A Christmas Less Traveled (2024) Movie Script

1

See the snow falling
on your shoes.
Dusting off those
winter blues.
All the yuletide
spirits high.
There's a ringing
to the sky.
Big celebration, I hear the
children laugh and play...
- Here's to vacation...
- [sizzling]
[humming]
I'll be right back
to take your order.
- Doing okay?
- Mmhmm.
You're still good over here?
- Is the food good?
- Mmhmm.
[telephone ringing]
Hello, Dash or
Dine. Sam speaking.
I'll be right back
with your check.
If you ladies come
early tomorrow,
I'll make sure I have
those cinnamon rolls.
[customer laughs]
Hungry Wholesale
canceled the order.
They said the card was declined
and if we want groceries
by Christmas...
Oh, eggs! That reminds me.
Introducing Elf-Frittata.
I need a tester.
Wow. That's amazing.
Right?
I woke up with a recipe
scribbled next to my bed.
For some reason, those always
turn out to be the best.
Hi, Emily.
Hi.
Hey, there.
- Your order is almost ready.
- Thanks.
Let's see.
Two burgers, two
fries, two side salads.
That'll be... on the house.
Desi...
My diner, my rules. Besides,
it's almost Christmas.
Thank you.
I'll be right back.
Desi? What do I
do about the card?
If we don't have eggs
or milk or peppers,
there won't even be
an Elf-Frittata and...
What is that?
Nothing to worry about.
Here, use my card.
But this is your
personal. I can't...
Sam... It's our busiest
time of the year.
Buy whatever you need.
I hope you saved
room for dessert.
And here is some of
Polly's peppermint bark.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Desi.
[bell ringing]
On Dasher!
[both] On Dancer! On
Prancer, on Vixen.
[Rob] Have you gone inside?
Not yet. I'm observing.
[Rob] You flew to New York
five days before Christmas
just to observe, Greyson...
Look, the timing
has to be perfect.
[Rob] Time, my friend,
is the very thing
you're running out of.

[radio] You're
listening to Delilah.
We're starting off tonight
by going straight
to the phone lines.
I'm going to get
through this time.
I can feel it.
[chuckles]
[radio] Dial ...33-5452.
Oh, Desi... This
was my moment.
Sorry, Joe, we're closing
early for the Holiday Hop.
Your jackets, gentlemen.
I didn't want you to
forget them this time.
I thought it was our
job to look after you.
Oh, nobody needs
to look after Desi.
She has her father's spunk.
You know, everybody
needs somebody.
Speaking of, just got off
the phone with your wife.
You didn't tell me
when you ordered
that double helping of bacon
that you were on a diet.
She phoned you?
Sure did.
Oh, Paulette, you
ratted him out?
Of course she did.
Time to go, Joe.
Drive safely.
[sighs]
How do I look?
Like a woman who's about
to get a mistletoe kiss
at the Holiday Hop.
It's not too much, is it?
Oh, you look beautiful, Sam.
You know, I can
stay and help close
if you want to go, get ready.
No, not a chance.
I wasn't gonna make
it tonight anyway.
Have enough fun for
the both of us, okay?
Thanks, Desi.
[indiscernible chatter]
[to himself] You can do
this. You can do this.
Well, that didn't go as planned.
Honey, there is a great
big world out there
and you're missing it.
You should be going on dates.
Polly, we talk about this
at least once a week.
I'm doing perfectly
fine on my own.
And speaking of dates,
uh, did I hear Bernie say
he's saving a dance
for you tonight?
That man has been saving
a dance for me since 2002.
He can wait an extra hour.
You know, your father
used to do that.
Do what?
Clean the same spot five times
instead of talking about
what's on his mind.
Yeah, and it was the cleanest
auto shop in New York,
that's for sure.
Honey...
This diner is your
heart and soul,
and we both know what it's
going to take to keep it.
Now I believe in miracles,
but we owe $12,000.
That doesn't just
appear out of nowhere
even at Christmastime.
The first three years are
statistically the hardest
for any restaurant.
So if I can make it one more
year, I know I'll get ahead.
But we don't have a year.
The mortgage is due on the 26th.
Well, then maybe this is
my sign to call it quits.
Have you thought any more
about what we discussed?
Yes, and I can't do that.
Look, your father
loved that truck.
Heaven's sake, I'm his sister.
And he wouldn't even let
me get behind the wheel.
But he loved you
more than anything.
Polly, I feel guilty enough.
I can't add selling
the truck on top of it.
It would break his heart to
see you give up on your dream.
You break a lot of
folks hearts, actually.
Your father said goodbye to
that truck a long time ago.
And now it's your turn.
Yeah. Okay, I'll list
it for sale tonight.
That's my girl.
You can let it out, you know.
[buzzing sound]
Oh, that lightbulb's been
driving me crazy all week.
[Rob] Hey, big bro.
The reindeer is taking flight.
[Rob] What?
She's leaving.
[Rob] You get cornier with
age. So what's the plan now?
Well... hopefully just
casually bump into her
at this Holiday Hopper thing.
[Rob] The Holiday whater?
It's some Christmas dance
they have here in town.
I'm assuming that's
why they closed early.
[Rob] I think
that's a great idea.
Casually pepper her with
questions while you waltz.
I've only got a few days left.
What else do you suggest?
[Rob] You know, most people
would just forget about it
and enjoy the holidays.
Yeah, well, I'm not most people.
- Have a good night.
- You too, sweetie.
[radio] Merry Christmas
wherever you are
in the great state of New York.
Merry Christmas, Delilah.
[radio] I hope you can
cozy up by a warm fire
and snuggle your loved ones
a little tighter tonight.
But if you're like me
and missing someone
extra special this Christmas,
I hope this next song
hugs your heart
like a warm blanket
with memories of Christmas past.
[Instrumental "It Came
Upon A Midnight Clear"]

[phone buzzing]
[phone buzzing]
[sighs]

[phone ringing]
Yeah. Uh, right now's
not really a good time.
[Rob] Why are you whispering?
I'm at her house.
[Rob] What are you
doing at her house?
Okay. You remember that
photo of her dad's autoshop
from that old newspaper article?
[Rob] Yeah.
