All I Want for Christmas, the travel documentary has the magic of Christmas with resilience of human spirit, writes ABHI SINGHAL
The crisp, wintry evening at the Embassy of Finland set the perfect stage for the global premiere of All I Want for Christmas, a travel documentary produced by Travelxp and helmed by the nationally acclaimed, award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh.
With its runtime of 42 minutes, the documentary masterfully captures the alluring spirit of Christmas while imparting a moving message of hope and resilience to its audience.
As the holiday season approaches, bringing with it the warmth of togetherness and the joy of celebrations, All I Want for Christmas unfolds as a story that goes beyond festivities, offering a poignant glimpse into the human spirit. This magical narrative was born out of the idea that travel, much like festivals, symbolises happiness, connection, and the celebration of life itself. When global events stir emotions and challenge our perspectives, it becomes essential to remind ourselves of the joy and wonder that still exist in the world. With this thought in mind, the makers brainstormed countless ideas before settling on the heart warming journey of a mother and daughter travelling to Finland’s Lapland, the land of Santa Claus and snow-covered dreams.
The documentary chronicles the story of Anastasia, a young Ukrainian refugee, and her mother, who embarks on this journey to rekindle the happiness that seemed lost amidst the chaos of displacement. Their trip to Finland’s Lapland, a breathtaking winter wonderland, turns out to be more than just a holiday. It becomes a journey of healing and resilience. From exhilarating dog sledding adventures through pristine snow-laden landscapes to the daring experience of swimming in the icy waters of Kemi, every moment captured in the film speaks to the enduring strength of the human spirit. The ultimate highlight, of course, is the magical moment when Anastasia meets Santa Claus himself, bringing to life the dreams of countless children.
Director Kamakhya Narayan Singh, reflecting on his unique experience, shared with The Pioneer the challenges of filming in Finland’s harsh winters with temperatures plunging to -18°C and only 2-3 hours of daylight. Despite these obstacles, Kamakhya’s determination to bring this story to life remained unwavering.
Adding another layer of complexity was the fact that the documentary was originally shot in Russian, a first in a different language for the filmmaker. Yet, the ethereal beauty of Finland’s snowy landscapes, the joyful presence of Santa, and the thrill of sledding through its magical terrains make All I Want for Christmas a visual treat that promises to leave viewers enchanted.
Collaboratively organised by the embassies of Finland, Ukraine, and Norway, along with SIFFCY and the Smile Foundation, the premiere evening was not just a celebration of cinematic artistry but also a reminder of the universal message of hope and joy that Christmas brings to all. Whether it’s the sparkling snowflakes or the heartwarming story of love and resilience, All I Want for Christmas will fill your heart with holiday cheer and would inspire you to believe in the magic of the season.
