Christmas in Toyland (2022) Movie Script
This program is rated G
and is suitable for
general audiences.
My favorite holiday
It means so much more
than words can say
And I claim
That Christmas is
a magic day
Sometimes I tend to forget
What glory this
holiday represents
But it's better to say
That Christmas is
a magic day
Yes, every time the
snow is falling down
And it is cold outside
We gather round
the fireplace
And no one cares
about yesterday
My favorite holiday
It means so much more
than words can say
And I claim
Oh, wait Charlie.
- Hi.
- Hi.
- Morning.
- Morning.
So what are we thinking?
Are we moving offices?
Are they getting rid of
the vending machines?
Okay Steph, I don't think
either of those
are worthy of an
emergency meeting.
Speak for yourself.
I just wish they'd laid
it out in an email,
instead of springing it
on us like this.
About a month ago,
Gertrude asked me to pull
all the sales reports
for the past three years.
That's not that unusual, is it?
No, it's not that unusual,
but the numbers were so bad.
Well, how bad are we talking,
like potential layoffs?
Maybe.
I mean, she didn't say.
Now I'm
starting to worry.
Good morning.
Merry Christmas.
Okay, let's try not to panic.
Maybe they're going to
give us Christmas bonuses.
With revenue down 18%?
Good point.
Maybe David is going to grace
us with an early retirement.
Steph, he's not that bad.
Are you kidding?
He hovers over that
merchandise department
like the Grinch trying to
steal Christmas.
What's that now?
David.
Hi.
Didn't see you there.
I was just headed to the
meeting and I heard my name.
Speaking of the meeting,
do you know what it's about?
No, but I got a hunch.
Is that the board?
That's the board.
Ah, there you are.
Thank you for coming in.
So everyone, you'll remember
our head of strategy and
marketing, David,
our merchandising manager, Stephanie,
and our lead data analyst, Charlie.
Have a seat.
Okay everyone, let's
get to work.
I know it's unusual for us
to be springing
a board meeting on
you like this,
but we are in
unprecedented times.
I thought we would start by
reviewing those sales reports
that you worked up for me, Charlie.
Yes, absolutely, I have them.
So on screen you can see a
summary of our sales reports
for the last 12 quarters.
Unfortunately, we notice
a fairly steady decline
in revenues in most of
our locations.
However, we haven't
gotten the results
from our place structure strategy
yet, so bear that in mind.
Respectfully, those numbers
don't even look close
to stabilizing.
That's true.
However, we haven't seen the
impact of holiday sales either.
We just need more time.
Do we have time?
That's the real question.
Personally, I think
that this is the moment
to consider moving
exclusively online.
I've taken the liberty of putting
together a transition plan
that would have all of our
brick and mortar stores
off of the payroll by spring.
What?
Is that something the board
is actually considering?
Everything's on the
table right now.
Do you have the data for
our online sales?
Yes I do, and they are
trending upward,
but I don't think closing
our stores is a good idea.
People don't know what they want
until they have it in
their hands.
Actually, we have an
algorithm for that.
Algorithms need data
to push trends.
Our stores set them.
I mean, that's our brand.
If we close our stores,
we're a wholesaler.
Is that what the company wants?
Are you suggesting we
ignore the fact
that all our stores
are hemorrhaging money?
Well,
not all, actually.
This is store 24 in Jersey City.
It's the only one on our roster
that is showing a steady
increase in revenue.
I know this store,
it's an outlier.
Or maybe we can learn
something from them.
I know exactly what we
can learn from them.
David, let's hear her out.
Go on, Charlie.
Thank you.
I'm just saying it's clear
that this store
is doing something different.
They've exceeded our
projections for the area
the last three years in a row.
We could go there,
investigate their strategy,
apply it to the rest
of our stores.
Big Teddy Toy Company
employs thousands of people
across North America, most
of whom work in retail.
And I think we owe it to
them to pursue every avenue
before making such a
big decision,
especially this time of year.
It's Christmas.
It's decided then.
Charlie, you go to store 24,
report back what they're
doing differently.
Me?
Oh, I just analyze data.
Right.
But if you can
correlate the sales
to actual, tangible,
in-store efforts,
then we have something to go on.
If not, then perhaps
David is right,
and this store is
just an anomaly.
I guess I will head there first
thing in the morning then.
Perfect.
See if you can wrap this
up by Christmas Eve.
Oh, absolutely.
Good
meeting everyone.
Good luck in Jersey City.
Thank you.
Don't be surprised if it
doesn't work out.
We all know moving online
is inevitable.
We'll just have to agree to
disagree, won't we David?
Yeah, and hope we all have
jobs by the time you're done.
Merry Christmas, Charlie.
Merry Christmas.
What just happened?
You knocked it out of
the park is what?
No, I have to tell
Gertrude I can't do it.
I'm supposed to visit my
mom in Seattle
for Christmas this year.
So, you get your research
done before Christmas Eve.
No problem.
What research, Steph?
I don't even know what
I'm looking for.
Yet, you'll figure it out,
you always do.
But what if I don't?
And that's so many
closed stores.
So many people out of jobs.
Just focus on the
little details.
It's what you're good at,
and it's what makes
you so smart.
It's what makes you a
good toy designer, too.
What?
No, that's,
it's just a hobby.
For now.
Forever.
Look, once you figure out
what's up with this store,
you'll be well positioned
to pitch your toy
line to Gertrude.
Steph, I love you,
but when I say I have
bigger fish to fry,
I mean giant Goliath-sized fish.
I'm just saying.
Please let it go.
Fine.
You win, this time.
I am going to start by
emailing the store's manager.
Good luck.
Thanks.
Hello, this is Charlie
Sawyer from corporate.
I'm outside the store and
it seems to be locked.
So as soon as you get
this, please call me back.
Hope everything's all right, bye.
Can I help you?
Yes, I have a meeting.
Oh, you must be one of
our seasonals.
I mean you're a little
early, but please come on in.
Marta can help you at
the front desk.
I'm actually-
If you have any idea how
to put up window displays,
she'll probably have you
help with one of those.
No, this place, oh no, no, no.
No, well listen, we got
plenty of good people inside.
Okay, they can help you out.
After you.
I, uh, thank you.
All right, so,
over here we have the coats.
Coffee's over there, and right
next to it is the front desk.
Morning, Ray.
Morning.
Marta, my assistant manager.
She has this place running
like a well-oiled machine.
Don't you, Marta?
Now, we're a team.
You must be one of
the seasonals.
Yeah, and she's early.
Like you already.
Could you please put that
on the shelf right there.
Thank you.
- Sure.
- Message for you, boss.
Boss?
Someone from corporate.
I don't wanna hear this.
Oh, what now?
Are they mad that I swapped
out that game we used to play?
It blew over in the wind
every time the door opens.
So if you'll excuse me, I
just gotta listen to this.
Oh, you don't have to
listen to that.
Oh yes I do.
If corporate calls and I
don't respond,
they'll probably send
somebody down here.
Play it.
Hello, this is Charlie
Sawyer from corporate.
I'm outside the store and
it seems to be locked.
So as soon as you get
this, please call me back.