Well, there is a garage here,
and it's a sign on it
that is exactly the same.
[Rob] So?
So I'm going to go
and check it out
and see if there's anything
that actually helps us.
[Rob] You know what
would help us more?
You not getting arrested?
Oh come on, it's
just an old garage.
[Rob] On someone
else's property.
Yeah, well, okay,
that's a good point.
[sighs]
I'm sorry, Dad.
Just call me when you
get to your motel.
Up on a housetop
reindeer paws...
Oh!
...good ol' Santa Claus
down through the chimney
with lots of toys
all for the little ones...
Ho, ho, ho...
who wouldn't go
Ho, ho, ho...
who wouldn't go
Up on the housetop,
click, click, click...
Down through the chimney
with the good St. Nick
Have a good night.
[music continues to play]


[emotional music]
[Dad's voice] She's running
pretty good, I'd say.
Now, what do you
want to call her?
I know.
What do you got Desi girl?
Red.
Old Red. I like
the sound of that.
It will be a Christmas truck.
A Christmas truck, huh?
You're right.
We could even enter it in
the Holiday Hop contest.
Get mom to decorate it.
We could make it like
a new family tradition.
What do you think?
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
All right.
Oh, what fun it is to ride
on a one-horse open sleigh
[radio] And a Merry
Christmas it is.
You're listening to Delilah.
I hope you are soaking in
all the joy of this season.
I can't believe you're driving.
Oh, I can't believe
you're letting me drive,
especially Old Red.
Well, you only turned 16 once.
Besides, she was
always yours too.
I think mom might have loved
Old Red more than any of us.
You just keep your
eyes on the road, okay?
You know, I'm basically
giving you the reins
to Santa's sleigh here, right?
Which reminds me...
- [both] Don't tell Polly.
- [Desi laughs]
On Dasher.
[bell chimes]
[emotional music]
Come on, Old Red.
[engine struggles then starts]
[Dad's voice on
audiotape] My Desi girl.
[teary] Dad.
Probably took you a long while
to get back into Old Red.
[sighs]
[audiotape] You're
stubborn like your old pop.
Glad you finally came around.
I trust you'll get this
message when you need it most.
You know, trust is a
gift we've been given
for the things we
can't control in life.
And we're given the
high calling of courage
for the things we can.
In these last few months
of my life, Desi girl,
I've realized how much
of that I've lacked.
[sighs]
I made these tapes so I
can take you on a journey
to our favorite spot,
Treasure Bluff.
After your mom passed,
I did a lot of things wrong
in order to avoid the pain.
But I want to show you some
things along the old route
that I never had the courage to.
And at the end, waits
the most valuable gift
I have to give you.
And yes, you're taking Old Red.
She's been sitting
around too long.
It'll be good for
the both of you.
Now open up the
glove compartment.
I've left you with plenty of
instructions along the way.
We've taken her out 100
times together on the road.
Let's do it once more.
[teary] Oh, Dad.
[exhales]
[upbeat music]
You got to be kidding me.
- Morning.
- Morning.
Can we talk?
Oh, yes. Of course.
Um, I'll pour us some coffee.
It's a wonderful day
at Sunnyside Stay,
how may I help you?
Do you have one
of those... um...
scraper things for your car.
Ice scraper?
Yeah.
Uh, you're the guest
that parked there.
We advise all our guests
to park on the opposite side of
the street this time of year.
That's funny.
It was in your welcome
pamphlet and on the sign.
Oh. You're serious?
I'm afraid so.
Have a Sunnyside day.
Oh, he said he had faith
that I'd find the message
at the perfect time,
but I feel like
it's more the worst.
I woke up to an inbox
full of potential buyers
that want to see
the truck today.
I don't have time
for a road trip.
But he mentioned there's
something valuable
waiting for you
at the end, right?
What if it's something
that could save the
diner and Old Red?
This could be your miracle
after all, sweetie.
[instrumental Christmas music]
[scraping sounds]
[exhales] Come on, come on.
Okay.
[engine struggles]
Oh. Come on.
[sighs]
Okay.
[sighs]
Okay. Everything good here?
Great. Enjoy.
Oh, I thought I got the
wrong order for you.
Listen, I'll go
right to the kitchen
and sort that out for
you. Sorry about that.
Okay.
Hi. How's it going?
Full pot just for you guys.
Great. Okay. I'll get...
I'll get your bill.
And the coffee. Yes,
I'm brewing more.
Okay. Sam, I'm going to need,
uh, two eggs scrambled,
buttered toast,
extra crispy bacon, and
a stack of pancakes.
[Sam] Got it.
Hey, what can I get
you to drink, handsome?
Uh, yeah. Coffee, please.
The hotter, the better.
Okay, you got it.
Just, uh, passing
through, I take it.
Uh, is it uh, that obvious.
Face like yours
I'd never forget.
So where do you call home?
Uh, Miami. I'm just
here on business.
Miami. I had a few fun
summers there back in the day.
So must be some pretty
important business.
You being so far from home
Christmas week and all.
Yep.
Yeah. Okay. So listen,
you take your time.
The name's Paulette, by the way.
Okay.
How you doing?
Shouldn't Desi be in by now?
She's taking a little road
trip for a couple of days.
What?
She'll be back in time for
the Christmas breakfast.
Don't worry, I've got
everything under control here.
- [loud beeping]
- Oh, no, no, not that.
[coughs] Just a
bit of burnt toast.
Okay, I got this, I got
this. Nothing to worry about.
Woo. Oh, looks like we
got ourselves a dasher.
Well, at least he paid.
It's got to be it.
Oh!
Man, that's my last
candy cane one.
Here. You know what?
This will serve you a lot better
than one of those
silly scratch-offs.
Uh, how about an
apology instead?
Oh, Desi, I can...
What's Old Red doing here?
Oh, I'm taking her on a
road trip to Treasure Bluff.
Tires. Okay?
Quite a trek all
the way to Maine.
I'm all set.
And Joe here take mine.
You don't have to do that.
And if there's a prize,
I want you to keep it.
You are an angel,
Desi. Drive safely.
Mmhmm.
Uh... wait.
