BET+ gifted viewers with a heartwarming and hilarious holiday treat yesterday with the premiere of Too Many Christmases. This film shows viewers the chaotic and comedic world of a newlywed couple juggling family expectations, personal journeys, and the quest to create their own holiday traditions.
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At the heart of this festive whirlwind are Jerome, played by Denzel Whitaker, and Kayla, portrayed by Porscha Coleman. They’re a couple brimming with love and anticipation for their first Christmas as husband and wife. But their holiday cheer quickly morphs into a comedic scramble as they face the daunting task of appeasing both sides of their families, each with their own unique and deeply rooted Christmas traditions. Determined to keep everyone happy, they set out on on a hilarious adventure, attempting the impossible – attending two Christmas celebrations simultaneously.
“When I saw the script,” Coleman shared with I Love Us, “I was like, wait a minute, okay, this is a young couple who are in love, who haven’t understood yet the value of getting their tradition set while trying to please other people.”
This relatable predicament, a struggle many couples face during their first holidays together, is amplified by the complex dynamics within each family. Kayla’s brother, played by DeShawn Bowens, adds another layer to the story as he navigates his own journey of self-discovery and seeks acceptance from his loved ones.
“So many different things were happening,” Coleman explains, reflecting on the film’s multi-faceted narrative. “I think the script was beautifully written to be original and be different than what you’d see in a typical Hallmark movie.”
Finding the Festive Family Feeling
Coleman revealed that the cast’s genuine bond played a crucial role in bringing the family dynamics to life on screen. “It was amazing to be with Denzel,” she shared. “The first day we were all talking, [the next day] we went to Walmart…we did cool stuff. We saw each other in the lobby, I’m like ‘let’s go out.’ We’re hanging out, we’re going to eat for three days…We just literally hung out like husband and wife and just got to know each other. It really just helped so much set the tone on set.”
This off-screen camaraderie translated into a palpable sense of family on set. “And all of us, we hung out all the time, it was just us,” Coleman adds. “So it was amazing. It’s a bond together.”
A Christmas Stocking Full of Talent
Too Many Christmases is blessed with a stellar ensemble cast. Alongside Whitaker and Coleman, the film features veteran actors like Willie C. Carpenter, known for his powerful presence in Godfather of Harlem. Adding to the comedic flair are icons like Adele Givens, whose legendary stand-up brings instant laughs, and the esteemed Valerie Pettiford, recognized for her captivating performance in BET’s drama Carl Weber’s The Family Business. Their combined talent brings depth and authenticity to the portrayal of family relationships and the challenges they face.
The film also features memorable performances by Johnath Davis, Russell G Jones, Ratoya Banks, Juhahn Jones, Mister Fitzgerald, and Jordan Babbs, each adding their unique spark to the characters.
Acceptance, Change, and the True Meaning of Family
Beyond the festive fun and laughter, Too Many Christmases thoughtfully explores complex themes with sensitivity and nuance. The film subtly addresses the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within their families, particularly during the holidays, a time often associated with tradition and togetherness.
“This script is really about acceptance on multiple fronts,” Whitaker emphasizes. “Our family accepting us, us accepting our new responsibilities as a couple… our parents accepting the new dynamics that are to come about.”
The film beautifully captures the delicate balance between honoring family traditions and embracing change, highlighting the importance of open communication and understanding as families evolve and grow. It’s a reminder that the holidays can be a time of heightened emotions and anxieties, especially for those navigating new relationships and family dynamics.
A Universal Holiday Dilemma
The challenges faced by Jerome and Kayla resonate with countless couples experiencing their first holiday season together. The pressure to please both families, the clash of traditions, and the desire to create their own unique holiday memories are all part of this universal experience.
“Even if you’re not married to that partner, where do you go? Whose family do you appease?” Whitaker reflects. “For myself, how do you stand by your partner? I want to support you. Sure. Let’s do this, but also, can we satisfy my family as well? It’s a very, very universal theme.”
Too Many Christmases captures this struggle with humor and heart, offering a relatable and insightful portrayal of the joys and challenges of merging families and traditions during the holidays. It’s a reminder that compromise, communication, and a healthy dose of humor are essential ingredients for a truly joyful holiday season.
Creating Your Own Holiday Magic
As Jerome and Kayla navigate the chaos of their first Christmas together, they ultimately realize the importance of forging their own path and creating new traditions that reflect their unique bond as a couple. This message resonates throughout the film, encouraging viewers to embrace change, prioritize their own happiness, and define what the holidays truly mean to them.
Too Many Christmases has all the elements of a holiday favorite: a talented cast, an engaging storyline that blends humor and heart, and a thoughtful exploration of relatable family dynamics. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a holiday film that goes beyond the typical festive clichés.
Don’t miss “Too Many Christmases,” now streaming on BET+. This heartwarming and hilarious film is sure to become a holiday favorite for years to come.
Cover photo: ‘Too Many Christmases’ is a Holiday Tale of Finding Your Own Traditions / Credit: Worldwide Entertainment and Media
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