Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer 2018

Animation

Family

Box Office

$2.3M

Runtime

89 min

Language

English

Directed by

Jennifer Westcott

Made by

Screen Media Films

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Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer (2018). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

At the struggling Whittick petting zoo in North Dakota, we meet Elliot, a pony with grand dreams of flying alongside Santa’s reindeer. His closest ally, a witty goat named Hazel, is the only one who believes in his lofty aspirations. The zoo not only houses playful animals but also serves as a training ground for Santa’s esteemed reindeer. However, when Blitzen, one of the reindeer, suddenly departs, Santa decides to hold a competition to find a worthy replacement.

Walter Whittick, the zoo’s owner, sees this as the perfect opportunity for his arrogant star reindeer, DJ, to take flight with Santa and perhaps even save the financially troubled zoo. The plot thickens when a greedy businesswoman named Ludzinka arrives for a tour, expressing her desire to purchase the animals. Unfortunately, Elliot and Hazel overhear a conversation revealing Ludzinka’s nefarious plan to transform them into dehydrated food products. Fueled by a mix of fear and determination, they concoct a plan to reach the North Pole where Santa resides.

To achieve this, they ingeniously stow away in Walter’s advanced hybrid sled car, which is meant to transport DJ and a horse named Clyde to Santa’s magical domain. Once at the North Pole, using clever disguises, Hazel signs Elliot up for the reindeer competition. In the initial round, Elliot narrowly makes it through the cut. The competition intensifies when the reindeer must perform a challenging task of retrieving a cap from a towering totem pole.

As this unfolds, an inquisitive journalist named Corkie attempts to figure out the mystery behind the increasing number of reindeer deserting Santa’s team. In a twist of fate, DJ sees Hazel and inadvertently exposes their cover, complicating their stealthy mission. They soon uncover a disturbing truth: that Lemondrop and Jolene have been orchestrating the departures of many reindeer who once stood by Santa’s side.

Once they return to the zoo, the tables turn dramatically as they discover that the other animals have courageously tied up Ludzinka, thwarting her plan. In a heartwarming culmination, Santa recognizes Elliot’s bravery and invites him to soar through the skies with his reindeer. In the joyful chaos of animal antics and soaring ambitions, the bonds of friendship and courage shine brightly, reminding everyone that dreams can indeed take flight when supported by those who believe in them.

Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer (2018) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Introduction of the Whittick Petting Zoo

Elliot, a pony living at the struggling Whittick petting zoo in North Dakota, is introduced. Despite the challenges surrounding the zoo, Elliot dreams of flying with Santa's reindeer, supported by his best friend, Hazel the goat.

Whittick Petting Zoo, North Dakota

Santa's Reindeer Competition Announced

After the proud reindeer Blitzen leaves Santa's crew, Santa announces a competition to find a replacement. Walter Whittick, the zoo owner, sees this as an opportunity for his arrogant reindeer DJ to join Santa's team and possibly save the failing zoo.

North Pole

Ludzinka's Arrival

A businesswoman named Ludzinka arrives at the zoo, expressing interest in purchasing the animals. Elliot and Hazel overhear her conversation, realizing that her ultimate goal is to turn them into dehydrated food products, which worries them.

Whittick Petting Zoo, North Dakota

Stowing Away for a Ride

Determined to reach Santa, Elliot and Hazel stow away in Walter's hybrid sled car. Walter uses this vehicle to transport DJ and the horse Clyde to the North Pole, and Elliot hopes to get a chance to prove himself.

Whittick Petting Zoo, North Dakota

Elliot Signs Up for the Competition

Once they arrive at the North Pole, Hazel uses disguises to sign Elliot up for the competition. This daring move is motivated by their shared dream of flying with Santa and saving the zoo from Ludzinka's grip.

North Pole

First Round of the Competition

In the first round of the reindeer competition, Elliot manages to barely make the cut. His determination and spirit shine through as he competes against other hopefuls, showcasing his desire to fly and join Santa's crew.

North Pole Competition Grounds

The Totem Pole Challenge

The second round requires the reindeer to recover a cap from atop a totem pole. Elliot faces intense competition and pressure as he attempts to navigate the challenge, demonstrating his growth and resilience.

North Pole Competition Grounds

Corkie's Investigation

Meanwhile, a journalist named Corkie investigates the mysterious departures of reindeer from Santa's crew. His quest for the truth adds an element of urgency and tension as he uncovers unsettling information about the situation.