Sorry, I couldn't help but
overhear that you're...
you're on your way
to Treasure Bluff.
Well, I've got some
business there,
and I'm having some car trouble.
I'm staying over at
the Sunnyside Motel.
Oh.
Is that your car I saw
in the parking lot?
Yeah.
You know, it's only sunny
on that side of the
street half the year.
I love how people say that
like that's a normal thing.
Yeah.
Yeah, well, since I'm
having car trouble
and I can't seem to
get a ride share,
Welcome to Edinburg.
Yeah.
I, um...
I'm wondering if it's at
all possible if maybe, um...
can I get a ride?
What?
I know it's totally brazen
and presumptuous of me,
but it's really important.
And I'm Greyson, by the way.
And I'm not weird or
crazy or dangerous.
I'm just a little... Whoa!
Oh!
Ugh!
Oh. Ow.
You're just a little bit clumsy.
Oh! Oh!
Oh!
Glad I'm not the only one.
Uh...
Uh...
Yeah.
Um, uh...
I'm sorry, but it's
going to be a no.
I'll pay you $3,000.
I'm trying to close the most
important deal of my life
and I can't miss it.
Okay, a few conditions.
Okay.
You pay up front.
Sure.
You have to be okay with
a couple of pit stops.
Absolutely.
And before we leave, you
need to apologize to Joe.
Joe?
It's just a silly scratch.
Okay, okay, I... I will go
apologize to scratch-off guy.
Joe.
I will go apologize to Joe.
Good.
And just so you know,
I've taken many
self-defense classes.
Understood.
Great. Bring your own snacks.
Snacks.
I'm gonna go
apologize... first.
Joe.
Oh, that's not going to
fit up here with mine.
You're going to have to put
it in the bed of the truck.
[cheerful music]
So... cool truck.
It's very... Christmas-y.
Thanks.
Are you, like, uh, Buddy the
Elf's cousin or something?
- Twice removed.
- Hmm.
Want one?
Oh, no, no, no.
I don't really do sugar
for breakfast... or ever.
...born the King of Angels
o come let us adore him,
Oh, these are cool.
Oh... Please
don't touch those.
Okay.
You've never been on
a road trip, have you?
My... my travel arrangements
normally look very
different than this.
Hm.
Not that this isn't
great. This is great. I...
No, it's okay, it's
okay. I get it.
[phone buzzes]
So, uh...
why, uh, why Treasure Bluff?
It's kind of personal.
May I ask what these pit
stops are that we're making?
Same answer.
Got it.
Hey, I thought people were
supposed to talk on road trips.
Touch.
Okay then, good chat.
Okay. Change of subject.
What is the deal
with this truck?
What do you mean?
I mean, I thought these
things only existed
on holiday throw pillows
and Christmas cards.
It was my dad's.
Oh.
He, uh... he a big car guy?
Yeah. He used to own
an autobody shop.
Fixing vintage vehicles
was his specialty.
This one was his favorite.
Why this one?
- Personal.
- Personal reasons.
Like father like daughter, huh?
Well, now, this one's
cool. I haven't...
Don't touch that!
Oh.
- Wow.
- I'm sorry. It's just...
Personal, I get it.
[both] Listen, I.
[both] Why are you so...
[both] Let me talk.
First, okay?
Look, I am trying to do you
a favor by giving you a ride.
This is a transaction,
not a favor.
Mm, well, this transaction
doesn't include
meddling in my truck,
so why don't you just
sit still, please,
for a little while longer,
and this will be a
really pleasant drive.

[radio] We've got stories ahead.
To warm your heart
and feed your soul.
Like a hot bowl of steaming soup
on an icy winter's afternoon.
This is Daytime with Delilah.
Feed my soul like a hot
bowl of steaming soup.
Just listen, it'll
make you feel better.
I play this in my
diner all the time.
- My guests love it.
- Okay.
[radio] Who do we
have on the line?
Hi, Delilah. My
name is Michael.
I'm calling to dedicate a
song to my fiance, Jenna.
We're getting married
on Christmas Eve
without a penny to our
name but we don't care.
As long as we're together,
we'll figure it out.
[in unison] Wow.
[radio] Michael, there are
many, many people who are rich
but have no one to love them.
If you have someone who
loves you for your heart,
then you are truly the
wealthiest man in the world.
This song is for you and
your treasured sweetheart.
What?
Oh, come on, poor Michael.
I mean, literally poor Michael.
He's banking on something
that'll be gone as
soon as the snow melts.
What are you like,
the Grinch's cousin?
Twice removed.
[radio] Make sure to get your
fireplaces roaring tonight,
because Santa's sending
a pop-up snowstorm
straight from the North Pole.
[Greyson] Great.
[Desi] I am going to pull over.
I need to put the
cover on the truck bed
before the storm hits.
Don't want to carry extra snow.
Ohhh...
What?
Hope you can get that
stain out of your shirt.
Where's my suitcase?
Looks like someone
forgot to fully close
the tailgate back at the motel.
My shirt is...
Maybe it'll be a good
icebreaker for your meeting.
Hey, you know what?
Why don't you go in and
get yourself something?
I'll do this. Yeah,
I'll take care of this.
Thank you.
And I'll double-check
it when I'm back.
Desi girl.
[audiotape] After
your mom passed,
I did a lot of things wrong
in order to avoid the pain.
How'd it go?
Uh, good.
You okay?
Oh, yeah. Great. Yeah.
Here. It's the greenest
thing I could find.
Thanks.
Hopefully there's no
more bumps in the road.
Oh, I think that's the
least of our worries.
Wait, is this apple and kiwi or
is this like spinach and kale?
[exhales]
Oh, I'm gonna be sick.
Oh, it's not that bad.
Well, looks like we're here.
Cozy Cliffside.
Now, there's two words that
should never go together.
Betty, were we expecting
another couple tonight?
Another couple?
Oh, no, Mister, I'm
not falling for that.
You're just trying
to put me off my game
before the gingerbread contest.
You invited them
for the contest?
Ezra, darling, we're going
to disturb our guests.
What are you looking at?
Where did I see
that truck before?
What?
[Desi] It's really cute.
Honey. It's her.
Well, deck the halls.
Now are you going to tell me
what it is we're doing here?
