Vantage Media has acquired worldwide distribution rights for the romantic holiday feature The Christmas Heartbeat (previously known as The Heart Brake), which is set to release on September 29, 2026.
The film stars Brittany Curran, Hunter Sansone, Beverly D’Angelo, Joey Lawrence, Rachael Thompson, Courtney D’Angelo, and WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley. Set in Tennessee, the story follows New York food critic Julia Winters (Curran) who, after a sudden cardiac arrest, returns to her hometown to confront her past and rediscover love.
Directed by Lance Smith, who also co‑wrote and executive‑produced the film with Chuck Fusca, The Christmas Heartbeat is inspired by the personal journey of executive producers Carrie and Gus Romero. Drawing on Carrie Romero’s experience as a sudden cardiac arrest survivor, the film offers an authentic portrayal of healing, family, and second chances.
“The Christmas Heartbeat is equal parts a Christmas story, a family story, and a love story, but above all, it’s a reminder of the resiliency of the human heart,” said Smith.
Smith added, “For independent films, finding distribution can be like looking for an exit door in a dark room. Vantage Media was a beacon of light from the moment they reached out to us. They understood our movie and its mission. We weren’t just another title on the roster. We’re very excited to bring The Christmas Heartbeat to audiences and grateful VMI opened the door.”
The film was produced by Trey McClarnon, with Delaney Blanton, Quinton Macari III, and Brian Yuran serving as producers. The distribution deal was negotiated by Chuck Fusca of MarcoBox Studios and Jessica Russo, COO at VMI & Vantage Media.
“We couldn’t be more excited to bring The Christmas Heartbeat to audiences around the world. This is the kind of holiday film that reminds us why we fall in love with Christmas year after year—it’s filled with heart, warmth, hope, and the magic of coming home. At its core, it’s a beautiful story about healing, second chances, and rediscovering the people and places that shape who we are. We believe audiences everywhere will connect with its universal message of love, family, and finding your way back home for the holidays, making it the perfect film to celebrate the Christmas season,” said Jessica Russo, COO at VMI.
Foley recently joined AEW in a non‑wrestling role, first appearing as co‑host of the Double Or Nothing Buy In preshow on May 24.
