Melissa McCarthy’s “Genie” Premieres 1 December on Sky Cinema

From the acclaimed screenwriter Richard Curtis, known for his work on beloved films such as Love Actually and Four Weddings and a Funeral, comes a new Christmas comedy called Genie. This Sky Original film stars Melissa McCarthy as Flora, a genie who has been trapped inside an antique jewelry box for over 2,000 years due to a misunderstanding with a sorcerer in ancient times.

Flora has spent centuries granting wishes for selfish men who only desired wealth and beautiful women. But one day, she is accidentally summoned by Bernard Bottle, played by Paapa Essiedu, a man whose life is falling apart. Bernard has been so consumed by work that he has neglected his marriage to Julie, played by Denée Benton, and missed important moments in his daughter Eve’s life, played by Jordyn Mcintosh. When Bernard fails to attend Eve’s birthday party and subsequently gets fired by his boss, played by Alan Cumming, his life takes a downward spiral.

In a moment of despair, Bernard discovers the jewelry box and unknowingly releases Flora. He hopes that she can help him fix his broken family and regain the love and happiness he has lost. However, the odds are against them, and their journey to redemption is uncertain. Along the way, Flora and Bernard learn that love and friendship can create a magical holiday experience like no other.

Directed by Sam Boyd, known for his work on the series Love Life, Genie is a heartwarming tale written by Richard Curtis, based on his 1991 teleplay Bernard and the Genie (which starred Alan Cumming and Lenny Henry). The film features a talented supporting cast, including Marc Maron, Luis Guzmán, Tate Ellington, and LaChanze.

Produced by Working Title’s Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, Riva Marker, and Richard Curtis himself, Genie promises to be a delightful addition to the Sky Original film collection. The executive producers include Melissa McCarthy, Caroline Jaczko, Nicole King, Stacy O’Neil, Alexandra Loewy, and Sarah-Jane Robinson.

Genie will be available on Sky Cinema and the streaming service NOW starting from 1 December.