We’ve had a lovely time working with animation studio Dream Logic Studios in Ireland on our latest festive treat, The Christmas Letter. The heart-warming and touching tale tells how eight-year-old Henry’s efforts to spread Christmas cheer bring much-needed joy into the life of a lonely old lady.
Narrated by Kate Winslet (Titanic, The Reader, Blackbird) and also starring Fiona Shaw (Harry Potter, Killing Eve) and Caitriona Balfe (Outlander, Money Monster), the 3D animation is written and directed by Kealan O’Rourke (The Boy in the Bubble, Emily the Strange, Danger Mouse) and co-produced by Lupus Films.
The Christmas Letter follows Henry, a young boy who loves everything about Christmas and can’t wait to post his letter to Santa up the chimney. But cranky neighbour Miss Broom wants nothing to do with the festivities. Determined to show her the joy of the season, Henry tries all sorts of ways to decorate her gloomy house, even going so far as to sneak down her chimney – where he dislodges a charred and tatty old letter. It turns out to be from a very young and lonely Miss Broom to Santa Claus asking for a friend to play with. Henry realises that Santa never received the letter, so Miss Broom never got a friend. Believing that it’s not too late for Miss Broom to discover the magic of Christmas, Henry sets out to put things right…
Camilla Deakin, executive producer and co-founder of Lupus Films, said: “This charming and poignant film really illustrates the true spirit of Christmas, and so is perfect for all the family to watch together, Kealan O’Rourke has created a moving story and a visually gorgeous world, and Kate Winslet’s warm and emotive narration really draws you in, making for a very special festive treat for viewers.”
Kealan O’Rourke, director and co-writer of the film, said: “The film speaks to the universal truth that, no matter how bad things seem, there’s always hope if you have the courage to seek it out – and that it’s never too late to believe in magic!”
The Christmas Letter is a Dream Logic Studios and Lupus Films production in association with Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland and Kika. UPHE Content Group controls the TV distribution, home entertainment and theatrical rights to the special globally excluding Germany and Ireland.
The Christmas Letter will air on Sky One and will be available to watch on-demand on Sky Kids.