Behind the Scenes of ‘The Christmas Witch Movie’
Bringing a story from the page to the screen is no small task—but when the story is full of magic, heart, and wonder, it feels less like work and more like destiny. Here's a little peek behind the scenes of our creative journey adapting The Christmas Witch into a film!
The Creative Journey Behind Adapting a Book into a Film
What was the initial spark that led you to adapt your book into a movie?
At the heart of it all, it was family. My mom and I have always loved working together, creating what we call “Movies with Meaning.” Naturally, adapting The Christmas Witch felt like the next step—a way to take the magic I built on the page and bring it to life on screen. She’s been my biggest cheerleader every step of the way, and having her alongside me for this journey has made it even more special.
How did you balance staying true to the original story while making it work for film?
As a screenwriter, I’ve learned not to cling too tightly to the script. In film, story always comes first—even if that means changing locations, cutting dialogue, or pivoting in unexpected ways. Sometimes the way a moment is written in a book doesn’t translate visually, and that’s okay.
For example, in the book, Cerridwen quietly reflects on missing her late husband Duncan. In the film, I wanted to show that depth of emotion rather than simply telling it. So I wrote a new flashback scene, giving viewers a glimpse of their beautiful relationship, capturing both the joy and the ache of memory. It’s moments like these that remind me: adaptation isn’t about copying—it’s about honoring the spirit of the story in a new language.
Casting the Right Actors for the Right Roles
How did you approach casting? What qualities were you looking for in your lead actors?
When it came to casting, I let my intuition lead the way. I wasn’t just looking for someone who looked the part, I wanted actors who embodied the essence of the characters. Watching self-tapes, I focused on who felt like they belonged in Amberlight Valley.
As the author, I naturally had specific images in mind, but seeing the characters I had dreamed up standing right in front of me on set? Absolutely surreal. It is so magical and a little eerie… like watching my imagination walk and talk in the real world!
Country Music Artist, Brooklyn Summer brings Brigid to life in The Christmas Witch movie.
Bringing the Magic of the Story to Life on Screen
How did you approach the visual elements of the story, such as special effects or set design?
The magic of The Christmas Witch truly lives in the details… and I’m beyond lucky to have two incredible creative partners bringing those details to life: Christina Brown, our visionary set designer and props master, and Jennifer O’Bannon, our brilliant wardrobe stylist.
Christina began planning our sets the moment the book was published, highlighting every special piece she would need. Years of quiet, careful planning have blossomed into handmade wonders, like our breathtaking spiral standing stones and Befana’s Grimoire. (I’m completely in love with them!)
Meanwhile, Jennifer is telling layered color stories through costume design, each choice intentional, each thread woven with meaning. Every visual element has been chosen with love and care to make the world feel real.
Challenges and Triumphs in Film Production
What were some unexpected challenges you faced while making the film?
Like many indie filmmakers, our biggest challenge has been fundraising. We’re trying to create something truly magical on a small budget, which can stretch even the best-laid plans. We’ve successfully completed Phase One and Phase Two of filming and are currently raising funds for Phase Three!
Beyond the logistics, I faced a more personal challenge: impostor syndrome. It whispered that I wasn’t "qualified enough" to bring this world to life. But standing on set, surrounded by our incredible cast and crew, that fear melts away. I’m beyond grateful for the creative family we’ve built.
How did you overcome those challenges, and what moments were you most proud of?
It truly takes a village… and I’m blessed with the most amazing one. Leaning on my family, my team, and the incredible support system we’ve built around this project keeps me grounded.
One of my proudest moments so far has been working alongside my friend, co-director, and cinematographer, Bernie Tarin. We have a natural flow… sometimes we just know what the other is thinking without saying a word. It’s pure creative magic, and it’s been an absolute joy to bring this vision to life with him.
Andrea McClew, Dalea Faulkner, Bernie Tarin, & Martina Webster on the red carpet discuss The Christmas Witch at the 2025 Luxury Gala in Los Angeles.
The journey from page to screen hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge, every breakthrough, every spark of magic has been worth it.
The Christmas Witch is more than just a story. It’s a love letter to wonder, to healing, to family, to the belief that light always finds a way through the darkness. And now, it’s finding its next chapter in a whole new way.
I can’t wait to share it with you. Thank you for believing in the magic with me.
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