“A Merry Movie Christmas” Offers a Tribute to RSQ Animal Rescue Team, Local Filmmaking Talent, the Best in Holiday-Inspired Cinema, and Santa!
December 16, 2023
There is certainly no shortage of amazing shows and events to attend in Southern Utah this holiday season but make sure that “A Merry Movie Christmas” is on your must-attend list. Presented by the 501(C)(3)nonprofit Film and Media Alliance of Southern Utah, this magical cinematic event will celebrate aspiring St. George-based filmmaking talent, the warmth of Christmas movies (in this case, it’s Jon Favreau’s “Elf” starring Will Ferrell), and the arrival of Santa Claus but, as always, the primary goal of this warm and fuzzy all-ages event is to shed a light on a very special cause. This year, that cause is RSQ Animal Rescue Team, a vital, long-running organization dedicated to providing a voice for the voiceless. This particular nonprofit has made it a mission to better the lives of animals in Utah’s rural communities.
From a programming standpoint, what can attendees expect at A Merry Movie Christmas 2023? Well, it all starts with the Holiday Edition of the Guerilla Shorts Showcase. The Guerilla Filmmaking Challenge has been a Southern Utah staple since 2005 and the Holiday Edition is a little extra special because it’s all about the magic of the Christmas season. This Challenge is open to filmmakers of all ages and all skill sets.
Each filmmaking team was given the topic “Christmas Cheer” and a list of 5 props to choose from; A Christmas tree, a wreath, an elf-on-the-shelf, a Santa hat, or a Christmas stocking. Said teams then had a limited amount of time to put together a short film (6 minutes or less) using any resources available to them. At this special event, attendees will have an opportunity to experience these wonderfully creative shorts on the big screen. What’s more, patrons will also have an opportunity to vote for their favorites as there will be an audience choice award presented alongside 3 jury awards to the best films of the bunch.
It should also be noted that this Showcase will be preceded by a tribute to RSQ Animal Rescue Team. A representative will be on hand to share insight on the organization and we’re told they’ll be bringing some furry guests along with them. Yet another reason to attend!
Right after “The Guerilla Shorts Showcase,” “A Merry Movie Christmas” will welcome the one and only Santa Claus! The big man himself has taken time out of his hectic schedule to stop by and visit with the little ones so be sure to bring the family out for photos!
Immediately following a visit from Santa Claus, “A Merry Movie Christmas” will close out with a 20th-Anniversary screening of “Elf.” This modern-day holiday classic was directed by Jon Favreau (“Iron Man”) and stars Will Ferrell as the forever lovable Buddy the Elf. After learning that he’s not a true Elf, Buddy leaves the confines of the North Pole for the Big Apple where he hopes to connect with his biological father, played by the legendary James Caan. This is a wonderful cinematic Christmas treat and it’s the perfect film to close the event with.
“A Merry Movie Christmas” Local Cause Awareness Event will take place at The Electric Theater on Saturday, December 16th. The proceedings will kick off at 12 PM with the Holiday Guerilla Shorts Showcase.
For all details, including ticket information, CLICK HERE!
Happy Holidays, everyone!
