Christmas in the Pines (2021) Movie Script
[UPBEAT CHRISTMAS MUSIC]
THIS YEAR
I'M GONNA HOLD YOU CLOSE
NEVER LET YOU GO
UNTIL THE SUMMER
TURNS TO SNOW
LAST YEAR
BABY I MISSED YOUR TOUCH
WITHOUT YOU AIN'T ENOUGH
TO COME FILL MY HEAR WITH LOVE
AND I KNOW YOU'VE BEEN
WAITING FOR ME
I JUST, I JUST WANNA BE
AROUND YOU BABY, YOU AND ME
EVERY SINGLE HOLIDAY
YOU CAN BE MY HAPPY PLACE
I JUST, I JUST WANNA BE
AROUND YOU BABY, YOU AND ME
EVERY SINGLE HOLIDAY
YOU CAN BE MY HAPPY PLACE
P.A. Announcer: 20 Minutes
until the mall closes.
Don't miss your last chance to
meet Santa!
Only 6 more days before
Christmas and remember...
Jesus is the reason
for the season!
THIS YEAR
I'M GONNA HOLD YOU CLOSE
NEVER LET YOU GO
UNTIL THE SUMMER
TURNS TO SNOW
LAST YEAR
BABY I MISSED YOUR TOUCH
WITHOUT YOU AIN'T ENOUGH
TO COME FILL MY HEAR WITH LOVE
AND I KNOW YOU'VE BEEN
WAITING FOR ME
I JUST, I JUST WANNA BE
AROUND YOU BABY, YOU AND ME
Ariel: All this hustle and
bustle and shopping is crazy.
It's official...
This is the least
Christimasy Christmas ever.
Mom: Oh Ariel-
Oh my goodness,
there it is!
I need this purse more
than anything in the world.
Ariel: I've never even seen you
with a purse.
Because I've been waiting
for this one.
Well, I hope you're crossing
something else off of
that very long list
of yours.
No, I need
everything on it.
You don't need
everything on it.
Plus, didn't you just
get a huge promotion?
Jasmine!
Ariel's promotion is not
a direct correlation
for a Christmas gift.
Why not? It's not like she
has anyone to spend it on.
It's not like she
has a boyfriend.
Hey, she will find
Mr. Right.
Sure about that?
Someday.
Mm-hmm.
I don't know if the right
guy exists for Ariel.
Yes, he does.
He exists. He does.
So... [SIGH]
what are we looking for?
Someone smart...
Good.
And affectionate...
Mom: Good.
Someone loyal...
Mom: Exactly.
Someone who makes lists of
people that we're gonna visit,
not thingsthat he wants.
Okay well that guy
doesn't exist yet so...
my last exam is tomorrow at the
ungodly hour of 8 am
so I will meet you here at 11.
Wait, why?
You have 5 days to get
your Christmas shopping done!
I don't want to spend
the holidays shopping.
Okay truce, truce...
Seriously each year
I just wish that we'd
make Christmas about spending it
with the ones we love.
- Hello!
You know,
sitting by the fire,
baking cookies.
I wish we could just make
ornaments and sing songs.
Well, we already have
ornaments,
and you can't
even sing.
Seriously,
I don't want Christmas
to be about
shopping lists.
Girls, listen to me.
Christmas is what we make it.
Mm-hmm.
[GASPS]
I am so sorry
I didn't see you.
Are you okay?
Oh yes, I'm fine.
I couldn't help but
overhear your wish.
My wish?
Santa: Uh-huh.
Oh right, Santa.
Well maybe you should
speak to my sister
about her Christmas list.
Santa: Oh no, I don't do
that sort of thing anymore.
All the stores and online
shopping has really
put us out of business.
Now I specialize in things that
you can't get from a store.
[CHUCKLES]
I'll do my best to give you the
kind of Christmas you wish for.
But Ariel, your mother's right.
Some of the responsibility
lies with you.
Christmas iswhat you make it.
Well I'm afraid I must go,
I'm late.
Good day.
Bye Santa!
Bye!
Ho, ho, ho!
Santa...
how'd you know my name?
That's it!
I have an idea!
I'll do it!
You just give me
your credit card,
and I will shop
for everyone...
including myself...
and I'll even wrap
everything.
Oh.
What?
It's a great idea!
That is not
a great idea.
Okay, just listen
and hear me out.
What if your
sister's right?
And what if we don't have
presents this Christmas?
Mom, seriously?
Yeah!
And maybe...
would that be so bad?
Easy for you
two to say.
You both have jobs
and money.
I am a college student
and therefore broke.
Christmas and birthdays
are when I stock up on things.
Okay, well what about
the people in need?
What about the people
who have less than us?
Ihave less.
Ineed things.
[MONEY CLANKS IN BUCKET]
[ARIEL'S CELL PHONE RINGS]
Oh, here...
Hold on...
Erica?
Who's Erica?
I don't know.
Ariel: Tomorrow, seriously?
Absolutely, yes I can be
there before noon.
Thank you, thank you,
thank you!
P.A. Announcer: The mall will
be closing in 5 minutes.
We are gonna have the
best Christmas ever!
How's that?
What's going on?
I can't tell you,
but it's a surprise
and you're
gonna love it.
I got to get back to work,
I'll see you after
Erica tomorrow!
Who's Erica?
It's a secret!
Hey, what about
my purse?
Oh, sorry!
Are you gonna get
me the purse?
Not a chance.
Ariel: A surprise?
Maybe a Christmas bonus?
Ariel. Ariel: Mr. Huckabee!
I'm glad I caught you. Ariel: Come in.
Mr. Huckabee was my father.
Please call me Jeremy.
[TAPS FOLDERS]
I'm giving you the
new online Christmas
morning feature article.
Really?
Yes.
Oh!
[TAPS FOLDER]
Oh.
Bring on the Grinch, eh?
Amazing huh?
It's definitely
something different.
Exactly!
I want to shake things up!Uh-huh.
This is not my father's
magazine anymore.Uh-huh.
This is a modern
publication.Uh-huh.
Shouldn't I be writing something
more heartwarming for the
Christmas issue?
I would like to expand
our artistic range, Ariel.
All of the sweet and
happy stuff gets
rather well,
you know, boring.
But the magazine is called
"Sweet Home."
Besides, people love reading
happyChristmas stories!
People love sensational
stories,
and I love money.
And this right here
is money.
Ariel, all you have to do is
find someone who hates Christmas
and write about them.
Mr. Huckabee...
Jeremy...
I don't know if I'm the right
person for thisjob.
I have faith in you.
In my hands by
Christmas Eve.
It's going to be
a stunning article!
[COMICAL MUSIC]
Yeah, one that youshould
clearly be writing.
[SIGHS]
I'M COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS
THAT CHRISTMASTIME
IS HERE AGAIN
AND EVERYBODY
IS COMING TO TOWN
SANTA, I GOT SOMEONE SPECIAL
I BEEN THINKING OF
I'M HOPING YOU CAN
HELP ME OUT
IF YOU WERE TO GRAN ME THIS WISH
THEN I PROMISE
I WON'T FORGET
I CAN SEE I'LL BE AT THE TOP
OF YOUR LIST
EVERY YEAR AFTER
THIS REQUEST
WHOA OH WHOA OH WHOA
I'LL MAKE YOU MINE
THE SNOW IS FALLING DOWN
THE FIRE IS
BLAZING BRIGHT
I MIGHT BE DREAMING
THERE'S AN ANGEL
IN MY SIGHTS
THANKS FOR THE PRESENTS
UNDERNEATH THE TREE
BUT THERE'S SOMETHING
THAT YOU MISSED
SANTA, THIS GIRL'S THE
ONLY THING
THAT'S ON MY LIST
THAT'S MY
CHRISTMAS WISH
Oh, it's perfect!
I'LL BE GOOD
START TO BELIEVE AGAIN
SANTA IF YOU'LL
MAKE IT COME TRUE
YOU'RE THE GUY I THINK CAN
MAKE SOME MAGIC
AND I'VE GOT SOME
MILK AND COOKIES FOR YOU
IF YOU WERE TO GRANT ME THIS
WISH THEN I PROMISE
I WON'T FORGET
[CELL PHONE MAKES A SOUND]
Low power?
Oh...
Charger, charger...
Really?
[CAR HORN HONKS NEARBY]
I love it so much.
[CAR DOOR OPENS]
Merry Christmas, Erica!
[CAR DOOR CLOSES]
Here's your keys!
[ARIEL CHUCKLES]
Seriously, it's mine?
Mm-hmm.
As soon as you complete
on the sale,
you are the proud owner of
Mountain Holly Cottage!
Ariel: I brought
a cashier's check.
Erica: Great!
Ariel: Thank you so much.
This means more than you know.
There wasa little hiccup
a few days ago,
but it all got
sorted out.
Oh yeah?
Yeah.
There was another buyer who
reallywanted the place,
but I knew your top price
and so I worked the deal
until you won the bid.
Apparently with
room to spare.
Erica: Ooh, careful of the
candy canes...
they mark the property line.
Ariel: I cannot wait
to see the inside!
[FRONT DOOR OPENS]
[FRONT DOOR CLOSES]
[FOOTSTEPS]
Oh my, it's breathtaking!
Erica: I can't believe it was
on the market
for such a great price.
It's an amazing space.
Don't you just love it?
It's fully furnished which is
great so you won't have to
replace it before Christmas.
You can just picture
a Christmas tree here.
I can't wait to show my family.
They're gonna love it!
Turkey in the oven...
Everyone sitting by
the fireplace making
decorations while
sipping apple cider
after a day of
snowshoeing...
while trimming the tree.
I made an itinerary.
[FRONT DOOR OPENS]
Here we are!
Oh!
Uh, who are you?
I'm Erica Holden with
Equity Homes Realty.
This is my client.
I'm afraid this place
sold this morning.
Yes it did... [CLAPS]
to me!
Erica: I'm sorry,
that's impossible.
I have the papers right here.
Perhaps I can help
you with that.
I'm Nick Sage with...
Second Home Realty, Inc!
And you are
in my client's cottage.
[COMICAL SUSPENSE MUSIC]
What?
What?I'm not sure I can easily
explain what happened-
Oh, let me try.
It looks like you
bothbought this place.
Well how is
that possible?
It looks like both
offers were accepted.
Well how much did you pay?
You both paid
the same amount.
Okay you know what, why don't we
just call the seller's agent
and I'm sure we can just
clear this up.
That's the problem.
There is no seller's agent.
What do you mean?
Erica: He is a sweet elderly man
who for some reason
sold this place without
an agent.
Ariel: well, why don't we call
that sweet, elderly
gentlemen and ask him
who he'd rather sell to.
I'm the obvious choice.
And how's that?
No offense but
between the two of us...
I belong here.
Besides, I'm made
for cottage life.
Right because this
clearly says
"I love the outdoors."
I'll call the
title office and
see if we can clear
this up.
Erica: And I'll go help
and be not here.
[FRONT DOOR CLOSES]
[CLEARS THROAT]
[FOOTSTEPS]
A skylight here would be nice.
Yeah, bring a little
bit more natural light.
Yeah, especially
in the mornings.
You really love
this house, huh?
I do.
Maybe after I move in,
I'll talk to a professional
about a skylight.
[LAUGHS]
Well,
you arethough.
Pardon?
Talking to a professional.
You're a contractor?
Oh my gosh,
of course.
You're already thinking of how
to turn this into like
a strip mall or a condo, right?
I know your type.
My type?
You're just wanting
to flip it.
You don't deserve it,
sorry.
Well for a second there,
I was thinking of
letting you have it
but now... no way.
Erica: So unfortunately there
isn't a whole lot we can do.
Mr. Noel doesn't remember which
agreement he signed first.
Nick: According to the land
title office it comes down to...
basically possession is 9/10ths
of the law.
What?
What?
Erica:
So Ariel this is Mark.
Nick:
Mark this is Ariel.
Ariel:
No, no... why are you-
I don't want to know this
guy's name,
I want him out of my house.
Ditto, I mean what kind of
name is "Ariel" anyway?
You can't leave,
this guy is completely
unreasonable.
Ha!
See what I mean?
All the more reason to come to a
conclusion quick.
[SIGHS]
Umm-hmm.
- Uh, what are you doing?
- I'm going home.
In the morning I'm gonna call a
lawyer to deal with all of this.
Good idea,
I'm gonna do the same.
Erica: Oh I don't think you
guys understand.
Nick: The whole 9/10ths of the
law means whichever one of
you leaves
the property first...
forfeits your right to it.
We have to stay here?
Nick: Yes... negotiate!
No, no, no, no... can't we...
can't we...
at least go get stuff?
I thought you were made
for cottage life?
I mean like
food and...
toilet paper.
Can you go back to my place and
get me a few basics...
You know like moisturizer
and mascara
and maybe a few groceries.
Mark: Yeah you know what?
I think I need a few staples too
for like say a couple
days or a week.
A week?!
Did you say a week?
Yeah.No.
Erica:
If you don't decide in a week,
the owner will put this cottage
back on the market-
With the condition that neither
one of you can purchase it.
Those were his terms.
What about your commission,
yeah?
Don't you want to stay here and
make sure that I get it?
Funny thing-
Erica: We actually both get
a full commission.
Merry Christmas to us!
What?!
Oh don't forget...
You cango outside...
but just be mindful of where
the property line ends
between the reindeer
and the candy canes.
Yeah, the offer expires on the
day after Christmas so...
may the best person win!
[COMICAL MUSIC]
Oh um...
And watch out for the bears.
Bears?
[IMITATES BEAR GROWL]
[COMICAL MUSIC]
How am I supposed to get
any work done here?
Looks like you've got
everything you need
and there iselectricity
just in case you were wondering.
Umm-hmm, very funny.
I mean how am I supposed
to do research?
Well I suggest you get in your
car and you
drive two hours thatway.
[SNAPS LAPTOP CLOSED]
You wish.
Alright, let's figure out
sleeping arrangements.
[DOOR OPENS]
How does your boyfriend or
husband feel about you
spending the night with me?
I'm not spending the night
with you.
Besides, I don't have a husband
or boyfriend.
Nor do I.
You know you're going to have to
work a lotharder
if you want to wear me down.
Oh, well I guess
we'll have to wait and see.
I'm taking this room.
Oh, what if I want to
sleep in here?
Well possession is 9/10ths of
the law and... oh look!
I'm inside.
