Eddie Murphy wants ‘Candy Cane Lane’ to put you in the Christmas spirit for years to come

Eddie Murphy’s desire is to evoke the enduring Christmas spirit in people’s hearts with his latest film, “Candy Cane Lane.” Drawing inspiration from cherished childhood memories spent with family in Brooklyn, where they immersed themselves in the magic of classic holiday movies, Murphy hopes to create similar moments for others through this project.

Reflecting on the selection of the script, Murphy emphasized the intention to craft a movie that stands the test of time, just like the timeless classics he enjoyed as a child. Films such as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and “Rudolph’s Shiny New Year” left a lasting impact on him, and he aspires to make a movie that people will watch repeatedly.

“Candy Cane Lane,” available on Prime Video, follows the story of Chris Carver, played by Murphy, who becomes consumed by the ambition to win his neighborhood’s annual Christmas decorating contest. A chance encounter with a mischievous yet well-meaning elf named Pepper, portrayed by Jillian Bell, leads to the 12 days of Christmas coming to life, causing holiday chaos in the town and putting Carver at risk of becoming a miniature ornament.

The film incorporates an element of magic, mirroring the boundless imagination and fantasy that captivates children during the holiday season. Tracee Ellis Ross, known for her roles in “black-ish” and “Girlfriends,” plays Murphy’s wife and adds humor to her husband’s intense Christmas competitiveness.

Murphy and Ross’s on-screen chemistry is remarkable, considering they had never worked together before. Ross’s character, Carol, complements her husband’s antics, providing a comedic touch to their relationship.

The ensemble cast also includes Thaddeus J. Mixson, Ken Marino, David Alan Grier, Nick Offerman, Robin Thede, and Chris Redd, whose figurine characters bear the brunt of Pepper’s antics.

The film’s screenplay is by Kelley Younger, who grew up in the holiday decorating competition hotspot, Candy Cane Lane in El Segundo, California. While the story offers heartwarming moments, it is also packed with thrilling action sequences.

Director Reginald Hudlin aimed to create a movie that encapsulated his love for both Christmas and action films. He sees Christmas movies as surprisingly versatile in catering to various tastes.

“Candy Cane Lane” marks Murphy’s debut in a holiday-themed film and his reunion with Hudlin since their 1992 classic, “Boomerang.” This romantic comedy expanded Murphy’s repertoire beyond comedy and action roles, establishing him as a charismatic leading man.

Reflecting on “Boomerang,” Murphy expressed pride in the film’s lasting impact and the success achieved by its cast members, including Halle Berry, Robin Givens, Martin Lawrence, and David Alan Grier.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Murphy had plans to return to stand-up comedy, but circumstances led him back to filmmaking. He recently completed shooting the fourth installment of the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley,” nearly three decades after the last installment.

While stand-up comedy remains a possibility for Murphy, his primary focus, along with Ross, is to create a timeless classic that brings friends and families together not only during this holiday season but for generations to come.

In conclusion, “Candy Cane Lane” represents Eddie Murphy’s heartfelt effort to infuse the enduring magic of Christmas into people’s lives through the medium of film, aiming to create a timeless holiday classic that families will treasure for years.

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More about Holiday Film

• Eddie Murphy: Eddie Murphy’s IMDb page for information on his filmography and career.
• Candy Cane Lane: IMDb page for “Candy Cane Lane” to learn more about the movie’s cast and crew.
• Reginald Hudlin: IMDb page for the director of “Candy Cane Lane,” Reginald Hudlin.
• Kelley Younger: IMDb page for Kelley Younger, the writer of “Candy Cane Lane.”
• Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley: IMDb page for Eddie Murphy’s upcoming film, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley.”