Style Me For Christmas Star Raven Goodwin talks dancing with Mario and Black representation in Christmas movies

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As a long-time fan of Christmas movies, I must say that the upcoming release of “Style Me for Christmas” has me all a-flutter! Growing up, we didn’t have too many options when it came to holiday films featuring Black representation, so seeing this film come to life is truly heartwarming.

Would you be interested in helping design the holiday wardrobe of a popular, good-looking musician who also composes his own songs? If that sounds appealing to you, then don’t miss out on BET+’s new Christmas movie, “Style Me For Christmas,” airing on November 14th!

In the movie, Raven Goodwin (known for her roles in “Being Mary Jane” and “Grotesquerie”) portrays Tiffany, a timid boutique owner. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she lands a job styling Tedee Maxwell, a renowned R&B artist played by the actual singer-songwriter Mario. As she faces potential financial disaster, she also deals with the excitement of working alongside hip-hop superstar Mario in this heartwarming Christmas film streaming on BET+.

The secondary characters in the story are:

This film titled “Style Me For Christmas” is helmed by director LazRael Lison, with the script penned by Julene Fleurmond & Lynette J. Blackwell, and produced by Ty Johnston-Chavis and Melissa Llewellyn. Naturi Naughton Lewis, Tressa Azarel Smallwood, and Donte Lee assume the role of executive producers.

Raven Goodwin: I found it adorable! It was just ideal for the holiday period! I first encountered producer Ty Johnston in a carpool when I dropped off my child at school. We instantly clicked, and she informed me about this movie. My response was an immediate yes! She told me about MegaMind Media and all their ongoing projects, and I couldn’t resist getting involved!

What was it like working with LazRael Lison and being on set with him?

LazRael was fantastic! One of the things that really impressed me about him was his collaborative nature. Whenever I had any questions or suggestions for modifications, he was always open and welcoming to my input. This showed a great deal of respect for my expertise, which I truly valued.

As an actor, nothing could be more desired than the respect, particularly on film sets due to the lengthy, tiresome shooting days.

While something might seem fitting on paper, once implemented, it may not align perfectly. In such situations, one needs to act swiftly and adjust to ensure everything functions smoothly. I thrive in collaborative environments where everyone works together harmoniously.

What I love about your character Tiffany is seeing her [in her element], using the sewing machine and the creativity with the outfits. What’s your relationship to fashion? How does that play into creating Tiffany for who she is and incorporating that into the film?

I’ve always had a knack for personal style and been complimented on my sense of dress, a trait that seems to be characteristic of the East Coast, particularly DC. Fashion has always held a special place in my heart, with music being a significant source of inspiration as I grew up. I followed many music trends and admired how the “music girls” effortlessly put outfits together. As an actress, fashion plays a significant role in my life, and the part I play often determines the extent to which I can express my style. Tiffany, despite her simplicity, had a remarkable ability to make others look fabulous, which I find fascinating.

While I was engrossed in the movie, there were countless hilarious scenes too, which stood out. Although there was drama involved as well, the humor seemed to dominate in a delightful manner. It’s evident that Mario possesses an enduring charm transcending generations. I can’t help but wonder about my experience on set with him while developing our relationship for the film.

AL: It was really awesome! Growing up, we were big fans of Mario, especially since he hails from the same area as us – the DMV, specifically Baltimore. He truly embodies that role and continues to do so. He’s an amazing singer. Getting the opportunity to listen to him perform live was a fantastic experience. He’s incredibly gifted, and his talent is legendary. I was thrilled about collaborating with him, and his music will endure for eternity.

Discussing Prett Vee, whose humor left me in stitches. Let me assure you, I actually turned back to hear more of her jokes. Can you imagine how it felt collaborating with her and exchanging ideas?

As a die-hard fan, I’ve always been captivated by her unique brand of humor and physical comedy that leaves me in stitches. She might seem like a jokester [chuckles], but there’s no denying her immense talent. She’s an exceptional actress, and even in her comedic roles, you can sense the raw skill. Remarkably, she can rap too! Truly, she’s one of those multifaceted individuals who excels as an all-around entertainer. Watching her daily, I find myself constantly intrigued by the people I work with. What I admire about her is her deep spirituality and strong focus on mental health and overall wellness – qualities that shine through. It’s incredibly inspiring, so let me make it clear: I’m a big fan of Vena, without a doubt!

As we move toward the holiday season, which is Christmas, I find myself on the Eastern seaboard where the trees are shedding their leaves. Given my role in these festive movies, can you imagine how it feels to watch them and realize that I’m a part of this beloved film genre?

As a fan myself, I deeply appreciate the significance, particularly the portrayal of Black characters. In my childhood, heartwarming Christmas films like “Home Alone” were abundant, but the representation wasn’t as prominent. Now, crafting these movies for my children and their future generations to enjoy brings immense joy. It’s a profound feeling knowing that they can grow up watching content created by someone who looks like me. This is the primary reason I embark on these projects.

This film seems to emphasize its familial theme, offering a warm, enjoyable experience even amidst dramatic and perhaps sensual scenes. It’s a movie that encourages relaxation, perfect for cozy nights spent in the living room. Now, regarding the legacy of increased Black representation in Christmas films, could you share your aspirations for the enduring impact you wish this film to have on its viewers? Specifically, what emotions do you aim to evoke from this particular movie?

In the closing moments of the film, Tiffany delivers a heartfelt speech about hope, which feels particularly poignant given our current tumultuous times. The essence of Christmas – the cozy feelings, the familiar scents and warmth, the twinkling lights, and the enchantment of Santa Claus, the celebration of Christ’s birth, all stay unchanged. Being a part of this consistent joy during such challenging times holds immense significance for me; it’s something I cherish deeply.

Don’t forget to preview the trailer for “Style Me for Christmas” on MegaMind Media’s main YouTube account before you hit play!

Watch Style Me for Christmas on BET+ starting Nov. 14th on the BET+ streaming platform!

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2024-11-14 17:15