The story of a feisty, strong-willed and independent woman who learns that, for some, it is more difficult to receive than to give, is the subject of a new Church Christmas TV special.
The film will be telecast throughout the English-speaking world, Latin America and in Italy during the upcoming holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas.Included in the film are scenes and songs of the Tabernacle Choir, contributing its own flavor of seasonal music.
Well-known actress Celeste Holm stars in the film, "Nora's Christmas Gift," a one-hour special written and directed by Michael McLean, the author and director of another popular Christmas special, "Mr. Krueger's Christmas."
The actress has starred in many films and won an Academy Award in 1947 for her supporting role in "Gentleman's Agreement."
Also starring in the film is Elizabeth Wilson, who has appeared in motion pictures, television and on the stage. She won a Tony Award on Broadway for her performance in "Sticks and Bones."
"This film is a story about a woman who spent all of her life in giving, and was very good at it," explained Curt Dahl, senior writer-producer for Bonneville Media Communications. "In her old age, she is robbed of the ability to give, and she struggles with that. But what good is a gift without a receiver?
"The story is really about receiving Christ; if we don't receive Him, then His gift is of no value to us."
Dahl said that the film also indicates that the Church feels strongly enough about Christmas to present a message of spirituality in a season that has become far too riddled with materialism and selfishness.
"It is a film that members can be proud of - both in the message and the quality," he said.
Gary Dixon, vice president of creative services for Bonneville Media Communications, said Celeste Holm "was captured by the message of the film and accepted the role even though she was very busy."
"She loves the film; she is excited about it - everybody is. The film really pinpoints everyone's insecurity about receiving."
The one-hour show was produced under the direction of the Missionary Department and includes spot announcements offering more information about the Church. The film will be promoted in local television listings.
It was filmed at the BYU motion picture studio and on several locations, including the Tabernacle and Temple Square. Wintery scenes included in the film were created in April, said the producers.
"Nora" is the Church's second major Christmas special with established acting stars. "Mr. Krueger's Christmas," starred Jimmy Stewart and is becoming a Christmas television favorite. Other specials include "The Other Wise Man," an animated feature; and "Carols of Christmas," with holiday music by the Tabernacle Choir.
