In an exciting development for the holiday film season, WestEnd Films has secured a North American distribution deal with Samuel Goldwyn Films for the heartwarming Christmas comedy, “Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint.” The film is set to hit theaters across the U.S. and Canada this Christmas, bringing festive cheer to audiences.
International Acquisitions and Upcoming Releases
This new deal follows Signature Entertainment’s earlier acquisition of the U.K. and Ireland rights, which was announced at the Cannes Film Festival this year. Both regions are anticipated to feature theatrical releases this holiday season, positioning “Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint” as a contender for family entertainment during the festive period.
In addition to North America and the U.K., WestEnd Films has successfully sold the film to various international markets including Spain (Alfa), Portugal (Nos), Bulgaria (Beta), and Israel (United King). The company plans to continue its international sales efforts at the upcoming Toronto Film Festival.
A Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team
Directed by Jack Spring, known for “All Town Aren’t We” and “Three Day Millionaire,” the film features a stellar ensemble cast. Notable actors include John Bradley (“Game of Thrones”), Celia Imrie (“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”), Richard E. Grant (“Argylle”), Adjoa Andoh (“Bridgerton”), and Jim Broadbent (“Paddington”). The cast is rounded out by Sophia Di Martino, Adrian Rawlins, Karl Pilkington, Kiell Smith-Bynoe, and several others, including rising young actor Beau Thompson.
The Story Behind “Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint”
With a uniquely Dickensian twist, “Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint” tells the story of Aubrey Flint, a reclusive model soldier painter who harbors a deep disdain for Christmas. Following a community service sentence at a struggling retirement home, Aubrey reluctantly finds himself directing a resident-led adaptation of “A Christmas Carol.” As chaotic rehearsals unfold, the future of Willow Lodge hangs in the balance, prompting Aubrey to confront his own grief and rediscover the magic of friendship and the holiday spirit.
Production and Executive Team
The film is produced by Andy Brunskill for SUMS Film & Media, collaborating with Spring’s Shush Films, in association with BYUtv. Executive producers include Damian Jones, Paul Grindey, and a diverse team of individuals committed to ensuring the film’s success.
Deal Negotiation and Anticipation
The North American deal was expertly negotiated by Maya Amsellem, managing director at WestEnd Films, alongside Miles Fineburg from Samuel Goldwyn Films. Fineburg expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to be bringing ‘Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint’ to audiences this fall. This is the kind of classic heartfelt story that families love for the holiday season – funny, warm, and full of surprises right up to the final frame.”
Amsellem echoed this sentiment, highlighting the film’s qualities: “’Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint’ has all the ingredients of an enduring festive favorite: a brilliant ensemble cast, genuine warmth, sharp comedy, and a moving story about friendship and community. We are delighted to be working once again with Samuel Goldwyn, a long-standing and trusted partner, to bring the film to North American audiences this Christmas.”