Hope everything's all right, bye.
Was that you on the?
Yes.
I'm not a seasonal employee.
I'm from the planning
and analysis department,
and corporate did send me here.
We had a scheduled
meeting at 9:00 a.m.
I wasn't aware of any meeting.
Did I have a meeting?
Nope.
I emailed you about it
yesterday afternoon.
I don't check my
messages after hours.
So what exactly is this about?
Well, I'm not sure if
you're aware of this or not,
but your store is our company's
best performing location.
And corporate is very
interested to know
what you do different,
and if your strategy can
be replicated,
we are gonna apply it
company wide.
And how are you planning
on doing that?
I would like to stay and
observe for about a week or so.
It's Christmas, this is the
busiest time of the year.
Look, no offense,
but we don't really have
time to babysit anyone.
You will not have to babysit me.
I promise I will be out
of your hair.
Fly on the wall, you won't
even notice me.
Right.
No, I -
Starting.
Wow, look, you seem like
a really nice person.
Okay, but I don't feel that
this meeting is necessary,
so I'm just gonna
get back to it.
Okay yeah.
It's just, it's not
really up to you, or me.
These orders are from
the CEO herself.
So I'd like to start by
looking at the numbers.
Do you have an office?
Yeah.
Right this way.
Around the boxes.
Nice to meet you.
Yeah.
Nice to meet you.
So, this is it.
You know, it's not a high rise
with the view of the park, but.
It's fine.
It's great.
Thank you.
If you need anything,
I'll be at the front.
Sorry, where's the computer.
What computer?
With the sales reports?
Oh yeah, sales reports.
Yeah.
There ya are,
I file by hand and then Marta
takes it home quarterly,
and logs it to corporate.
Why would you log it by hand?
Because computers crash
and paper's reliable.
Yeah, okay, of course.
Oh, here you go.
That should set you up.
All right.
Okay.
You got this, Charlie.
Oh, there's more.
Just keeps on going.
Good morning team.
It's gonna be another
big one today,
so I say we keep the line up
short and the aisle's clean.
Other than that, have
a great day.
Hi Uncle G.
Hey, good morning Em.
Down low.
How you doing?
Oh, good.
I remembered to pack my
homework this morning.
So my day is already looking up.
Well, that's great.
Thanks for taking her.
My vendor from Newark
canceled her delivery on me
last minute, so I've
gotta go pick it up.
You sure you don't mind
driving her to school?
Not at all.
Finish a few things around the
store and then I'll take you.
I'd call you a saint,
but that would mean admitting
I'm the inferior sibling,
so I won't.
I love you.
Love you, Mom.
Be good, okay?
Drive safe.
So you know that Santa
house I'm building?
I do.
I'm trying to decide how
many rooms should go in it.
That's a very
important question.
What'd you decide?
Well, I asked my teacher
if Santa had any siblings,
'cause they don't need
their own rooms, right?
You know what, I never
thought of that,
but that's a great question.
So what did she say?
It's not in the literature.
Oh, it's not in the literature.
All right, what's up with her?
Don't you worry about it, okay?
How about you go get some
hot chocolate?
Really?
Yeah, really.
But listen, only get like
three marshmallows this time,
okay?
Save some for the rest of us.
Can't make any promises.
It's Marta, right?
That's me.
I'm really sorry about earlier.
Don't even mention it.
Are you finding everything
you need back there?
I know Grant's a
little old school
in the recordkeeping department.
Yeah, no kidding.
Actually, he mentioned
that you might have
some digital copies at home.
Oh yeah, I do.
I can send 'em over
tonight if you want.
That would be wonderful.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome.
And Charlie, try not to
let Grant get to you.
He can be stubborn as an ox,
that one,
but he comes by it honestly.
He grew up helping his
grandfather run a store,
so he's got his own way
of doing things.
And you didn't hear it from me,
but if you're looking for a
way to get on his good side,
he loves the candy cane bark
from the Pale Blue Dot
down the street.
Oh great.
Do they sell it by
the truckload?
He'll come around, don't worry.
He always does.
Thank you for the tip.
Anytime.
You're still here.
Yeah.
Can't close up till you go home,
and didn't want anybody
else to stay late, so.
Right.
Sorry about that.
What are you doing?
Just readjusting these displays.
You're gonna rat me out,
are you?
You know, contrary to
popular belief,
just because I work at corporate
doesn't mean I have all the
display manuals memorized.
Sure you don't.
Thank you.
Although, that's a lot
lower than this picture.
Please, join me.
Okay.
Now, all these displays
are focused on getting the
wrong person's attention.
That's smart.
I wonder if I could
use that data
and correlate it with
increased sales.
Look, I don't need the
data to know that it works.
And quite frankly, it's
not about the business,
it's about the kids.
Of course.
But if I can't prove it
with numbers.
Numbers, yeah.
Fine.
Look,
I know we got off on
the wrong foot,
and it may not seem so,
but I'm here to help.
Well, I mean, according to you,
we don't really need
any help and,
it's getting late,
so, you're probably tired.
Goodbye.
Goodnight.
Morning.
Good morning.
Can I help you
find something?
Yes, actually I am looking
for your infamous
candy cane bark.
Ah, yes.
How much do you need?
As much as you'll sell me.
Well, I usually reserve
some for my brother Grant,
but the rest is yours.
Your brother, Grant?
Oh yeah, he's addicted.
Every year, when the
holiday treats roll around,
he's over here buying in bulk.
It's amazing he still has
any teeth left in his head.
Grant Leviston?
Yeah, you know him?
Sort of.
I work at Big Teddy Toy Company
and head office sent me here to, well,
it's a long story actually.
So I won't bore you with that.
Okay.
Mom look, I just
finished the roof.
That's amazing, honey.
This is my daughter, Emma.
And this is?
Charlie.
Nice to meet you.
Hi Charlie.
Charlie works with Uncle Grant.
I'll be a minute.
Thank you so much.
So you work with my Uncle G?
Kind of, sort of.
You're lucky, he's the best.
He always lets me play and
makes everything a game.
He even taught me how to
build this stuff
without the instructions.
He did, did he?
I'm noticing a trend.
What are you building?
It's Santa's house.
This is where
Rudolph's gonna live.
This will be Santa's room.
And this will be Sally
Clause's room.
Sally Claus? Who's Sally Claus?
That's Santa's sister.
Well, at least in my head.
Right.
They like to argue sometimes,
but they mostly get along,
and they laugh all the time.
You know, that's one of the most
creative ideas I've ever heard.
Really?
'Cause I can't find any
toys like that,
but I know I will.
Besides, I still have some
magic elf dust at home.
Magic elf dust?
What's magic elf dust?
My Uncle G gave it to me.
It's kinda like Pixie dust,
but it's from elves and
it grants wishes.
Oh, I know what you're thinking.
I seem too mature to
believe in that stuff,
but every wish I've made
has come true.
Really?
Every wish?
Definitely, not just for me.
My mom uses it too.
Like when I was a baby,
my mom wished to adopt me.
Of all the little babies she
could pick, she wanted me,
and then that Christmas we
became each other's family.
Pretty cool, right?