[CHUCKLES]
[DOOR CLOSES]
[SIGHS]
[PHONE BEEPS ON,
RINGS]
[PHONE BEEPS ON]
Yeah?
Mark: Hey little brother,
where are you?
Trevor:
I'm in your office.
Great.
Is dad still there?
Trevor: Hang on.What do you need?
Trevor: I've got Mark on the
phone; he says
he has got a surprise for us.
Mark: Hey Dad.Hey, son.
Mark: Trevor, Dad, pack your
overnight bags, you're coming up
to your cottage.
Trevor: Our cottage?
Mark: Yes, I'm keeping my
promise but...
Trevor: But what?
Yeah, about that... you are
never gonna believe this.
[MARK CONTINUES TALKING
ON PHONE IN HIS ROOM]
[FOOTSTEPS]
[MARK CONTINUES TALKING
ON PHONE IN HIS ROOM]
So I'm gonna need you guys to
help me like wear her down.
Hey, so what's
she like?
I don't know...
She's pretty...
Kind of a smarty-pants...
Pretty...
Mark's Dad:
Sounds like your type!
Yeah
she does.
Mark's Dad: Okay son,
we'll leave
first thing
in the morning.
Awesome, alright!
[DOOR OPENS]
Oh! This isn't
the bathroom.
No, that'd be the one
with the sink.
[ARIEL READING ALOUD]
"Don't use, water is
shut off."
[DOOR OPENS]
[DOOR CLOSES, OPENS]
One towel?
Dibs.
[DOOR CLOSES]
[EXHALES]
[FOOTSTEPS]
[ARIEL CLEARS HER THROAT]
Hey!
What's the problem?
The water isn't on,
and I need water.
Go turn it on.
I looked in the bathroom and the
shut-off valve isn't there.
Oh, it must be
under the house.
Okay, I'll wait.
Mark: Hmm, this looks like
a good book.
What are you doing?
What does it look like?
"Marley was dead to begin with,
there is no doubt about that
whatsoever."
Ugh, that's sad.
[MARK SIGHS]
Look...
The way I see it,
you have two options...
You can get in your car,
go home to your working bathroom
and you know whatever Christmas
festivities that you do
which is my recommendation...
Or you can stay here and look
outside for the shut-off valve
with the bears.
You're not a very nice guy,
are you?
I'm verynice.
[SIGHS]
The way I see it...
sooner or later, you're gonna
need to use the bathroom too.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC]
I'll wait.
Fine.
[MARK SIGHS]
Have you seen any flashlights
lying around?
It's daylight.
Yeah, but it's dark under the
house and you gotta give
the snakes a chance to scatter.
Snakes?!
Mark:
Yeah, loads of them.
Oh my...
There might be one in my car.
Okay, good. Let's go.
[CLAPS]
Ariel:
Let me get my winter stuff.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[BEEP, TRUNK OPENS]
Almost...
Just a little farther...
[MARK MAKES HISSING SOUND]
[ARIEL STRAINING TO REACH]
Got it!
Nice try.
It's gonna take
more than that!
[FOOTSTEPS]
[ANIMAL NOISES NEARBY]
Is that a snake?
No.
A bear?
No, not really.
[SQUIRREL CHITTERING]
Oh.
Are there really snakes and
bears out here?
Oh yeah.
But don't worry,
I'll protect you.
Really?
I mean I'll probably negotiate
something first,
but yeah probably.
[SLIDING OPEN]
Ariel:
Do you see any snakes?
[CREAKING SOUND]
[SLIDING SHUT]
Okay.
That's it?
That's it.
Thanks.
Um...
I just remembered
something, hold on.
I've got some food
in the car.
Thank you.
It's not much but
at least it's something.
No, thank you
for sharing.
You didn't have to.
Well, I couldn't
leave you hungry.
Starios, right?
You're from Charlotte
too?
Yeah.Both: Best marinara!
[CHUCKLES]
Yeah.
So are you uh...
ready for Christmas?
No.
I mean I'm not
a grinch or anything.
[FLASHBACK]
Bring on the Grinch!
I just...
I'm not really into Christmas.
[FLASHBACK] All you have to do
is find someone who hates
Christmas and write
about them.
Really?
How come?
I used to like it...
anyway I don't want to
talk about it.
Okay.
How 'bout you?
What do you do?
You said you were working
on an article?
Are you a writer?I am.
I work for
"Sweet Home" magazine.
Oh, interesting.
And you said you had
some research you were doing?
Yeah.
How's that going?
You know...
I may have found another way...
So I won't have to get in my
car and drive home.
Oh... good, good.
Yeah.
So what made you want to
buy this place?
Well, it's not really
for me as much.
It's mainly for my
family.
I'm only here for 3 more weeks
and then I go to Australia
for 2 years.
Wow!
I'm an on-site architect
for a building
my brother and I designed.
Wow again.
So you're not
a contractor.
I mean I was.
My father has been a contractor
for 30-plus years,
and I was following
in his footsteps.
But, you know, he had better
plans for my brother and I.
Nice.Yeah.
Yeah this job in Sydney's
like a dream come true for me.
I really can't wait.
Um, hey can I use your phone?
Mine's dead.
Really?
So is mine.Really?
You were just talking on it like
30 minutes ago in your room.
No.
No, I don't think so.
You must have heard me
talking to myself.
Well did you bring
charging cables?
No.
No, I didn't.
Oh, okay.
I see what's goingon here.
You probably called your family
and they are on their way.
Hey, I wasn't finished.Well, I am!
I can't believe I shared
my only meal with you,
you ungrateful person you!
I wasgrateful until you
took it away.
You can towel off
using toilet paper.
I get dibs on
the only towel.
I hope you miss Christmas.
I hope you miss Christmas!
Ariel: I heard you the
first time, grinch!
[DOOR SLAMS CLOSED]
[DOOR CREAKS OPENS]
[TCHAIKOVSKY "DANCE OF THE
SUGAR PLUM FAIRY"]
[SNORES]
Oh, she's so pretty.
[RINGING]
[WHISPERING]It's me.
Listen, I need your help.
THE SNOW FELL DOWN
ON LONDON TOWN
AS THE CHILDREN SLEP SO SWEET AND SOUND
CARRIED ON THE WINGS
OF A TURTLEDOVE
THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
IS SPREADING ITS LOVE
NEW YORK CITY NEVER
FELT SO PRETTY
AS THE LOVERS SKATE
UNDERNEATH THE PARK
CARRIED ON THE WINGS
OF A TURTLEDOVE
THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
IS SPREADING ITS LOVE
EVERYWHERE AROUND
THE WORLD
PEOPLE COME TOGETHER
FROM FAR AND WIDE
TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON OF
OF JOY IN THE WORLD
Hey!
Oh!
Whoa!
That's twice I've
saved your life now.
Well technically the
first time I was in
no real danger.
Well, you thought
you were.
[EXHALES]
I found these
in my closet.
Shouldn't they go on
a tree?
Well, we don't have one
so I'm improvising.
You really like Christmas,
don't you?
That and maybe I can Christmas
you out of here.
Nah, I'll just
ignore it.
So what is with you
and Christmas anyway?
It's complicated.
Well maybe if you
weren't such a grouch
spending it alone...
Who says I will?
[DOORBELL RINGS]
Mark's Dad: Mark, we're here!
[KNOCKING ON DOOR]
No phone, huh?
Mark:
Now who could that be?
Dad!
Hey, what do ya think?
This is good,right?
Lookin' good!You too!
[FOOTSTEPS]
Come on in.
You're gonna
love this place.
[DOOR OPENS]
Make yourselves at home.
Ariel...
Hi!
And you are?
I'm Duke.Nice to meet you.
- This is my son, Trevor.
- Hi, nice to meet you.
And if course you know
my other son.
I do.
[SIGHS]
Forgive my son.
What do you mean?
Everyone can see
you belong in this place.
Oh...
[ARIEL CHUCKLES]
- You're not helping.
- Sure he is!
Come on in,
I'm so glad you came.
I wish I could offer you
something,
but all we have is jam.
Duke: Well let's see if
we can fix that.
[COMICAL MUSIC]
Wow!
What all did you bring?
We uh Hendersons may not look it
but we can cook.
Well Mark's not very good but
Trevor and I can hold our own.
[ARIEL LAUGHS]
Trevor:
We hope he learns overseas.
Ariel: Mark was talking
about Australia.
Well really Ishould be
the one who's going.
Oh?
Duke:
Trevor is also an architect.
They worked on the designs
together and now Trevor wants
to go almost as badly
as Mark does.
This is a lovely cottage here,
Ariel.
It suits you.
Dad!
You must be starving.
Come on, let's unpack.
Ariel:
Oh, this won't do.
Homemade cookies
for Christmas.
You need that.
Well if you make 'em,
we'll eat 'em!
Dad, what are you doing?
Problems?
No, everything's
just fine.
She's the enemy,okay?
What are you doing
helping her?
We aren't gonna starve her out
on Christmas, are we?
Pantry!
Uh, seems like your plan
kinda backfired, huh?
[CAR HORN HONKS OUTSIDE]
Ariel's Dad: Look at that!
Ariel's Mom: It's gorgeous!
Ariel's Dad: It's beautiful!
[DOORS CLOSE]
Ariel!
You used my cord to charge your
phone, didn't you?
How could I?
You didn't bring one.
Now who could that be?
Mom! Dad!
Oh!
Hi!!!
It's so beautiful!
This looks
amazing!
Oh my gosh!
Honey grab that.
Ariel's Sister: We canceled all
our plans to be here.
Well played.
Oh! This is beautiful!
Honey, it is gorgeous!
Are you sure
she's the enemy?
Ariel's Mom: Oh my goodness!
This is amazing!
Ariel's Sister: It's beautiful!
Ariel, I love it!
Hello!
Mom, Dad, Jasmine...
these are the Hendersons.
This is Trevor and his father,
Duke.
Ariel's Mom: So very nice
to meet you, Duke.
Duke: Hi.
And this is Mark.
Mark: Hi.
Ariel's Mom: Hi!
These are my parents...
Peter and Amy Colt,
and my sister, Jasmine.
Hey!
Ariel and Jasmine?
Eh, it's a thing.
[LAUGHS]
Mark: Trevor.
Trevor: What?
Peter: If we'd had a son,
his name would have been
"Snow White."
"Aladdin."
[EVERYONE LAUGHS]
It's a pleasure to meet you.
Looks like we're gonna be
spending Christmas together.
Glad you're all here.
Amy: Let's get
ready for Christmas!
Come on!
Let's see what
we've got over here.
Be careful,
it's heavy.
We have enough food
to feed an army.
We have bacon in a bucket.
What are you doing?
They're gonna ruin
our Christmas.
- Okay, hmm...
- Ooh, pantry.
No, I'm not working on it
because it is a terrible idea.
[LAUGHING]
Jasmine: So you play guitar?
Yeah, you?
Kind of.
I mostly sing.
Trevor: Cool, I'll bet you know
this one here.
[STRUMMING GUITAR]
Oh, you've got to
be kidding me.
JOYFUL AND TRIUMPHANT
OH COME YE...
I don't get it, I thought this
is what you wanted.
Yeah, not until Christmas Eve
and not like this.
Oh, the timing's off.
COME AND BEHOLD HIM
BORN THE KING OF ANGELS
I got to go join them,
I'm so sorry.
OH COME LET US
ADORE HIM
OH COME LET US
ADORE HIM!
I thought you
loved Christmas.
I do.
OH COME LET US
ADORE HIM
CHRIST THE LORD
That was good, guys.
What's the matter?
Did your plan
backfire?
Oh whatever.
[HUMMING HAPPILY]
I'm gonna get some
fresh clothes.
Who's the grinch now?
This is terrible.
Oh, hey!
I didn't know you
were in here.
I can play Jingle Bells
sort of... almost...
Is it too late to add a guitar
to my Christmas list?
What are you doing?
Ariel: Just working.
Well...
Well, Mom wants us to find some
pinecones...
Something about making
a centerpiece.
I figured you'd be
all over that, you know?
Making and not buying.
What are you writing?
[JASMINE READING]"Behind a
charming and attractive facade
lies a grouchy man.
We'll call him
Mark the grinch."
Wait, Mark?
ThisMark?
Jeremy sprung an assignment on
me last-minute.
It's due Christmas Eve.
And you're using Mark
as your subject?
He doesn't like Christmas?
- Nope.
Huh.
Does Mark know that you're
writing about him?
Nope.
Well, let's hope he doesn't read
"Sweet Home" magazine.
Ugh...
[FLAME FLICKERING]
[FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING]
Hey!
Hey.
Mind if I
sit down?
Be my guest.
[SIGHS]
Hmm...
[SIGHS]
I hope you two don't reach an
agreement until
afterChristmas.
How come?
I know you're both doing
your best
andyour worst
to get this place
but putting that all aside
I think this will be
very good for Mark.
What do you mean?
I think he likes you.
[SCOFFS]
No way.
We couldn't be
more different.
I don't happen to
agree with that.
But in any case, it's good for
him to be around happy people.
So why doesn't
he like Christmas?
It wasn't always
the case,
he used to love it.
So then what happened?
[SIGHS DEEPLY]
His mom, my wife...
passed away 6 months ago
so this will be the first
Christmas without his mother.
I'm sorry,
I didn't know.
Oh, thank you.
I've tried talking to him about
it but...
he was always closer to
his mother.
Maybe he'll talk to you.
Uh...
Mark on Phone: Hi, Kathy.
Are you serious?
I'm not scheduled to be in
Australia for
another two and a half weeks.
No, no... don't cancel,
I'll make it happen.
Yes.
No, I'll be there.
Okay, I'll leave on the 25th.
Merry Christmas.
[PHONE BEEPS OFF]
Was that Kathy?
Yeah, the uh...
investor is arriving 2 weeks
early to approve the designs.
Trevor: What the-
That's Christmas.
I know.
And you have to be
there for that?
Mark: Yeah, apparently.
I tried to push it but
it was just-
Trevor: Mark, this our first
Christmas without Mom.
Do you think I want
to miss it?
You can't say "no?"
No...
Not really, I mean it's...
Look, this is our first
job with them.
I feel like this could really
help transition us
to designing signature
buildings.
You know, I can't decide if
you're doing this because
all you care about is your
career or because it's just
easier for you to just bail
on Christmas.
Look...
just make sure he's okay.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[DOOR OPENS, CLOSES]
Give me a minute.
