The Best Christmas Films and New Year Movies to Watch This Holiday Season

As it is Christmas Eve, there’s nothing better than cozying up on the sofa with a hot drink and great Christmas films. From nostalgic classics to modern hits, holiday films capture the spirit of Christmas and the excitement of a fresh start in the New Year. Here’s our curated list of the best Christmas and New Year films to watch this festive season. Christmas Classics Home Alone (1990) No Christmas list is complete without Home Alone. This iconic film follows Kevin McCallister, a mischievous 8-year-old, left behind during Christmas vacation. His antics defending his home from bungling burglars are heartwarming and hilarious. It’s a timeless reminder of the importance of family, even when they drive you crazy! It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) This black-and-white classic is a must-watch for its timeless message about love, sacrifice, and the impact one life can have. It’s a Wonderful Life follows George Bailey as he learns, with the help of an angel, just how much he means to his community. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) This delightful adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol adds humor, music, and the beloved Muppets. With Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, it’s both family-friendly and full of festive cheer. Modern Holiday Favorites Elf (2003) Will Ferrell shines as Buddy, a human raised by elves in the North Pole. This comedy is packed with laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt lessons about finding your true place in the world and the power of Christmas spirit. The Holiday (2006) If you’re [...]

The Best Christmas Films and New Year Movies to Watch This Holiday Season2024-11-29T14:42:50+00:00

The Disney Live Action Remake Debate: Breathing New Life or Capitalising on Nostalgia?

The trend of Disney live action remakes has become a cinematic phenomenon that elicits diverse reactions from film enthusiasts and Disney fans alike. These adaptations, bringing classic animated films to life using real actors and modern visual effects, have stirred a compelling debate within the film community. Breathing New Life into Beloved Stories Proponents of Disney live-action remakes argue that these adaptations offer a fresh perspective on timeless tales. Creative Exploration: One of the key advantages, according to supporters, is the opportunity for filmmakers to explore different creative approaches. Adapting animated classics into live action allows directors and writers to reinterpret narratives, delve into character motivations, and add layers to familiar stories. Visual Upgrades: Advancements in technology play a significant role, enabling stunning visual effects that elevate the cinematic experience. The transition from hand-drawn animation to live action provides an opportunity to update the visuals, incorporating cutting-edge effects that were not possible in the original animated versions. Introduction to New Audiences: Live-action remakes serve as a gateway for a new generation of audiences to discover and appreciate classic Disney stories. For those who may not have grown up with the animated originals, these adaptations provide a chance to experience the magic in a format that resonates with contemporary filmmaking styles. Criticisms of Lack of Originality and Charm Despite the praise, critics argue that Disney live-action remakes often fall short in terms of originality and the charm inherent in their animated counterparts. Nostalgia as a Driving Force: A prominent criticism [...]

The Disney Live Action Remake Debate: Breathing New Life or Capitalising on Nostalgia?2024-01-11T13:30:42+00:00

The Power of Music in Christmas Videos

The power of music in Christmas videos cannot be underestimated. When it comes to video production, editing, and filmmaking, music plays a crucial role in setting the tone and evoking emotions in the audience. Who doesn’t love watching a Christmas movie with a mug of warm hot chocolate?! Christmas videos are known for their festive and joyful atmosphere, and carefully selected music can enhance these feelings. The right choice of music can create a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and excitement that is synonymous with the holiday season, and enjoyed by people all over the world. Videographers and filmmakers understand the importance of incorporating music into their video content. It helps to establish a connection with the viewers and enhances the overall viewing experience. Whether it's a heartwarming family gathering or a lively holiday celebration, the right musical accompaniment can bring these scenes to life. Music also helps in creating a cohesive narrative within Christmas videos. It adds rhythm and pacing to different scenes, guiding the audience through various emotions and story arcs. From background tracks that subtly support the visuals to impactful musical moments that heighten dramatic or joyful moments, music has the power to elevate any Christmas video. According to FiveThirtyEight, who analysed songs on IMBD, Jingle Bells has appeared in 373 movies! Can you think of any movies this song has been in? What’s your favourite Christmas song? In the Shot Blast Media office, we always get excited about getting into the wintery season and being able [...]

