Karl E. Landler in a scene from CHRISTMAS IN PARIS. (Photo: UPtv)

It’s always nice to be home for the holidays, but sometimes, it’s also fun to travel to a romantic city to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season…and now you can do it from the comfort of your living room by watching the new UPtv film, Christmas in Paris!

French actor Karl E. Landler plays the swoon-worthy Lucas–a wealthy entrepreneur who whisks Rebecca Dalton’s character, Robin, away to Paris for a whirlwind Christmas Adventure, and he chatted with LollyChristmas.com about the movie, working with his co-stars, what the holidays are really like in Paris, and much more!

Hi Karl! Congratulations on your new UPtv movie, Christmas in Paris! Can you tell me a little bit more about the film?

Thank you, Lolly! This is a great film to take you through the emotional journey of Christmas! You feel for the characters, you hope it will work out when things are not happening the way you expect. Forgiveness, love, and challenges are all ingredients of this holiday movie. Lucas, my character, has as business deal to close, while being distracted by the beautiful Robin (Rebecca Dalton). All the while he is hiding a secret that he can no longer run away from. So, get the hot chocolate ready with some cookies–you’re going to enjoy the ride.

How did you get involved in the project?

The production was looking for a French dude, and the French Network, that was also going to broadcast the movie, suggested my name. I auditioned on a Monday and flew out to Toronto the following Friday. I know – fast right? Sometimes you complain about how things take forever to happen and sometimes, before you know it, you find yourself on a plane. Smiling.

Landler, Zuniga & Dalton in CHRISTMAS IN PARIS (Photo: UPtv)

What was it like working with Rebecca Dalton and Daphne Zuniga?

Both are just incredibly generous and great to work with! Rebecca is so cool! We had a blast. No matter how tired we were, that girl can still crack a joke. I would love to work with her again. Daphne–I had a major crush on her when I was a teenager. I admit it unreservedly. Picture this – a French teenager watching her worldwide famous show Melrose Place in a very small town in the south of France and – fast forward – I am sharing a movie in English (don’t forget I am French) with HER. Are you serious? how did that happened? (Laughs) Definitely something I treasure.

The movie is called Christmas in Paris, but you actually filmed it in Toronto! Was it difficult to get into a Christmas in France feeling while filming during the spring in Canada?

We shot the main part in Toronto, yes indeed. But you’ll be surprised to know, we actually flew to France for all the scenes in the country side, the Parisians landmarks etc… so, it is really unfolding in France! The production really wanted the audience to have an authentic and full experience.

We’re getting the movie magic version, but what is it really like to spend Christmas in Paris?

The Parisian Christmas Lights, it’s one of my favorite things. The City of Light, as they call it. Paris during the holiday season is beautiful! The beautiful Gardens, the famous buildings, the Champs Elysées… People usually lighten up during this time – and believe me, Parisians are not known to be smiley. (Laughs) I love the distinctive coffee shops – brasseries – everyone’s outside, smoking and drinking hot wine. It’s very French.

You also made a short film last year called Sitting Duck that takes place during Christmas time, which you also wrote and directed! Can you tell me a little more about that film?

I love this little short film–it’s a different take and the usual Christmas tale . It’s also a sequel of my first one DUO. Sitting Duck is a dark comedy, following a couple breaking up during their Christmas Dinner. Marem Hassler, my co-star in this film, and I, had a blast doing this. Even though it is a difficult moment for this couple- it was fun to explore how irrational things can become, testing the limits of insanity! (Laughs) So, if uou think your break up was bad, “he” made his ‘super bad’! (Laughs)

What are some of your holiday traditions?

I am pretty traditional. I get my friends and family together and put some great food on the table–and when I say “Great Food” I also mean a LOT…and here we go, I’m happy–that’s all I need. Friends and Family–no one stays alone during Christmas.

Dalton & Landler in CHRISTMAS IN PARIS (Photo: UPtv)

I love watching Christmas movies — there’s something so special about them, and I can’t wait to see your movie! What is your favorite Christmas movie?

Thank you! I hope you’ll drop a review on IMDb then! (Laughs) I love action films, as well as the classics. I used to be a stunt guy and I still do all of my stunts; when there are fight scenes or chases–jumping from roof to roof. So, I go for Die Hard, a classic Christmas Film. Followed by a close second place: Bridget Jones. That movie got me!

After Christmas in Paris, what can viewers and fans see you in next — do you have any upcoming film projects?

I do have some projects coming, but they are French projects. But you can connect with me on social media, under my name and you’ll definitely find updates of what’s coming next. I love to interact. On that note, try to spend as much time away from social media for Christmas and enjoy the long walks in the snow or sunny weather–wherever you are. Reconnect with someone from the past. No one stays alone this year!  Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays.

It was a delight to connect with Karl and talk about his brand new holiday movie, Christmas in Paris! If you’re a romantic, you’ll especially adore this tale. Make sure you tune in on Sunday, December 8th at 7pm/6c on UPtv. Stay Merry!

Stay merry!