About A Very Murray Christmas

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• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

About

A Very Murray Christmas is a 2015 comedy television special directed by Sofia Coppola. The story follows Bill Murray, who plays a fictional version of himself, as he tries to host a live TV show during a blizzard in New York City. Unfortunately, most of his celebrity guests are unable to attend due to the weather, leading to a series of comedic and heartwarming encounters. The special takes an unconventional approach to the traditional Christmas variety show, blending humor, music, and melancholy themes.

The plot revolves around Murray's attempts to salvage the show, as he interacts with a small group of guests and performers who manage to make it to the hotel where the show is being filmed. These encounters result in funny and unexpected situations, while also exploring the underlying loneliness and nostalgia that can be felt during the holiday season. A Very Murray Christmas offers a unique and alternative take on the typical Christmas special, showcasing Murray's comedic talent and the charm of his celebrity guests.

Making / Production

A Very Murray Christmas was conceptualized and directed by Sofia Coppola, known for her distinctive storytelling style. The special was produced by Coppola, Roman Coppola, and Bill Murray himself. Murray also co-wrote the script with Coppola and Mitch Glazer.

The production took place primarily at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City, providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere for the story. The special was filmed over just a few days, capturing the spontaneous and improvised nature of the performances.

Actors

• Bill Murray as Himself - Murray plays an exaggerated version of himself, showcasing his comedic talent and charm.
• George Clooney as Himself - Clooney makes a cameo appearance as a celebrity friend of Murray's who gets stranded in the blizzard.
• Miley Cyrus as Herself - Cyrus performs musical numbers and interacts with Murray throughout the special.
• Chris Rock as Himself - Rock brings his comedic flair to the special, participating in amusing exchanges with Murray.
• Amy Poehler as Herself - Poehler adds to the comedic dynamics in the show, delivering witty lines and engaging with other characters.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• A Very Murray Christmas pays homage to the classic Christmas variety shows of the past, such as those hosted by Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra.
• The special features a mix of scripted scenes and improvised moments, adding an element of spontaneity to the performances.
• Many of the celebrity guests in the special are actual friends of Bill Murray, which adds an authentic dynamic to the interactions.
• The song "Alone on Christmas Day," performed by Bill Murray and Miley Cyrus in the special, was originally recorded by the French rock band Phoenix.

Awards

A Very Murray Christmas received critical acclaim and was praised for its unique and charming take on the Christmas variety show format. While it did not receive any major awards, it was nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards in 2016, including Outstanding Television Movie, Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, and Outstanding Music Direction.

Quotes

• "I know we're all stranded here, but someday we'll all look back on this and laugh." - Bill Murray
• "Some people celebrate with family, some people celebrate with friends, and some people celebrate in the hotel where they're stuck." - Bill Murray
• "There's something about singing with someone that makes you feel close to them." - Miley Cyrus

Music

Music plays a central role in A Very Murray Christmas, with various musical performances throughout the special. From classic Christmas carols to modern hits, the music adds to the festive and melancholic atmosphere of the show.

Soundtrack

• "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" - performed by Bill Murray and Paul Shaffer
• "Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin'" - performed by Bill Murray and Jenny Lewis
• "Baby, It's Cold Outside" - performed by Bill Murray and Jenny Lewis
• "Alone on Christmas Day" - performed by Bill Murray and Miley Cyrus
• "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" - performed by Miley Cyrus
• "Fairytale of New York" - performed by George Clooney and Miley Cyrus