New Kenyan Christmas Movie Coming Soon

In the heart of a Kenyan Christmas, chaos takes center stage as the Nyati family, an eclectic mix of personalities and agendas, embarks on a seven-day journey through the festive season in “A Merry X-Mess,” the highly anticipated second-ever Kenyan Christmas feature.

Directed by Gilbert Lukalia, known for “Mission to Rescue,” and written by Damaris Irungu, the mind behind “Pepeta” and “Crime and Justice,” this holiday extravaganza promises to be a fun, escapist, heartwarming delight for families across Africa.

The narrative unfolds as the fiercely competitive family matriarch, Zawadi Nyati, played by Regina Re of “Pieces of Us” fame, invites her equally competitive sister, Aunty Fidelis (Naomi Ramtu), from the village to join forces in winning the annual family Christmas choir competition at the local church. The stakes are high, and the clash of egos adds an extra layer of hilarity to the festive proceedings.

As Zawadi attempts to secure victory in the choir competition, she can’t resist meddling in her son’s love life. Kina’s Bruce Makau takes on the role of Ken, a charming ladies’ man who undergoes a transformative experience when he meets a hard-to-get church girl, played by Sheila Munyiva, known for her roles in “Rafiki” and “Country Queen.”

The family dynamics intensify with the arrival of Toni, portrayed by Melissa Kiplagat of “Country Queen” fame, who returns from America with her two sons. Toni grapples with the clash between African traditions, imposed by her know-it-all uncle (Joel Kennedy Otukho), and the allure of moving back home for good.

Mufasa Kibet, following his debut in Showmax’s “Crime and Justice,” steps into the role of Charlie, Zawadi’s youngest son, seeking quality time with his wife and family amidst the holiday chaos.

Irungu describes “A Merry X-Mess” as a story about family, Christmas, and the joy the season brings. She expresses her desire for the film to resonate not only with Kenyans but with the entire continent, aiming for a universal appeal.

The ensemble cast also includes Joel Kennedy Otukho, Naomi Ramtu, Raymond Karago, and newcomers Eunice Kangai, David Muturi, Chase Njogu Mathenge, and Gachecheh Kenyua.

Following the success of Reuben Odanga’s “A Familiar Christmas” in December 2022, “A Merry X-Mess” is set to premiere exclusively on Showmax on December 15th, marking another significant addition to Kenya’s growing repertoire of Christmas feature films. Irungu and Lukalia hope that audiences will not only enjoy the festive chaos but also develop a fondness for the Nyati family, making it a must-watch for Christmases to come.