THE HEIST BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Date Posted: November 24, 2023
James Nesbitt was among the cast and crew on the red carpet in Belfast on Friday night for a private screening of Sky’s new Christmas movie.
The Heist Before Christmas is set in Northern Ireland and features the star of Cold Feet, The Hobbit and Waking Ned alongside highly-respected English actor Timothy Spall, of Harry Potter fame.
Nesbitt and veteran thespian Spall play two Santa Clauses with different agendas in the Christmas special, which was filmed at various local locations in Northern Ireland supported by Northern Ireland Screen.
The movie tells an enchanting tale that revolves around young Mikey Collins, played by local actor Bamber Todd who comes across the two Santas in the woods.
One, portrayed by Nesbitt, is a cunning bank robber in disguise, while the other, played by Spall, claims to have fallen out of his sleigh.
As 12-year-old Mikey, who is poor and hates the festive season, attempts to seize the robber’s cash, he embarks on an adventure that captures the essence of the Christmas spirit.
Other notable local names from the film who attended the exclusive showing on Friday evening included Bronagh Waugh (who plays Georgina), known for The Fall, Unforgotten and the crime drama Ridley.
Also present were upcoming Northern Ireland actors Joshua McLees (who plays seven-year-old Sean in the film) and Bamber Todd (12-year-old Mikey), as well as English film and theatre director Edward Hall.
Sir David Sterling, Chair of the Board of Northern Ireland Screen, said: “The Heist Before Christmas” with its hilarious and heart-warming scenes, is a brilliant example of the creativity, dedication, and craftsmanship of the Northern Ireland film industry and our partners, Sky, Studio Hamburg and Calico Pictures. From the first words written by Ronan Blaney to the final frame, it has been a collaborative effort that has brought together the very best talent in front of and behind the camera.”
Members of the public will be able to view the unique Sky Original Christmas Special on Sky Max and Now in late December.
Offering a captivating blend of comedy, drama and festive magic, the film promises to be a Christmas treat for all the family.