Yeah, very cool.
And you're still the best
Christmas present ever.
Thank you so much.
How much do I owe you?
Oh, it's on the house.
Grant's a tough
chestnut to crack.
Thank you, but here.
Oh.
To balance your books.
Thank you.
Bye Emma.
Bye.
Good morning.
Good morning.
You know the play structure
is for the kids, right?
Really? Does it say that
somewhere in the manual?
I guess we'll never know,
since someone doesn't
follow the manual.
You do that often.
Yeah, especially when I'm
playing with the kids,
or it needs a good dusting.
Wanna have a whirl?
No thank you.
I was thinking we could go
over these quarterly reports
that Marta sent me last night.
Really, still on the numbers,
huh?
Yeah, kind of my job.
So I've noticed some
significant sales spikes
that I think we can cross
reference with in-store
activity.
And from there I-
You go for it
Really.
I can't really do it
without you though.
You know what?
Ryan actually needs my
help on the floor.
So sorry.
Wait.
Did you talk to my sister?
No.
I mean, yes, because I
bought this from her,
but Marta said that
you liked it.
Unless you don't like it.
No, I do.
You wouldn't happen to be poking
around in my personal life
on behalf of corporate,
would you?
I had to ask.
What?
No, no, I'm just,
I'm just trying to find some
common ground between us
so that we could get at
the bottom of this
before Christmas, so.
So you wanna know how
my store runs?
Yes, please.
Follow me.
You want me to stock
the shelves?
Sure, later.
But first, that looks
like this person
could really use a hand.
Oh no.
I have no training in
customer service.
I'm a data analyst.
Which is why you could
use this perspective.
Plus, I mean, wouldn't
it be a shame
if we didn't get to her
within the allotted two
minute greeting time
as per the corporate manual?
Okay.
All right.
Okay.
Hi there.
Hi.
Welcome to Big Teddy
Toy Company.
Can I help you with anything?
I'm just browsing.
Thanks.
Oh yeah, of course.
Browse away.
Oh those are cute.
Yes.
Oh, you know this
toy right here.
It's our top seller.
Okay.
It is very popular in the
seven to 10 age range,
up 6% from last year, which I
know doesn't sound like a lot.
Okay, thank you.
Actually quite an
increase considering
the competitive nature of
the demographic.
And if you need
anything else just,
I'll be right over there.
Okay.
Cool.
Isn't bad, huh?
That was awful.
I majored in math and fine arts,
okay?
Do either of those things
scream extrovert to you?
No.
Look,
okay, I'll get this next one.
You just observe, all right?
But, little tip.
Doesn't have to be so
data driven, right?
It's a toy store, just
act like a kid.
Hey, good morning.
Oh, hi.
It's a cold one out there, huh?
Oh, it's freezing.
Yeah, hey, if you guys
need to warm up,
I've got some hot
chocolate right over there.
Well thank you,
that's very nice.
Not a problem.
Can I help you find
anything today?
Well, we're here to pick out
a gift for her older sister.
I get to give it to her myself.
Wow, and how old is
your older sister?
She's nine.
Nine, that's awesome.
Hey, you know what?
When I was nine,
I had like a mountain of
Stuffy's like this high.
You think she'd like those?
I don't know.
No? Okay.
That's all right,
how about this?
Excuse me, ma'am.
Now, this here.
It's our latest scooter.
It's got lights.
It's pretty fast.
Think should be into that.
I don't think so.
Okay.
My niece, she's nine.
She has this exact set.
She loves it.
What do you think of that?
Oh.
Let me see here.
Oh, see that sticker
right there.
That means Santa
Claus came in here
and said that was 50% off.
Oh?
That work?
Oh yes, it does.
Yes.
Okay.
All right, well you take that.
We're gonna go over here
and Ryan's gonna help you.
Thanks so much.
Not a problem.
Boss, I don't think
this one's sale.
Just use my employee discount.
Thanks for locking up.
Goodnight.
He's going to the Christmas
market down on the corner.
Thank you.
Make that two, please.
So, employee discount, huh?
When the situation calls for it.
You're gonna tell the big boss?
No, I was actually gonna say
that that was really
nice of you.
We didn't have a lot of
money growing up,
but I loved all that art stuff,
and those kits would've
been right up my alley.
Anyway,
I was thinking tomorrow
we could finally
tackle those spreadsheets?
You know what we can do,
story time.
Story time?
Yeah, story time.
It's just this thing
that we do with the kids.
Look, I know it's not the
policy handbook, okay?
But, we have the space
and the kids love it, so.
Am I giving off some kind
of corporate tyrant vibe?
Or am I missing something?
I just know how this goes.
Oh really?
You know how, what goes exactly?
Well, they send you in here
to stick your nose in our
business, right?
Then you gotta find a way
to cut overhead costs,
so you fire a bunch of people
and put in self-help kiosks.
How am I doing?
That's not what I'm doing.
- No?
- No.
Look, these are my employees,
my friends,
my family.
I understand.
I'm really, really
trying to help you.
Really?
Yes, really.
You wanna make us get
rid of the cocoa stands?
No.
- You gonna stop our events?
- No.
You're gonna make us
use accounting software.
Well, maybe.
Knew it.
I'm trying to save your store, Grant.
And every other Big Teddy Toy
Company Store while I'm at it.
What do you mean?
Head office is
threatening to shut down
every brick and mortar and
move everything online.
No, that can't be right.
It is, actually.
And I only have six days
to figure out a solution,
or, you, me, all of your
employees could be out of jobs.
So please?
Take my bribe,
and let's start over.
I'll see you in the morning.
Charlie?
Thanks for telling me.
c]
Now, the north pole
didn't seem so far away,
but Santa and elves got lost,
and they couldn't find
their way back home.
They were stuck in
New York City.
Look at this.
Now how were the children
gonna get all their
Christmas presents?
Instead of feeling glum,
Santa and the elves decided
to build a brand new workshop.
Pretty awesome, right?
They worked extra
hard to make sure
that all the little girls
and all the little boys
got their presents.
So, everyone was filled
with Christmas cheer.
But what's Christmas
cheer look like?
Show me.
That's good.
Well, after Christmas day,
Santa got a letter from
Missus Claus with a map.
What?
That map showed him how to
get back to the north pole.
Sweet.
Okay, now what was
Santa gonna do now?
I mean, couldn't just abandon
his new workshop, right?
He needed someone to
step in and help.
So, from that day forward,
I promised Santa that I
would step in
and I would help him
run that special shop.
It's just outside the city,
right here.
Now, before Santa left,
he gave me something very
special, okay?
And I want to share that
with all of you.
So,
this,
it's magic elf dust.
Okay?
Now I'd like to give some
elf dust to each one of you.
And I have some very special
instructions first, okay?
So just hold your hands out,
come here.
Here you go.
All right, now all you
hold on to that.
For me?
Oh, thank you.
Little bit here.
You ready?
So, we have a little bit here.
We're gonna close our eyes,
I'm gonna count to three,
then you're gonna make a wish.
Okay?
Ready? Close your eyes.
And three, two, one.
That sounded like it worked.
Well that's it.
