Jim Carrey could have been part of another Christmas classic – but ultimately passed on the project because it “took too long to make”.
Carrey, 62, the legendary actor known for his role as The Grinch in the 2000 adaptation, confirmed he would be open to returning to the Dr. Seuss character if the opportunity presented itself.
However, fans are now realising that Carrey was originally slated to star in a festive film that ended up taking over a decade to make, leading to another comedy great taking the role instead.
Despite the film’s release just a short while after The Grinch, many believe that Carrey’s replacement was the right choice after seeing the final product.
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The script for Elf, initially penned with Carrey in mind back in 1993, fell into development hell when he turned it down to pursue other opportunities. The movie underwent significant changes from its darker initial concept to become the family-friendly hit starring Will Ferrell.
Fans remain divided over who would have been the better lead, though some argue Carrey would have given the film a distinctly different feel.
A Reddit user commented: “I’m a Jim Carrey fan, but I can’t imagine anyone other than Will Ferrell playing Buddy the Elf. Ferrell was the perfect blend of outrageous sincerity. Carrey, while talented, would’ve been too cartoon-y.”
One person commented: “I’d say it’s a difference between being goofy and wacky. Will Ferrell is goofy. He does a great job at playing a man-child. Jim Carrey is wacky. He does a great job with the over-the-top, crazy characters.” Another added: “Me here thinking I might have actually watched it if it was Carrey.”
Some fans believe that had the film been made in the 1990s, Jim Carrey would have been the ideal lead. However, as comedy tastes shifted during the decade it took to develop Elf, Carrey was no longer the top choice.
A supporter remarked: “In 1993 Jim would have been perfect for the part. When it actually came out, Will Farrell was perfect for it. The world changes and I bet it would have been awesome either way.”
Yet another added: “While I agree that Will Farrell did that movie justice, I still think that it would have been a masterpiece if Jim Carrey was cast and it came out in 1993.”