Hallmark Movies & Mysteries premiered its festive film, “My Christmas Guide,” on November 2nd, captivating audiences with its heartwarming story. Starring Amber Marshall and Ben Mehl, this movie, part of the ‘Miracles of Christmas’ event, has already garnered rave reviews and repeat viewings are expected throughout the holiday season. Let’s delve into the cast of “My Christmas Guide” and explore the behind-the-scenes magic that brought this Christmas movie to life.
Newfoundland Charm: Filming Locations of My Christmas Guide
“My Christmas Guide” was filmed in the picturesque landscapes of Newfoundland, Canada, during March. Despite the chill of late winter, the cast and crew embraced the location’s beauty. Cinematographer Juan Montalvo shared a behind-the-scenes glimpse on Instagram, tagging Newfoundland as the filming location, showcasing the real setting that adds to the movie’s charm.
Vox Smith, who plays Sean in the movie, also shared his appreciation for St. John’s, Newfoundland, on his Instagram, highlighting the beauty of the location. Johnathan Valvano further confirmed the filming location by posting a picture from St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Ben Mehl, one of the film’s leads, shared several posts reflecting on his time in Newfoundland. He expressed gratitude for working alongside Amber Marshall and praised her professionalism and kindness. In another post, Mehl recounted an adventure with Amber Marshall, the director Max, and DOP Juan, exploring the easternmost point of North America during a winter storm, showcasing the team’s camaraderie amidst the filming process. He even introduced Oliver the dog as one of his co-stars, emphasizing the heartwarming elements of the film both on and off screen. Justin Nurse, another actor in the movie, also shared his experience on Instagram, commending Ben Mehl’s resilience during the Newfoundland shoot, further highlighting the dedication of the “My Christmas Guide” cast and crew.
Meet the Stars of “My Christmas Guide”
Hallmark’s “My Christmas Guide” centers around a college professor who, after losing his sight, finds companionship and renewed confidence through a seeing-eye dog and its trainer. The official synopsis reveals: “After losing his eyesight, a college professor adopts a seeing eye dog from a guide dog trainer. As they all begin to spend time together, his confidence returns and his heart begins to open.” The talented cast brings this touching narrative to life.
Amber Marshall as Peyton
Amber Marshall and Ben Mehl, the lead cast of Hallmark's My Christmas Guide.
Amber Marshall embodies the role of Peyton, the guide dog trainer, in “My Christmas Guide”. Marshall’s passion for acting ignited at a young age. Her early involvement with The Original Kids Theatre Company paved the way for securing an agent in Toronto by age 11. Within a year, she landed her first significant role, portraying young Lorna Luft in “Me and My Shadows: The Life of Judy Garland.” She further showcased her talent as Ally in the YTV Network’s series “Super Rupert,” marking her first lead role.
Beyond her acting career, Marshall is deeply connected to horses. At 20, she relocated to southern Alberta, making ranch life an integral part of her identity. She lives on a ranch with her husband, Shawn, surrounded by horses, cattle, and various other animals. This genuine connection with animals likely adds authenticity to her role involving a guide dog in “My Christmas Guide.”
Ben Mehl as Trevor
Ben Mehl portrays Trevor, the college professor who adopts a seeing-eye dog, in “My Christmas Guide.” Mehl, a Canadian-American actor, is also known for his role as Dante, the visually impaired librarian in the Netflix hit series “You.” Mehl’s portrayal of characters with low vision is particularly meaningful to him as he himself is legally blind due to Stargardt’s disease.
In a 2021 interview with Screen Rant, Mehl discussed his preparation for portraying a visually impaired character in “You,” which resonates with his role in “My Christmas Guide.” He emphasized the importance of portraying confidence and poise rather than clumsiness. His observations of people with blindness and his work with mobility specialists informed his approach to embodying characters who navigate the world without sight. This dedication to authentic representation undoubtedly enriches his portrayal of Trevor in “My Christmas Guide.”
Supporting Cast
The “My Christmas Guide” cast is further enhanced by a talented ensemble, including:
- Ava Weiss as Annie Donovan
- Justin Gerard Nurse as Chad
- Bridget Wareham as Katie
- Jonathan Valvano as Nathan
- Leslie Takeda as Dr. Shaw
- Vox Smith as Sean
- Rory Lambert as Foreman
- Peter Soucy as Dr. Lewis
- Erin Mackey as Chef
- Patrina Bromley as Principal Harris
- Aidan Kalechstein as Older Boy
- Heather Reardigan as Receptionist
- David Fraser as Audiobook Narrator
- Evan Stern as Phone App Voice
Catch “My Christmas Guide” This Holiday Season
If you missed the premiere of “My Christmas Guide,” you have plenty of opportunities to watch it throughout the holiday season. Hallmark Movies & Mysteries has scheduled encore airings:
- Saturday, November 4: 10/9c
- Sunday, November 5: 6/5c
- Saturday, November 11: 4/3c
- Friday, November 17: 8/7c
- Thursday, November 23: 2/1c
- Tuesday, November 28: 10/9c
“My Christmas Guide,” with its charming cast and heartwarming narrative, is set to be a holiday viewing favorite. Don’t miss the chance to watch Amber Marshall, Ben Mehl, and the rest of the cast bring this festive story to your screens this Christmas season.
