Looking for a new Christmas movie to add to your holiday season lineup? "The Christmas Letter" is here to fulfill that desire. This new film, shot in Central New York and featuring a reunion of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" stars, is now available for viewing at home. Let's dive into the details.

An Everyday Man's Christmas Quest

The plot of "The Christmas Letter" revolves around an ordinary man from Utica, played by Angus Benfield. Facing the challenge of topping his wealthy friend's annual Christmas letter, he takes a bold step by cashing out his 401K and embarking on a year-long series of crazy adventures with his family. This decision sets the stage for a heartwarming and memorable holiday story.The cast of the movie is truly remarkable. It includes three actors who appeared in 1989's "Christmas Vacation" - Chevy Chase, Randy Quaid (making his first movie appearance in 6 years), and Brian Doyle-Murray. These familiar faces bring a sense of nostalgia and excitement to the film.The scenes for "The Christmas Letter" were shot in various locations throughout the Mohawk Valley in January. From a home and church in Clinton to Utica's City Hall, Valley View Golf Course, Woods Valley ski area, Thrive Athletic Center, and The Stanley Theatre, every location adds to the charm and authenticity of the story.Chase filmed his scenes at the Fort Schuyler Club in Utica, while Quaid separately shot his role in Vermont. Despite the separation, Quaid still made a virtual appearance in Utica for a video call with Chase's character, adding an interesting element to the film.

Premiere and Availability

"The Christmas Letter" premiered at the Stanley Theatre in Utica last month and also had a screening at the Capitol Theatre in Rome. Now, fans can enjoy the movie anytime at home through various platforms. Here's how to watch it:- Amazon Prime Video: Rent ($4.99) or Buy ($12.99)- DVD: Amazon ($22.49) or Walmart ($22.49)- Apple TV+: Rent ($4.99) or Buy ($12.99)- YouTube TV: Rent ($4.99) or Buy ($12.99)- Fandango At Home: Rent ($4.99) or Buy ($12.99)- Hoopla Digital: Free streaming with a public library accountIt's important to note that Video On Demand rental and purchase prices listed are for HD (High Definition). SD (Standard Definition) options are also available at cheaper prices.

The Cast's Impressive Careers

Randy Quaid, 74, is an Oscar-nominated actor with memorable performances in the "National Lampoon's Vacation" franchise, "Independence Day," "Kingpin," "Major League II," "Brokeback Mountain," and the "Elvis" TV miniseries. Despite facing criminal charges in 2010 and being arrested in Vermont in 2015, he is back on the screen with "The Christmas Letter".Chevy Chase, 81, is an Emmy-winning actor who has starred in numerous movies and TV shows. His roles in "National Lampoon's Vacation," "Caddyshack," "Fletch," "Three Amigos," "Community," and the Syracuse-set "Snow Day" have made him a household name. He has previously visited Syracuse in 2019 and Utica in 2021 for screenings of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation".Brian Doyle-Murray, 78, has appeared in over 160 movies and TV shows, including "Groundhog Day," "Caddyshack," "Saturday Night Live," "Wayne's World," "JFK," "Scrooged," "Veep," and "SpongeBob SquarePants". His role in 1983's "National Lampoon's Vacation" alongside Chase and Quaid is a testament to his long and successful career.The cast also includes Brian Posehn ("The Big Bang Theory"), Kristoffer Polaha ("Jurassic World: Dominion"), Sean O'Bryan ("The Princess Diaries"), Regina Schneider ("The Blacklist"), and Chevy Chase's daughter, Caley Chase.

Producers and Behind-the-Scenes

Producers of "The Christmas Letter" include Benfield through his company LAMA Entertainment and Michael Cunningham, who now lives in the Rochester area. Their efforts have brought this holiday film to life.See more photos from the production:- Randy Quaid is pictured on the set of "The Christmas Letter" with Angus Benfield. The movie is shooting in the Utica area, while Quaid's scenes were shot in Vermont. (Photo courtesy LAMA Entertainment)- Chevy Chase was on set at the Fort Schuyler Club in Utica on January 21, 2024. (Photo courtesy of LAMA Entertainment)- A film crew shooting scenes in the village of Clinton on January 29, 2024. (Photo by John Howard)- Randy Quaid on the set with Angus Benfield. (Photo courtesy LAMA Entertainment)- Members of the "The Christmas Letter" movie pose for a group photo. (Photo by Caroline Cunningham)