Thank you all for coming today.
That's the end of story time.
- Whoa!
- There we go.
All right, you can run back
to your parents and listen,
please drop your Santa
letters in the big red box
by the cash register before
you leave, don't forget.
Hi!
- Hey Charlie, right?
- Yes.
How are you?
Oh, we're good.
Grant's not giving you
too much trouble, is he?
Well.
He's all bark and no bite,
trust me.
I trust you.
Hey, how's your Santa
house coming?
Did you find Sally Claus yet?
Not yet, but I keep wishing.
Well we'll find one soon, honey.
Anyway, we gotta get going.
See you around, Charlie.
Yeah.
- Bye.
- Bye.
Hey, go easy on her
or you'll have to answer to me.
Oh, thanks mom.
Hi.
Hello.
So what'd you think?
I think you hold a captive
audience, I'll give you that.
Nothing to do with the costume?
Apparently it draws a crowd.
Look at this place.
Oh it's normal, every
time we have an event.
Do you have a second?
Yeah.
I wanna show
you something.
Okay.
Here are your
sales reports
for the last two quarters.
Wow.
Accounting software lays
out nice and clean, huh?
You see these peaks?
So, originally I thought they
correlated with flash sales
or redesigning an NCAP
or something.
But now I am willing to bet
that all of these line up
with some kind of special
event you had.
Yeah, I think right here we
did a fall harvest thing,
painted pumpkins and whatnot.
Okay.
This is just before Halloween.
We did trick or
treating play around.
Whoever had a costume
could participate.
Do you have some kind of
official calendar I can use
to cross reference
these numbers?
Nope.
Every Saturday morning,
10:00 a.m.
everybody knows to show
up for reading time.
The rest is word of mouth.
Do you think that you could
fill one out for me
for the year?
The year?
To the best of your ability,
of course.
I need it to run
statistical analyses
before I present to the board.
Sounds fun, yeah.
I'll see what I can do.
Great, excellent.
This is just what we needed.
Exactly what we need.
Okay, I'm just gonna
zip back to the office
and start on this,
so by the time you send
me the calendar,
we will be off to the races.
Oh, unless you need me
to stay here.
I can totally stay here.
No, no, we're good.
Okay.
Look, to be honest,
just really trying to find out
why you're working so
hard to help us.
It's my job.
And you know,
I don't wanna see people
lose their jobs,
and families suffer
just because I didn't do
my best to find a solution.
So just looking for a solution?
Listen, when I was growing up,
my mom had to work three
jobs just to pay the rent.
Retail during the day,
waitressing at night,
and housekeeping on
the weekend so,
my entire childhood,
I was just hanging out
in a toy store.
It's my favorite place to be.
Can't say I blame you.
I guess I really don't
wanna see them closed.
It's not the answer I
was expecting.
- Nice.
- Oh.
I'm sorry, what were
you expecting?
No, just something
more by the book,
less by the heart.
I'm sorry to disappoint you.
You didn't.
Are you gonna tell me
what's in the elf dust?
Sugar, salt, flour?
Gonna have to ask Santa.
I'll get right on that.
It works, you know.
Yeah, so I hear.
You don't believe me, okay.
I'll prove it to you.
Pick you up first thing
tomorrow morning, 8:00 a.m.
Okay.
Pick me up at 8:00 a.m.
But you have to send me
that calendar tonight.
Consider it done.
Hey.
Where are we going?
Santa's workshop.
No, Grant, seriously.
Seriously.
Who's G?
What, what are you doing here?
Oh, I just came to tell
you the rumblings
from the water cooler gang,
but more importantly, what are
you doing smiling like that?
What?
Like what?
Like a normal human being?
I was thinking more like
it's Christmas, 1998,
and you just opened up
Spice World on VHS.
I just got an important document
from the manager of the store.
I think we're really
onto something.
Mm-hmm, it sure looks like it.
Stop, seriously.
I just need to run a
few more stats
and then I'm ready to
present to the board.
About that.
What?
Gertrude held a closed door
meeting with the board today.
Uh oh.
They're shutting down all the
west coast stores, Charlie.
What?
I haven't finished my research,
and Gertrude told me I
had till Christmas Eve.
I'm so sorry,
but David's been lobbying the
board ever since you left and.
David?
Charlie.
All right, well you
have a good night.
David.
Wait.
Yes, Charlie.
I heard the news.
What news?
That you convinced the board
to close all our west
coast stores.
I tried to tell you moving
online was inevitable.
But I am on the verge of
a breakthrough, really.
I just, I need a few more days.
If you could just
please talk to-
Charlie, forgive me
for saying this,
but have you ever considered
you might be wasting
everyone's time?
Excuse me.
What if the only thing
that comes from this
is our retail employees
have less notice.
They need to find a new job.
If we tell them now
they can start looking,
planning for a future.
Instead of living off these
false hopes and empty promises.
I haven't promised anything.
Well, maybe that's because
you know, deep down,
this is a wild goose chase, too.
You okay?
You seem a little off.
Yeah, I'm fine, yeah.
Just a
long night,
way too much coffee.
Did you get those stats
off to the board?
In progress, yeah.
Mm.
You sure you're okay?
I am just curious about
where we're headed.
I mean, am I about to
meet the big man himself?
Wow.
What is this place?
Oh, is this your
grandfather's store?
How did you know that?
Marta might have mentioned it.
Marta?
Yes, this was my
grandfather's store.
Man, myth, legend.
But it's still here,
what happened?
Well, he died when I was 16,
and he gave it to my dad
who didn't want to run it.
He was a financial planner.
So he closed it, Iz and I
begged him not to sell it,
which he didn't, thankfully.
And here it is.
Doors have been
closed ever since.
Hmm, that's really too bad.
You wanna see inside?
When's the last time
you were in here?
It's been a while.
Charlie?
Back here.
Ah, I see.
The source of the magical
mystical mysterious elf dust.
What are you doing?
Well, only a few more
days until Christmas.
We are fresh outta this
stuff, so we gotta stock up.
Right, gotta make those
Christmas wishes
come true somehow.
You know it.
Why does it feel like
we're stealing
from the fountain of
youth or something?
You do believe
there's a little bit
of magic happening here.
Okay, I didn't say that.
You're thinking it.
No, no, I'm not.
I'm actually thinking,
why doesn't he just
make this himself?
We could easily find
out what's in it.
Nope, impossible.
This stuff here.
It's directly from
the north pole.
Oh, I see.
Go on.
You want me to taste it.
Why not?
No, it's for making
wishes, not for tasting.
I wish that you would taste it.
So you believe in wishing.
It could be powdered sugar,
like the candy from
when we were kids,
with the stick,
then you just dip it in the,
it's like sugar on sugar.
Just try it.
You can't tell me
that you've never thought
about at least tasting it.
It's 30-year-old sand
from Coney Island.
Aha, I knew it.
Give me that, it doesn't
mean it doesn't work.
Yeah, for kids.
And adults.
- Mm-hmm
- Mm-hmm.
Look no harm in asking
for what you want.
That's a wish.
Is that why you run a toy store?
So you can keep being a kid?
