New holiday-themed movie '#WorstChristmasEver' deals with family, holiday mayhem

PANORAMA CITY, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Thanksgiving is around the corner. But it's already Christmas at the movies. And this one bills itself as the "worst!" Despite the title, you may feel pretty good watching "#WorstChristmasEver."

"There's not a lot that is released content wise or otherwise that's just made to be nice and feel good and remind of that, like, life is kind of wonderful," said Shanti Lowry.

This self-founded independent movie wasn't made with a lot of money, but it was made with a lot of love, hope and determination.

"We went into shooting, and we still needed at least six figures' worth of funds in order to finish the movie. So, the stress was real!" filmmaker Maurice Hall said.

"We don't have a lot, but we believe in it, and I think that's the belief that fuels the train that gets it going, that makes people get on that bandwagon, that wants to give their all," said Taja V. Simpson. "We're like the little engine that could so was it a fight? For sure! Was it worth it? Absolutely!"

The movie deals with family, holiday mayhem...and more. Two familiar faces are part of the fun!

"It's really good and it's full of comedy and it's full of love and romance and disappointment and, you know, rekindling. And then some chaos," said Tamala Jones.

"It really made me think of, like, Spike Lee back in the day, like, when Spike Lee was just making his movies and they were, like, picking up the cameras and running, you know? But we got it done!" Bill Bellamy said.

And, along the way, they made it special for the newcomers in their cast.

"My dream is coming true. And being involved as an actor and not blocked by disabilities - so I'm happy to be a part of that," said Jennifer Matos.

"It is. It really is. This is my first red carpet, my first feature film and it is, yes," said Mo Ashley.

You can see "#WorstChristmasEver" beginning Friday, Nov. 14 at the Regency Theatres Van Nuys and then on Tubi beginning Nov. 18.