Sean Astin Stars in New Christmas Movie in Michigan

Several Christmas movies have been filmed in, or inspired by, Michigan, and a new holiday film, described as “not-so-Christmas,” is set to be shot in the Mitten State.

Christmas Movies That Were Filmed in Michigan

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Among the most well-known Christmas films tied to Michigan is 2004's The Polar Express. The animated classic features its iconic train, modeled after the real-life Pere Marquette 1225 steam locomotive, and was written by Grand Rapids native Chris Van Allsburg.

Photo by Bryan Castellanos on Unsplash

Below is a list of holiday movies that were filmed across Michigan:

Prancer (1989) - This holiday classic is about a rescued reindeer that was filmed in the village of Three Oaks in Berrien County.
The Christmas Bunny (2010) - Filmed entirely in Western Michigan towns including Wyoming, Alto, Zeeland, and Lowell.
Silver Bells (2013) - A Christmas drama about a former network broadcaster that filmed on location in Manistee, Ludington, and Grand Rapids.
Small Town Santa (2014) - Another festive favorite that was filmed on location in Rockford.
A Dog for Christmas (2015) - A family comedy filmed in Rockford, featuring local spots like The Corner Bar..
Miracle on Christmas (2020) - A family holiday movie that was filmed entirely in Brighton.
Cupid’s Christmas (2021) – Filmed in Holly, prominently featuring its historic train depot.
Christmas at the Holly Hotel (2022) - Set and filmed in the town of Holly at the historic Holly Hotel.

A new Christmas movie described as a non-traditional holiday film is currently being filmed in the Metro Detroit area.

Lights, Camera, Christmas? Michigan Gets New Movie

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Actor Sean Astin who is best known for starring in movies like Rudy, The Goonies, and The Lord of the Rings has been flying in and out of Detroit quietly making a new Christmas movie.

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According to MLive, the film is inspired by A Christmas Carol, with Astin playing Scruggs, a Scrooge-like figure visited by Marley, a former good man turned hardened businessman. Much of the movie was filmed in the town of Holly.