Look just because
you're an adult,
doesn't mean you have
to abandon everything
about being a kid.
All right, you have
everything you need?
Yeah, pretty much.
Wait.
Oh, you gotta see this.
Pretty cool, right?
Yeah. my grandfather, he dressed
up like Santa all the time.
He loved it.
And then he would have the kids,
they would sit right there.
I've been here before.
What?
I remember.
I, I've sat here.
You'd press a button and this
would rise up to eye level.
It was like seeing Santa
on a roller coaster.
That was your grandfather?
Yeah.
How old were you?
I was six, maybe seven.
My mom worked every Christmas,
but that year she had off.
I remember she took me here.
Wow, it was so magical.
I'd never seen anything like it.
I'm pretty sure I asked him, wow,
your grandfather, for this
hand-carved wooden reindeer,
pulling Santa in a sleigh.
It was so cute.
Yeah, it was my favorite
toy in the store.
Did you get it?
Yeah, I did.
And I played with it
every day that year.
I mean, it didn't matter
if it was July.
I had it out, I was obsessed.
Do you still have it?
No.
Wow.
I mean, my mom and I moved
around so much,
packing, unpacking.
It gets to a certain point where
if it's not necessary
for survival,
you have to leave it behind.
So.
It makes sense why you'd be
so into structure and
spreadsheets and certainty.
You always want to be a
data analyst?
No, I mean, I was always
good with numbers,
but I kind of wanted to be
a toy designer.
Really?
Yeah, I'd build things outta
popsicle sticks all the time.
Once I built this
three-story house,
and I sold it at a garage
sale in Queens for $10.
I was really proud of myself.
It's a great sale.
Do you still design?
I do, yeah.
Okay, well it's settled then.
You gotta show me.
- What?
- Yeah.
- No.
- Yeah.
No.
I run a toy store.
We can put your
product dead center.
We can't do that.
Why not?
Corporate pre-sales its
displays for years in advance.
And besides they're
just drawings.
For now.
Forever.
Why do you say that?
Because the odds of
success as a toy designer
are extremely low,
talking like 1% low.
I have a great job.
Well, somebody's gotta do it.
Might as well be you, right?
Okay, let's go.
I have to get back
to the office.
Do you have a minute?
Charlie.
I wanted to go over my
research of store 24.
It turns out that this manager
goes above and beyond for
his community.
And I have the hard numbers
that prove his bottom line
is connected to in-store events.
I really appreciate how
thorough you're being.
This is exactly what we need.
I mean, we could save all
our east coast stores.
It's not too late.
Maybe you should come
back to the office,
just for the time being.
But this is our
chance to preserve
the in-store experience.
I just feel-
We're still figuring
out next steps.
Okay, what if we made this
a standalone flagship store?
Charlie, what?
What did you just say?
A flagship store?
Interesting.
You have until Friday.
Thank you.
Hey, how's your day?
The board's decided to
close most of our stores.
What do you mean they're
closing the stores?
I'm sorry that I didn't
tell you right away.
When did you find out?
Yesterday.
Why didn't you tell me?
I wanted to tell you
this morning,
but truthfully I was trying
to figure out a plan first.
Well, I have to tell Marta,
I mean.
No, you don't have
to tell Marta.
Yeah, look, her son goes
to college next year.
She's been saving up for that,
and Ryan's a fantastic employee.
He's gonna need help
finding a new job.
These are people's lives that
we're talking about here.
It's not over.
I have a meeting with
Gertrude on Friday.
I'm gonna pitch this store as
one of their flagship stores.
With the success of your store,
they would be crazy not
to agree to it.
Yeah maybe.
Or maybe they just shut us
down by New Year's Eve, right?
They're not gonna close
you New Year's Eve.
Can you promise that?
Then your plan better work.
Steph, we need to make this
store not just any store.
They have to know that
it's essential
to the success of their company.
Exactly.
We need to show it off.
We need to make it look
like a flagship store.
I can even put pictures
in the slideshow
and they'll see with their
own eyes its potential.
That's a great idea.
And then I'll hit them
with the numbers.
Then bam, they sign on
the dotted line.
Exactly.
Hopefully.
Look, I think your
numbers are gonna get you
really close to the finish line,
but it's gonna be stories
that really hit it home.
Okay.
I'm listening.
What do you mean?
Well, I think you need to bring
this manager guy into it more.
I mean, he's
obviously a big reason
why that place is so successful.
I mean, he is really great.
Oh yeah?
Stop it, no, I mean, you
know, professionally.
Okay.
I'm serious though.
Focus on what he does differently.
You're right.
I have a photographer coming
in first thing in the morning.
I think it's pretty good.
It does need
something.
That narrows it down.
Yeah, like what?
Like,
you.
Like how?
Like you in that elf costume.
No, corporate's not gonna
love that idea.
If it won me over, maybe
it can win them over too.
You never know.
Did I now?
Hmm?
I won you over?
I also think we need a
Christmas tree, like right here.
Picture it.
- Okay.
- Okay.
I'll go get one outta the back.
No.
Grant, a real tree.
Oh, but corporate manual states
that we can't have a real tree.
Well, the corporate manual
wasn't made for emergency,
SOS, save-our-store-by-Christmas
moments, now was it?
Wow.
Look at you go.
Okay.
Marta, we're getting
a real Christmas tree.
I know just the spot, follow me.
Good.
Great.
Yes.
Grant, we just passed
16 perfectly good trees.
No, no, no, no.
Trust me, good ones
are at the back.
Follow me.
Is this where you come to
get your tree?
Every year.
You know this used to be
a lumber yard actually,
when I was a kid.
I didn't know, no.
Well it's where my grandpa
Henry got his start, actually.
Pulled long hours, saved up
enough and opened Trinket Town.
Can I ask you something?
Yeah.
Why didn't you just
reopen Trinket Town?
Well, turns out banks
don't trust kids
who have no experience.
But you said your dad
was a financial planner.
He could have helped.
No, no.
He thought that I should,
you know,
be doing something more respectable,
professional, profitable.
Oh, okay.
What about now?
You have all this experience,
you could get a startup loan,
no problem.
Well, man, I have
employees now and.
Okay, part of me thinks that,
maybe it wouldn't live
up to what it used to be
if I was at the wheel.
But my grandpa was a
special guy.
I mean, he whittled toys
from scrap lumber
that he'd find on his
lunch breaks.
Actually, we could find you
some scrap lumber probably.
You could take some
home with you.
Are you serious?
Why would I take
scrap lumber home?
For your toy line.
Oh, well,
it's not a toy line,
and I don't know how to whittle.
I just draw.
Oh, I could help you with that.
I still have my
grandfather's carving knife.
No, you don't need to do that.
Well, I'd like to do that.
I mean, if that's what you
imagine, right?
I just assumed that they
would be wood,
not plastic because,
hey, you mentioned that
you loved the reindeer so much.
Yeah, that is how I imagined it.
Wood, not plastic.
All right then well, you
know what that means.
- No.
- Mm-hmm.
What?
You're gonna have to
show me your sketches.
- No.
- What? Come on.
Why not?
I don't know, I don't
wanna make you
do anything that's so.
