A Merry Movie Christmas returns with a tribute to L.I.F.T., locally made holiday-inspired short films, and Christmas gems of the past

“A Merry Movie Christmas” returns to The Electric Theater on Saturday, December 17th. This magical cinematic get-together for all ages will celebrate aspiring filmmaking talent, the warmth of Christmas movies, and the arrival of Santa Claus but, as always, the primary goal of FMASU’s annual Yuletide event is to shed a light on a very special cause. This year, that cause is L.I.F.T. The brainchild of gifted veteran storyteller, seasoned medical professional, and dedicated mental health advocate Corbin Allred (“Saints and Soldiers”), L.I.F.T. is geared towards our youth and for all of its hefty ambitions, this vital cause looks to love, inspire, fulfill, and teach, first and foremost. What better message to spread during the holidays?

What can attendees expect at A Merry Movie Christmas 2022? Here’s a look;

11 AM– “THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL” 

Bring the entire family out for a free 30th-anniversary screening of what is, arguably, the strongest adaptation of the beloved Charles Dickens literary classic ever committed to film. And if you’re a fan of Dickens and the Muppets, then you know that’s saying a lot! In this spirited Christmastime gem, each of your favorite Muppets is given their chance to shine as does the iconic Michael Caine as Scrooge. A wonderful take punctuated by unforgettable musical numbers. It should also be noted that this screening arrives hot on the heels of Encore!’s wildly popular (and original) stage version of “A Christmas Carol” starring “A Merry Movie Christmas” guest of honor, Corbin Allred.

*”The Muppet Christmas Carol” screening is FREE but donations are greatly appreciated.

12:30 PM– A VISIT FROM THE ONE AND ONLY SANTA CLAUS!

Right after “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” get ready for a very special appearance by 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!

*A visit with Santa is free but donations are greatly appreciated.

1:30 PM– LIVE TO L.I.F.T. WITH CORBIN ALLRED, IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED BY THE 2022 HOLIDAY EDITION OF THE GUERILLA SHORTS SHOWCASE  

Fresh off of his appearance as Scrooge in Encore!’s creative (and youthful) new theatrical take on “A Christmas Carol,” L.I.F.T. creator, Corbin Allred, will be on hand to talk about the importance of this vital cause. Social media and the societal pressures associated with it are waging a psychological war on the minds of young people…and young people aren’t winning. L.I.F.T. wants to change that. If you’ve heard Mr. Allred speak in a public forum before, then you are already well aware that this talented and compassionate individual speaks from the heart.

A Tribute to L.I.F.T. will immediately be followed by “The 2022 Holiday Edition of the Guerilla Shorts Showcase.” This quick turnaround filmmaking competition saw a record-breaking 16 completed short film projects. Each team was given the topic “What I want for Christmas,” a list of 5 props to choose from (a Christmas tree, a wreath, mistletoe, a Santa hat, or a Christmas stocking), and a limited amount of time to put together a short film (7 minutes or less) using any resources available to them. Attendees will now have an opportunity to experience these wonderfully creative shorts on the big screen. What’s more, attendees will also have an opportunity to vote for their favorites as there will be 3 Audience Choice Awards presented to the strongest films of the bunch.

The 2022 Holiday Edition of the Guerilla Showcase lineup will be as follows;

“The Christmas Journey“ directed by Jill Bearden
“My Mission” directed by Emma Schmitt
“A Cruise For Christmas” directed by Ned Cordery
“Christmas Fix” directed by Emily Holt
“Untitled“ directed by Torsten Bangerter
“Here For You Always” directed by Christian Navarrete
“Christmas Letter From Home” directed by Richard Cunningham
“All is Bright” directed by Ada Holt
“The Nutcracker Obsession” directed by Dalton Augustus
“Porch Pirates” directed by Lonie Black
“Winter Stars” directed by Caleb Hatton
“Building Something Beautiful” directed by Ethan Breinholt
“Pure Imagination” directed by Brandon Tippetts
“One Last Gift” directed by Jordan Hurd
“The 9th Annual Bloomington Hills HOA Fruitcake Challenge” directed by Mike Wiest
“All I Want” directed by Laura Schmitt

*Tickets for A Tribute to L.I.F.T. and the Holiday Guerilla Showcase are only $10 per person, $5 for children 3 to 11, and $20 for a special family ticket pack (maximum of 5.) Tickets can be purchased at FMASU.com, now!

4:30 PM– “THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS” (SING-A-LONG EDITION) 

FMASU’s 2022 “A Merry Movie Christmas” special cause awareness event will close out with a screening of “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” This stop-motion animated classic from Tim Burton and Henry Selick brings two of our most beloved holidays, together. Featuring stellar songs by Danny Elfman, a wonderfully creative story by Burton, and masterclass animation by Selick and his passionate team, this energetic gem of a motion picture experience finds affable (and eccentric) Jack Skellington looking to trade places with an unsuspecting Santa Claus over the course of one crazy holiday season. Adding to the excitement of this imaginative holiday gem is that this will be the sing-a-long edition! A wonderful experience for the entire family.

* “The Nightmare Before Christmas” screening is FREE but donations are greatly appreciated.

For all details on “A Merry Movie Christmas,” including ticket info, CLICK HERE!

Happy Holidays, everyone!