Nope. Because I don't
really know myself.
Wait, what?
Really? What?
Oh, uh, hi. I'm not really
sure how to explain this.
Let's get you two
out of the cold.
- Come on in.
- Come.
Come, come.
You're so beautiful.
Just the spitting image.
And I see you've done
well for yourself.
[in unison] Oh, no.
We're not together.
Let me grab your coats. I'll
get those hung up for you.
And I'll make some
homemade hot cocoa.
Oh, lovely.
It sounds sweet.
Actually, do you
have a wooden hanger?
It's just better
for the leather.
Thank you.
[fire crackling]
Okay, so you're telling me
you don't know these people?
Un-huh.
Well, it looks like they like
Christmas as much as you do.
[scoffs]
And where's your luggage?
Oh, uh, a bit of a long story.
It fell out of the truck.
It smells like skunk.
Good thing you left
it behind, then.
I've got an extra set of pajamas
I can lend you for your stay.
You'll be warmer,
that's for sure.
Oh, no, no, no, we're not...
we're not spending the night.
[Ezra] Oh, you're
going to have to.
There's a storm
expected any moment now.
Going to be the biggest
one we've had in years.
I'll get your room ready.
[Greyson] Thanks.
[emotional music]
Someone you recognize?
Um...
Yeah, my parents... and me.
They were always
our favorite couple.
We have a lot to catch up on.
Mmm. This smells delicious.
Oh, it's a new recipe.
Ezra says he loves it, but then
he'd like a piece of cardboard
if I gave it to
him. [all chuckle]
Somebody say they
want to play cards?
No, Ezra, I didn't say
cards, I said cardboard.
Ah!
Oh, big old teddy bear. He
can't hear me half the time.
Oh, here. Let me
help you with that.
Oh thank you, dear.
These look so good.
So do, uh, one of
you play guitar?
I used to, I love playing,
but I lost my hearing
a few years ago.
As I'm sure you can tell by now.
Our health insurance doesn't
cover the cost of hearing aids,
so he can't play anymore.
Yeah, my... my aunt
has hearing aids.
She just paid out
of pocket for them.
- She's been really happy...
- Cookie?
As soon as we dig ourselves out
from our medical bills,
it'll be the first
purchase we make.
But in the meantime, we'll
just drive our guests crazy.
Shouting at each
other, won't we?
Whatever it takes.
[both laugh]
Oh, life is easier when
you can laugh together.
Now. Take a sip.
Oh, okay.
Mm. That's really good.
Okay. Let me guess.
Nutmeg, cinnamon,
dark cocoa, of course.
Full fat coconut milk
whisked with sugar
and a dash of espresso.
Oh, you've got a gift.
Reminds me of your mother.
She was in the kitchen every
time your parents visited.
I still use her sugar
plum pie recipe.
Oh, I have to give that
to you before you go.
My dad never mentioned
anything about this place
or my mom's recipes.
I don't think he knew how
to talk about her
after she was gone.
It was like he shut down
that part of his life
and tucked it away.
I do know he regretted
not sharing more with you.
So is that why he sent me here?
To share this place with me?
There's a lot he wants
to share with you.
He wants to save you
from making the same
mistakes he did.
You know, you should
really consider
entering this into
a competition.
Well, let's get
you two settled in.
We can chat some
more in the morning.
Come along, this way.
We really do appreciate
you having us stay here.
But are you sure there
aren't two rooms?
Maybe you could
just double-check.
Because, like I said,
we aren't together.
Definitely not together.
[laughing] Oh. That's obvious.
You two are as rigid together
as a couple of tinsel trees.
But with this being
the week of Christmas,
unfortunately, this is the
only room we have available.
I put sheets in a pillow on
the couch for Mr. Greyson.
We're just the room over if
you need anything at all.
Sweet dreams.
Well... this is awkward.
Well, I got dibs on this
one... and dibs on the bed.
Huh?
Wait. Are you serious?
[laughter]
I'm speechless.
I don't have a choice.
Unlike you, who actually
brought their own clothes
but is choosing to wear
whatever... this is.
What? This old thing.
[laughter]
[Desi laughs]
Oh.
Wow. A smile and a laugh.
Oh. Ha, ha. Very funny.
I'm actually a lot of fun.
Oh, okay.
Hey, um, what did you
mean when you said
your dad sent you here?
I mean, clearly he must have
wanted me to have this onesie.
I mean, you can't get
light-up pajamas anywhere.
You do that a lot, don't you?
Do what?
Avoid. Deflect.
I've known you
less than 24 hours.
I've seen you do it,
like, five times.
Uh, that's because I've
known you less than 24 hours.
No, I don't buy it.
I think you do it with everyone.
Well, if you must know,
this whole road trip
was my dad's idea.
His stops, his rules.
Why? I don't know, but this is
supposed to be the first stop.
So here we are.
How many stops are there?
At least a couple more.
Not entirely sure.
I'm sort of waiting on
further instructions.
From where?
You do that a lot, don't you?
What?
Pry. Press. Dig.
Well, how else are you supposed
to get to know someone?
[sighs]
Last night I found a
message in the truck.
The tape that says "Desi girl".
You snooped.
I'm on a road trip with
a complete stranger.
Can you blame me?
That's fair.
So what did the tape say?
Some memories, some regrets.
I guess there's a lot he wishes
he would have told
me or shown me.
I'm... I don't know, it's still
kind of a big question mark.
Well, now I feel guilty
for forcing myself
onto such a personal trip.
Don't. You're
actually helping me.
I'm kind of drowning in debt.
Ah, so that's why you
let me pay you to come?
Well, I didn't have much choice.
Everything I love is on the
line, including Old Red.
[sighs]
So, how did your dad pass?
Wow. You don't
hold back, do you?
No, look. Sorry.
Forget I said that, you
don't have to answer that.
[sighs]
I was at culinary school abroad.
He was so proud of me.
Even when I couldn't
come home or call,
he never made me feel guilty.
And then when I
finished my degree,
I knew the second
I got off the plane
that he was sick,
that he'd been sick.
A week later, he was gone.
I'm sorry.
So your turn.
What's your story?
