The 12 Days of Christmas: A Festive Family Comedy Starring Michael Sheen and Eva Longoria
In an exciting development for holiday movie enthusiasts, Michael Sheen and Eva Longoria are set to star in the upcoming family comedy The 12 Days of Christmas. This film promises to bring laughter and heart to the festive season as it unfolds a chaotic yet charming story centered around the Sullivan family.
Production Team and Source Material
The film is a collaboration between Keal Productions and Fulwell Entertainment. It is directed by BAFTA nominee Ben Gregor, known for his work on The Magic Faraway Tree and Black Ops. The screenplay is crafted by Ted Safran, inspired by the bestselling book The 12 Topsy-Turvy Very Messy Days of Christmas, co-authored by renowned novelist James Patterson and Safran.
Film Synopsis
Set during mid-December, the plot revolves around the Sullivan family, who face yet another year of Christmas cancellations. This holiday becomes unexpectedly lively when a series of mysterious gifts start arriving for hopeless widower Henry (played by Sheen) and his squabbling children, Will and Ella. The gifts—an homage to the iconic Christmas carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas”—include everything from a partridge in a pear tree to two turtle doves and three calling birds. With their home turned into a delightful zoo of unexpected guests and animals, the family embarks on a fun-filled quest to uncover the identity of their enigmatic gift-giver. Along the way, they must contend with Mariana (Longoria) from Animal Protection Services, who adds to their holiday challenges. As the synopsis states, “Even though this Christmas will be messy, it might turn out to be just the gift the family needs.”
Industry Insights
James Patterson expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I had an absolute blast writing The 12 Topsy-Turvy Very Messy Days of Christmas with Tad Safran. We couldn’t be more excited about Michael Sheen and Eva Longoria leading the cast.”
Director Ben Gregor shared similar sentiments, remarking, “Tad’s written a moving, funny, big-hearted script that I can’t wait to shoot with the generous and brilliant talents of Michael and Eva. This adaptation is going to be a delight to make and watch.”
Production Details
The film is produced by Heather Greenwood of Keal Productions and Leo Pearlman of Fulwell Entertainment. Executive producers include Patterson, Peter Safran, Bill Robinson, Patrick Santa, Dave Bishop, and others. The project is being developed under Sky’s banner.
Producer Statements
Dave Bishop, CEO of Protagonist Pictures, commented on the project: “This is pure holiday joy—heart, humor, and just enough havoc to remind us that the magic of Christmas is in the mess.”
In a joint statement, Greenwood and Pearlman emphasized their commitment to quality entertainment, declaring, “It’s thrilling to bring James Patterson’s and Tad Safran’s best-selling novel to life for the big screen. We can’t wait to wish audiences a very messy Christmas with all the magic, chaos, and laughter this well-loved story brings.”
Behind-the-Scenes Talent
The film’s production will benefit from the involvement of award-winning choreographer Adam Murray and casting director Kelly Valentine Hendry, who brings a wealth of experience from successful projects like Bridgerton and Fleabag.
Representation
Michael Sheen is represented by CAA, LINK Entertainment, and others, while Eva Longoria’s representation includes WME and Linden Entertainment. James Patterson is repped by CAA, with other notable agents managing key talents involved in the project.
As anticipation builds for this holiday film, The 12 Days of Christmas looks set to become a heartwarming addition to family holiday traditions.