The Power of Music in Christmas Videos2023-10-20T10:31:57+00:00

Christmas Video Marketing: Tips for Businesses

During the holiday season, businesses have a great opportunity to engage with their audience through Christmas video marketing. Videos are a powerful tool for capturing attention and conveying messages effectively. In this article, we will explore some valuable tips for businesses looking to leverage video production and marketing during the festive season. Video marketing during Christmas can help companies create a strong emotional connection with their target audience. By incorporating festive elements and themes into their videos, businesses can tap into the holiday spirit and evoke positive emotions in viewers. One important tip is to plan ahead and start early. Christmas is a busy time for everyone, so it's crucial to begin the video production process well in advance. This allows companies to ensure that they have enough time for brainstorming ideas, finding actors or staff to be in the video, scripting, getting costumes, location and props ready, filming, editing, and any necessary revisions, as well as sorting a marketing strategy around this so that your target audience will see the video. Another top tip is to focus on storytelling. A compelling narrative can captivate viewers and make your company video memorable. Consider incorporating elements such as heartwarming stories, humour, or even showcasing how your products or services bring joy during the holiday season. We’ve also seen businesses create parodies of their favourite Christmas films or books, which work well to make their audience laugh and engage with the content. Additionally, it's essential to optimise your videos for various [...]

Christmas Video Marketing: Tips for Businesses2023-10-20T10:41:44+00:00

Horror Films Based on True Stories

Horror films based on true stories have captivated audiences for decades. These movies take inspiration from real-life events, adding an extra layer of terror and suspense to the viewing experience. Whether it's a haunting, a serial killer, or supernatural occurrences, these films tap into our primal fears and leave us with a lingering sense of unease. For horror enthusiasts, these movies offer a unique blend of entertainment and intrigue. They provide a chilling reminder that sometimes truth can be stranger - and scarier - than fiction. By drawing from real events, filmmakers are able to create narratives that feel grounded in reality, making the scares all the more effective. Halloween is often associated with horror films, as people seek out thrilling experiences during this time of year. From classic titles like "The Exorcist" and "Psycho" to more recent releases like "The Conjuring" series and "Hereditary," horror films based on true stories continue to be popular among audiences. Here are some horror movies we found that are based on real life stories: The Exorcist (1973) The Exorcist movie is based on a book, which is based on the real-life of a boy who was possessed by demons in 1949. The movie stars Linda Blair, Ellen Burstyn, and Jason Miller, the movie made $112.3 million worldwide. The real exorcism was so frightening that there have been books written on some of the people who witnessed it. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) This film is based on America’s famous serial killer Ed [...]

Horror Films Based on True Stories2023-10-02T14:03:47+00:00

Notable Movies and TV Shows That Were Filmed in Leeds

Leeds, a vibrant city in West Yorkshire, has been a popular location for filmmakers and video production companies, including Shot Blast Media! Over the years, several movies have been filmed in Leeds, showcasing its diverse landscapes and unique architecture. The city's rich history and modern infrastructure make it an ideal backdrop for various genres of films. From period dramas to contemporary thrillers, Leeds offers a versatile range of locations that can bring any story to life on the silver screen. One notable film shot in Leeds is The Damned United (2009), which tells the largely fictional story of legendary football manager Brian Clough’s ill-fated, 44-day reign, as the coach of Leeds United. The movie captures the essence of Leeds during the 1970s and features iconic landmarks such as Elland Road Stadium, home to Leeds United Football Club. This 2009 film was adapted from the 2006 bestselling novel “The Damned Utd”. The film used the real Elland Road football stadium for the scene where Brain Clough has a talk with the team in the tunnel facing the pitch. Other locations used in Leeds include; Headingley Stadium, the former Cookridge Hospital site and a linen hire firm in Armley. Interestingly, the film has been criticised by the Clough family as they claim it was not a true story of events. Another film that utilised Leeds as its filming location is Brassed Off (1996), a heartwarming comedy-drama set against the backdrop of a colliery brass band. This movie showcases various areas of [...]

