As the holiday season begins, TV One is showing audiences “home is where the chaos is” with the trailer for Essence Atkins’ directorial debut, Christmas Dilemma.
The film centers on newlywed couple Jay (BJ Britt from Being Mary Jane, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) and Monica (Brittany Hall from Ballers, Satisfaction).
“First Christmas as husband and wife,” Monica says smiling in the trailer while Jay puts a star on their tree.
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The two try to navigate their first Christmas together as a married couple, while debating which set of in-laws to spend the holiday with.
Their families seem to make a decision for them and show up at their home unannounced. Drama ensues as in-laws and long-lost family members reunite with Jay and Monica, and even an ex-girlfriend is thrown in the mix.
Joining the cast are Carl Anthony Payne II (Martin, 5th Ward) as Eddie and Christopher B. Duncan (Black Lightning, The Jamie Foxx Show) as Howard. The film is produced for TV One by Swirl Films with Eric G. Tomosunas and COO Robert A. Boyd II serving as executive producers.
The holiday movie is Atkins’ first time in the director’s chair after starring in the TV One films Girlfriend’s Getaway, Coins For Christmas, and Coins For Love.
“I am immeasurably grateful for the opportunity to helm a film that I can declare I’m proud of. This entire experience has taught me so much and was a true delight,” she said in a statement.
Christmas Dilemma premieres Sunday, Dec. 6 at 7 PM ET on TV One.
Watch the trailer below.