Yeah.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[ARIEL SIGHS]
I'm sorry,
this is not what...
Can I-
No, I'm okay.
Thank you.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[DOOR OPENS, CLOSES]
[FOOTSTEPS]
What'd you
say to him?
Nothing.
Well this just means that all
you have to do is bide
your time until Christmas
and the place is yours.
I guess.
Are you sure?
I can sleep on a couch.
Or me.
I don't mind.
No, no, no.Thanks.
Um, I was gonna get
some work done.
Now?
Mark: Yeah, yeah just a bit.
Alright.
[FOOTSTEPS]
What's going on?
They want him there on
the 27th.
[SIGHS]
That means he has to leave
on Christmas.
Yeah.
I haven't eaten like this
since I graduated.
Amy: My goodness,
beautiful! Beautiful!
You guys, I don't remember the
last time I slept so well.
These are so good, Mrs. Colt.
Oh, I'm so glad
you're enjoying them!
Please call me "Amy,"
his mother's "Mrs. Colt."
[CHUCKLES]
Trevor: What's in it?
Oh she will
never tell you.
Isn't that right, Hummingbird?
- That's right, Honeybunch.
So you guys, I have an idea.
My great-grandparents are
from Germany and they celebrated
Christmas on the 24th.
- That's true, when we were kids
we used to go their house on
Christmas Eve.
Ariel: So I was thinking this
year,
maybe we could do the same and
celebrate on the 24th.
Whole turkey dinner with
all the fixin's?
Yeah, what do you think?
Jasmine:
Yeah, that would be awesome!
Sounds great!
Mark?
Sure.
Peter: That's a wonderful idea,
sweetheart.
Alright, you don't have
to ask me twice!
All we need is
a Christmas tree.
- I brought an axe!
- We own an axe?
Seriously!
[FOOTSTEPS]
- How far is the lake from here?
- Couple miles I think.
You know what?
Regardless of who
gets this cottage,
you and me...
we should come out fishing.
Now you're speaking
my language!
What do you think we
could find out here?
Catfish mostly.
What do you think?
I'm thinking this spring,
we could hunt down
some nice rainbow trout.
Hmm.
How long has Ariel been
looking to buy a cottage?
To be honest,
I didn't know she was.
So why do you think she
wants to get one?
I think it has less to
do with that cottage,
and more to do with the
kind of Christmas she wants.Oh?
My parents made a huge
impression on her and their
stories became kind of
a blueprint for her.
I just worry that she'll miss
out on her perfect Christmas
by trying re-create
my mother's.
Hmm, yeah.
This one.
- Are you sure it's gonna fit?
- Of course.
- Maybe we should look
for a smaller one.
- Come on, Dad. This is it!
- Well, start chopping then!
Jasmine:
Trevor? Trevor!
Trevor!
Trevor, Trevor...
What's up?
I have an idea,
and I need your help.
Come on,
let's go!
Okay, he's all yours Dad.
We'll make it fit.
Follow me.
Alright!
No, I don't understand.
I thought you wanted me to find
someone who
didn't like Christmas.
Ariel, I'm looking to do a piece
on people who don't even
[SNAPS FINGERS]
stop for Christmas.
Ariel: Uh-huh?
Jeremy: I'm lookin for a grinch
Ariel: Um-hmm.
Jeremy: A Scrooge and
what you sent me was soft.
Of course...
No, I'm stone cold, yes.
Jeremy: Ariel-
Ariel: I'm cutthroat.
Something that people would
want to click on,
so don't pull any punches.
Now can you do this or do I need
to get someone else?
No!
I agree one-thousand percent.
Yeah, thank you.
[PHONE BEEPS OFF]
[FLAMES FLICKERING]
[PHONE NOTIFICATION BEEP]
[SIGHS]
Jeremy, leave me alone.
In my pocket you go.
Everything okay?
Yeah, except we need to
make more decorations.
Let's do it!
Where's the basket?
So this one then, right?
But don't touch the mold because
you don't want that.
Trevor: Okay, l can we have
everyone's attention please?
Christmas as you know wouldn't
be complete without presents so-
Jasmine: I think you're really
gonna like this one, sis.
Trevor: Yes. Jasmine and I have
prepared a little
Secret Santa game and
participation is mandatory.
As are the rules
about the presents.
It must be handmade
and found within
the bounds of the
property.
[ALL AGREEING]
And no swapping!
Okay!
- Okay, is everyone ready?
- Let's do it!
- Cool.
- Let's do it!
If you pull your own name,
let me know.
[CLEARS THROAT]
Good choice there.
Alright,
I won't look.
No cheating.
- Don't tell.
- I'm not cheating!
Thank you,
very much.
Pick something good,
something good.
Indeed.
Of course,
one for me.Right.
Okay.
You know, if you get me you can
just skip making me a present
and give me the cottage now.
[LAUGHS]
Not a chance.
Besides why are you
counting me out?
It's Christmas.
I hear miracles
can happen.
Yes.Bravo.
I know that face.
It's my
assignment.
What the
Christmas feature?
If you can
call it that.
Oh, right.
Jeremy wants me to write
something that if I don't
I could lose my promotion.
Or even my job.
But you don't
want to write it.
I don't know.
Well...
I know you'll do
the right thing.
Because you
always do.
Oh, they're done.
Ha, ha, ha, ha!
They're perfect.
Are you using this?
No, no, no.
It's all yours.
I didn't know
you baked.
What are you
making?
Sorry, trade secrets.
Uhhh.
Hey, how's that Christmas
present going?
Good.
So what are you
gonna make for her?
No idea.
[LAUGHS]
Wait, wait, wait.
How did
you know?
Don't tell me you and
Jasmine have been
playing match-maker, man.
No, no!Good!
Us?
Yeah, good because you know
that we don't like each other.
Right, right.
Okay.
Though, I was wondering
why you wouldn't let
her see your drawings.
Your trade
secret drawings.
You like
this girl.
No, no I don't.
Yeah, yeah you do.
No I don't.Yes you do.
Ariel: I don't.Yes you do.
I don't. Jasmine: You do!
Even if I did he
doesn't like me.
In my opinion-Shut up.
Shut up.
Ariel: No I don't.
Mmm-hmm, are you
sure about that?
Wait, why?
Did he say
something?
Ah-ha! You do like him.
You like him.
You like him.
THE SNOW IS HANGING DOWN
FROM THE STREET LAMPS
THE SKY IS SUCH
A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT
AND WHEN WE WALK
ALONG THE ICY LANE
YOU'LL BE HOLDING
ME SO TIGHT
[YAWNING]
AND WHEN WE SIT A THE FIRE WITH
THE FLAMES GETTING HIGHER
WE'LL BE WRAPPING UP... Morning.
Oh sorry, I didn't
mean to wake you.
I just-No, I should be up anyway.
Coffee?
I suppose coffee
is safe.
You mean
among enemies?
Exactly.
I think it's
pretty safe.
Mugs?
Actually you
know what? No.
If I'm gonna own this place I
should know where things are.
So how do you
like your coffee?
Black, please.
Black it is.
One cup of black coffee.
Thanks.Mmm-hmm.
[SIGHS]
So, what do you miss most
about being stuck here?
Uh you mean
right now?Yeah.
You're gonna
think it's silly.
But there's this angel tree
topper and each Christmas
we take turns on whose gonna
put it on top of the tree.
And this year it
was your turn?
I told you
it was silly.
No, it's not.
It's actually
really sweet.
So what about you?
What do you miss most?
Well if it wasn't
for all of this,
it'd actually
be pretty perfect.
Do you want
breakfast?
Mark: I thought it would
be good to install a skylight
in my parents' roof to
watch the sun rise.
I hid it forever until one day
my mother came home from work.
She opens the car door the
second I prop open the skylight.
Seriously? Yeah.
Who knows how long I could've
had that thing in the house
without anybody knowing. [LAUGHING]
How old were you?14.
Wow, and what'd you dad say?
He said, "Son, you did
everything right."
The hinges, the flashing.
I think he was a
little proud of me.
So did he let
you keep it?
Uh, sort of.
As punishment he claimed it
as his den and I moved into
whatever was his study.
[LAUGHING]
I like your laugh.
[CHUCKLES]
[PHONE VIBRATES]
Oh, sorry.
Hello?
This is Mark.
I see.
Okay.
[FAMILY WALKING IN,
YAWNING]
Thanks for checking.
Okay, bye.
[BEEP]
That was my lawyer.
I checked to see whether my dad
could sit in for me when I was
out of town, since I was
buying the house for him.
But he said since it's my
name on the offer, he can't.
Maybe not everybody knows this
but I have to get on a plane
Christmas morning, which means
I need to leave tomorrow...
after dinner.
So whether it's now or tomorrow
I'll need to forfeit my claim.
Dad, Trev -- I think we should
leave now and leave the Colts
to enjoy the holidays in peace.
Guys, let's pack.
C'mon.
I'm sorry.
I don't mean to be that guy,
but if we get home tonight
we still might be able to
get some turkey or something.
Mr. Henderson...
I think you and your
family should stay.
She's right.
You should stay.
I mean, we're in
this together right?
Yeah.
I have to leave right
after dinner tomorrow.
It's okay.
You guys can stay
for Christmas.
The more the merrier!
We have a tree and turkey,
and... new friends
to share them with.
Okay, I guess.
[ALL EXCLAIMING]
Thank you, wow.
Was that so difficult?
Dad, are you sure?
I don't want you to feel like
I'm leaving you here with,
you know, strangers.
These people
aren't strangers.
They're almost like
family now.
And you know what?
You kept
your promise.
No, I didn't.
But one day I'm gonna
make sure of it.
Son, look around.
You did better than
make good on it.
Jasmine: So you're writing
more than you used to?
Wow.
How does that like,
affect your workload?
Well basically I just write
more than I used to.
And I help Jeremy.
Mmm.
You know, it occurs to me in all
the years that I've worked for
Sweet Home Magazine, you've
not once asked about my job.
So, why the
sudden interest?
Can't a sister just
show interest?
Yeah, a sister can.
Not sure you can.
Hey, that is entirely
uncalled for and mean.
And also true.
But... wait...
can you just explain to me one
more time what the difference
is between a Junior Editor
and a regular Editor?
Because you know,
I'm really interested.
Well a Junior Editor does
less actual story editing
and a regular Editor
improves the structure and
the flow of an article.
You know?Oh wait, so for instance...
what do you mean by
structure and flow?
Okay Jas, there's like zero
chance you actually care about
this so... what's going on?
Nothing.
Wait, wait, wait, wait...
you can't go out there.
Why?
What's going on
out there?
Yes, make sure you just fill
it in and stick it together.
Okay.
How long do you think Jasmine
can keep Ariel in the bedroom?
Not very long, you better
get to crackin'.
[LAUGHS]
Do you think she's
gonna like it?
I've never designed anything
with dough before.
Listen, she's
gonna love this.
This is so up her
alley; it's perfect.
[SIGHS]
Thank you for letting
us stay here.
Yeah.
Please.
We wouldn't have
it any other way.
And it's possible that I've
not seen Ariel this happy
at Christmas since she
was a little girl.
Hey...
How about I take this to
my room and let it set up?
Yes, please,
that'll be great.
I think it needs a bit
more work.
You have a little
bit more to go.
[BOTH LAUGH]
[CHUCKLES]
[CHOPPING]
You look very comfortable
doing that.
Well, I love
to cook and bake.
Well you can tell.
My wife Sally was
a great cook.
Yeah?
What was her favorite
Christmas recipe?
Oh...
She used to make this
sweet potato mash with
pecans and raisins.
M'm, that sounds good.
Oh, always
a favorite.
The boys ate it
like dessert.
They'll miss it.
Were the pecans
candied?
I don't know, they were
sweet and crunchy, so maybe.
Yeah, sounds
like it.
She had this
secret ingredient.
She didn't tell us, I've
tried everything but...
it's not it.
Well, what did it
taste like?
Hard to describe.
Fresh like
the morning sun.
So what else
goes in there?
Oh that's it for now.
It'll sautee and then
we'll add the consumee,
the sage and some cornbread.
So fancy.Mmm-hmm.
So why didn't Mark
follow in your footsteps?
He did at first.
But he's smart.
Smarter than a lot of the
architects we worked with.
So now we work
on his designs.
Well that's nice.
And he pushed Trevor
to go to college too.
At first Trevor didn't want to,
but Mark didn't give up.
Hey Mr. Henderson?Hmm?
Do you know why Mark wanted
to buy you this cottage?
[SIGHS]
Before she died he made
a promise to his mother.
We used to have a cottage.
We'd spend the holidays
there every Christmas.
And when Sally got sick...
We had to sell it to
pay for her treatments.
A few weeks before she died
she made the boys promise
to find me a cottage
again for Christmas.
[WOOD SQUEAKING]
All good over here.
Go, go...
Are you ready?
Trevor: Ready.
Ready.
[CLEARS THROAT]
[GRUMBLING]
No?
Mmm, no.
Okay.
No.
Okay, got it.
One last shot.
[LAUGHS]
BOTH: That's it!
[EXCLAIMS]
Unbelievable.
Oh my gosh.
Good!
[LAUGHS]
Sally's smiling down.
Oh boy.
Trevor: Incredible.
[TYPING]
[TYPING]
JOY TO THE WORLD
THE LORD HAS COME
LET EARTH...
I think you
should go outside.
...HER KING
LET EVERY HEART
PREPARE HIM ROOM
[Whispers] Go away.
[HAMMERING]
Hey.
How's your
story coming?
Great, actually.
Can I help?
No, no I've got this.
So I hear I should
get a skylight.
Yeah.
Hey, when you
all leave-
How come you're
doing this?
So you don't fall
off the porch.
Plus you were
nice to us.
Twice now.
And I figured you
deserved some nice back.
Well, thank you.
And it's Christmas.
I knew you'd notice.
[SHIVERING]
Mark: You want to look
for more decorations?
Ariel: Yeah, let me put
on something warmer.
Thank you.
I didn't want you to miss
Christmas, even though
I know you don't like it.
Well...
it's good for my family
to be around happy people.
They need that,
especially my dad.
What about you?
What do you need?
I don't know.
What I need you can't
buy in a store.
Mark, I know you
miss your mom.
I'm so, so sorry about
what happened to her.
But I'm certain that
she wouldn't want
you to hate Christmas.
