EXCLUSIVE | 'Inn Love by Christmas' star Jesse Hutch says 'amazing' cast is what makes holiday rom-com different
Christmas is one of the most anticipated festivals of the year. If you’re a movie buff and love watching Christmas movies, then Lifetime might have a few options for you. Like every year, they have scheduled some exciting holiday movies. One of them is ‘Inn Love by Christmas’.
MEAWW caught up with the male lead of the film Jesse Hutch who plays Lucas Menzino. The character is warm, talented and kind. In this interview, Hutch speaks about his role, his favorite Christmas movie and his message to the viewers during these uncertain times.
How different is ‘Inn Love by Christmas’ from other holiday-special movies?
Ah yes, excellent question! First off, the cast is amazing! Have you seen the cast list? Go check it out. Legends. And FUNNY! Oh my, you will laugh. And cry. But not ugly cry, it will be tears touched by Christmas cheer and holiday butterflies. Our film also has some surprises. There might be a guitar, some snowballs and maybe macaroni and cheese involved. I’ve said too much. You need to see this film for yourself!
Tell us more about your role in the movie. What is it that attracted you most to your character Lucas?
Upon reading the script I was drawn towards how fun I imagined it to be. After speaking to the director Jesse Ikeman, who obviously has an amazing first name, I was all in. He was open to my interpretation of the character Lucas. I personally wanted to bring a little serious and at times goofy romance, some laughs, with room for improv and Ground the character in the reality of his world. I don’t like creating characters who always say and do the right thing. They may try. But I like to show a vulnerability and a truth. The team was on board. In fact, between Jesse – the director, Jonna and myself, we completely re-imagined and changed one of the scenes in the film, and I’m excited to see what people think.
How was it working with Jonna Walsh?
We are now friends. We had fun working together. In fact, we just spoke the other day. She is very down to earth. Easy to collaborate with and bounce ideas off. She has a good gut feeling of what will work and what won’t. Her husband is a rad guy and he has an awesome beard. Just saying.
Is there a particular genre you are fond of and what genre are you looking forward to working in?
I truly enjoy many genres. Anyone who has followed my work for any length of time will recognize how I move around. You will see me in a romantic comedy, and then in an action film, then see me doing stunts, then I’m in a video game. I enjoy all the aspects of what the human heart can respond too. I’m always training and prepping for that big action comedy. If Tom Cruise or Ryan Reynolds aren’t available... I am!
Can you tell us about your favorite Christmas movies?
Yes! 'Jack Frost', 'The Grinch' with Jim Carrey, 'Die Hard', and ofcourse, 'Inn Love by Christmas'.
A lot of people have to celebrate Christmas virtually this year due to the ongoing pandemic. What message would you like to give the viewers?
Pray. Really seek what it is you feel you should to do this holiday season. Many people have many different convictions and personal situations happening. The world needs each of you to be exactly who you are! No one else can do you. You are loved.
Could you tell us more about your upcoming projects?
I am working with my business partner and we have a slate of projects that we are pitching. It is very exciting, challenging and a wild experience. There is always something to learn. I also may have a project that is showing interest. It is biblically based but it is action intense and will not hold back. I am currently physically training as though the role is mine, although it isn’t certain yet.
'Inn Love by Christmas' premiered on December 11, 8 pm ET on Lifetime.
