TV One’s upcoming film, Christmas Dilemma Press Conference

Essence Atkins makes her directorial debut with the premiere of Christmas Dilemma, set to hit TV One Sunday, December 6 at 7 pm EST/6 pm CST with an immediate encore at 9 pm EST/8 pm CST. As an actor, Atkins starred in films, to name a few, such as Coins for Love, Girlfriends Getaway, and her latest production, Ambitious. The veteran actress steps from behind the camera and presents a talented cast starring BJ Britt, Brittany Hall, Carl Anthony Payne II, and Christopher B. Duncan. 

Christmas Dilemma follows a newlywed couple Jay (Britt) and Monica (Hall), as they struggle to decide which set of in-laws they should join for their first Christmas. After each pleads their case and even attempts a little trickery, they decide to bypass the guaranteed disappointment of picking one family over the other. Unbeknownst to them, the decision is made for them when their families show up at their home unexpectedly. Drama ensues as the in-laws’ clash, long-lost relatives decide to make an appearance, and Jay’s grandmother joins the holiday festivities accompanied by her caretaker, who just happens to be Jay’s gorgeous ex-girlfriend.

TV One virtual press conference started by welcoming the cast as each member greeted the press with a kind word. They began with the same question to each cast member and other questions directed to a specific cast member. Without a doubt, most questions were directed to former Martin co-star Carl Anthony Payne II; however, each actor was very involved, and it was a fun and exciting discussion. Not to mention we had a few comedians (lol).

 

Q: What made you want to join this project during the holiday season?

BJ: I was excited to be back on set and work with a great cast.

Brittany: I didn’t know who was directing, but I was excited when I got the call. It was magical. I even celebrated my birthday on set.

Christopher: After reading the script, the story right away pulled me in. Who wouldn’t be involved? This movie is about the power of love and letting go of our egos. That’s something I can relate to.

Carl: I was tired of being at home (burst into laughter). Christmas is always a favorite time of the year for me. I enjoyed being able to play different characters. 

Q: What Christmas Dilemma have you personally experienced?

Carl: One of the biggest Christmas Dilemma’s was when I was young. I grew up in Harlem, and times weren’t so good. I remember seeing things on tv about how Christmas was supposed to be. We did not even have a tree (real or fake). Mom put up Christmas Cards in the shape of a tree. My dad worked for a toy factory; he brought home defective toys. But we were together, and family unity was important. At the time, I did not see it as a dilemma. It was all about love and family. 

Q: How do you think the industry has evolved since the ’90s until now?

Carl: It has taken a crazy turn. You needed to be a triple threat in the past; now, it’s based on popularity. I think we still have to be able to articulate and use our skills, although it’s a lot harder today due to the era we live in.

Q: If you had an unexpected guest (ex-girlfriend) come home for Christmas, how would you handle that in real life? 

BJ: (loud laughter) I don’t know what I would have done. My dad taught me to know when to hold them and know when to fold them.

Q: Social Media can be vital as an artist, veterans in the industry. Is it important for you to use social media? Do you find yourself using social media?

Carl: Yes, I do. It’s essential for fan engagement and reviews. I’m still learning (lol). I didn’t come from that. I try to keep young people around me. 

Q: How was it filming the strip club scene? Would you do this in real life? 

Carl: We get there at 7:30 am, and it still smells like booty juice(laughter). No food was allowed, every other strip club, the chicken wings were the bomb (I heard, laughing). No, this would not have worked with my family, maybe dad. 

Brittany: It was my favorite day on set. During COVID, I taught myself to poll dance. I was watching the real dancers. The way Essence shot that scene was dope.

Christopher: I enjoyed every minute inside that strip club. I was placed directly in front of the sister, who played the stripper. (oh my, laughing) I was not mad! I agree with Brittany. The way Essence shot the scene was pure joy and good times.

BJ: Who does not like going to strip club for Christmas? No! Not with my mom. My mom is an assistant pastor, and she would not be there. I would not go there with my family, maybe my cousins. I think Essence shot this scene amazingly. It was a fun and loving scene that just so happen to have strippers in it (big smile).

Q: Christmas Dilemma is your first poster movie. How do you feel about that?

Brittany: It makes my heart full, a lot of first! My first tv lead, My first press, My first zoom, My first poster movie(smiling). I will put one in my mom’s house and my house. I was doing a scene with Carl, and I watched him, thinking I’m doing a scene with the man I watched for years. I have so many beautiful blessings.

Q: Is your life similar to the husband and father character you play?

Christopher: Howard and I are quite similar. We are very protective of our family. Intensely so. I will even admit to the ego getting the best of both of them.

Q: What is your Thanksgiving 5 first for your plate?

BJ: My Thanksgiving five is mac n cheese, honey bun cake, coconut cream pie, yams, and greens.

Q: What’s your favorite Holiday Movie?

BJ: My favorite holiday movie is Home Alone.

Q: You were the mediator in the movie. What are some of your tips for surviving the holidays in your personal life? 

BJ: My parents already told me not to come home this holiday. They are not playing with COVID!

Q: When was the first time you realized you wanted to act? 

Brittany: Watching Jurnee Smollett in Eve’s Bayou, I knew that could be me!

Q: How do you keep yourself motivated?

Brittany: My family keeps me motivated.

Q: Everyone has rough patches, lost from COVID. What Christmas song do you recommend for people to get that uplift in their spirit? 

Carl: My dad used to be big on Johnny Mathis Christmas. I like Motown Christmas.

Christopher: “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway, my favorite song on this planet. 

 

SwagHer Magazine’s Clairica Lange attended and reported on this event.