Christmas is a time for hope,
forgiveness, peace on earth,
good will to men.
Look, nothing's ever gonna
replace her, not ever.
She was awesome.
My first memories of
Christmas was waking up to
the smells of her cooking.
Her baking.
She used to bake a
month before Christmas.
The entire neighborhood would
smell like her cookies.
Look, right now because of
our fathers and your brother
the place smells like
a Christmas tree.
And tomorrow, it'll smell like
turkey, fried okra,
cornbread dressing, yeast rolls,
'cranberry sauce,
green bean casserole and
homemade pecan pie.
And that... that is your dad's
homemade mountain apple cider
that he's been simmering
all day long.
He loves you so much.
We're all here for you.
[TYPING]
HE RULES THE WORLD...
And that's how...
WITH TRUTH AND GRACE
AND MAKES THE NATIONS...
Done and... sent.
[SIGHS]
THE GLORIES OF HIS
RIGHTEOUSNESS
[ERROR BEEP]
AND WONDERS OF HIS LOVE
AND WONDERS OF HIS LOVE
AND WONDERS, WONDERS
OF HIS LOVE
Huh, still
needs something.
I know, there are no more
pinecones, I checked.
I didn't know
you were up.
It's almost Christmas I want
to enjoy every second of it.
[SIGHS]Alright,
what else can we use?
I don't know, foam, wood?
We have wood.
But we don't have
any art supplies.
Yeah.
Have you been up
in the attic?
We have an attic?
Wow, I wonder how long
all this has been here.
Decades maybe.
So what are we
hoping to find?
Anything.
Nice.
Paint.
Whatcha doing?
Looking for things
to make ornaments with.
Whoa.
Cool.
I know, the problem
is what do we paint?
What if you made
some wooden balls?
We don't have a lathe.
We could build one.
Yeah, there's a ton
of wood on the porch.
All we need are bolts,
a drill, a saw, and a router.
All that stuff's in dad's van.
Okay!
Great.
I'll take that, thank you.
C'mon bro, let's get fancy.
Do you want to help
me find things to
decorate the balls with? Jasmine: Yeah.
So...
How's it going
with Mark?
It's fine.
I mean, he leaves tonight
so I probably will
never see him again.
[SAW]What time's your flight?
Eleven A.M.
Are you gonna talk to
Ariel before you leave?
About what?
How you feel.
For what it's worth, Trevor
is sure that Mark likes you.
Man, I mean what's
the point?
You know, I go to Australia
for two years, maybe longer.
You and him talk
about this?
Actually yes,
quite a bit.
Great.
I think you're
making a mistake.
How?
Do you like him?
Mmm-hmm.
She likes you,
you know.
You think so?
Yeah.
[LAUGHS]
THE FIRST NOEL... Okay...
THE ANGEL DID SAY
Wow, I'm impressed.
POOR SHEPHERDS
IN FIELDS WHERE THEY LAY
IN FIELDS WHERE THEY LAY,
LAY KEEPING THEIR SHEEP
ON A COLD WINTER'S
NIGHT THAT WAS SO DEEP
NOEL, NOEL, NOEL, NOEL
BORN IS THE KING OF ISRAEL
Oh, one more thing.
Where did you find this?
I know it's probably not
gonna be the same but...
[GASPS]
I didn't want you
to miss your turn.
It's beautiful.
Thank you.
So I was thinking I'd make
a fire before dinner.
I'd like that.
I want to give you your
Christmas present before
you know, I leave.
Yeah, me too.
I figured we were each
others' secret Santa.
Not entirely by
accident I'm sure.
[LAUGHS]
Okay, I'm gonna
get yours ready.
Meet you outside?Yeah.
Okay.
Here we go.
[FIRE CRACKLING]
Maybe this is a dumb idea.
Ariel: Don't you dare.
Is that my present?
Wow, this looks amazing.
[CHUCKLING]
Well, I love the box and
if there's anything inside
it's just a bonus.
Okay...
Merry Christmas, Ariel.
It looks just like
the real one.
This is amazing.
It has a skylight.
For the morning sun.
I love it, thank you.
You do?
Of course I do.
I wonder how
long it'll last.
What you're not
gonna eat it?
No, I want to keep it.
At least until tomorrow morning,
and then I'm totally eating it.
[LAUGHS]
Okay, your turn.
You ready?Yeah.
Merry Christmas.
I hope you like it.
I have one more present
for you but this is just
your first present.
Tomorrow before you leave,
I have another one.
What do you mean? Why?
You ask too
many questions.
Just open your
first present.
Oh.
Is it right?
Yes.
This is exactly how
my mom used to make it.
[GIGGLES]
Uh, how did you- we couldn't
even figure out the ingredients.
Orange juice
and ginger.
[SNICKERS]
Thank you.
You have no idea how
much this means to me.
All of us.
You're welcome.
Your dad and
Trevor helped.
They were my
tasters.
[LAUGHS]
I really wish I
didn't have to leave.
Yeah, I've been wishing
that for a while now.
Trevor: Hey
guys, dinner's-
Oh, oh...
Dinner's ready
when you are.
Okay.Be right there.
Yes. Mark: Knuckleheads.
So annoying
sometimes.
[LAUGHING]
Jeremy: This article
better be ready.
CAR GPS: Arrival in one hour.
Mr. Henderson: Dear God,
thank You for this bounty
and Your provision.
Thank You for new friends
and thank You for Christmas.
And what it means to us all.
In Jesus' name, amen. ALL: Amen.
Let's bring in the food.
She makes a mean turkey.
See? [ALL TALKING]
It looks very nice if
I do say so myself.
[ALL TALKING]
Enjoy, everyone.
Don't take too much.
This means
a lot to us.
Thank you, really.
M'm.
Amazing.
Just like
your mother's?
Just like mom's.
[CHUCKLING]Incredible.
Thank you, again.
Well it was all
three of us.
[KNOCK ON DOOR]
I'll get it.
Coming.
[DOOR OPENS]
Please, come in.
It's cold out there.
Amazing.
What can I
do for you?
Hi.
I'm Jeremy Huckabee...
Ariel Colt's boss.
Oh...
Is she here?She is, yeah.
Let me go and
get her for you.
I'm Mark, by the way.
Ah, Mark... the subject of
Ariel's Christmas article
which she forgot to
send me by the way.
That's funny you uh, you don't
look like you hate Christmas.
Excuse me?
Bring On The Grinch.
[LAUGHING]
You are the Mark who she wrote
the article about aren't you?
The guy who
hates Christmas.
Is that what you've been
doing this whole time?
All I've shared with you,
you've just been asking me
questions for your article?
No, it's not like that.
I just, I needed
to write-
Excuse me.
Ariel: Mark!
Ariel, this article needs
to be uploaded by tonight.
So I need this now.
Yeah, can you
take care of this?
I sent it already.
I'm sorry.
I have to go.
Can I offer
you some pie?
Coffee?
Turkey?
Here you go.
We have plenty.
No, thank you.
Merry Christmas.
You guys, I-
I really think you
should read this.
Will you talk
to me, please?
I have nothing to say.
Mark, that article
wasn't my idea.
I didn't even want
to write it.
But you did.
I'm sorry.
Do you have any idea how hard it
was for me to talk about her?
You probably took my words,
twisted them around and made
me sound like a
terrible person.
Mark...
I hope it was worth
it, selling me out.
If you'd just
let me explain...
How am I ever supposed
to trust you again?
You're not the girl
I thought you were.
[DOOR OPENS, SHUTS]
Looks like
it may snow.
Yeah.
We'll all have
a white Christmas.
You came here expecting to
buy a cottage and in turn
you fell in love.
I've never seen my son look
as hurt as he did tonight.
That kind of hurt only happens
when you love someone.
Ariel, he loves you.
It's too late;
he's right.
Your parents told me what
you were planning to do.
Why?
[SIGHS]
Your heart is
as big as his.
Try talking to him again.
I can't, I hurt him.
And there's...
there's no undoing that.
Go talk to him.
And take this with you.
I'm sorry, please read this and
see if I am who you think I am.
Ariel [writing]:
My Christmas In The Pines.
By Ariel Colt.
This year, like every other
year, I had made the perfect
itinerary because long ago
I realized that I can't
leave Christmas to chance.
When I was little we
used to spend Christmas
with my grandparents.
We played games, made
ornaments and baked cookies.
Those were the true
old-fashioned Christmases that
I tried to recreate ever since.
But nowadays nobody knows
the true meaning of Christmas.
Or so I thought.
I prided myself on
knowing that Christmas
wasn't about presents.
What I didn't realize is,
I forgot to cherish what was
right in front of me.
Through the strangest of
circumstances, which I must
tell you about in another
issue, my family and I got
a chance to spend this
Christmas in beautiful
Carolinas with another family.
A family who wasn't looking
forward to this holiday.
Because it was their first
Christmas without someone.
A mom, who made
every holiday special.
She left behind a family:
a son, who didn't know how
to spend Christmas without her.
And yet, while I was
complaining about not having
a perfect Christmas...Hey!
Oh!
Oh...she's so pretty.
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
...they were all focused on
making the best of what we had.
[ALL SINGING]
Oh come let us...
BOTH: That's it!
Aahh!
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
While I was trying to make
everything perfect...
it was about being present
with the ones we love.
It was here that I realized
that my rigid plans are no
match to finding
a missing ingredient
to a lost Christmas recipe.
Is it right?
Or helping someone
fulfill a promise.
In the end it doesn't
matter what we do.
So long as we're together.
And that sometimes the most
imperfect Christmas
will give us the most
perfect memories.
If we open our hearts,
we will always have hope
and the blessings of Christmas.
Christmas is about giving.
But we must give what's
most precious, love.
Mark: Ariel!
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
This family I told you about...
What is
she doing?Shh! Just watch.
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
They think we saved them
this Christmas... Mark: Ariel!
Ariel! Ah no...
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
But, I think it's
the other way around.
Stop!
Ariel, wait!
Why are you
doing this?
All you have to do is
wait for me to leave
and the place is yours.
Ariel: I know.
So, I don't
understand.
Christmas is
about giving.
And until this evening,
this has been the best
Christmas I ever had.
It didn't matter
about the cottage.
It was about all of us
here together.
It was about you.
Ariel, no.
I want you and your
family to have it.
[GASPING]
Uh... Honey does that
look right to you?
Actually I moved that
when I bumped into it.
It's about three
inches further!
[SNOW CRUNCHES]That's it!
[GROANS] [ARIEL GIGGLES]
Congratulations, you
now have a cottage.
[SIGHS]
I read your article.
[LAUGHS]You're exactly the
girl that I thought you were.
[LAUGHS] [ALL CHEERING]
[CHEERING CONTINUES]
So, you gonna show me
around your cottage?
I think you'll
like it.
I think it needs
a skylight.
[CHUCKLES]
Let's open some presents!
Okay!
Thank you.
And dad.
Oh, thank you Mark.
I don't have one.
Well...
[CLEARS THROAT]
You are my
hummingbird.
Aww...
Merry Christmas.
[GASPS]
Thank you, whoever you are.
I needed one of these, yes!
Oh!
[GIGGLING]That looks sharp.
Oh Duke... I am going to
enjoy making use of this.
What do you say we come
back up after the holidays?
Let's see what's in this lake.
Now you're speaking
my language.
[BOTH LAUGHING]
Oh my gosh,
look at that!
It's a guitar strap.
Wow.That is amazing,
I love it.
Hold on, I have
something for Jasmine.
No... [ALL EXCLAIM]
For me, are
you serious?
Totally!
I don't know what to say,
thank you so much.
You're welcome.
Jasmine: Are you gonna
teach me more songs?
Absolutely, you bet.
But what about
your present?
Oh don't worry about that;
I got more of those at home.
So...
Mark: Can I get everybody's
attention please?
So my family and I
have been thinking...
that we don't want
to buy this cottage...
What?
...alone.
We'd like to propose that all of
us here, the two families,
buy it together.
And I would love for you
and your family to stay here
with mine while I'm gone.
Oh...
A few days ago I...
wasn't sure that I would really
ever love Christmas again.
And uh...
You helped me.
So thank you.
What my son is really
trying to say is...
that we should own
this property together.
My wife Sally wanted me
to have a cottage again.
But it's you I really needed.
You in?
Let's do it!Yes!
Yeah.
Yes!
Proud of you son.
The owner will be here soon
to sign the paperwork.
[PHONE VIBRATING]Oh.
Australia, excuse me.
Hi, Kathy?
Yeah...
Scoot over.
So I guess we're gonna have
to go shopping for your
gifts after the holidays.Nah...
You were right.
This is better than
anything I would've had
on my Christmas list.
Whoa.I mean...
where am I gonna wear
a purse anyways?
You did good, sis.Thanks.
You did real good.
[GROANS]
Bad connection.
I'll call her
on the road.
[DOORBELL]
Must be the owner.
ALL: Come in!
Merry Christmas everyone.
My name is Mr. Noel.
Nice to finally
meet you.
Ha, likewise.
Are Nick and
Erica coming?
No, they're with
their families.
I thought we could
do this ourselves.
I brought
the paperwork.
[PHONE VIBRATING]
Oh, I'm sorry, excuse
me just a second.
Hey Kathy...
Santa?
Did you get the Christmas
you wished for?
Yes, it was wonderful.
[CHUCKLING]
But not quite
perfect, is it?
[MARK TALKING ON PHONE]
[THUMPING FLOOR, MAGIC]
Mark:
Merry Christmas.
The meeting got pushed to
the second week of January.
[ALL EXCLAIMING]
And, little brother, I think
you're ready to take this
on by yourself.
What, you mean it?Mark: Yeah.
We're gonna be Skypeing
every day though
to monitor your progress.
But, yes you can
go to Australia.
I think I'd rather
stay here.
Um... that's awesome,
I won't let you down.
I don't know what to say.
How did you do it?
I didn't.
Christmas is what
you make it.
If you'll excuse us,
I would like to steal her away.
Jasmine: Would you
like some cocoa, Santa?
[SOFTLY LAUGHS]
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Ariel: Merry Christmas, Mark.
Mark: Merry Christmas, Ariel.
SILENT NIGHT
HOLY NIGHT
ALL IS CALM
ALL IS BRIGHT
ROUND YOUNG VIRGIN
MOTHER AND CHILD
HOLY INFANT
SO TENDER
AND MILD
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY
PEACE...
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY
PEACE...