[chuckles]
Uh, okay. [clears throat]
Raised in Miami...
to a single mother.
One younger brother, dad
was never in the picture.
She struggled a lot
when I was growing up,
emotionally,
financially, you name it.
She passed this year a
little after Labor Day.
I'm sorry.
It turns out me
leaving home at 18
was the best thing to
happen to both of us.
She went back to school,
opened a law firm.
She became super successful.
Impressive.
It's all supposed
to be mine soon.
Is that what your
business deal is about?
Yeah.
That's so exciting.
You get to be in
charge of a place
that changes people's lives.
Yeah, I guess so.
I try to do that with my diner.
What do you mean?
Sometimes serving a
warm meal feels like...
opening a door to
someone's heart.
I've always wanted to
create a safe place
for people to feel
like they belong.
I don't know if I've
ever heard anyone
say anything like that before.
[sighs]
Desi...
[exhales]
Good night.
[exhales]
[cheerful music]
Hey, there. You need
a hand with that?
My pride says no.
- My age says yes.
- [both laugh]
Well, today age wins. Huh?
You're a good man.
Oh, don't thank me yet.
I've never cut down a
Christmas tree before.
This could go terribly wrong.
Ah! Come on.
Okay.
I'll go on this side.
Go ahead.
There we go. You got it.
There we go. Got it.
- There you go.
- All right.
We cut down a tree!
We got a tree.
Here. You mind taking that?
Yeah. Just drag it in.
You got it? You're good?
Get this in the house.
We got a tree.
Need any help?
Would love some. Could
you stir the batter?
Sure.
So do your children
come home for Christmas?
No. We tried for
years to have kids,
but the Lord had other plans.
Oh, I'm so sorry,
I didn't mean...
No. Don't be.
There was a time I
couldn't talk about it.
But that changed
when we turned this place
into a bed and breakfast.
What do you mean?
We chose this house
because it had the perfect
room for a nursery.
I even decorated, hoping one
day we'd be able to fill it.
But years went by.
One day I walked in and all I
saw was a room collecting dust.
That's when I had to
shift my perspective.
It's people that bring us joy.
That's the day I told Ezra
I wanted to turn this
into a bed and breakfast.
It must have been really
hard to let go of, though.
Yeah.
But now all the rooms
are constantly filled
with new people
I get to call family,
like your parents.
Like you.
All right, we
ready? Here we go.
Hey. All right.
Perfect.
Wow. Miami guy
turned mountain man.
It's a Christmas miracle.
I'm full of surprises.
Ooh! You two can
help us decorate.
Oh, actually, I think we
should be getting on the road.
Nonsense.
The roads out here won't be
ploughed for a couple of hours.
Desi, come help me get
started with these ornaments.
And you guys get the rest.
You play?
Oh, not in a long time.
Go on, take her for a whirl.
No, I couldn't.
If there's one
thing I've learned
is never to take a single
moment in life for granted.
You see a beautiful
instrument, you play it.
You see a beautiful
woman, you say it.
Uh...
I can barely hear anyways.
I'll pretend to be
impressed either way.
[both laugh]
Oh let's see...
[strumming guitar]
[playing "It Came Upon
A Midnight Clear" ]
No way.
My love.

[clapping]
Come on, let's
decorate that tree.
Look, I have popcorn.
You want the tall guy
to start it up here.
All right. There we go.
Yeah. Oh, yeah.
That's perfect.
That's a good one.
Okay. You two stand
in front of the tree.
It's tradition.
Now, in. In, in.
A little bit closer.
No. Yeah. Big smiles.
[camera whirrs]
[Ezra laughs]
Oh, we should
probably get going.
Yeah, we should, yeah.
Um, thank you so much for
loaning me this shirt.
Oh, before you go.
I've been keeping this for you.
Thank you.
I'm so glad my dad sent me here.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
[Greyson] Thank
you for everything.
That was unexpected.
It was.
Speaking of, you're amazing
for playing the guitar.
I told you, I'm
full of surprises.
[audiotape] And that's how
your mom and I got roped into
blowing up 100 balloons
for Ezra and Betty's
Christmas party.
I have never seen your mom
laugh so hard in my life.
And that's how that first
red balloon was released.
Sometimes I wonder what my
life would have been like
if I'd kept that tradition.
Maybe I would have
been a better father.
I wouldn't have made
some of the mistakes.
[yawns]
I'm sorry I dozed off there.
Did I hear something
about a red balloon.
A story about my mom.
Personal. Got it.
Would you settle
for the cliff notes?
What, are you kidding me?
Those are my favorite
kind of notes.
At the end of every
year, my parents and I
used to take a road
trip to Treasure Bluff
and release a red balloon.
I don't know if you know this,
but they're called cliff notes,
not cliff note.
They discovered the
spot on their honeymoon.
My mom thought it
was the perfect place
to release her... her doubts
and fears and failures to God.
And she was digging through
her purse to look for something
to symbolize the act
and at the bottom, she
found a red balloon
from the Christmas
party at Cozy Cliffside.
So they just blew
it up and let it go.
After that, the tradition stuck.
Until it didn't.
Until your mom...
Yeah.
I heard him say something
about making mistakes.
Did he mention any of those?
A few. Why?
I'm just wondering if
there's anything significant.
I mean, I don't think he
had any deep, dark secrets,
if that's what you mean.
Christmas is that
time of year...
When we gather
round to hear
words of love
and good cheer
[Desi] Alright. We're here.

...speech of joy
for all mankind.
Let us light our dark
nights with illumination.
Pour yourself a glass
of wine, let us toast...
My dad said to get
here before 2:00.
Apparently, he used to meet
some of his friends here.
Fun.
Yeah. He said to find the
booth with man's best friend.
Oh. Right here.
Well, it looks like
we're in for a treat.
You mean literal treat?
Okay. Thank you. Welcome to
Precious Paws. How may...
Desi?
You must be Big
Mike. Hi, my dad...
Come here girl! [laughs]
Oh, it's happening again.
Gary!
Gary! Look who moseyed
on in in the corral.
It can't be. Hey!
It sure is. Come on.
Hey, this is Desi, and, uh...
Hey, now, who's this fella?
Oh, uh...
