Kristoffer Polaha Leads Star-Studded Script Reading for New Hallmark Movie
Kristoffer Polaha, a longtime Hallmark star, recently stirred up excitement among fans. He posted photos from a script reading held in Nashville on February 19, 2025. The reading was for the upcoming film *Shades of Violet*, an adaptation of the 2019 book *The Process of Fraying* by Jess Neal Woods.
The event featured a star-studded lineup including Bethany Joy Lenz, Laura Osnes, Jesse Hutch, Candace Kirkpatrick, and Melissa Ordway. Polaha and his creative partner Ken Carpenter are co-producing the film through their respective production companies, Podunk Productions and Nook Lane Entertainment.
The film, set in the 1930s, tells the poignant story of a family grappling with mental illness. With Polaha locked in to play the role of Miles Miller, the project is generating significant buzz among fans and industry insiders alike.
Star-Studded Script Reading in Nashville
The script reading for *Shades of Violet* was held in Nashville and featured a remarkable ensemble of actors. Among those present were Hallmark favorites Bethany Joy Lenz, Laura Osnes, and Jesse Hutch, as well as Candace Kirkpatrick and Melissa Ordway.
This gathering was not just an ordinary script reading; it was a testament to the collaborative spirit and camaraderie within the Hallmark family.
Actors Lending Their Talents
Polaha revealed that the actors who participated in the script reading did so as a kindhearted favor. While they have not been officially cast in the film, their involvement at this stage of development was crucial for hearing the script aloud and refining the story.
This collaborative effort highlights the strong bonds and mutual support among these talented actors.
About *Shades of Violet*
*Shades of Violet* is a film adaptation of Jess Neal Woods’ 2019 book *The Process of Fraying*. The story is set in the 1930s and revolves around Violet, a woman living an idyllic life on a farm in Tennessee.
Her connection with the land and her family is deep and fulfilling. However, as she begins to experience the onset of mental illness, she faces a challenging battle to stay connected with her children and loyal husband.
A Story of Resilience and Family
The film explores the themes of mental health and resilience in a time when there was little understanding or language to describe Violet’s experiences. Polaha emphasized that the story sheds light on the struggles of a woman fighting to save her family amidst the limited medical and societal support of the era.
Production Details
The project is a co-production between Polaha’s Podunk Productions and Ken Carpenter’s Nook Lane Entertainment. Tori Hunter, who also wrote the screenplay, is set to direct the film.
This collaboration brings together a team of passionate creatives dedicated to bringing Violet’s story to life on the big screen.
Polaha’s Growing Role in Producing and Directing
Kristoffer Polaha has been delving deeper into the realms of producing and directing. *Shades of Violet* is one of several projects he and Carpenter have worked on together.
Their previous collaborations include the 2023 sci-fi thriller *The Shift* and Polaha’s upcoming directorial debut, *Mimics*, which is expected to be released in 2025.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation
Fans of Kristoffer Polaha and Hallmark were thrilled to see the group of actors gathered for the script reading. Social media was abuzz with excitement, with many fans expressing their anticipation for the film.
Comments on Polaha’s post included heartfelt messages about the importance of the story and congratulations on the project’s progress.
Positive Feedback from Fellow Actors
The actors who participated in the script reading also shared their enthusiasm for the project. Laura Osnes, known for her roles in Hallmark and Great American Family rom-coms, expressed her honor to be part of the gathering.
Candace Kirkpatrick praised Tori Hunter’s work on the script, highlighting the collaborative and supportive atmosphere of the event.
The Importance of *Shades of Violet*
*Shades of Violet* is not just another film; it is a significant story that addresses the challenges of mental health in a historical context. By bringing this story to the screen, Polaha and his team aim to shed light on the struggles faced by individuals and families dealing with mental illness, particularly in an era with limited understanding and support.
A Timely and Relevant Story
The film’s exploration of mental health resonates with contemporary audiences, as discussions about mental health have become increasingly important in today’s society.
*Shades of Violet* offers a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength required to navigate such challenges, both in the past and present.
Conclusion
Kristoffer Polaha’s upcoming film *Shades of Violet* promises to be a powerful and moving adaptation of Jess Neal Woods’ book *The Process of Fraying*.
With a star-studded script reading and a dedicated team of creatives, the film is set to captivate audiences with its poignant story of resilience, family, and mental health.
As fans eagerly await its release, *Shades of Violet* stands as a testament to the importance of storytelling in shedding light on the human experience.