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
THIS YEAR
I'M GONNA HOLD YOU CLOSE
NEVER LET YOU GO
UNTIL THE SUMMER
TURNS TO SNOW
LAST YEAR
BABY I MISSED YOUR TOUCH
WITHOUT YOU AIN'T ENOUGH
TO COME FILL MY HEAR WITH LOVE
AND I KNOW YOU'VE BEEN
WAITING FOR ME
I JUST, I JUST WANNA BE
AROUND YOU BABY, YOU AND ME
EVERY SINGLE HOLIDAY
YOU CAN BE MY HAPPY PLACE
I JUST, I JUST WANNA BE
AROUND YOU BABY, YOU AND ME
EVERY SINGLE HOLIDAY
YOU CAN BE MY HAPPY PLACE
P.A. Announcer: 20 Minutes
until the mall closes.
Don't miss your last chance to
meet Santa!
Only 6 more days before
Christmas and remember...
Jesus is the reason
for the season!
THIS YEAR
I'M GONNA HOLD YOU CLOSE
NEVER LET YOU GO
UNTIL THE SUMMER
TURNS TO SNOW
LAST YEAR
BABY I MISSED YOUR TOUCH
WITHOUT YOU AIN'T ENOUGH
TO COME FILL MY HEAR WITH LOVE
AND I KNOW YOU'VE BEEN
WAITING FOR ME
I JUST, I JUST WANNA BE
AROUND YOU BABY, YOU AND ME
Ariel: All this hustle and
bustle and shopping is crazy.
It's official...
This is the least
Christimasy Christmas ever.
Mom: Oh Ariel-
Oh my goodness,
there it is!
I need this purse more
than anything in the world.
Ariel: I've never even seen you
with a purse.
Because I've been waiting
for this one.
Well, I hope you're crossing
something else off of
that very long list
of yours.
No, I need
everything on it.
You don't need
everything on it.
Plus, didn't you just
get a huge promotion?
Jasmine!
Ariel's promotion is not
a direct correlation
for a Christmas gift.
Why not? It's not like she
has anyone to spend it on.
It's not like she
has a boyfriend.
Hey, she will find
Mr. Right.
Sure about that?
Someday.
Mm-hmm.
I don't know if the right
guy exists for Ariel.
Yes, he does.
He exists. He does.
So... [SIGH]
what are we looking for?
Someone smart...
Good.
And affectionate...
Mom: Good.
Someone loyal...
Mom: Exactly.
Someone who makes lists of
people that we're gonna visit,
not thingsthat he wants.
Okay well that guy
doesn't exist yet so...
my last exam is tomorrow at the
ungodly hour of 8 am
so I will meet you here at 11.
Wait, why?
You have 5 days to get
your Christmas shopping done!
I don't want to spend
the holidays shopping.
Okay truce, truce...
Seriously each year
I just wish that we'd
make Christmas about spending it
with the ones we love.
- Hello!
You know,
sitting by the fire,
baking cookies.
I wish we could just make
ornaments and sing songs.
Well, we already have
ornaments,
and you can't
even sing.
Seriously,
I don't want Christmas
to be about
shopping lists.
Girls, listen to me.
Christmas is what we make it.
Mm-hmm.
[GASPS]
I am so sorry
I didn't see you.
Are you okay?
Oh yes, I'm fine.
I couldn't help but
overhear your wish.
My wish?
Santa: Uh-huh.
Oh right, Santa.
Well maybe you should
speak to my sister
about her Christmas list.
Santa: Oh no, I don't do
that sort of thing anymore.
All the stores and online
shopping has really
put us out of business.
Now I specialize in things that
you can't get from a store.
[CHUCKLES]
I'll do my best to give you the
kind of Christmas you wish for.
But Ariel, your mother's right.
Some of the responsibility
lies with you.
Christmas iswhat you make it.
Well I'm afraid I must go,
I'm late.
Good day.
Bye Santa!
Bye!
Ho, ho, ho!
Santa...
how'd you know my name?
That's it!
I have an idea!
I'll do it!
You just give me
your credit card,
and I will shop
for everyone...
including myself...
and I'll even wrap
everything.
Oh.
What?
It's a great idea!
That is not
a great idea.
Okay, just listen
and hear me out.
What if your
sister's right?
And what if we don't have
presents this Christmas?
Mom, seriously?
Yeah!
And maybe...
would that be so bad?
Easy for you
two to say.
You both have jobs
and money.
I am a college student
and therefore broke.
Christmas and birthdays
are when I stock up on things.
Okay, well what about
the people in need?
What about the people
who have less than us?
Ihave less.
Ineed things.
[MONEY CLANKS IN BUCKET]
[ARIEL'S CELL PHONE RINGS]
Oh, here...
Hold on...
Erica?
Who's Erica?
I don't know.
Ariel: Tomorrow, seriously?
Absolutely, yes I can be
there before noon.
Thank you, thank you,
thank you!
P.A. Announcer: The mall will
be closing in 5 minutes.
We are gonna have the
best Christmas ever!
How's that?
What's going on?
I can't tell you,
but it's a surprise
and you're
gonna love it.
I got to get back to work,
I'll see you after
Erica tomorrow!
Who's Erica?
It's a secret!
Hey, what about
my purse?
Oh, sorry!
Are you gonna get
me the purse?
Not a chance.
Ariel: A surprise?
Maybe a Christmas bonus?
Ariel. Ariel: Mr. Huckabee!
I'm glad I caught you. Ariel: Come in.
Mr. Huckabee was my father.
Please call me Jeremy.
[TAPS FOLDERS]
I'm giving you the
new online Christmas
morning feature article.
Really?
Yes.
Oh!
[TAPS FOLDER]
Oh.
Bring on the Grinch, eh?
Amazing huh?
It's definitely
something different.
Exactly!
I want to shake things up!Uh-huh.
This is not my father's
magazine anymore.Uh-huh.
This is a modern
publication.Uh-huh.
Shouldn't I be writing something
more heartwarming for the
Christmas issue?
I would like to expand
our artistic range, Ariel.
All of the sweet and
happy stuff gets
rather well,
you know, boring.
But the magazine is called
"Sweet Home."
Besides, people love reading
happyChristmas stories!
People love sensational
stories,
and I love money.
And this right here
is money.
Ariel, all you have to do is
find someone who hates Christmas
and write about them.
Mr. Huckabee...
Jeremy...
I don't know if I'm the right
person for thisjob.
I have faith in you.
In my hands by
Christmas Eve.
It's going to be
a stunning article!
[COMICAL MUSIC]
Yeah, one that youshould
clearly be writing.
[SIGHS]
I'M COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS
THAT CHRISTMASTIME
IS HERE AGAIN
AND EVERYBODY
IS COMING TO TOWN
SANTA, I GOT SOMEONE SPECIAL
I BEEN THINKING OF
I'M HOPING YOU CAN
HELP ME OUT
IF YOU WERE TO GRAN ME THIS WISH
THEN I PROMISE
I WON'T FORGET
I CAN SEE I'LL BE AT THE TOP
OF YOUR LIST
EVERY YEAR AFTER
THIS REQUEST
WHOA OH WHOA OH WHOA
I'LL MAKE YOU MINE
THE SNOW IS FALLING DOWN
THE FIRE IS
BLAZING BRIGHT
I MIGHT BE DREAMING
THERE'S AN ANGEL
IN MY SIGHTS
THANKS FOR THE PRESENTS
UNDERNEATH THE TREE
BUT THERE'S SOMETHING
THAT YOU MISSED
SANTA, THIS GIRL'S THE
ONLY THING
THAT'S ON MY LIST
THAT'S MY
CHRISTMAS WISH
Oh, it's perfect!
I'LL BE GOOD
START TO BELIEVE AGAIN
SANTA IF YOU'LL
MAKE IT COME TRUE
YOU'RE THE GUY I THINK CAN
MAKE SOME MAGIC
AND I'VE GOT SOME
MILK AND COOKIES FOR YOU
IF YOU WERE TO GRANT ME THIS
WISH THEN I PROMISE
I WON'T FORGET
[CELL PHONE MAKES A SOUND]
Low power?
Oh...
Charger, charger...
Really?
[CAR HORN HONKS NEARBY]
I love it so much.
[CAR DOOR OPENS]
Merry Christmas, Erica!
[CAR DOOR CLOSES]
Here's your keys!
[ARIEL CHUCKLES]
Seriously, it's mine?
Mm-hmm.
As soon as you complete
on the sale,
you are the proud owner of
Mountain Holly Cottage!
Ariel: I brought
a cashier's check.
Erica: Great!
Ariel: Thank you so much.
This means more than you know.
There wasa little hiccup
a few days ago,
but it all got
sorted out.
Oh yeah?
Yeah.
There was another buyer who
reallywanted the place,
but I knew your top price
and so I worked the deal
until you won the bid.
Apparently with
room to spare.
Erica: Ooh, careful of the
candy canes...
they mark the property line.
Ariel: I cannot wait
to see the inside!
[FRONT DOOR OPENS]
[FRONT DOOR CLOSES]
[FOOTSTEPS]
Oh my, it's breathtaking!
Erica: I can't believe it was
on the market
for such a great price.
It's an amazing space.
Don't you just love it?
It's fully furnished which is
great so you won't have to
replace it before Christmas.
You can just picture
a Christmas tree here.
I can't wait to show my family.
They're gonna love it!
Turkey in the oven...
Everyone sitting by
the fireplace making
decorations while
sipping apple cider
after a day of
snowshoeing...
while trimming the tree.
I made an itinerary.
[FRONT DOOR OPENS]
Here we are!
Oh!
Uh, who are you?
I'm Erica Holden with
Equity Homes Realty.
This is my client.
I'm afraid this place
sold this morning.
Yes it did... [CLAPS]
to me!
Erica: I'm sorry,
that's impossible.
I have the papers right here.
Perhaps I can help
you with that.
I'm Nick Sage with...
Second Home Realty, Inc!
And you are
in my client's cottage.
[COMICAL SUSPENSE MUSIC]
What?
What?I'm not sure I can easily
explain what happened-
Oh, let me try.
It looks like you
bothbought this place.
Well how is
that possible?
It looks like both
offers were accepted.
Well how much did you pay?
You both paid
the same amount.
Okay you know what, why don't we
just call the seller's agent
and I'm sure we can just
clear this up.
That's the problem.
There is no seller's agent.
What do you mean?
Erica: He is a sweet elderly man
who for some reason
sold this place without
an agent.
Ariel: well, why don't we call
that sweet, elderly
gentlemen and ask him
who he'd rather sell to.
I'm the obvious choice.
And how's that?
No offense but
between the two of us...
I belong here.
Besides, I'm made
for cottage life.
Right because this
clearly says
"I love the outdoors."
I'll call the
title office and
see if we can clear
this up.
Erica: And I'll go help
and be not here.
[FRONT DOOR CLOSES]
[CLEARS THROAT]
[FOOTSTEPS]
A skylight here would be nice.
Yeah, bring a little
bit more natural light.
Yeah, especially
in the mornings.
You really love
this house, huh?
I do.
Maybe after I move in,
I'll talk to a professional
about a skylight.
[LAUGHS]
Well,
you arethough.
Pardon?
Talking to a professional.
You're a contractor?
Oh my gosh,
of course.
You're already thinking of how
to turn this into like
a strip mall or a condo, right?
I know your type.
My type?
You're just wanting
to flip it.
You don't deserve it,
sorry.
Well for a second there,
I was thinking of
letting you have it
but now... no way.
Erica: So unfortunately there
isn't a whole lot we can do.
Mr. Noel doesn't remember which
agreement he signed first.
Nick: According to the land
title office it comes down to...
basically possession is 9/10ths
of the law.
What?
What?
Erica:
So Ariel this is Mark.
Nick:
Mark this is Ariel.
Ariel:
No, no... why are you-
I don't want to know this
guy's name,
I want him out of my house.
Ditto, I mean what kind of
name is "Ariel" anyway?
You can't leave,
this guy is completely
unreasonable.
Ha!
See what I mean?
All the more reason to come to a
conclusion quick.
[SIGHS]
Umm-hmm.
- Uh, what are you doing?
- I'm going home.
In the morning I'm gonna call a
lawyer to deal with all of this.
Good idea,
I'm gonna do the same.
Erica: Oh I don't think you
guys understand.
Nick: The whole 9/10ths of the
law means whichever one of
you leaves
the property first...
forfeits your right to it.
We have to stay here?
Nick: Yes... negotiate!
No, no, no, no... can't we...
can't we...
at least go get stuff?
I thought you were made
for cottage life?
I mean like
food and...
toilet paper.
Can you go back to my place and
get me a few basics...
You know like moisturizer
and mascara
and maybe a few groceries.
Mark: Yeah you know what?
I think I need a few staples too
for like say a couple
days or a week.
A week?!
Did you say a week?
Yeah.No.
Erica:
If you don't decide in a week,
the owner will put this cottage
back on the market-
With the condition that neither
one of you can purchase it.
Those were his terms.
What about your commission,
yeah?
Don't you want to stay here and
make sure that I get it?
Funny thing-
Erica: We actually both get
a full commission.
Merry Christmas to us!
What?!
Oh don't forget...
You cango outside...
but just be mindful of where
the property line ends
between the reindeer
and the candy canes.
Yeah, the offer expires on the
day after Christmas so...
may the best person win!
[COMICAL MUSIC]
Oh um...
And watch out for the bears.
Bears?
[IMITATES BEAR GROWL]
[COMICAL MUSIC]
How am I supposed to get
any work done here?
Looks like you've got
everything you need
and there iselectricity
just in case you were wondering.
Umm-hmm, very funny.
I mean how am I supposed
to do research?
Well I suggest you get in your
car and you
drive two hours thatway.
[SNAPS LAPTOP CLOSED]
You wish.
Alright, let's figure out
sleeping arrangements.
[DOOR OPENS]
How does your boyfriend or
husband feel about you
spending the night with me?
I'm not spending the night
with you.
Besides, I don't have a husband
or boyfriend.
Nor do I.
You know you're going to have to
work a lotharder
if you want to wear me down.
Oh, well I guess
we'll have to wait and see.
I'm taking this room.
Oh, what if I want to
sleep in here?
Well possession is 9/10ths of
the law and... oh look!
I'm inside.
[CHUCKLES]
[DOOR CLOSES]
[SIGHS]
[PHONE BEEPS ON,
RINGS]
[PHONE BEEPS ON]
Yeah?
