Exclusive: Shamar Hill talks Brewster’s Millons: Christmas
Currently playing on BET+ is the holiday film BREWSTER’S MILLIONS: CHRISTMAS, a fresh reimagining of the 1985 timeless comedic classic, “Brewster’s Millions.”
Starring China Anne McClain, Romeo Miller, Richard Pryor Jr., and Rain Pryor—the children of legendary comedian Richard Pryor—along with Telma Hopkins, Tequan Richmond, and Sierra McClain, the film follows Morgan Brewster, a wealthy heiress who has lost her way. She is faced with a Christmas challenge to inherit her uncle Monty Brewster’s grandfather's fortune and must learn the true meaning of love, faith, and family by giving instead of receiving, all while navigating the charming chaos, and the true meaning of the holiday season.
Directed by Patricia Cuffie-Jones from a script written by Patricia Cuffie-Jones and Joseph Nasser, the cast also includes
Blackfilmandtv.com caught up with Shamar Hill as he spoke about his role as Manny.
What drew you to the character of Manny? How did you approach developing his personality and backstory?
Shamar Hill: I love this character because he loves the same things I do. For example he is into singing and dancing and just bringing positivity into any room. That reminds me a lot of myself because I performed at a lot of events since I was 3 years old and I enjoyed the craft ever since.
What was it like working on the set of Brewster's Millions: Christmas? Were there any memorable moments or challenges?
Shamar Hill: It was rarely challenging but there were a lot of memorable moments with the cast members such as spending time and getting to know China McClain, Romeo Miller and Tequan Richmond who I learned a lot from during filming like actors love to improv a lot and remain professional. And the director Patricia Cuffie Jones was really nice and taught me a lot and was really patient with me because I am singing and dancing as well as acting in this movie.
How did you capture the festive spirit of Christmas while filming? Did any on-set traditions or celebrations contribute to the holiday atmosphere?
Shamar Hill: The decorations were a huge contribution to me feeling the holiday spirit. The cool lights, the beautiful decorations and singing around the piano with Tequan Richmond, China and Romeo and Rain Pryor
When did you first realize you wanted to be an actor? What steps did you take to pursue your dream?
Shamar Hill: I wanted to be an actor when I was six I had an agent and was in theater classes but when I was 9 years old I re-circled back and begin to do more auditions and I also got a new agent. I have been in several short films and the one that was the best was with Malik Yusef and Kanye West and the late Michael K Williams.
Who are your acting role models or inspirations? How have they influenced your career path?
Shamar Hill: Will Smith is one of my acting role models. I love his versatility and personality on camera which I have tried to adopt in the roles I have been in.
What are your future aspirations as an actor? Are there any specific genres or roles you'd like to explore?
Shamar Hill: I would love to be a marvel actor and become a superhero one day. That will be the coolest thing ever. I also want to get into comedy movies and anything else God has planned for me.
What do you do in your free time when you're not acting? Are there any hobbies or interests you're passionate about?
Shamar Hill: When I’m not acting , I’m making music . I absolutely love music and soul r& b . I actually have a song coming out really soon. Please follow me at @officialshamarhill to get exclusives when it drops.
If you could play any role, historical or fictional, who would it be and why?
Shamar Hill: I would want to play Miles Morales, that is my dream role , I am so determined that I have already begun working out so I can get Marvel trained.
What are your favorite holiday traditions or memories? Do you have any special plans for this Christmas?
Shamar Hill: My favorite holiday tradition is to be with my mom and have fun making s'mores and watching Christmas movies .