Kiefer Sutherland, the Canadian actor best known for his role as Jack Bauer in the hit TV series 24, has been spotted out and about in market towns across Yorkshire. The reason for his visit? To film a Christmas comedy about pantomimes, titled Tinsel Town.
Sutherland plays the lead role of Bradley Mack, a washed-up Hollywood action star who thinks a stint in the West End will save his career. However, when he arrives in England, he realizes that he'll be starring in a small theatre production of Cinderella in a northern town called Stoneford. Despite initial reservations, Sutherland gamely takes on the role and even gets to perform some musical numbers.
The film also stars Rebel Wilson as Jill, a choreographer who helps Bradley get back into acting shape. The two actors have reportedly had a blast working together, with Sutherland saying that Wilson "brought real heart" to the film.
But what's most surprising about Tinsel Town is that it features an all-star cast of stage icons, including Derek Jacobi and Meera Syal. The movie also tackles the issue of pantomimes being a vital part of British theatre, with Maria Friedman, an eight-time Olivier award nominee, praising the film for its positive take on the art form.
Sutherland's experience in making the film was eye-opening, particularly when it came to his lack of familiarity with pantomimes. "I've never seen a pantomime," he confessed earlier this year. "I got so excited: 'Oh my gosh, I'm gonna go see the panto tonight!' It was a big part of my research. Of course, it had closed the night before."
Overall, Tinsel Town is a feel-good family comedy that's sure to delight audiences this Christmas season. With its talented cast and positive take on pantomimes, it's definitely one to watch.
Sutherland plays the lead role of Bradley Mack, a washed-up Hollywood action star who thinks a stint in the West End will save his career. However, when he arrives in England, he realizes that he'll be starring in a small theatre production of Cinderella in a northern town called Stoneford. Despite initial reservations, Sutherland gamely takes on the role and even gets to perform some musical numbers.
The film also stars Rebel Wilson as Jill, a choreographer who helps Bradley get back into acting shape. The two actors have reportedly had a blast working together, with Sutherland saying that Wilson "brought real heart" to the film.
But what's most surprising about Tinsel Town is that it features an all-star cast of stage icons, including Derek Jacobi and Meera Syal. The movie also tackles the issue of pantomimes being a vital part of British theatre, with Maria Friedman, an eight-time Olivier award nominee, praising the film for its positive take on the art form.
Sutherland's experience in making the film was eye-opening, particularly when it came to his lack of familiarity with pantomimes. "I've never seen a pantomime," he confessed earlier this year. "I got so excited: 'Oh my gosh, I'm gonna go see the panto tonight!' It was a big part of my research. Of course, it had closed the night before."
Overall, Tinsel Town is a feel-good family comedy that's sure to delight audiences this Christmas season. With its talented cast and positive take on pantomimes, it's definitely one to watch.