Mark: Hey little brother,
where are you?
Trevor:
I'm in your office.
Great.
Is dad still there?
Trevor: Hang on.What do you need?
Trevor: I've got Mark on the
phone; he says
he has got a surprise for us.
Mark: Hey Dad.Hey, son.
Mark: Trevor, Dad, pack your
overnight bags, you're coming up
to your cottage.
Trevor: Our cottage?
Mark: Yes, I'm keeping my
promise but...
Trevor: But what?
Yeah, about that... you are
never gonna believe this.
[MARK CONTINUES TALKING
ON PHONE IN HIS ROOM]
[FOOTSTEPS]
[MARK CONTINUES TALKING
ON PHONE IN HIS ROOM]
So I'm gonna need you guys to
help me like wear her down.
Hey, so what's
she like?
I don't know...
She's pretty...
Kind of a smarty-pants...
Pretty...
Mark's Dad:
Sounds like your type!
Yeah
she does.
Mark's Dad: Okay son,
we'll leave
first thing
in the morning.
Awesome, alright!
[DOOR OPENS]
Oh! This isn't
the bathroom.
No, that'd be the one
with the sink.
[ARIEL READING ALOUD]
"Don't use, water is
shut off."
[DOOR OPENS]
[DOOR CLOSES, OPENS]
One towel?
Dibs.
[DOOR CLOSES]
[EXHALES]
[FOOTSTEPS]
[ARIEL CLEARS HER THROAT]
Hey!
What's the problem?
The water isn't on,
and I need water.
Go turn it on.
I looked in the bathroom and the
shut-off valve isn't there.
Oh, it must be
under the house.
Okay, I'll wait.
Mark: Hmm, this looks like
a good book.
What are you doing?
What does it look like?
"Marley was dead to begin with,
there is no doubt about that
whatsoever."
Ugh, that's sad.
[MARK SIGHS]
Look...
The way I see it,
you have two options...
You can get in your car,
go home to your working bathroom
and you know whatever Christmas
festivities that you do
which is my recommendation...
Or you can stay here and look
outside for the shut-off valve
with the bears.
You're not a very nice guy,
are you?
I'm verynice.
[SIGHS]
The way I see it...
sooner or later, you're gonna
need to use the bathroom too.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC]
I'll wait.
Fine.
[MARK SIGHS]
Have you seen any flashlights
lying around?
It's daylight.
Yeah, but it's dark under the
house and you gotta give
the snakes a chance to scatter.
Snakes?!
Mark:
Yeah, loads of them.
Oh my...
There might be one in my car.
Okay, good. Let's go.
[CLAPS]
Ariel:
Let me get my winter stuff.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[BEEP, TRUNK OPENS]
Almost...
Just a little farther...
[MARK MAKES HISSING SOUND]
[ARIEL STRAINING TO REACH]
Got it!
Nice try.
It's gonna take
more than that!
[FOOTSTEPS]
[ANIMAL NOISES NEARBY]
Is that a snake?
No.
A bear?
No, not really.
[SQUIRREL CHITTERING]
Oh.
Are there really snakes and
bears out here?
Oh yeah.
But don't worry,
I'll protect you.
Really?
I mean I'll probably negotiate
something first,
but yeah probably.
[SLIDING OPEN]
Ariel:
Do you see any snakes?
[CREAKING SOUND]
[SLIDING SHUT]
Okay.
That's it?
That's it.
Thanks.
Um...
I just remembered
something, hold on.
I've got some food
in the car.
Thank you.
It's not much but
at least it's something.
No, thank you
for sharing.
You didn't have to.
Well, I couldn't
leave you hungry.
Starios, right?
You're from Charlotte
too?
Yeah.Both: Best marinara!
[CHUCKLES]
Yeah.
So are you uh...
ready for Christmas?
No.
I mean I'm not
a grinch or anything.
[FLASHBACK]
Bring on the Grinch!
I just...
I'm not really into Christmas.
[FLASHBACK] All you have to do
is find someone who hates
Christmas and write
about them.
Really?
How come?
I used to like it...
anyway I don't want to
talk about it.
Okay.
How 'bout you?
What do you do?
You said you were working
on an article?
Are you a writer?I am.
I work for
"Sweet Home" magazine.
Oh, interesting.
And you said you had
some research you were doing?
Yeah.
How's that going?
You know...
I may have found another way...
So I won't have to get in my
car and drive home.
Oh... good, good.
Yeah.
So what made you want to
buy this place?
Well, it's not really
for me as much.
It's mainly for my
family.
I'm only here for 3 more weeks
and then I go to Australia
for 2 years.
Wow!
I'm an on-site architect
for a building
my brother and I designed.
Wow again.
So you're not
a contractor.
I mean I was.
My father has been a contractor
for 30-plus years,
and I was following
in his footsteps.
But, you know, he had better
plans for my brother and I.
Nice.Yeah.
Yeah this job in Sydney's
like a dream come true for me.
I really can't wait.
Um, hey can I use your phone?
Mine's dead.
Really?
So is mine.Really?
You were just talking on it like
30 minutes ago in your room.
No.
No, I don't think so.
You must have heard me
talking to myself.
Well did you bring
charging cables?
No.
No, I didn't.
Oh, okay.
I see what's goingon here.
You probably called your family
and they are on their way.
Hey, I wasn't finished.Well, I am!
I can't believe I shared
my only meal with you,
you ungrateful person you!
I wasgrateful until you
took it away.
You can towel off
using toilet paper.
I get dibs on
the only towel.
I hope you miss Christmas.
I hope you miss Christmas!
Ariel: I heard you the
first time, grinch!
[DOOR SLAMS CLOSED]
[DOOR CREAKS OPENS]
[TCHAIKOVSKY "DANCE OF THE
SUGAR PLUM FAIRY"]
[SNORES]
Oh, she's so pretty.
[RINGING]
[WHISPERING]It's me.
Listen, I need your help.
THE SNOW FELL DOWN
ON LONDON TOWN
AS THE CHILDREN SLEP SO SWEET AND SOUND
CARRIED ON THE WINGS
OF A TURTLEDOVE
THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
IS SPREADING ITS LOVE
NEW YORK CITY NEVER
FELT SO PRETTY
AS THE LOVERS SKATE
UNDERNEATH THE PARK
CARRIED ON THE WINGS
OF A TURTLEDOVE
THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
IS SPREADING ITS LOVE
EVERYWHERE AROUND
THE WORLD
PEOPLE COME TOGETHER
FROM FAR AND WIDE
TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON OF
OF JOY IN THE WORLD
Hey!
Oh!
Whoa!
That's twice I've
saved your life now.
Well technically the
first time I was in
no real danger.
Well, you thought
you were.
[EXHALES]
I found these
in my closet.
Shouldn't they go on
a tree?
Well, we don't have one
so I'm improvising.
You really like Christmas,
don't you?
That and maybe I can Christmas
you out of here.
Nah, I'll just
ignore it.
So what is with you
and Christmas anyway?
It's complicated.
Well maybe if you
weren't such a grouch
spending it alone...
Who says I will?
[DOORBELL RINGS]
Mark's Dad: Mark, we're here!
[KNOCKING ON DOOR]
No phone, huh?
Mark:
Now who could that be?
Dad!
Hey, what do ya think?
This is good,right?
Lookin' good!You too!
[FOOTSTEPS]
Come on in.
You're gonna
love this place.
[DOOR OPENS]
Make yourselves at home.
Ariel...
Hi!
And you are?
I'm Duke.Nice to meet you.
- This is my son, Trevor.
- Hi, nice to meet you.
And if course you know
my other son.
I do.
[SIGHS]
Forgive my son.
What do you mean?
Everyone can see
you belong in this place.
Oh...
[ARIEL CHUCKLES]
- You're not helping.
- Sure he is!
Come on in,
I'm so glad you came.
I wish I could offer you
something,
but all we have is jam.
Duke: Well let's see if
we can fix that.
[COMICAL MUSIC]
Wow!
What all did you bring?
We uh Hendersons may not look it
but we can cook.
Well Mark's not very good but
Trevor and I can hold our own.
[ARIEL LAUGHS]
Trevor:
We hope he learns overseas.
Ariel: Mark was talking
about Australia.
Well really Ishould be
the one who's going.
Oh?
Duke:
Trevor is also an architect.
They worked on the designs
together and now Trevor wants
to go almost as badly
as Mark does.
This is a lovely cottage here,
Ariel.
It suits you.
Dad!
You must be starving.
Come on, let's unpack.
Ariel:
Oh, this won't do.
Homemade cookies
for Christmas.
You need that.
Well if you make 'em,
we'll eat 'em!
Dad, what are you doing?
Problems?
No, everything's
just fine.
She's the enemy,okay?
What are you doing
helping her?
We aren't gonna starve her out
on Christmas, are we?
Pantry!
Uh, seems like your plan
kinda backfired, huh?
[CAR HORN HONKS OUTSIDE]
Ariel's Dad: Look at that!
Ariel's Mom: It's gorgeous!
Ariel's Dad: It's beautiful!
[DOORS CLOSE]
Ariel!
You used my cord to charge your
phone, didn't you?
How could I?
You didn't bring one.
Now who could that be?
Mom! Dad!
Oh!
Hi!!!
It's so beautiful!
This looks
amazing!
Oh my gosh!
Honey grab that.
Ariel's Sister: We canceled all
our plans to be here.
Well played.
Oh! This is beautiful!
Honey, it is gorgeous!
Are you sure
she's the enemy?
Ariel's Mom: Oh my goodness!
This is amazing!
Ariel's Sister: It's beautiful!
Ariel, I love it!
Hello!
Mom, Dad, Jasmine...
these are the Hendersons.
This is Trevor and his father,
Duke.
Ariel's Mom: So very nice
to meet you, Duke.
Duke: Hi.
And this is Mark.
Mark: Hi.
Ariel's Mom: Hi!
These are my parents...
Peter and Amy Colt,
and my sister, Jasmine.
Hey!
Ariel and Jasmine?
Eh, it's a thing.
[LAUGHS]
Mark: Trevor.
Trevor: What?
Peter: If we'd had a son,
his name would have been
"Snow White."
"Aladdin."
[EVERYONE LAUGHS]
It's a pleasure to meet you.
Looks like we're gonna be
spending Christmas together.
Glad you're all here.
Amy: Let's get
ready for Christmas!
Come on!
Let's see what
we've got over here.
Be careful,
it's heavy.
We have enough food
to feed an army.
We have bacon in a bucket.
What are you doing?
They're gonna ruin
our Christmas.
- Okay, hmm...
- Ooh, pantry.
No, I'm not working on it
because it is a terrible idea.
[LAUGHING]
Jasmine: So you play guitar?
Yeah, you?
Kind of.
I mostly sing.
Trevor: Cool, I'll bet you know
this one here.
[STRUMMING GUITAR]
Oh, you've got to
be kidding me.
JOYFUL AND TRIUMPHANT
OH COME YE...
I don't get it, I thought this
is what you wanted.
Yeah, not until Christmas Eve
and not like this.
Oh, the timing's off.
COME AND BEHOLD HIM
BORN THE KING OF ANGELS
I got to go join them,
I'm so sorry.
OH COME LET US
ADORE HIM
OH COME LET US
ADORE HIM!
I thought you
loved Christmas.
I do.
OH COME LET US
ADORE HIM
CHRIST THE LORD
That was good, guys.
What's the matter?
Did your plan
backfire?
Oh whatever.
[HUMMING HAPPILY]
I'm gonna get some
fresh clothes.
Who's the grinch now?
This is terrible.
Oh, hey!
I didn't know you
were in here.
I can play Jingle Bells
sort of... almost...
Is it too late to add a guitar
to my Christmas list?
What are you doing?
Ariel: Just working.
Well...
Well, Mom wants us to find some
pinecones...
Something about making
a centerpiece.
I figured you'd be
all over that, you know?
Making and not buying.
What are you writing?
[JASMINE READING]"Behind a
charming and attractive facade
lies a grouchy man.
We'll call him
Mark the grinch."
Wait, Mark?
ThisMark?
Jeremy sprung an assignment on
me last-minute.
It's due Christmas Eve.
And you're using Mark
as your subject?
He doesn't like Christmas?
- Nope.
Huh.
Does Mark know that you're
writing about him?
Nope.
Well, let's hope he doesn't read
"Sweet Home" magazine.
Ugh...
[FLAME FLICKERING]
[FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING]
Hey!
Hey.
Mind if I
sit down?
Be my guest.
[SIGHS]
Hmm...
[SIGHS]
I hope you two don't reach an
agreement until
afterChristmas.
How come?
I know you're both doing
your best
andyour worst
to get this place
but putting that all aside
I think this will be
very good for Mark.
What do you mean?
I think he likes you.
[SCOFFS]
No way.
We couldn't be
more different.
I don't happen to
agree with that.
But in any case, it's good for
him to be around happy people.
So why doesn't
he like Christmas?
It wasn't always
the case,
he used to love it.
So then what happened?
[SIGHS DEEPLY]
His mom, my wife...
passed away 6 months ago
so this will be the first
Christmas without his mother.
I'm sorry,
I didn't know.
Oh, thank you.
I've tried talking to him about
it but...
he was always closer to
his mother.
Maybe he'll talk to you.
Uh...
Mark on Phone: Hi, Kathy.
Are you serious?
I'm not scheduled to be in
Australia for
another two and a half weeks.
No, no... don't cancel,
I'll make it happen.
Yes.
No, I'll be there.
Okay, I'll leave on the 25th.
Merry Christmas.
[PHONE BEEPS OFF]
Was that Kathy?
Yeah, the uh...
investor is arriving 2 weeks
early to approve the designs.
Trevor: What the-
That's Christmas.
I know.
And you have to be
there for that?
Mark: Yeah, apparently.
I tried to push it but
it was just-
Trevor: Mark, this our first
Christmas without Mom.
Do you think I want
to miss it?
You can't say "no?"
No...
Not really, I mean it's...
Look, this is our first
job with them.
I feel like this could really
help transition us
to designing signature
buildings.
You know, I can't decide if
you're doing this because
all you care about is your
career or because it's just
easier for you to just bail
on Christmas.
Look...
just make sure he's okay.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[DOOR OPENS, CLOSES]
Give me a minute.
Yeah.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[ARIEL SIGHS]
I'm sorry,
this is not what...
