Pete Holmes and Judy Greer are evidently in high spirits, possibly feeling festive. The duo entertains each other with humorous exchanges about their previous work (“Judy’s been in a few duds,” Holmes, 45, jokes) and amusingly speculating on future projects. When discussing a potential “Cheers” reboot, Holmes considers taking on the role of Ted Danson’s character, Sam Malone.

“I figured you’d be more like Norm,” Greer, 49, counters before clarifying, “Just kidding!”

Currently, they are promoting their upcoming film “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” based on Barbara Robinson’s 1972 children’s book. The film narrates the tale of the Herdman siblings, six misfit kids who take center stage in their church’s yearly Christmas play. Upon learning that these unruly youths have hijacked the beloved event, the local community pressures Grace (played by Greer) to remove them. This situation poses a challenge for Grace and her husband Bob (portrayed by Holmes), especially since it marks Grace’s first time directing the play and their children are also involved.

“I was emotional—really emotional,” Holmes admits when recalling his first encounter with the script. “This story emphasizes the importance of welcoming others into your community, not merely putting up with them but truly celebrating them. This message resonates with the true spirit of Christmas, which is something we need more of these days.”

The narrative is conveyed through the perspective of Grace’s daughter, Beth, played by Molly Belle Wright and voiced by “Gilmore Girls” star Lauren Graham, who also makes a cameo in the film’s concluding scene.

“This film feels so timely, perhaps even more than the creators anticipated,” Graham, 57, shares. “It’s exactly what I seek during the holiday season—a family-friendly film that ensures everyone can enjoy without feeling excluded or offended. It’s truly heartwarming.”

Filming for “Christmas Pageant” took place during the holiday season last year in Winnipeg, Canada. Although snow was absent, the cast braved the chill, making hand warmers a necessity. Greer had to adapt to another aspect of holiday filmmaking: working extensively with children.

“The kids were fantastic, but I was a bit anxious since I don’t have young ones at home,” she admits. “I thought to myself, ‘What have I signed up for?'”

For the movie, the initial scenes shot were inside the family home. After spending a week working with Holmes and their two onscreen children, new youngsters joined the cast each day.

“Suddenly, I found myself at the church surrounded by all the kids,” Greer remembers. “It was quite overwhelming. The wonderful part is that my character Grace also feels very overwhelmed, so I hardly had to act!”

And how did Holmes handle the situation? “I just moonwalked away,” he laughs.

Greer quips that he immediately gravitated toward the snack table. “I joked, ‘I’ll be at the bowl of free Skittles. Have fun!'”