The enchanting holiday film “A Dickens of a Christmas” is set to debut at this year’s MIPCOM in Cannes, bringing a fresh blend of romance and nostalgia to the holiday film landscape. Starring Ashley Newbrough and Chad Rook, the film is a joint venture between several production companies including Castle Mountain Entertainment, Messina Captor Films Inc., and Enchanté Productions, with a key role played by Tarf Media for global distribution. The excitement surrounding this film lies not only in its festive theme but also in its unique storytelling and character development.
At the core of “A Dickens of a Christmas” is the character Zara, portrayed by Ashley Newbrough. A hardworking lawyer haunted by her past Christmases, Zara embodies the struggle to balance personal happiness with professional obligations. Her journey toward rediscovering the magic of the season is nudged by her vivacious best friend, Chloe, who urges her to step out of her comfort zone. The film brilliantly captures the essence of friendship as a catalyst for change, offering a strong emotional backbone.
Zara’s encounter with Rafe, played by Chad Rook, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Rafe, a single father deeply entrenched in both his career as a hockey coach and his passion for renovating historic homes, serves as the romantic interest who both challenges and complements Zara. The chemistry between Newbrough and Rook fuels the film, making their evolving relationship the focal point of this heartwarming tale.
One of the most captivating elements in “A Dickens of a Christmas” is the supernatural twist involving the ghost of Rafe’s ancestor, Aubrey, played by Mark Bellamy. This spectral figure acts as an unexpected but necessary matchmaker, adding a whimsical quality to the film. The ghost’s gift of a magical book filled with Dickensian love stories becomes a metaphor for rekindling love amid the shadows of the past, challenging Zara’s skepticism about romance. The film artfully intertwines classic themes of love and redemption, drawing parallels to Dickens’ own illustrious storytelling.
Behind the Scenes: Talented Team
Directed by Gillian McKercher and penned by Catherine Friday, “A Dickens of a Christmas” boasts a talented team dedicated to creating a film that resonates with audiences. Friday’s involvement in notable projects, such as the early Lifetime Christmas film “Enchanted Christmas,” along with her experience in animated series, indicates a versatile approach to storytelling. This depth of experience suggests that her screenplay for this holiday film will not only invoke sentimentality but also invite audiences to engage with the characters on a profound level.
As holiday-themed films continue to gain traction among viewers looking for comfort and joy, “A Dickens of a Christmas” stands out as a promising addition to the genre. By combining rich character development, a sprinkle of supernatural intrigue, and an exploration of friendship and love, it offers something special for holiday viewers. With its world premiere at MIPCOM, anticipation grows for a film that aims to deliver both festive cheer and thought-provoking themes, celebrating the enduring power of connection during the most wonderful time of the year.