Blue Fox Entertainment and Photon Films and Media have announced the exclusive North American theatrical release of Holy Days, a heartwarming comedic adventure that will open in theaters on March 27, 2026. Blue Fox Entertainment is handling the U.S. release and international sales, while Photon Films will oversee the Canadian theatrical rollout. The film is featured on Blue Fox’s sales slate at both Sundance and EFM 2026.
Holy Days will make its world premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 5, 2026, and will also serve as the Opening Night Film at the Victoria Film Festival, signaling strong early momentum for the project on the international festival circuit.
A Celebrated Cast Anchors a Joyful Journey
The film boasts an extraordinary ensemble led by Academy Award nominee and Emmy, Golden Globe, and BAFTA winner Judy Davis, alongside BAFTA winner Miriam Margolyes, beloved for her work in the Harry Potter franchise, and two-time Academy Award nominee Jacki Weaver (Silver Linings Playbook, Animal Kingdom). Rounding out the cast are rising talent Elijah Tamati (Deep Water) and Nat Boltt (Riverdale), who also makes her feature directorial debut with the film.
Written and directed by Boltt and based on the acclaimed novel by Dame Joy Cowley, Holy Days is a life-affirming story that blends humor, emotion, and spiritual reflection. The film explores themes of faith, friendship, independence, and the courage to embrace change, offering audiences a moving yet playful cinematic experience.
Three Nuns, One Last Leap of Faith
At the center of Holy Days are three unconventional nuns who embark on a last-ditch road trip across New Zealand, traveling from north to south in a bid to preserve their independence. Along the way, they form an unexpected bond with a young Māori boy on a deeply personal journey of his own.
When an unforeseen snowstorm derails their plans, the unlikely group is forced to confront questions of mortality, loss, and belief. What begins as a practical mission evolves into a transformative journey shaped by love, forgiveness, and human connection, proving that even in life’s later chapters, growth and discovery remain possible.
A Meaningful Production Rooted in Place
Produced by Emma Slade, Michelle Morris, Victoria Dabbs, Roxi Bull, and Sushant Desai, Holy Days is a collaboration between Velvet Moss and Lily Pictures, with Tainui Stephens serving as Cultural Producer. Associate Producers include Micah Winiata, Eva Trebilco, and Cameron Liardi.
Filmed entirely on location in New Zealand, the production also marks a significant milestone for the country’s screen industry. Holy Days served as a launch project for the Kahurangi Toi Atea Screen Industry Training Initiative, a nationwide program developed in partnership with Share the Knowledge, Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu, Toi Mai, and the Ministry of Culture and Heritage. The film was produced using state-of-the-art facilities at Kōawa Studios at the University of Canterbury.
Supported by Leading Screen Institutions
The film was made with financial support from the New Zealand Film Commission, New Zealand Screen Production Rebate, Telefilm Canada, Creative BC, CBC Films, Elemental Post, and additional partners—underscoring its strong institutional backing and international collaboration.
A Warm, Timely Theatrical Release
With its blend of humor, heart, and cultural authenticity, Holy Days arrives at a moment when audiences are seeking stories of resilience, compassion, and human connection. Anchored by legendary performers and guided by a fresh directorial voice, the film promises to resonate across generations.
Holy Days opens exclusively in North American theaters on March 27, 2026, offering a theatrical experience that celebrates faith, friendship, and the power of taking one last leap of belief.
Please visit here for more.
Stay tunned with me:
She’s All Over the Place Podcast
Click on Instagram
About me here