Can I-
No, I'm okay.
Thank you.
[FOOTSTEPS]
[DOOR OPENS, CLOSES]
[FOOTSTEPS]
What'd you
say to him?
Nothing.
Well this just means that all
you have to do is bide
your time until Christmas
and the place is yours.
I guess.
Are you sure?
I can sleep on a couch.
Or me.
I don't mind.
No, no, no.Thanks.
Um, I was gonna get
some work done.
Now?
Mark: Yeah, yeah just a bit.
Alright.
[FOOTSTEPS]
What's going on?
They want him there on
the 27th.
[SIGHS]
That means he has to leave
on Christmas.
Yeah.
I haven't eaten like this
since I graduated.
Amy: My goodness,
beautiful! Beautiful!
You guys, I don't remember the
last time I slept so well.
These are so good, Mrs. Colt.
Oh, I'm so glad
you're enjoying them!
Please call me "Amy,"
his mother's "Mrs. Colt."
[CHUCKLES]
Trevor: What's in it?
Oh she will
never tell you.
Isn't that right, Hummingbird?
- That's right, Honeybunch.
So you guys, I have an idea.
My great-grandparents are
from Germany and they celebrated
Christmas on the 24th.
- That's true, when we were kids
we used to go their house on
Christmas Eve.
Ariel: So I was thinking this
year,
maybe we could do the same and
celebrate on the 24th.
Whole turkey dinner with
all the fixin's?
Yeah, what do you think?
Jasmine:
Yeah, that would be awesome!
Sounds great!
Mark?
Sure.
Peter: That's a wonderful idea,
sweetheart.
Alright, you don't have
to ask me twice!
All we need is
a Christmas tree.
- I brought an axe!
- We own an axe?
Seriously!
[FOOTSTEPS]
- How far is the lake from here?
- Couple miles I think.
You know what?
Regardless of who
gets this cottage,
you and me...
we should come out fishing.
Now you're speaking
my language!
What do you think we
could find out here?
Catfish mostly.
What do you think?
I'm thinking this spring,
we could hunt down
some nice rainbow trout.
Hmm.
How long has Ariel been
looking to buy a cottage?
To be honest,
I didn't know she was.
So why do you think she
wants to get one?
I think it has less to
do with that cottage,
and more to do with the
kind of Christmas she wants.Oh?
My parents made a huge
impression on her and their
stories became kind of
a blueprint for her.
I just worry that she'll miss
out on her perfect Christmas
by trying re-create
my mother's.
Hmm, yeah.
This one.
- Are you sure it's gonna fit?
- Of course.
- Maybe we should look
for a smaller one.
- Come on, Dad. This is it!
- Well, start chopping then!
Jasmine:
Trevor? Trevor!
Trevor!
Trevor, Trevor...
What's up?
I have an idea,
and I need your help.
Come on,
let's go!
Okay, he's all yours Dad.
We'll make it fit.
Follow me.
Alright!
No, I don't understand.
I thought you wanted me to find
someone who
didn't like Christmas.
Ariel, I'm looking to do a piece
on people who don't even
[SNAPS FINGERS]
stop for Christmas.
Ariel: Uh-huh?
Jeremy: I'm lookin for a grinch
Ariel: Um-hmm.
Jeremy: A Scrooge and
what you sent me was soft.
Of course...
No, I'm stone cold, yes.
Jeremy: Ariel-
Ariel: I'm cutthroat.
Something that people would
want to click on,
so don't pull any punches.
Now can you do this or do I need
to get someone else?
No!
I agree one-thousand percent.
Yeah, thank you.
[PHONE BEEPS OFF]
[FLAMES FLICKERING]
[PHONE NOTIFICATION BEEP]
[SIGHS]
Jeremy, leave me alone.
In my pocket you go.
Everything okay?
Yeah, except we need to
make more decorations.
Let's do it!
Where's the basket?
So this one then, right?
But don't touch the mold because
you don't want that.
Trevor: Okay, l can we have
everyone's attention please?
Christmas as you know wouldn't
be complete without presents so-
Jasmine: I think you're really
gonna like this one, sis.
Trevor: Yes. Jasmine and I have
prepared a little
Secret Santa game and
participation is mandatory.
As are the rules
about the presents.
It must be handmade
and found within
the bounds of the
property.
[ALL AGREEING]
And no swapping!
Okay!
- Okay, is everyone ready?
- Let's do it!
- Cool.
- Let's do it!
If you pull your own name,
let me know.
[CLEARS THROAT]
Good choice there.
Alright,
I won't look.
No cheating.
- Don't tell.
- I'm not cheating!
Thank you,
very much.
Pick something good,
something good.
Indeed.
Of course,
one for me.Right.
Okay.
You know, if you get me you can
just skip making me a present
and give me the cottage now.
[LAUGHS]
Not a chance.
Besides why are you
counting me out?
It's Christmas.
I hear miracles
can happen.
Yes.Bravo.
I know that face.
It's my
assignment.
What the
Christmas feature?
If you can
call it that.
Oh, right.
Jeremy wants me to write
something that if I don't
I could lose my promotion.
Or even my job.
But you don't
want to write it.
I don't know.
Well...
I know you'll do
the right thing.
Because you
always do.
Oh, they're done.
Ha, ha, ha, ha!
They're perfect.
Are you using this?
No, no, no.
It's all yours.
I didn't know
you baked.
What are you
making?
Sorry, trade secrets.
Uhhh.
Hey, how's that Christmas
present going?
Good.
So what are you
gonna make for her?
No idea.
[LAUGHS]
Wait, wait, wait.
How did
you know?
Don't tell me you and
Jasmine have been
playing match-maker, man.
No, no!Good!
Us?
Yeah, good because you know
that we don't like each other.
Right, right.
Okay.
Though, I was wondering
why you wouldn't let
her see your drawings.
Your trade
secret drawings.
You like
this girl.
No, no I don't.
Yeah, yeah you do.
No I don't.Yes you do.
Ariel: I don't.Yes you do.
I don't. Jasmine: You do!
Even if I did he
doesn't like me.
In my opinion-Shut up.
Shut up.
Ariel: No I don't.
Mmm-hmm, are you
sure about that?
Wait, why?
Did he say
something?
Ah-ha! You do like him.
You like him.
You like him.
THE SNOW IS HANGING DOWN
FROM THE STREET LAMPS
THE SKY IS SUCH
A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT
AND WHEN WE WALK
ALONG THE ICY LANE
YOU'LL BE HOLDING
ME SO TIGHT
[YAWNING]
AND WHEN WE SIT A THE FIRE WITH
THE FLAMES GETTING HIGHER
WE'LL BE WRAPPING UP... Morning.
Oh sorry, I didn't
mean to wake you.
I just-No, I should be up anyway.
Coffee?
I suppose coffee
is safe.
You mean
among enemies?
Exactly.
I think it's
pretty safe.
Mugs?
Actually you
know what? No.
If I'm gonna own this place I
should know where things are.
So how do you
like your coffee?
Black, please.
Black it is.
One cup of black coffee.
Thanks.Mmm-hmm.
[SIGHS]
So, what do you miss most
about being stuck here?
Uh you mean
right now?Yeah.
You're gonna
think it's silly.
But there's this angel tree
topper and each Christmas
we take turns on whose gonna
put it on top of the tree.
And this year it
was your turn?
I told you
it was silly.
No, it's not.
It's actually
really sweet.
So what about you?
What do you miss most?
Well if it wasn't
for all of this,
it'd actually
be pretty perfect.
Do you want
breakfast?
Mark: I thought it would
be good to install a skylight
in my parents' roof to
watch the sun rise.
I hid it forever until one day
my mother came home from work.
She opens the car door the
second I prop open the skylight.
Seriously? Yeah.
Who knows how long I could've
had that thing in the house
without anybody knowing. [LAUGHING]
How old were you?14.
Wow, and what'd you dad say?
He said, "Son, you did
everything right."
The hinges, the flashing.
I think he was a
little proud of me.
So did he let
you keep it?
Uh, sort of.
As punishment he claimed it
as his den and I moved into
whatever was his study.
[LAUGHING]
I like your laugh.
[CHUCKLES]
[PHONE VIBRATES]
Oh, sorry.
Hello?
This is Mark.
I see.
Okay.
[FAMILY WALKING IN,
YAWNING]
Thanks for checking.
Okay, bye.
[BEEP]
That was my lawyer.
I checked to see whether my dad
could sit in for me when I was
out of town, since I was
buying the house for him.
But he said since it's my
name on the offer, he can't.
Maybe not everybody knows this
but I have to get on a plane
Christmas morning, which means
I need to leave tomorrow...
after dinner.
So whether it's now or tomorrow
I'll need to forfeit my claim.
Dad, Trev -- I think we should
leave now and leave the Colts
to enjoy the holidays in peace.
Guys, let's pack.
C'mon.
I'm sorry.
I don't mean to be that guy,
but if we get home tonight
we still might be able to
get some turkey or something.
Mr. Henderson...
I think you and your
family should stay.
She's right.
You should stay.
I mean, we're in
this together right?
Yeah.
I have to leave right
after dinner tomorrow.
It's okay.
You guys can stay
for Christmas.
The more the merrier!
We have a tree and turkey,
and... new friends
to share them with.
Okay, I guess.
[ALL EXCLAIMING]
Thank you, wow.
Was that so difficult?
Dad, are you sure?
I don't want you to feel like
I'm leaving you here with,
you know, strangers.
These people
aren't strangers.
They're almost like
family now.
And you know what?
You kept
your promise.
No, I didn't.
But one day I'm gonna
make sure of it.
Son, look around.
You did better than
make good on it.
Jasmine: So you're writing
more than you used to?
Wow.
How does that like,
affect your workload?
Well basically I just write
more than I used to.
And I help Jeremy.
Mmm.
You know, it occurs to me in all
the years that I've worked for
Sweet Home Magazine, you've
not once asked about my job.
So, why the
sudden interest?
Can't a sister just
show interest?
Yeah, a sister can.
Not sure you can.
Hey, that is entirely
uncalled for and mean.
And also true.
But... wait...
can you just explain to me one
more time what the difference
is between a Junior Editor
and a regular Editor?
Because you know,
I'm really interested.
Well a Junior Editor does
less actual story editing
and a regular Editor
improves the structure and
the flow of an article.
You know?Oh wait, so for instance...
what do you mean by
structure and flow?
Okay Jas, there's like zero
chance you actually care about
this so... what's going on?
Nothing.
Wait, wait, wait, wait...
you can't go out there.
Why?
What's going on
out there?
Yes, make sure you just fill
it in and stick it together.
Okay.
How long do you think Jasmine
can keep Ariel in the bedroom?
Not very long, you better
get to crackin'.
[LAUGHS]
Do you think she's
gonna like it?
I've never designed anything
with dough before.
Listen, she's
gonna love this.
This is so up her
alley; it's perfect.
[SIGHS]
Thank you for letting
us stay here.
Yeah.
Please.
We wouldn't have
it any other way.
And it's possible that I've
not seen Ariel this happy
at Christmas since she
was a little girl.
Hey...
How about I take this to
my room and let it set up?
Yes, please,
that'll be great.
I think it needs a bit
more work.
You have a little
bit more to go.
[BOTH LAUGH]
[CHUCKLES]
[CHOPPING]
You look very comfortable
doing that.
Well, I love
to cook and bake.
Well you can tell.
My wife Sally was
a great cook.
Yeah?
What was her favorite
Christmas recipe?
Oh...
She used to make this
sweet potato mash with
pecans and raisins.
M'm, that sounds good.
Oh, always
a favorite.
The boys ate it
like dessert.
They'll miss it.
Were the pecans
candied?
I don't know, they were
sweet and crunchy, so maybe.
Yeah, sounds
like it.
She had this
secret ingredient.
She didn't tell us, I've
tried everything but...
it's not it.
Well, what did it
taste like?
Hard to describe.
Fresh like
the morning sun.
So what else
goes in there?
Oh that's it for now.
It'll sautee and then
we'll add the consumee,
the sage and some cornbread.
So fancy.Mmm-hmm.
So why didn't Mark
follow in your footsteps?
He did at first.
But he's smart.
Smarter than a lot of the
architects we worked with.
So now we work
on his designs.
Well that's nice.
And he pushed Trevor
to go to college too.
At first Trevor didn't want to,
but Mark didn't give up.
Hey Mr. Henderson?Hmm?
Do you know why Mark wanted
to buy you this cottage?
[SIGHS]
Before she died he made
a promise to his mother.
We used to have a cottage.
We'd spend the holidays
there every Christmas.
And when Sally got sick...
We had to sell it to
pay for her treatments.
A few weeks before she died
she made the boys promise
to find me a cottage
again for Christmas.
[WOOD SQUEAKING]
All good over here.
Go, go...
Are you ready?
Trevor: Ready.
Ready.
[CLEARS THROAT]
[GRUMBLING]
No?
Mmm, no.
Okay.
No.
Okay, got it.
One last shot.
[LAUGHS]
BOTH: That's it!
[EXCLAIMS]
Unbelievable.
Oh my gosh.
Good!
[LAUGHS]
Sally's smiling down.
Oh boy.
Trevor: Incredible.
[TYPING]
[TYPING]
JOY TO THE WORLD
THE LORD HAS COME
LET EARTH...
I think you
should go outside.
...HER KING
LET EVERY HEART
PREPARE HIM ROOM
[Whispers] Go away.
[HAMMERING]
Hey.
How's your
story coming?
Great, actually.
Can I help?
No, no I've got this.
So I hear I should
get a skylight.
Yeah.
Hey, when you
all leave-
How come you're
doing this?
So you don't fall
off the porch.
Plus you were
nice to us.
Twice now.
And I figured you
deserved some nice back.
Well, thank you.
And it's Christmas.
I knew you'd notice.
[SHIVERING]
Mark: You want to look
for more decorations?
Ariel: Yeah, let me put
on something warmer.
Thank you.
I didn't want you to miss
Christmas, even though
I know you don't like it.
Well...
it's good for my family
to be around happy people.
They need that,
especially my dad.
What about you?
What do you need?
I don't know.
What I need you can't
buy in a store.
Mark, I know you
miss your mom.
I'm so, so sorry about
what happened to her.
But I'm certain that
she wouldn't want
you to hate Christmas.
Christmas is a time for hope,
forgiveness, peace on earth,
good will to men.
