British director Gurinder Chadha, known for films like Bend It Like Beckham, Bride and Prejudice, and Blinded By The Light, is bringing film audiences a unique, soulful take on a classic Christmas story. Titled Christmas Karma, the film transforms Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol into a fresh, festive, and feel-good Christmas musical, set to hit the big screen on November 14th.
Starring Kunal Nayyar, Eva Longoria, Billy Porter, Charithra Chandran, Hugh Bonneville, and Boy George, the joyous film is a colourful celebration of modern-day London and its vibrant communities and cultures.
Let’s set the scene:
Kunal Nayyar stars as Mr. Sood, the modern-day Scrooge, who goes on an unforgettable journey with the three Ghosts of Christmas: Eva Longoria as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Billy Porter as the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Boy George as the Ghost Of Christmas Future, who help him confront his demons and discover that light and kindness are the real meanings of Christmas.
One of the cool things about this film is that it is told from Chadha’s unique point of view and in her own distinct style. The story of Christmas Karma echoes Dickens’ masterful statement on society, exploring themes of prejudice, acceptance, reconciliation, identity, and belonging to deliver a powerful message of unity and inclusion. Over the course of the film, Sood, on this heartwarming journey of self-discovery and self-realization, learns an important lesson from the array of spirits and much-loved characters: That life is only worth living if you can bring joy to others. We can all help to create a caring and inclusive society, and what matters is to be kind, choose love, and embrace the present.
Kunal Nayyar, in this exclusive interview with Stacey, touched on that essence and aspect of the film, saying, “This is a film about people who are trying to find their place in a world where they don’t feel like they belong. That joy is possible if you find the light.” The conversation was fascinating, at times, deep, but also filled with laughter and fun – much like the movie! There is so much more; click play to experience the actor discussing his experiences playing Sood and the messages of Christmas Karma in this amazing interview.
Thank you, Mr. Nayyar, for being so open and so much fun to interview. It was such a pleasure.
Christmas Karma, featuring an eclectic soundtrack influenced by gospel, bhangra, carols, rap, and classic pop, with music from Gary Barlow, Nitin Sawhney, and Shaznay Lewis, is set to open in cinemas on November 14th. I, personally, especially after this interview, cannot wait to watch this story unfold and for Mr. Sood to find happiness!