What, important to you?
Juvenile.
Juvenile?
Why do you do that?
What, do what?
That.
Not doing anything.
Yeah, you just did it again.
I'm just looking for trees.
Look, stop.
Making toys is not easy.
It's not frivolous or naive,
but think about how much
toys impacted you
when you were a kid,
how much they impact you
now, even as an adult.
I can't believe I'm
gonna say this,
but at the end of the day,
it's still a business,
so there's gonna be market
research and product testing.
- Wow.
- Yeah.
But you know this stuff, you
have experience with this.
I have done a little
market research.
Things are trending
towards nostalgia,
and back to the basics,
is a draw.
See, you're doing it right now.
Are we gonna get a tree?
We should get a tree,
don't you think?
Yeah. Yeah.
I just need to say
one more thing.
The next time I ask to
see your sketches,
don't talk yourself out of it.
Okay?
Okay.
Okay.
I think this is it, yeah?
Yeah, looks great.
- Okay.
- You got this, I'll pay.
Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing
o'er the plains
And the mountains in reply
I think I'm done.
No, it's nice.
No, it's really nice.
Yeah?
Have you thought about
using more silver garland?
What, you don't like it?
I can basically see my
reflection in it.
Yes, that's great.
Hey, hey, hey!
Hi!
So, did you get the thing
that I asked for yet?
Mm-hmm.
You didn't tell me
what it's for?
No.
You know like those little
tiny Santa toys
that you can get?
Yeah.
I tried to buy one,
but mom said no.
So then I tried to
buy one myself,
but mom wouldn't give me
her credit card.
You know, I kind of understand
where she's coming from.
She's nine.
And a half.
And still capable of
accidentally purchasing
200 of something I can't return.
Hey.
I want to show you something.
I was thinking about
the problem.
Yes.
And I started to doodle,
and I was wondering
if this could work
for Sally Claus?
It's perfect.
- Really?
- Where are they?
Oh, well they're not toys yet.
They're just drawings.
Oh.
But.
I know, I'll use my elf
dust to make them real!
Slow down, honey.
Come on, we gotta go.
We're going,
see you later.
Bye.
Bye.
So, what you got there?
Oh yes, you're here.
Hi, welcome.
Right this way.
hestral]
How's it going?
It's going great.
Just waiting for the last
of these photos to upload,
and then we should
be good to go.
You think it'll work?
I do.
- Okay.
- Okay.
What's in the box.
Well, I'll show you if
you show me your sketches.
Oh, sneaky.
Mm, I see what you're doing.
- No.
- Yes.
Trying to make a deal, I
think you should take it.
It's a good deal.
Okay, fine.
Okay.
They're still a work in
progress, okay?
So, if you don't like them, you
can just be honest as well.
There's some dimensions that
I still need to tweak in that.
They're supposed to be simple,
that's what I was going for.
I didn't wanna add
too many details
so that the kids could
add the details.
You know, inspire imagination.
They could create their own
world and write their own rules.
Okay, your silence
is killing me.
I like that.
What?
It just means you care
about my opinion.
Of course I care about
your opinion.
I mean,
you're a professional
in the industry.
Right.
Important opinion.
These are incredible.
Really?
You got something
really special here.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Now, your turn.
That's the one you were
talking about, right?
How?
That's exactly how I
remember it.
It's yours, keep it.
No, I can't keep this.
This is from your grandfather.
We made a deal, fair and square.
It's yours, please keep it.
Why are you being so nice to me?
You're supposed to hate
corporate minions.
I do.
It just turns out that
you're the furthest thing
from a corporate minion
that I can imagine.
Hey, I was wondering if
maybe, you know, we could-
Oh, that's Steph, I
have to meet her
for the pitch practice tonight.
Okay.
Good luck.
- Thanks.
- All right.
Oh, hey.
They're gonna go for it,
don't worry.
What if they don't?
What's Grant gonna do?
Grant?
So we're on a first
name basis now.
Oh, I mean, well we,
yes, we are.
You're rattled.
No, I'm not rattled.
Yes, you are.
And you only get rattled when
you're really into someone
or completely horrified by them.
You really like him.
You know, you and Grant
are very similar.
Never know when to let up,
especially about my toy designs.
Wait, you told him about
your toy designs?
I did.
Whoa, that's-
Insane.
Crazy, stupid.
- I know.
- No.
I also told him I could
save his store.
What am I doing?
It's okay.
We got this.
Run it again.
Flagships build brand power
through store experience.
They're a place for discovery, excitement,
connection and fun.
Perfect.
Making it the perfect location
for Big Teddy Toy Company's
very first flagship store.
Well, it's an
interesting proposal.
But I have concerns
with the location.
Is it really central
enough to be a flagship?
Well, I can assure you
that this store's reputation
continues to spread,
and with a larger
marketing budget,
we can increase traffic significantly.
Thank you, Charlie.
We'll take it into consideration.
You know,
maybe you should see
it in person
before making any decisions.
There's just something that
statistics and spreadsheets
can't show you.
In fact, they are hosting
a holiday party tonight.
You and your families
should come on down.
That's a great idea.
We'll be there.
Fantastic.
And we'll see you there.
Okay.
There you go, Ryan.
Oh, Marta, a return.
Oh.
Hey.
Hey.
So how'd it go?
Oh no, good.
Good?
Yeah, really good.
- But.
- What?
The board wants to come here.
What, here? When?
Tonight.
Tonight?
I kind of told them
that we are having
a holiday party.
A party, okay.
I just needed a way to
get them in the store
so that they could see the
potential for themselves.
Oh Grant, I'm so sorry.
Are you mad?
No, no, not at all.
I'm just trying to figure
out where to start.
Oh, great.
Yeah, where to start.
I want them to feel the
magic of the store, you know,
it already looks so good.
Yeah, but we wanna blow
their socks off.
Exactly.
Bring in appetizers,
maybe desserts.
Oh, I love desserts, yeah.
And we'll put out the
arts and crafts table.
Yes, and set up games.
Absolutely, I love games.
We don't have a lot of time.
- No.
- We need help.
Yes.
Okay, I will ask Marta and
Ryan if they can stay late,
and I'll see if Izzy
can bring Emma.
Oh, that would so
would be perfect.
'Cause teamwork makes
the dream work.
You know it.
Steph? What are you doing here?
Oh, well I thought you could
use an extra set of hands.
Oh my goodness, we can.
You are the best.
Grant, this is Stephanie, my-
Coworker, best friend,
Bonnie to her Clyde,
Louise to her Thelma.
Excuse me, I'm Louise,
you're Thelma.
Oh, that's cute,
you're 100% Thelma.
I don't think so.
We talked about this, so.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
Anyway.
We have a lot to do, so we're
gonna get started over here.
See the snow falling
on your shoes
Dusting off those
winter blues
All the yuletide
spirit's high
There's a ring into the sky
Big celebration
I hear the children
laugh and play
Here's to vacation
And Santa coming on
his sleigh
It may be Christmas
Joy all around us
The choirs sing
loud caroling
Bright sparkles
in the trees
Bringing our wishes
Just give you my kisses
A warm fireplace is
all I need
To see your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
Hey.
