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Festival of Trees: A Heartwarming Journey of Discovery
The recently released film Festival of Trees presents a touching narrative that resonates with holiday spirit. Starring Kate Miner as Jacqueline, a young designer aspiring to make her mark in holiday decor, the film revolves around her journey of personal growth and discovery as she enters the Festival of Trees competition. This experience, initially viewed through a lens of competition, leads Jacqueline to profound realizations about the true essence of Christmas. Her path is intertwined with Brandon, portrayed by Greg Perrow, a compassionate local who helps her appreciate the joy of giving.
Interestingly, the festival depicted in the movie reflects a real-life annual fundraising event held in various American cities, aimed at supporting local charities and causes. The culmination of this festival is celebrated with a grand gala, a scene mirrored in the film. Miner shares her thoughts on participating in a Christmas movie, which adds another layer to her already diverse filmography. The interview reflects on her previous roles, including her significant part in the acclaimed series Shameless.
Kate Miner on Her Christmas Movie Experience
Q: Did making a Christmas movie rank high on your bucket list?
Kate Miner: Absolutely! Christmas movies have always been a staple in my household thanks to my mom, so it felt essential for me to take part in one. I truly enjoy them, and being on set felt like being part of one in itself.
Q: What was your prior knowledge about the Festival of Trees?
I wasn’t aware that there was a Festival of Trees in Atlanta before I started researching for the role. Once I learned it was a real event, I found it fascinating that we actually used trees from the festival for filming. Our initial days involved shooting the climax of the film surrounded by these stunning trees created by talented artists. It was a delightful way to immerse myself in the tradition, and I plan to attend the Festival of Trees whenever I’m in Atlanta during the holiday season.
Q: How do you relate to your character, Jacqueline?
At the beginning, Jacqueline isn’t particularly fond of the holiday season, but by the movie’s conclusion, her perspective shifts dramatically. Her character evolves from a competitive outlook towards a more heartfelt understanding of Christmas, which aligns more closely with my own beliefs.
Audience Reception and Personal Insights
Q: What kind of reactions have you received since the film’s release?
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the feedback! Many fans are reaching out through various channels to express their affection for the film. It’s heartening to see how much people appreciate the joy associated with Christmas movies and the special interest in Christmas tree decorating.
Q: Do you have multiple Christmas trees at home?
No, but I do have plenty of holiday decorations, like wooden reindeer and stockings. While I have a lot of festive items, I keep it simple with just one tree.
Reflecting on Past Roles and Collaborations
Q: With a rich background in film and television, how was your experience on Shameless?
Working on Shameless was a dream come true. The set operated like a well-oiled machine, with incredibly welcoming and talented individuals. Every moment spent there was appreciated, and although it was challenging, it contributed significantly to my growth as an actress.
Q: What dynamic did you share with Jeremy Allen White while portraying Lip and Tami?
Our rapport was instantaneous. Both of us were new parents at the time we began filming, adding a layer of authenticity to our on-screen relationship. We bonded over our shared experiences of sleep deprivation, making our scenes feel even more genuine and relatable.
Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic influence the filming of Shameless?
The pandemic certainly changed production dynamics. While it limited our capabilities regarding scene variety, it didn’t detract from the storyline. The writing was so strong that there were countless ways to conclude our narratives regardless of restrictions.
A Glimpse Into the Future
Q: What upcoming projects do you have on the horizon?
Next year promises to be busy for me. My band, Miner, is releasing a new album, and I will be shooting a wedding comedy for Netflix in the first quarter of the year. Additionally, I’m involved in a horror film titled Stay Safe, set to premiere around Halloween.
For those interested, Festival of Trees is now available on various streaming platforms, including iTunes and YouTube, and will be broadcast on UPtv on December 24.
Source
www.tvinsider.com