Sutherland finds X-mas spirit in 'Tinsel Town'

LONDON:

Actor Kiefer Sutherland, whose career spans four decades, says he had the opportunity to expand his repertoire in the new Christmas movie 'Tinsel Town' in which he stars as Bradley Mack, a past-his-prime Hollywood actor.

Once deemed difficult and temperamental, Mack finds work drying up after wrapping the seventh instalment of his action franchise and is forced to accept an offer to appear in a play in England.

But instead of London's West End, Mack is cast in a small town's traditional Christmas pantomime production. Sutherland showcases his singing, dancing, and emotional range as Mack connects with his colourful co-stars and his estranged young daughter.

"I thought it was really heart-warming to follow a character who starts the movie not at his best and, through the Christmas spirit and his daughter, becomes a better version of himself. That's a very heartfelt, warm Christmas message," Sutherland said.

"I've never done a song-and-dance number before, so that was a real challenge and very exciting. After 40 years in this profession, to find new things to try makes me really grateful," he said at the film's London premiere on Thursday.

The film also stars Rebel Wilson as the pantomime's choreographer, Jill. Theodora Williams, daughter of pop star Robbie Williams and actress Ayda Field, makes her acting debut as Jill's daughter, Cara.

"My mum told me to enjoy the moment. I was worried about my accent because I don't normally speak with a Yorkshire accent, but I just forgot the accent and stayed in the moment — it worked out perfectly," she said.

Directed by Chris Foggin, 'Tinsel Town' aims to be a Christmas movie for all generations, celebrating the British pantomime tradition. The cast also includes Katherine Ryan as Mack's agent and Derek Jacobi as Albert, a lifelong devotee of the theatre form.

"It celebrates Britishness, but it also celebrates kindness," said actor Maria Friedman. "It's got a big, warm heart. My goodness, don't we need that right now." 'Tinsel Town' is released in select US theatres and on digital platforms on Friday and debuts on Sky Cinema in the UK on December 5.