Hey, almost done.
You get that candy
station set up yet?
Yeah, love candy.
Wow.
You look.
A little less corporate?
Yeah.
But still professional, right?
I mean it's the board after all.
Yeah, you look beautiful,
it's perfect.
Thanks.
What do you got there?
Open it.
I snuck a peek at your sketches,
and this isn't quite as
good as what you drew,
but I think it's close.
You made these?
Yeah, I used my
grandfather's carving knives.
I hope you don't mind.
You gotta stop making
me presents.
Yeah, can't promise that.
Are you ready for tonight?
Yeah.
You?
Yeah.
Just put this in the safe.
Okay.
I count the hours
and minutes
Till the last week
of December
For me, the Christmas spirits
flow as early as September
It's the best of seasons
Come and raise your
glass and sing
No need for other reasons
Glory to the newborn king
Jingle them bells and frolic
It's the best day
of the year
It looks great.
It looks just like snow.
Hey, how you doing?
You having fun?
Yeah.
So, what about her?
Wow that's more complicated.
Just ask her out and see
what she says.
If it all falls apart,
then so be it.
But if it works out.
Hey, Charlie.
Great job.
Very impressive.
Thank you, David.
- Hi.
- Hi.
What do you think?
I think it looks like
you flew Santa in
right from the north pole.
Looks good, huh?
But seriously, tonight
is incredible, Charlie.
Win, lose or draw, you should
be really proud of yourself.
You laid it all on the line.
Yeah, I guess I did.
So, are you finally gonna
tell him how you feel,
or am I gonna have to
do it for you?
You wouldn't dare.
Oh, I most certainly would.
Stephanie.
Hi, Gertrude.
I'll leave you two ladies to it.
Charlie, what a lovely evening.
Thank you.
I'm so glad that you're
enjoying yourself.
Board and I are very
excited about
some of the ideas you
put forward.
Great.
Yeah, oh, what a relief.
Your pitch was spot on.
And what you've done
tonight has proven
that a flagship store is the
answer we've been looking for.
Really?
David has connected the board
with a great location
in Las Vegas
that I think will really carry
the sales we're looking for.
In Las Vegas?
I thought we were-
I know it's unexpected.
It's all been happening
very quickly.
But you have done some
great work here, Charlie,
and I would love to sit
down with you
and talk next steps.
Yes, of course.
The Vegas store will open
up a lot of opportunities
I think you'd be great for.
Anyway, we're pulling
the team together
for a meeting in the
morning, we can talk then?
Mm-hmm, yeah.
Thank you for a
wonderful evening.
Thank you for coming.
Hey,
there you are.
Couldn't find you.
Did you hear anything yet?
They've decided that
Vegas is a better place
for our flagship store.
Vegas?
Yeah.
Okay.
I'm so sorry.
I feel like I should have known.
I mean, the odds were
never in our favor.
You should never have
trusted corporate.
Maybe it's not all bad.
I mean, I could get you a
really great severance package.
But if you think I care
about a severance package,
then clearly you don't know me.
I meant you could use it
to reopen Trinket Town.
It's your dream.
What about you?
What about your toy line?
I don't have a toy line, Grant.
Okay, you want me to trust
and believe in my dreams,
but you're not willing
to admit what yours are?
Yeah, I'm not you.
You don't have to be.
I'm not spontaneous and
playful and magical.
I'm a data analyst for a reason.
Why do you think you chose
to work at a toy company?
To take the leap.
I can't.
It's not me.
I'm sorry, I gotta go.
All right, everyone bring it in.
- Morning.
- Morning.
There's no easy way to say
this, I'm just gonna say it.
Corporate has decided that
it would be a good idea
to close all their stores.
Now I know this
comes as a shock,
and not the best time of year.
But you know what?
I'm gonna help each and
every single one of you
stay on your feet, I
promise you that, okay?
If you have any
questions at all,
anything, do not hesitate to
call me, write me, text me,
show up at my front door, okay?
Outside these four walls,
you're still my team.
That's it.
Matt, we're gonna find
you something, all right?
Thanks, boss.
Keep your chin up, all right?
Marta.
I am so sorry.
It's not your fault, Grant.
We'll figure something out.
We always do.
Yeah.
Hey.
Thanks for coming.
Just wanted you to
hear it from me.
Hey.
It's gonna be all right, Em,
okay?
But I don't understand.
We all made elf dust wishes.
I know.
I'll talk to her.
You okay?
Not really, no.
Well, there's always
Trinket Town.
Come on, not you, too.
We both know when we were kids
you always wanted to
run that place.
Izzy, that sounds crazy.
Especially considering
one of the largest
toy chains in the country
just closed all their stores.
No, it doesn't.
And yes, the world is
changing fast,
but you've always found a
way to set yourself apart.
You did it for this store,
you can do it again.
Maybe.
Look, I get it.
When I first adopted Emma,
you don't think I was nervous.
I was terrified.
I was worried that no
matter how much I loved her,
I'd never be able to give
her a traditional family.
You're a fantastic mom.
I try, but she's got you
and everyone else here.
And we made our own
family, she's thriving.
But I never would've known
how amazing this turned out,
if I hadn't given it a chance.
I get what you're saying.
But, it just wouldn't
be the same.
You know?
You gotta stop putting
Grandpa on that pedestal.
He was just a guy who loved kids
and wanted to create a place
that would inspire them.
Sounds like someone I know.
For the first time since
I've known you,
you went after something
you believed in.
And just because it
didn't work out
exactly how you had hoped,
doesn't mean you haven't been
the happiest I've ever
seen you before.
That's not failure.
That's growth.
You really think so?
Yes, absolutely.
And it's not even taking
into account all of this.
Are these your designs?
Grant made them.
He made these?
Wow, you've got this guy hooked.
Not anymore.
You should have seen
him look at me, Steph,
just disappointment in
every way imaginable.
That's not really fair.
You worked really hard to
save that store.
He wasn't even disappointed
about the store.
He wants me to quit my job
and focus on the toy
line full time.
I think that's a great idea.
No.
No.
Yes.
You could start online
and in a few small stores
with very little risk to you.
You really think I can do it?
Absolutely.
You're my Thelma.
I'm your Louise,
you're my Thelma.
I don't know.
I was just a kid when I dreamed
up being a toy designer.
Stop, you've wanted this
since you were a kid,
there's a big difference.
Just because something
doesn't seem practical
doesn't mean you can't do it.
You're allowed, even if you
think you're too grown up.
Now, grab a donut and your bag.
We are going to be
late for work.
Let's go.
Come on.
And as David just mentioned,
we will be shuttering
all our east coast stores
after Christmas,
just in time to launch
our Vegas flagship store
in the New Year, any questions
you know where to find me.
Enjoy your holiday.
Charlie?
Hey,
Charlie.
I'm sorry about store 24.
Yeah, me too.
It was a good call with
the flagship angle.
That was smart.
Thank you.
You certainly ran with it.
Well, I saw an opportunity
and I did what I
thought was best.
For who?
Look Charlie, I know you've
gotten close to those people,
but don't take it personally.
It's just business.
