New research finds Christmas spirit has evaporated for four in 10 (41%) Brits – but with three quarters (76%) saying Christmas spirit is needed now more than ever before, Sky Cinema has the answer.

As Christmas films were revealed to be the best way (25%) to inject some sparkle and the Will Ferrell-classic Elf voted the top film to get people feeling Christmassy (27%) - Sky Cinema has teamed up with Comedian Jason Manford to find the UK’s biggest Elf fan.

The winner will receive an Elf-inspired home transformation kit, to turn their home into a festive wonderland both inside and out. The kit will take cues from the film’s candy cane forest, Gimbles department store and the elves’ workshop. Winners will also receive £3,000 towards their favourite festive goodies, guaranteed to add sparkle to even the most lacklustre Christmas cheer.

It comes as Elf lands on Sky Cinema on December 8th which will come as good news for the 42% of Brits determined to get their festive mojo back.

The research has revealed that Christmas spirit wanes on the approach to mid-twenties, with the average Brit losing excitement for the big day by the time they’re 23. More than half (55%) of Brits have lost their Christmas mojo by this age.

Despite not having young children (42%), financial pressures (35%) and no longer believing in Santa (29%) often hindering Christmas spirit, 36% are desperate to reinvigorate the childhood magic from years gone by. And 78% of Brits will try especially hard this year to ensure Christmas is enjoyable, despite the Covid restrictions in place.

The average Brit watches six films in the run up to the big day to get them in the mood. Elf was voted the top film to get people feeling festive (27%), followed by Home Alone 1 (24%) and Love Actually (20%), with classics Miracle on 34th Street (16%) and The Polar Express (15%) coming fourth and fifth respectively. The Snowman (14%) came in sixth place, followed by It’s A Wonderful Life (13%), Santa Claus (12%) and Die Hard (10%). It seems there is a lot of potential power in Christmas films, as a fifth of Brits even watched their favourite during the first lockdown back in March to lift their spirits.

Comedian, Jason Manford commented: “I’m a huge fan of all things Christmas and Elf so I’m very excited about this competition! With this prize, more is more. Think paper chains, a sea of swirly twirly gumdrops, plenty of six-inch ribbon curls and seven levels of the candy cane forest. We’re hoping that we’ll inject enough Christmas spirit into your home to put a smile on even the most ‘Walter’ like of faces.

“Elf was voted the most quoted Christmas film, so I want to hear your take on the classic. Show us why Elf is everything to you, impress us with your ability to down a bottle of fizzy soda, wow us with your singing, prove how much you enjoy spaghetti with maple syrup, or show off your superior Christmas crafting skills. Extra points if you can draw a portrait of me on an Etch-a-sketch.”

To enter the competition, visit @SkyTV social channels and simply post a comment, video or photo demonstrating why you’re the UK’s biggest Elf fan and deserve to win this mega prize.

Watch here as Jason eats his favourite Elf-inspired dish of Spaghetti and Maple syrup, rides his favourite Elf-sized tricycle and attempts to decorate his house in a way that even Buddy would be proud of.

The search opens on Wednesday 11th November and will end at midnight on Sunday 22nd November. Full details of the competitions and Ts & Cs available at www.elfeverything.sky.com .

Notes to editors

For more information please contact sky@ohmycreative.uk, or phone 07881 318767

Research was carried out by One Poll, of 2,000 UK adults who celebrate Christmas. Fieldwork carried out 27/10/2020 – 29/10/2020