elf (2003), starring Will Ferrell as Buddy, was written by screenwriter David Berenbaum.

Quick scoop

  • The original film Elf is a holiday comedy released in 2003, directed by Jon Favreau and written by David Berenbaum.
  • Berenbaum is a Philadelphia-born writer and NYU Tisch graduate, also known for scripting The Haunted Mansion for Disney.

Related “Elf” books and adaptations

Because “who wrote Elf” can also refer to books and spin‑offs, here are a few notable ones:

  • Children’s storybook adaptations of the film
    • Elf: A Short Story of a Tall Tale is a picture-book style retelling of Buddy’s story, credited to author Art Ruiz.
* Another illustrated adaptation simply titled _Elf_ features art by **Kim Smith** , who has illustrated multiple pop‑culture picture books.
  • Stage musical adaptation
    • The Broadway musical Elf adapts the movie’s story for the stage, with the book by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan , music by Matthew Sklar, and lyrics by Chad Beguelin.

Simple answer recap

  • Film “Elf” (2003) : written by David Berenbaum.
  • Picture-book retellings : include versions by Art Ruiz (author) and Kim Smith (illustrator).
  • Stage musical “Elf” : book by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan.

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