This is Greyson. He's...
Uh...
a friend.
I take it they
don't get much snow
from where you're from.
Uh, no, they do not.
Well, welcome to our neck
of the woods. [laughs]
So how do you guys know my dad?
Well, you know, he came in
and got some candy
apples one day.
Yeah, and he got it a little
too close to the pups.
[laughs]
Paws were all over him.
And you know what,
he volunteered
almost every weekend after that.
Yeah, he was one
of the great ones.
I'll tell you what, though.
You knew never to cross
him or the people he loved.
That sounds like my dad.
That, uh, ever get him
into any kind of trouble.
Now, what are you alluding to?
Oh, nothing. I just,
from what you said...
Holly's ready for you.
Hey, hey, hey, there's my girl.
How are you doing?
You're John's girl.
He was always talking about you.
Showed us all the pictures of
your time at culinary school.
I'm Janice.
Hi.
All three of us are business
partners in Precious Paws.
Hey, and this is
Desi's friend, Gralen.
Uh, Greyson.
Nice to meet you.
Hey, you two pick the
best time to visit.
Cinema in the snow is tonight.
What's that?
A drive-in movie theater in
the forest across the way.
And it's Holly's favorite.
Big Mike adopted little
Holly here last Christmas.
Uh, she adopted me.
Oh, speaking of adoption,
Whiskers and Lucky
are being adopted just
in time for the holidays.
Hey, you guys want to
help them get groomed?
Yeah.
Uh...
Yeah. [laughs]
I'll be out back. You
guys have a great time.
Welcome to the team.
[laughs nervously]
I'm, not that this is
any of my business,
but that snow storm
kind of put us
a little behind schedule.
Are you sure you
have time to do this?
To help these sweet little guys?
Always.
Okay.
[Desi] Hi. Hi...
Okay, let's do this.
- Okay, what do we do?
- Alright. So...
[instrumental "Deck
the Halls" playing]
Yeah. Does that feel good?
Hi.
[laughs]
Okay. Final touch.
- Oh, absolutely.
- Mmhmm.
I'm not sure about
how to tie this knot.
You just didn't pull
it tight enough.
I just didn't pull
it tight enough.
I was just worried.
I know we're good.
Ah, it is so good.
Oh. She's beautiful.
Yeah. She is.
Uh, so you guys are
here every weekend?
Yeah. You know, with the
lack of local funding,
we're trying to raise awareness.
But, you know, unfortunately,
this is probably going
to be our last Christmas.
Oh, that's so sad.
Hey, you know, it breaks...
it breaks my heart.
Think of all the dogs
that we won't be
able to rescue or...
be saved by Precious Paws.
- [Janice] Big Mike.
- Yeah.
Can you help me unload
a box of dog food
before I go home?
Yeah.
I hope you have a box
of tissues or something.
You know what? I'm
so glad you came.
[crying]
This place really means
a lot to him, doesn't it?
Yeah. Big Mike was in a
dark place for a while.
Felt like he wasn't
needed anymore.
Asked for a sign.
Then he found a group
of orphaned puppies
cuddled under his truck.
Sparked the idea to open
up the rescue shelter.
Wow.
Talk about a sign from God.
Yeah.
Oh! [laughs]
It looks like somebody's
ready for the movie.
Oh.
All right.
I got you...
the sugariest
thing I could find.
Perfect. Thank you.
And some beef jerky
and an apple for me.
Yeah. Mmhmm.
And a blanket.
Oh, oh.
One for you, one for me.
Right? Of course.
Well, who knew that a Christmas
festival had so much to offer?
I mean, we got
world-famous candy apples,
hand-quilted blankets, and
adorable dog adoptions.
Hmm. Enough to
make you reconsider
your future travel arrangements.
[chuckles] Yeah, only if
your dad is planning it.
Hey, why do you keep
asking about my dad?
Like earlier, when you asked
if he'd ever gotten
into any trouble.
I mean, I am on a road
trip with his daughter,
who is apparently very
proficient in self-defense
and has a rather intimidating
puppy loving friend,
and who getting to talk
about anything personal
is like pulling teeth.
Maybe I just want to
know more about the man
who raised a woman like you.
Look, Desi, there's
something I need to tell you.
[banging]
Pretty cool setup, huh?
Gary, they're having a moment.
Uh, right. Carry on.
As you were.
Enjoy the movie.
Yeah, you guys too.
Enjoy the show.
Alright, everyone,
it's movie time.
Turn your radio
dials to 98.8 FM.
Great.
[woman] Well, you can't
throw away your career
because of sentiment.
[man] I'm not throwing
a career away.
I'll get by. I'm a
darn good lawyer.
This doesn't shake your
faith in me, does it?
This is a question of
common sense, not faith.
[man] Faith is
believing in things
when common sense
tells you not to.
I wish you could let yourself
believe in people like Chris,
and in fun and love and joy
and all the other intangibles.
[woman] Can't pay the
rent with intangibles.
And you can't live without them.
Why don't you try a little
blind faith, darling...
[peaceful music]
[indistinct chatter]
[phone buzzes]
[phone buzzes]
Any chance I could buy
these red balloons?
Can I? Thanks!
Thank you.
Aww... That's so clever.
Hey. Everything okay?
We've been hanging on
to this for a long time.
Thank you.
I've learned more from the both
of you than you'll ever know.
Come here, girl.
So don't be such
a stranger, okay?
Okay.
- See ya.
- Bye.
[phone ringing]
Yeah.
[Rob] Greyson, what's going on?
Have you got any
more information?
No, no. Look, Rob, I don't
know what to tell you,
but let's just drop it.
[Rob] What?
I don't care what it
is her father did.
It doesn't matter anymore.
Desi deserves every bit of it.
[Rob] You're falling
for her, aren't you?
I've known her for three
days. Don't be ridiculous.
You do realize how much half
of everything is, right?
Yeah. Look, I gotta go.
Hey. Morning.
Another tape, huh?
Do I get to listen to this one?
Well, we gotta get moving,
so I don't have much
of a choice, do I?
[upbeat music]
[audiotape] If Big Mike
taught me anything,
it's that vulnerability
isn't a weakness.
It's a great strength.
