He had a memorable turn in Zoolander, but it wasn't a success upon release. He played a minor role in the first two Austin Powers films, but they were ultimately Mike Myers' movies. He starred in SNL-related movies like A Night at the Roxbury, Superstar, and The Ladies Man, but they weren't exactly critical or commercial successes. The TV actor was a favorite on Saturday Night Live, certainly, but he wasn't a proven movie star yet. When Elf was gearing up into production, Will Ferrell wasn't quite the household name he is today.
Jim Carrey Was Originally Supposed To Play Buddy The Elf