Notable Movies and TV Shows That Were Filmed in Leeds2023-09-07T09:01:06+00:00

Marketing A Movie Like Barbie

You would have seen the endless marketing campaigns for the new Barbie movie (2023), starring Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie, but what do you think about them? Marketing a movie like Barbie has definitely got to be a fun job! All the pink, glitz and sparkles... Barbie has been an iconic brand for decades, captivating the hearts of children and adults alike with its range of dolls, accessories, and imaginative playsets. In recent years, the marketing strategies surrounding Barbie have evolved to encompass various platforms and techniques to reach a wider audience. From traditional advertising methods to innovative digital campaigns, Barbie has proven itself as a master in creating buzz and excitement around its cinematic ventures. Marketing plays a crucial role in the success of movies and films. It is not enough to simply create a great movie; it also needs effective marketing campaigns to reach its target audience and generate buzz. In today's competitive entertainment industry, where countless movies are released each year, marketing becomes even more essential. Successful movie marketing can have a significant impact on box office performance. A well-executed campaign can drive ticket sales by building anticipation before release and sustaining interest throughout its theatrical run. Moreover, positive word-of-mouth generated by effective marketing efforts can lead to increased viewership beyond the initial release period. Greta Gerwig's take on ‘Barbie’ will spread the iconic brand to a lot more consumers who otherwise would not connect with the Barbie franchise. One of their more extravagant marketing campaigns [...]

Marketing A Movie Like Barbie2023-07-26T08:50:54+00:00

Celebrating International Women’s Day in the Film Industry

It is important to understand the context of International Women's Day in the film industry and its meaning within today’s society. International Women's Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on March 8th. It is a day to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women in all aspects of life, from politics to business, education and social activism. This day serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done in order for women to achieve true gender equality. On this day, we are reminded of the importance of standing together and supporting each other in our fight for gender justice. International Women’s Day is an important day in the film industry as it highlights the contributions of women in film and celebrates their achievements. It is a day to recognise the unique talents and perspectives that women bring to the film industry, and to encourage more female filmmakers to pursue their dreams. On this day, we celebrate the contributions of women in the industry, from directors, producers, writers, actors, cinematographers and more. International Women’s Day also serves as a reminder of how far we still have to go in achieving gender parity in the film industry, and encourages us all to continue striving for progress. This day also provides an opportunity for us to come together and support each other in our respective roles in order to create a more inclusive environment for everyone. Did you know that 41 of 2021’s top 100 [...]

Celebrating International Women’s Day in the Film Industry2023-03-06T16:34:42+00:00

How To Celebrate Global Movie Day 2023

Global Movie Day is celebrated the second Saturday of February and is a celebration of the power and beauty of cinema. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences established Global Movie Day as a day for film fans around the world to celebrate their most favourite movies and engage with Academy members and filmmakers across social media channels. Global Movie Day strives to bring together people from diverse backgrounds who are united by their love for movies. It is a day to appreciate the art form and its impact on our lives. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of movies in our culture and society. The event has grown significantly since it began, with millions of people participating in events all over the world. On Global Movie Day, movie fans come together to watch films from different countries, discuss their favourite films, share stories about how movies have impacted them personally, or simply enjoy watching a movie with friends or family. Whether you're looking for a classic movie night or a more modern streaming experience, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your favourite films. From streaming them online, to watching them in a cinema or even at home, there are many options available for you and your loved ones to enjoy a good film. Through this celebration of cinema, we can gain insight into different cultures and perspectives while also celebrating our shared love for film. It also provides an opportunity for filmmakers [...]

How To Celebrate Global Movie Day 20232023-02-08T11:19:18+00:00

The Best Valentine’s Day Romantic Comedy Films to Watch

Valentine's Day romantic comedy films are a great way to enjoy this February 14th! Valentine's Day is a special day for couples to celebrate love and romance, celebrated on the 14th February every year. But what better way to show your love for each other than by watching a romantic movie together? With so many movies to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is the best. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best Valentine's Day romantic comedy movies that are sure to make your Valentine's Day extra special. Valentine's Day - This is a 2010 romantic comedy film directed by Garry Marshall. The film features a large ensemble cast, including big names such as Taylro Swift, Jessica Alba, Kathy Bates, Bradley Cooper, Anne Hathaway, Queen Latifah, Emma Roberts and Julia Roberts. It’s a fantastic film to watch on February 14th if you’re in the mood for a RomCom! The Notebook - This is a 2004 romantic drama film directed by Nick Cassavetes, based on the 1996 novel by Nicholas Sparks. The film stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as a young couple who fall in love in the 1940s. The movie looks back on an old couple's life to show how they met and fell in love. Be prepared for a sad ending though! Titanic - This is a 1997 American epic romantic disaster film directed, written, produced, and co-edited by James Cameron. Incorporating historical and fictionalised aspects, it is based on [...]

The Best Valentine’s Day Romantic Comedy Films to Watch2023-02-06T15:46:04+00:00