I'm sorry that I wasn't
more vulnerable with you.
I'd give anything to be at that
Christmas market with you now.
I hope you got a candy
apple for me too.
[telephone ringing]
Hello. Dash or
Dine Sam speaking.
Hey, uh, there's someone on
the phone looking for Desi.
Said it's important.
- Oh.
- [crash sounds]
Ahhh!
Uh, take a message.
Tell them we'll
get back to them.
Okay.
Go.
What's going on back here?
[audiotape] The last stop
before Treasure Bluff
won't be long, but it might
be the most important.
There's a little
white church up ahead.
Stop in and ask for Cheryl.
Tell her I said hello.
- We won't stay for long.
- Yeah.
[phone buzzing]
Hey. You coming?
Uh, yeah. Yeah. Of course.
All right, let's get up
on the stage, shepherds.
And here's your staff
and a staff for you.
Okay, just before we
sing "Away in a Manger",
I'm going to get Mary
to put baby Jesus
in the manger for me.
Oh. Beautiful, sweetie.
Uh, but next time,
can you just please place
baby Jesus in the manger?
Oh. Oh, hello. Uh, we're
closed for rehearsals.
I'm so sorry. I didn't
mean to interrupt.
I'm looking for Cheryl.
I'm Cheryl. Um, what
can I do for you?
Um, I'm not sure exactly.
I'm, um... John Phillips
sent me to talk to you.
Desi.
Uh... Excuse me one second.
Um. All right, everyone,
just give me a second.
I'll be right with you,
okay? Just, uh, chill out.
Hi. I'm... I'm Greyson.
Um, if you two need
a moment to talk,
I'm happy to hold
down the fort for you.
I actually minored in
theater in college,
so I know how to deal
with restless actors.
That would be
wonderful. Come on.
All right, everyone,
um, I just need to speak
to Miss Desi for a moment,
but I'll be right over
here if you need anything.
In the meantime,
this is Mr. Greyson.
- Hello.
- [children greet Greyson]
He studied acting in college,
so this is a perfect
opportunity to learn from him.
Okay, over to you.
Thank you.
Okay, well, that
was a while ago,
so I need a bit of a refresher.
So who can tell me what stage
left and what stage right?
So how did you know my dad?
I was in love with him.
You were in love with him?
When?
It was many years after
your mother passed away.
We met exactly 10 years ago here
at the Christmas Eve service,
on his way home
from Treasure Bluff.
Mm.
So that's when he started
going back to Treasure Bluff.
That was my first year
abroad at culinary school.
My first Christmas
ever away from home?
Yes. He didn't stop
talking about you.
He told me how hard it
was to be apart from you.
So what happened?
Well, we really hit it off,
and he made countless
trips up here to visit me.
And then one day he called and
he told me he was very sorry,
but he needed to end things.
I didn't hear from him again
until a few years later.
I got a letter right
before he died.
And what did the letter say?
He finally explained
why he cut things off.
He was terrified to
feel that deeply again
and possibly lose
someone else he loved.
So he walled off his heart
and convinced himself
that he was better off alone.
So you never got
to see him again.
No.
Pain has the ability
to turn even the softest
heart into stone.
Your father sent you here
because he didn't want you
to close off your
heart the way he did.
All right, now, what is the most
super serious rule of acting?
[children clamoring]
I know! I know!
- Yes.
- Have fun.
Have fun! Of course!
That is the most
important rule of all.
He's a good one. I can tell.
Now, everybody, I need you
to be very, very serious.
Put on your serious faces.
I just don't want
to get hurt again.
The cost of love is loss.
But it's the greatest
gift we've been given.
How did you...
He mailed it with the letter?
I have always prayed
that you would stop by.
All right.
Let's thank
Mr. Greyson, shall we?
[clapping]
Thank you so much.
Now, remember, kids...
have a very Merry Christmas.
You guys are great.
All right, let's get ready
to sing "Away in a Manger".
Hey, if you don't mind,
would we be able to
stay for one song?
I kind of promised
the shepherds I would.
Of course.
One, two, three. One, two.
Away in a manger
No crib for a bed.
[all join in] The
little Lord Jesus
lay down his sweet head.
The stars in
the bright sky.
Looked down where he lay.
The little Lord Jesus,
asleep on the hay.
Hey, Sam, why don't
you take a break now
before the dinner
crowd rolls in.
- Okay?
- Okay.
- Thanks Polly.
- Yeah. You bet.
Oh, yeah.
[receptionist] Thank
you for calling
the law office of
Virginia Rivers in Miami.
How may I help you?
Oh, yes. Hi. I got a message
that you were looking
for Desi Phillips.
Oh, really?
...and take us to heaven
- [phone buzzes]
- to live with thee there.
[applause]
[sighs]
Desi, there's something
I need to confess.
Okay.
[phone rings]
Oh, um, I can take this later.
Oh, I can't actually.
I told Polly only call
if it was an emergency.
I'll try to be quick.
Yeah, yeah... Go
ahead, take it.
[sighs]
Hey. Everything okay?
You're not going
to believe this,
but I just got off the
phone with a lawyer
about an inheritance
left to your father.
Wait, what? Whose inheritance?
Some woman named
Virginia Rivers.
She's left him
half of everything.
But why?
I don't know, but apparently
it's a big enough sum
to make her children
launch an investigation.
Now, they've been trying
to contest the will,
claiming undue influence,
but they couldn't prove it.
So what does that mean?
It means that the
inheritance is now yours.
Wait, how?
I've never even heard
the name Virginia Rivers.
Well me neither.
They told me she was a
big shot lawyer in Miami.
Passed away just
after Labor Day.
Did she have a son?
Uh, yes, two. Both in Miami.
About the same age as you.
I'll call you back.
Okay, I can explain.
So this was all an attempt
just to get dirt on my dad?
At first, yes.
- But Desi...
- You lied to me.
I didn't technically lie.
I just didn't
disclose everything.
But Desi, your father he's...
He what?
My mother wrote
explicitly in her will
to leave half of her
estate to John Phillips,
the prisoner that got free.
Why would she write that?
My dad's never
even been arrested.
And I believe that now.
But before this trip,
I mean, how do you
think it looked to us?