Look, nothing's ever gonna
replace her, not ever.
She was awesome.
My first memories of
Christmas was waking up to
the smells of her cooking.
Her baking.
She used to bake a
month before Christmas.
The entire neighborhood would
smell like her cookies.
Look, right now because of
our fathers and your brother
the place smells like
a Christmas tree.
And tomorrow, it'll smell like
turkey, fried okra,
cornbread dressing, yeast rolls,
'cranberry sauce,
green bean casserole and
homemade pecan pie.
And that... that is your dad's
homemade mountain apple cider
that he's been simmering
all day long.
He loves you so much.
We're all here for you.
[TYPING]
HE RULES THE WORLD...
And that's how...
WITH TRUTH AND GRACE
AND MAKES THE NATIONS...
Done and... sent.
[SIGHS]
THE GLORIES OF HIS
RIGHTEOUSNESS
[ERROR BEEP]
AND WONDERS OF HIS LOVE
AND WONDERS OF HIS LOVE
AND WONDERS, WONDERS
OF HIS LOVE
Huh, still
needs something.
I know, there are no more
pinecones, I checked.
I didn't know
you were up.
It's almost Christmas I want
to enjoy every second of it.
[SIGHS]Alright,
what else can we use?
I don't know, foam, wood?
We have wood.
But we don't have
any art supplies.
Yeah.
Have you been up
in the attic?
We have an attic?
Wow, I wonder how long
all this has been here.
Decades maybe.
So what are we
hoping to find?
Anything.
Nice.
Paint.
Whatcha doing?
Looking for things
to make ornaments with.
Whoa.
Cool.
I know, the problem
is what do we paint?
What if you made
some wooden balls?
We don't have a lathe.
We could build one.
Yeah, there's a ton
of wood on the porch.
All we need are bolts,
a drill, a saw, and a router.
All that stuff's in dad's van.
Okay!
Great.
I'll take that, thank you.
C'mon bro, let's get fancy.
Do you want to help
me find things to
decorate the balls with? Jasmine: Yeah.
So...
How's it going
with Mark?
It's fine.
I mean, he leaves tonight
so I probably will
never see him again.
[SAW]What time's your flight?
Eleven A.M.
Are you gonna talk to
Ariel before you leave?
About what?
How you feel.
For what it's worth, Trevor
is sure that Mark likes you.
Man, I mean what's
the point?
You know, I go to Australia
for two years, maybe longer.
You and him talk
about this?
Actually yes,
quite a bit.
Great.
I think you're
making a mistake.
How?
Do you like him?
Mmm-hmm.
She likes you,
you know.
You think so?
Yeah.
[LAUGHS]
THE FIRST NOEL... Okay...
THE ANGEL DID SAY
Wow, I'm impressed.
POOR SHEPHERDS
IN FIELDS WHERE THEY LAY
IN FIELDS WHERE THEY LAY,
LAY KEEPING THEIR SHEEP
ON A COLD WINTER'S
NIGHT THAT WAS SO DEEP
NOEL, NOEL, NOEL, NOEL
BORN IS THE KING OF ISRAEL
Oh, one more thing.
Where did you find this?
I know it's probably not
gonna be the same but...
[GASPS]
I didn't want you
to miss your turn.
It's beautiful.
Thank you.
So I was thinking I'd make
a fire before dinner.
I'd like that.
I want to give you your
Christmas present before
you know, I leave.
Yeah, me too.
I figured we were each
others' secret Santa.
Not entirely by
accident I'm sure.
[LAUGHS]
Okay, I'm gonna
get yours ready.
Meet you outside?Yeah.
Okay.
Here we go.
[FIRE CRACKLING]
Maybe this is a dumb idea.
Ariel: Don't you dare.
Is that my present?
Wow, this looks amazing.
[CHUCKLING]
Well, I love the box and
if there's anything inside
it's just a bonus.
Okay...
Merry Christmas, Ariel.
It looks just like
the real one.
This is amazing.
It has a skylight.
For the morning sun.
I love it, thank you.
You do?
Of course I do.
I wonder how
long it'll last.
What you're not
gonna eat it?
No, I want to keep it.
At least until tomorrow morning,
and then I'm totally eating it.
[LAUGHS]
Okay, your turn.
You ready?Yeah.
Merry Christmas.
I hope you like it.
I have one more present
for you but this is just
your first present.
Tomorrow before you leave,
I have another one.
What do you mean? Why?
You ask too
many questions.
Just open your
first present.
Oh.
Is it right?
Yes.
This is exactly how
my mom used to make it.
[GIGGLES]
Uh, how did you- we couldn't
even figure out the ingredients.
Orange juice
and ginger.
[SNICKERS]
Thank you.
You have no idea how
much this means to me.
All of us.
You're welcome.
Your dad and
Trevor helped.
They were my
tasters.
[LAUGHS]
I really wish I
didn't have to leave.
Yeah, I've been wishing
that for a while now.
Trevor: Hey
guys, dinner's-
Oh, oh...
Dinner's ready
when you are.
Okay.Be right there.
Yes. Mark: Knuckleheads.
So annoying
sometimes.
[LAUGHING]
Jeremy: This article
better be ready.
CAR GPS: Arrival in one hour.
Mr. Henderson: Dear God,
thank You for this bounty
and Your provision.
Thank You for new friends
and thank You for Christmas.
And what it means to us all.
In Jesus' name, amen. ALL: Amen.
Let's bring in the food.
She makes a mean turkey.
See? [ALL TALKING]
It looks very nice if
I do say so myself.
[ALL TALKING]
Enjoy, everyone.
Don't take too much.
This means
a lot to us.
Thank you, really.
M'm.
Amazing.
Just like
your mother's?
Just like mom's.
[CHUCKLING]Incredible.
Thank you, again.
Well it was all
three of us.
[KNOCK ON DOOR]
I'll get it.
Coming.
[DOOR OPENS]
Please, come in.
It's cold out there.
Amazing.
What can I
do for you?
Hi.
I'm Jeremy Huckabee...
Ariel Colt's boss.
Oh...
Is she here?She is, yeah.
Let me go and
get her for you.
I'm Mark, by the way.
Ah, Mark... the subject of
Ariel's Christmas article
which she forgot to
send me by the way.
That's funny you uh, you don't
look like you hate Christmas.
Excuse me?
Bring On The Grinch.
[LAUGHING]
You are the Mark who she wrote
the article about aren't you?
The guy who
hates Christmas.
Is that what you've been
doing this whole time?
All I've shared with you,
you've just been asking me
questions for your article?
No, it's not like that.
I just, I needed
to write-
Excuse me.
Ariel: Mark!
Ariel, this article needs
to be uploaded by tonight.
So I need this now.
Yeah, can you
take care of this?
I sent it already.
I'm sorry.
I have to go.
Can I offer
you some pie?
Coffee?
Turkey?
Here you go.
We have plenty.
No, thank you.
Merry Christmas.
You guys, I-
I really think you
should read this.
Will you talk
to me, please?
I have nothing to say.
Mark, that article
wasn't my idea.
I didn't even want
to write it.
But you did.
I'm sorry.
Do you have any idea how hard it
was for me to talk about her?
You probably took my words,
twisted them around and made
me sound like a
terrible person.
Mark...
I hope it was worth
it, selling me out.
If you'd just
let me explain...
How am I ever supposed
to trust you again?
You're not the girl
I thought you were.
[DOOR OPENS, SHUTS]
Looks like
it may snow.
Yeah.
We'll all have
a white Christmas.
You came here expecting to
buy a cottage and in turn
you fell in love.
I've never seen my son look
as hurt as he did tonight.
That kind of hurt only happens
when you love someone.
Ariel, he loves you.
It's too late;
he's right.
Your parents told me what
you were planning to do.
Why?
[SIGHS]
Your heart is
as big as his.
Try talking to him again.
I can't, I hurt him.
And there's...
there's no undoing that.
Go talk to him.
And take this with you.
I'm sorry, please read this and
see if I am who you think I am.
Ariel [writing]:
My Christmas In The Pines.
By Ariel Colt.
This year, like every other
year, I had made the perfect
itinerary because long ago
I realized that I can't
leave Christmas to chance.
When I was little we
used to spend Christmas
with my grandparents.
We played games, made
ornaments and baked cookies.
Those were the true
old-fashioned Christmases that
I tried to recreate ever since.
But nowadays nobody knows
the true meaning of Christmas.
Or so I thought.
I prided myself on
knowing that Christmas
wasn't about presents.
What I didn't realize is,
I forgot to cherish what was
right in front of me.
Through the strangest of
circumstances, which I must
tell you about in another
issue, my family and I got
a chance to spend this
Christmas in beautiful
Carolinas with another family.
A family who wasn't looking
forward to this holiday.
Because it was their first
Christmas without someone.
A mom, who made
every holiday special.
She left behind a family:
a son, who didn't know how
to spend Christmas without her.
And yet, while I was
complaining about not having
a perfect Christmas...Hey!
Oh!
Oh...she's so pretty.
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
...they were all focused on
making the best of what we had.
[ALL SINGING]
Oh come let us...
BOTH: That's it!
Aahh!
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
While I was trying to make
everything perfect...
it was about being present
with the ones we love.
It was here that I realized
that my rigid plans are no
match to finding
a missing ingredient
to a lost Christmas recipe.
Is it right?
Or helping someone
fulfill a promise.
In the end it doesn't
matter what we do.
So long as we're together.
And that sometimes the most
imperfect Christmas
will give us the most
perfect memories.
If we open our hearts,
we will always have hope
and the blessings of Christmas.
Christmas is about giving.
But we must give what's
most precious, love.
Mark: Ariel!
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
This family I told you about...
What is
she doing?Shh! Just watch.
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
They think we saved them
this Christmas... Mark: Ariel!
Ariel! Ah no...
Ariel [writing, cont'd]:
But, I think it's
the other way around.
Stop!
Ariel, wait!
Why are you
doing this?
All you have to do is
wait for me to leave
and the place is yours.
Ariel: I know.
So, I don't
understand.
Christmas is
about giving.
And until this evening,
this has been the best
Christmas I ever had.
It didn't matter
about the cottage.
It was about all of us
here together.
It was about you.
Ariel, no.
I want you and your
family to have it.
[GASPING]
Uh... Honey does that
look right to you?
Actually I moved that
when I bumped into it.
It's about three
inches further!
[SNOW CRUNCHES]That's it!
[GROANS] [ARIEL GIGGLES]
Congratulations, you
now have a cottage.
[SIGHS]
I read your article.
[LAUGHS]You're exactly the
girl that I thought you were.
[LAUGHS] [ALL CHEERING]
[CHEERING CONTINUES]
So, you gonna show me
around your cottage?
I think you'll
like it.
I think it needs
a skylight.
[CHUCKLES]
Let's open some presents!
Okay!
Thank you.
And dad.
Oh, thank you Mark.
I don't have one.
Well...
[CLEARS THROAT]
You are my
hummingbird.
Aww...
Merry Christmas.
[GASPS]
Thank you, whoever you are.
I needed one of these, yes!
Oh!
[GIGGLING]That looks sharp.
Oh Duke... I am going to
enjoy making use of this.
What do you say we come
back up after the holidays?
Let's see what's in this lake.
Now you're speaking
my language.
[BOTH LAUGHING]
Oh my gosh,
look at that!
It's a guitar strap.
Wow.That is amazing,
I love it.
Hold on, I have
something for Jasmine.
No... [ALL EXCLAIM]
For me, are
you serious?
Totally!
I don't know what to say,
thank you so much.
You're welcome.
Jasmine: Are you gonna
teach me more songs?
Absolutely, you bet.
But what about
your present?
Oh don't worry about that;
I got more of those at home.
So...
Mark: Can I get everybody's
attention please?
So my family and I
have been thinking...
that we don't want
to buy this cottage...
What?
...alone.
We'd like to propose that all of
us here, the two families,
buy it together.
And I would love for you
and your family to stay here
with mine while I'm gone.
Oh...
A few days ago I...
wasn't sure that I would really
ever love Christmas again.
And uh...
You helped me.
So thank you.
What my son is really
trying to say is...
that we should own
this property together.
My wife Sally wanted me
to have a cottage again.
But it's you I really needed.
You in?
Let's do it!Yes!
Yeah.
Yes!
Proud of you son.
The owner will be here soon
to sign the paperwork.
[PHONE VIBRATING]Oh.
Australia, excuse me.
Hi, Kathy?
Yeah...
Scoot over.
So I guess we're gonna have
to go shopping for your
gifts after the holidays.Nah...
You were right.
This is better than
anything I would've had
on my Christmas list.
Whoa.I mean...
where am I gonna wear
a purse anyways?
You did good, sis.Thanks.
You did real good.
[GROANS]
Bad connection.
I'll call her
on the road.
[DOORBELL]
Must be the owner.
ALL: Come in!
Merry Christmas everyone.
My name is Mr. Noel.
Nice to finally
meet you.
Ha, likewise.
Are Nick and
Erica coming?
No, they're with
their families.
I thought we could
do this ourselves.
I brought
the paperwork.
[PHONE VIBRATING]
Oh, I'm sorry, excuse
me just a second.
Hey Kathy...
Santa?
Did you get the Christmas
you wished for?
Yes, it was wonderful.
[CHUCKLING]
But not quite
perfect, is it?
[MARK TALKING ON PHONE]
[THUMPING FLOOR, MAGIC]
Mark:
Merry Christmas.
The meeting got pushed to
the second week of January.
[ALL EXCLAIMING]
And, little brother, I think
you're ready to take this
on by yourself.
What, you mean it?Mark: Yeah.
We're gonna be Skypeing
every day though
to monitor your progress.
But, yes you can
go to Australia.
I think I'd rather
stay here.
Um... that's awesome,
I won't let you down.
I don't know what to say.
How did you do it?
I didn't.
Christmas is what
you make it.
If you'll excuse us,
I would like to steal her away.
Jasmine: Would you
like some cocoa, Santa?
[SOFTLY LAUGHS]
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Ariel: Merry Christmas, Mark.
Mark: Merry Christmas, Ariel.
SILENT NIGHT
HOLY NIGHT
ALL IS CALM
ALL IS BRIGHT
ROUND YOUNG VIRGIN
MOTHER AND CHILD
HOLY INFANT
SO TENDER
AND MILD
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY
PEACE...
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY
PEACE...
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]
["JINGLE BELLS"]