Amber Stevens West and Corbin Reid are set to bring a refreshing take on platonic love to the forefront in their new movie, “The Christmas Showdown.” Premiering on Saturday, Dec. 6, the film showcases the story of former childhood best friends April and Chastity, portrayed by Reid and Stevens West respectively, whose lives take an unexpected turn when they both return home in search of a fresh start. As they vie for the role of event producer for the annual Sugar Heights Christmas Eve Spectacular, the movie unfolds into a heartwarming holiday showdown that ultimately heals old wounds.
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The Christmas Showdown not only marks a significant step for Stevens West and Reid as actors but also as producers, as they delve into pitching and selling their own creative idea for the first time. The duo’s real-life bond, formed after meeting during a chemistry read for their TV show Run the World, played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the film. Their decision to focus on the power and significance of friendship during the holiday season stems from their own close-knit friendship off-screen.
Reid expresses her desire for the movie to break away from the typical holiday movie formula, shedding light on a subject matter rarely explored in mainstream cinema – the unbreakable bond of friendship. She believes that audiences are hungry for stories that showcase platonic love, akin to the love shared between sisters, which adds a layer of complexity and depth often overshadowed by romantic relationships in films. Both actors acknowledge the lack of representation of friendship love stories and aim to fill that gap with “The Christmas Showdown.”
The success of their previous show, Run the World, which celebrated female empowerment and friendship, has fueled Stevens West and Reid’s passion to explore and highlight different forms of love on-screen. They emphasize the beauty and depth of chosen family, the friends who become like family, and the intricate dynamics that enrich these relationships. By infusing moments of love, humour and rivalry between their characters in the film, they hope to convey the message of embracing and cherishing all forms of love during the festive season.
Stevens West and Reid’s seamless transition into producing their own project reflects their years of dedication and hard work in the industry. Their natural chemistry and camaraderie not only enhance their performances on-screen but also contribute to a smooth collaboration behind the scenes. The experience of stepping into the role of executive producers was described by the actresses as a blend of the familiar and the new, a testament to their evolving skills and industry connections.
Throughout the production process of “The Christmas Showdown,” Stevens West and Reid gained a deeper understanding of their craft and the impact of their storytelling. The film’s emphasis on friendship and love at its core resonates with the actors’ personal values and beliefs, adding authenticity and depth to their performances. They hope that the film will resonate with audiences, encouraging them to appreciate and nurture the relationships that bring joy and meaning to their lives, especially during the holiday season.
As “The Christmas Showdown” makes its debut, Stevens West and Reid invite viewers to explore the tender yet powerful bonds of platonic love portrayed in the film. Through their heartfelt performances and genuine camaraderie, the actors aim to create a space for audiences to reflect on the value of friendships and the joy they bring during the festive period. They encourage viewers to embrace the love they have in their lives, whether romantic or platonic, and cherish those relationships that bring warmth and happiness.