I mean, it looked almost
something like, like blackmail.
Blackmail?
Why would a prominent
Miami lawyer
leave half of her fortune
to some random guy
with an auto shop in New York?
Look, Desi, your
father had a whole life
and regrets you knew nothing
about before this trip.
I'm just saying, is
there any chance.
Don't...
There may have been a few
things that I didn't know
about my dad, but he was
a good man, an honest man,
a better man than you.
You can keep your mom's
money. I don't want it.
Desi...
Desi, please.
Okay. You're right.
Your father was a
better man than me.
But the only thing I've
discovered on this trip
worth anything is I don't
want to be the same man I was
before I met you.
Desi, I am so sorry.
I'm sure you'll find someone
to pay for a ride back to town.
Merry Christmas, Greyson.
[pensive music]
Dad, I don't get it.
I tried being vulnerable.
I tried being open.
I'm just not sure that works.
[bell chimes]
Merry Christmas.
Thank you for donating.
Your generosity makes
a big difference.
[inspirational music]
[bell continues to chime]
On the count of three,
we're going to
give it all to God.
Ready?
[all] One, two.
[audiotape] Welcome to our spot.
Now, I know you're probably
doing just fine on your own,
but that doesn't
mean you ought to be.
Promise me that you won't
let your fear of getting hurt
cause you to miss out on
the best things in life too.
There's one last regret
that I have to tell you.
There was an argument
your mom and I had.
Some silly misunderstanding.
She tried to resolve it
before we went to work,
but I was unwilling to see
things from her perspective.
Later that afternoon,
a drunk driver ran
a red light and...
She was gone.
I let my pride
take away the last few
moments we had together.
[sighs]
The last kiss.
The last look into
those deep blue eyes.
Desi...
the greatest piece of
advice I have to give you
is to forgive.
Forgive quickly.
Forgive when it's hard
for your own sake.
Sometimes the hardest part
is to forgive yourself
and don't feel guilty
about your time abroad.
I have never been more proud.
You got to pursue
your dreams, Desi.
Chase them.
Don't ever quit.
I don't know why it's easier
to talk to a tape recorder
than it is to talk to the
people you love most sometimes,
but forgive me
for not sharing these things
with you sooner, Desi.
I love you.
I love you, Dad.
I always have.
Always will.
Enjoy the view. I know I am.
[sighs]
Hey, um...
I don't know what else to say,
but I just know you guys
are going through it.
It's the least I can do.
Thank you.
- Hey, Greyson.
- Hey.
What are you doing
here? Where's Desi?
Desi went to Treasure
Bluff on her own.
Hey, can I give you
a ride anywhere?
Yeah, actually.
Okay. Come here girl.
Holly and I got you. Let's go.
Time to give it all to God.
One, two...
[all] Three.
Ezra. [chuckles]
Oh. Never mind.
Greyson, what a lovely surprise.
Where's Desi?
Oh, uh, we went our
separate ways this morning.
Can I come in for a minute?
Of course, dear. Let's
have a cup of tea.
This means so much
to both of us.
Oh.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.

Hey, what is it? Now's
not really a good time.
Big Mike's waiting in the van.
[Rob] Who's Big Mike?
Actually, never mind.
Just please tell me
you're not at the airport.
Not yet. Why?
You're not going to believe
what I found at mom's house.
I'm sending you
pictures right now.
Desi says the first
piece goes to you.
- Thank you.
- You're so welcome.
The second one goes to you.
This is new.
Another one of Desi's
late night revelations?
No, not this one.
You doing okay?
Not really.
How's that honesty feel?
Different. But refreshing.
Mm. You'll get used to it.
So what time's the buyer coming?
Any minute.
They offered double
the asking price,
so as long as they show up,
the diner should be just fine.
It sure will be fine.
I'm going to miss Old Red,
but I feel closer to
dad now more than ever.
Losing the truck
won't change that.
Actually, I have to clean it
out before the buyer gets here.
- You got this?
- Yeah.
Always.
"To forgive is to
set a prisoner free
"and to discover that
the prisoner was you."
The prisoner that got free.
[notification alert]
Hi, Desi, it's Betty.
Greyson made me promise
not to say anything,
but I just can't help myself.
He stopped by last night
with a check to cover
Ezra's medical bills.
It was the sweetest blessing.
Please know that I'm
praying for you both.
He's a keeper.
Merry Christmas, Desi.
Big Mike.
There she is!
Uh... Polly, what's going on?
[radio] Uh, my name is Greyson.
- Greyson?
- [all] Shh!!
[radio] What's on
your mind, Greyson?
Oh. It's not what
but uh... who.
Uh, her name is Desi,
and she's the best
person I've ever met.
She's smart and talented,
and she has the biggest
heart in the world.
She's beautiful in
every way, Delilah.
The world is better and
brighter because of her.
I'm better because of her.
And I would do anything to
make things right between us.
[radio] Well, Greyson, if you share
with her what you just told me,
I think you might
have a good chance.
This next song is
for you and Desi.
Away in a manger
No crib for a bed
I, uh. I need some fresh air.
Oh, Desi.
Desi...
Turns out...
My mother kept a journal
and even after climbing
all the way to the top,
it wasn't enough for her
and eventually her old
habits crept back in.
One night she drove
her car into a ditch.
According to her, that's
where God found her,
sent her an angel.
In John.
My dad.
While he fixed her car,
they talked all night
and he shared with her
that forgiveness was
his key to peace.
She wrote that that night,
that encounter with your father
was when she found her faith.
Now, for the first time
in her entire life,
she felt true freedom.
Apparently, your dad credited
his own similar journey
to a quote he shared with her.
"To forgive is to
set a prisoner free."
And discover that
the prisoner...
[both] Was you.
Yeah.
Desi, can you ever forgive me?
I already have.
[cheering and applause]
Okay. Here we go.
Christmas miracles.
It was you who put the balloons
in my truck, wasn't it?
I told you, I'm
full of surprises.
What do you say we
take out Old Red
one last drive for
old-time's sake?
We can't I... I sold her.
Mm. I know.
You're the buyer.
I told you I had to close the
most important deal of my life.
[laughs]
[bell chiming]