Homegrown holiday production screening at MovieTowne

…Producer hopes it becomes holiday classic

As Christmas energy fills the air with gift-buying, glowing lights and festive excitement, audiences in Guyana are being invited to turn their attention to a different kind of spectacle – a locally produced show set to light up the screens at MovieTowne during the holiday season. It is a milestone moment for local film, being undertaken by a Guyanese actor and producer for the very first time.
The production is led by theatre practitioner, actor and producer Anastacia Shako-Van Tull, who is using the big screen as a medium to communicate prevalent social issues. Through the second season of her television series Shades of Brown – presented as a Christmas special – Shako-Van Tull continues to address key societal matters, including sexual abuse, while offering audiences a lighter, family-orientated experience.

Speaking during a recent interview with this publication, Shako-Van Tull explained that the MovieTowne production is based on the television series that debuted in January 2025 and has since received overwhelming feedback, with praise for its high production value and the performances – particularly from newly introduced Guyanese talent. “I would say that this film is a little bit more nuanced in the storytelling of issues. Because it’s more of a family film. It’s a little bit… lighter. It’s more of a comedy. But it still highlights some issues. But it’s not as heavy as a TV show. Because we wanted to make it a nice Christmas special that we could watch for years. Maybe like our own Home Alone…” She further explained that the project emerged in response to strong audience demand, with fans expressing that they were unwilling to wait until next year for the continuation of the series. Instead, they suggested a special production to bridge the gap between seasons. With the cast readily on board and enthusiastic about the idea, the concept quickly took shape. One development led seamlessly to another, ultimately resulting in a Christmas-themed production that leans more toward comedy and was able to make its way to the big screen at MovieTowne. Beyond the entertainment value, Shako-Van Tull views the MovieTowne screening as a significant step forward for the local film industry.
“I think this is a big accomplishment for Guyanese and local films. I really think that this is a good step in the right direction. Because it’s something that not only benefits my company, but I feel it will give other filmmakers an opportunity…so that we can have more respect for the craft.”

Major breakthrough in Guyanese film history
Offering her perspective on moving beyond sole dependence on YouTube or international film festivals, she described the opportunity to screen local productions in Guyana’s cinemas as a major breakthrough. She noted that having accessible, open cinemas that actively promote Guyanese films is a critical step for the growth of the industry and expressed hope that this milestone will pave the way for more local productions to be showcased on the big screen.
When asked what advice she would offer to aspiring filmmakers who may want to follow a similar path but are unsure where to begin, Shako-Van Tull emphasised the importance of starting small and remaining consistent. “I would just say, just start. With whatever little that you have, just start. Even if it starts off with a five-minute short, 10-minute short. As you keep going, people will find you the right people. The main ingredient for success, mostly, is consistency. If you’re consistent with what you do, along the way you’ll find people who will be there to help… Don’t be afraid to fail.” Reflecting on the production process, she noted that the film features an 11-member cast and was completed within a month, with scheduling being the primary challenge. “We have 11 members in the cast… But for this one, we only took like a month to do this particular film. And some of the challenges, as usual, is scheduling. Scheduling, scheduling, scheduling… In Guyana, it’s like no crazy person just does one thing. They usually do like five, ten things.”
Despite these challenges, Shako-Van Tull remains optimistic about the future of Guyanese cinema and is urging audiences to come out and support the production.
“… there is a growing film industry in our country… I think our stories are important. I think our stories are worthy. So I would want them to come and support what we’re doing so that we can continue to grow.” She added that audience support at this stage could help pave the way for greater local and international opportunities for Guyanese filmmakers. “I know that they will be helping not only us, but to encourage other filmmakers to take steps like this.”
MovieTown Cinema, Lionrises Media, What’s Happening Guyana, and Shutter Media are the four sponsors of the milestone event.