North Pole

Cover Blown

When DJ sees Hazel at the competition, he inadvertently blows their cover. This surprise twist puts Elliot and Hazel’s plans at risk, creating new challenges as they navigate the competition.

North Pole Competition Grounds

Discovery of the Culprits

Elliot and Hazel discover that Lemondrop and Jolene are behind the increased resignations of the reindeer. This revelation leads them to question the motives of other competitors and reinforces their determination to succeed.

North Pole

Return to the Zoo

After the competition, Elliot and Hazel return to the zoo only to find the animals have taken matters into their own hands. They find Ludzinka tied up, showcasing the unity and bravery of the zoo animals in the face of danger.

Whittick Petting Zoo, North Dakota

Santa's Invitation

In a moment of triumph, Santa invites Elliot to fly with his reindeer. This invitation not only fulfills Elliot's dream but also reinforces the bond of friendship and courage he shares with Hazel.

North Pole

Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer Characters

Explore all characters from Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer (2018). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Corkie

Corkie is a journalist with a fierce determination to uncover the truth behind the missing reindeer from Santa's team. Her investigative spirit showcases her resilience and commitment to showcasing the truth, making her an essential part of the story. Despite her serious demeanor, her character adds humor and depth.

📰 Journalist 👩‍🎤 Investigator

Elliot

Elliot is a tiny but ambitious pony with dreams of flying alongside Santa's reindeer. His courage and determination drive the plot and inspire other characters. His journey showcases the idea that size doesn't determine one's potential, and his heart is even bigger than his stature.

🦄 Pony 🌟 Dreamer

Hazel

Hazel is Elliot's loyal friend and a supportive goat who encourages him to pursue his dreams. Intelligent and resourceful, she plays a pivotal role in their adventure to the North Pole. Her character exemplifies friendship and bravery, often lending a helping hoof in tough situations.

🐐 Friend ❤️ Supportive

Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer Settings

Learn where and when Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer (2018) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The movie takes place in a contemporary setting, reflecting a modern world where animals have personalities and ambitions. The narrative does not specify a particular historical time, but it captures the essence of holiday spirit and the seasonal rivalry for Santa's reindeer.

Location

North Dakota, North Pole

The movie takes place primarily at a struggling petting zoo in North Dakota, known for its animal interactions and training ground for reindeer. The North Pole represents the legendary realm of Santa Claus, where magic and winter festivities come to life, serving as a backdrop for the climax of Elliot's adventure.

🌲 North Dakota 🎄 North Pole

Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer Themes

Discover the main themes in Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer (2018). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

💪

Perseverance

Elliot's journey emphasizes the importance of perseverance in pursuing one's dreams, regardless of obstacles. Despite being a small pony in a world of powerful reindeer, he fights against the odds to prove his worth. His friendship with Hazel further highlights the strength found in supportive relationships.

🎅

Christmas Spirit

The theme of Christmas spirit is woven throughout the film, showcasing love, friendship, and kindness during the holiday season. Elliot and Hazel's determination to help others culminates in an inspiring message about selflessness and celebrating the joy of giving during this special time.

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Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer Spoiler-Free Summary

Discover the spoiler-free summary of Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer (2018). Get a concise overview without any spoilers.

In the quiet plains of North Dakota, a modest petting zoo clings to its charm amid financial worries, while the frosty expanse of the North Pole looms as a place of timeless wonder. The film paints a world where the hum of barn doors and the sparkle of Santa’s workshop coexist, blending warm, rustic humor with a dash of magical anticipation. This gentle backdrop invites viewers to feel both the cozy familiarity of a small‑town farm and the sparkling allure of a holiday legend in the making.

At the heart of the story is a plucky pony named Elliot, whose head is always turned toward the sky, dreaming of soaring alongside Santa’s legendary reindeer. Beside him is his steadfast companion, a quick‑witted goat called Hazel, whose humor and loyalty serve as the perfect counterbalance to Elliot’s lofty aspirations. Together they form a friendship built on encouragement and shared mischief, navigating the everyday quirks of zoo life while nurturing an impossible‑seeming hope.

When the seasoned reindeer that pull Santa’s sleigh begin to retire, the very spirit of Christmas hangs in delicate balance. The looming need for new flyers sparks a daring opportunity that draws the attention of the zoo’s owner and thrusts Elliot and Hazel into a surprising quest far beyond the farm gates. With the future of the holiday—and the safety of their home—at stake, the duo must decide how far they’re willing to go, setting the stage for a whimsical adventure that celebrates courage, camaraderie, and the belief that even the smallest dreamer can make a monumental difference.