Hallmark's newest holiday film, "Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper!", premieres tonight. The movie stars Robert Buckley and Kimberley Sustad. It was filmed in British Columbia, Canada, last June.
Director Jason Borque revealed surprising behind-the-scenes details. Key scenes were shot inside a former cannabis production facility. This creative location choice provided a unique setting for the movie's most elaborate sequences.
The production team utilized an empty marijuana factory for several sets. They built a hospital reception area and an intricate escape room within its walls. According to Borque, the massive stainless steel tanks inspired the steampunk Santa theme.
The crew transformed the industrial space on a tight schedule. This approach maximized production value. The escape room scene became a standout visual element because of this unique location.
The lead actors contributed to the film's humor through improvisation. Sustad confirmed they ad-libbed lines during a sleigh scene. This collaborative process added authenticity to their characters' interactions.
Buckley developed his relentlessly optimistic character from a simple concept. He enjoys seeing positive people face adversity. The script was tailored specifically for Sustad's comedic talents, according to writer Russell Hainline.
The unconventional filming locations for this Hallmark Christmas movie demonstrate remarkable production creativity. Audiences can expect a genuinely funny holiday story with standout chemistry. This behind-the-scenes ingenuity makes "Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper!" a unique entry in this year's festive lineup.
EntertainmentNOW, Heart in Motion Podcast, Suspenders Unbuttoned Podcast, Hallmark Channel, IMDb