Maybe it shouldn't be.
Just stick with the numbers, Charlie,
that's what you're good at.
Terrific.
I'll talk to you soon.
Do you have a moment?
Yes, of course.
Have a seat.
You know Charlie,
the board and I have just been
discussing personnel shifts.
We've been so excited about
the work you're doing,
and we're wondering
how you'd feel
about becoming VP of
data processing.
Wow.
We'd move you to an
office in Vegas.
I think you'd be a perfect fit.
Thank you.
But I have to say no.
I want to design toys.
I already do actually.
And I wanna do it full time.
I'm so sorry.
Don't you apologize.
Do what you want, and
whatever that is,
I know it'll be terrific.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So?
I did it, I quit.
What?
We're gonna need more donuts.
Hey, mom.
Yeah, honey?
Is the elf dust really magic?
Well, why do you ask that?
Because none of the wishes
I made this year came true.
Well,
just because it didn't
come true right away
doesn't mean it won't
come true eventually.
Some things take time.
It's Christmas Eve already.
I know, honey.
Hello?
Oh, hey Charlie.
Hey guys.
What can we get ya?
Nothing actually, I came
to give you something.
What is it?
Well, go on.
Open it.
No, way.
They're my first prototypes,
hand-carved by your
very own Uncle G.
Mommy, you see these?
I saw, it's amazing.
It's just like your drawing.
I designed them for you,
for your Santa house.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome so much.
See, mom, this is Santa,
and he's like Uncle G.
And this is Sally Claus.
She's just like you.
She's in charge of
all the elves.
And I'm Rudolph, obviously.
- Obviously.
- Obviously.
Charlie, you have no idea
how much this means to us.
Truly.
Emma is
a great kid.
I couldn't think of
anyone better
to try my new toy line out on.
Wait, so you don't work for
Big Teddy Toy Company anymore?
No, I don't.
I think I'm gonna need
some more candy cane bark.
Only if it's on the house,
this time.
I don't know.
I think it should go here,
by the cash.
How'd you know I was here?
Izzy.
Another bribe.
Think she'd be upset if I
started selling this stuff here?
Does that mean what I
think it means?
Trinket Town, coming soon.
I'm so happy for you.
And it looks amazing in here.
Marta and Ryan are gonna
help me after the holidays.
Well, let me tell you
what I'm doing.
So right back there,
it's gonna be a permanent
crafting station.
Santa chair, that's gonna
stay out year round,
gonna turn it into the
new book nook.
Amazing.
Over here I'm gonna take
this wall out,
and put in a new and
improved play area.
No corporate displays
allowed of course.
Oh, obviously.
Charlie?
I'm sorry.
I have felt terrible
since you left.
I shouldn't have pushed you
so hard to quit your job.
I was just really-
Right.
You were right.
I quit my job.
I was so terrified to admit
that I wanted to design toys,
and you, well, you just
took it seriously
right from the beginning.
You're amazing, Grant.
I'm serious though, I
don't have a job anymore.
So if you have shelf
space for a newbie,
I'd be super appreciative.
Remember that elf dust
story I told?
Of course.
The green and red tights
were really unforgettable.
I wished for this.
You and me.
You didn't.
I did.
Wow.
So did I.
and is suitable for
general audiences.
My favorite holiday
It means so much more
than words can say
And I claim
That Christmas is
a magic day
Sometimes I tend to forget
What glory this
holiday represents
But it's better to say
That Christmas is
a magic day
Yes, every time the
snow is falling down
And it is cold outside
We gather round
the fireplace
And no one cares
about yesterday
My favorite holiday
It means so much more
than words can say
And I claim
Oh, wait Charlie.
- Hi.
- Hi.
- Morning.
- Morning.
So what are we thinking?
Are we moving offices?
Are they getting rid of
the vending machines?
Okay Steph, I don't think
either of those
are worthy of an
emergency meeting.
Speak for yourself.
I just wish they'd laid
it out in an email,
instead of springing it
on us like this.
About a month ago,
Gertrude asked me to pull
all the sales reports
for the past three years.
That's not that unusual, is it?
No, it's not that unusual,
but the numbers were so bad.
Well, how bad are we talking,
like potential layoffs?
Maybe.
I mean, she didn't say.
Now I'm
starting to worry.
Good morning.
Merry Christmas.
Okay, let's try not to panic.
Maybe they're going to
give us Christmas bonuses.
With revenue down 18%?
Good point.
Maybe David is going to grace
us with an early retirement.
Steph, he's not that bad.
Are you kidding?
He hovers over that
merchandise department
like the Grinch trying to
steal Christmas.
What's that now?
David.
Hi.
Didn't see you there.
I was just headed to the
meeting and I heard my name.
Speaking of the meeting,
do you know what it's about?
No, but I got a hunch.
Is that the board?
That's the board.
Ah, there you are.
Thank you for coming in.
So everyone, you'll remember
our head of strategy and
marketing, David,
our merchandising manager, Stephanie,
and our lead data analyst, Charlie.
Have a seat.
Okay everyone, let's
get to work.
I know it's unusual for us
to be springing
a board meeting on
you like this,
but we are in
unprecedented times.
I thought we would start by
reviewing those sales reports
that you worked up for me, Charlie.
Yes, absolutely, I have them.
So on screen you can see a
summary of our sales reports
for the last 12 quarters.
Unfortunately, we notice
a fairly steady decline
in revenues in most of
our locations.
However, we haven't
gotten the results
from our place structure strategy
yet, so bear that in mind.
Respectfully, those numbers
don't even look close
to stabilizing.
That's true.
However, we haven't seen the
impact of holiday sales either.
We just need more time.
Do we have time?
That's the real question.
Personally, I think
that this is the moment
to consider moving
exclusively online.
I've taken the liberty of putting
together a transition plan
that would have all of our
brick and mortar stores
off of the payroll by spring.
What?
Is that something the board
is actually considering?
Everything's on the
table right now.
Do you have the data for
our online sales?
Yes I do, and they are
trending upward,
but I don't think closing
our stores is a good idea.
People don't know what they want
until they have it in
their hands.
Actually, we have an
algorithm for that.
Algorithms need data
to push trends.
Our stores set them.
I mean, that's our brand.
If we close our stores,
we're a wholesaler.
Is that what the company wants?
Are you suggesting we
ignore the fact
that all our stores
are hemorrhaging money?
Well,
not all, actually.
This is store 24 in Jersey City.
It's the only one on our roster
that is showing a steady
increase in revenue.
I know this store,
it's an outlier.
Or maybe we can learn
something from them.
I know exactly what we
can learn from them.
David, let's hear her out.
Go on, Charlie.
Thank you.
I'm just saying it's clear
that this store
is doing something different.
They've exceeded our
projections for the area
the last three years in a row.
We could go there,
investigate their strategy,
apply it to the rest
of our stores.
Big Teddy Toy Company
employs thousands of people
across North America, most
of whom work in retail.
And I think we owe it to
them to pursue every avenue
before making such a
big decision,
especially this time of year.
It's Christmas.
It's decided then.
Charlie, you go to store 24,
report back what they're
doing differently.
Me?
Oh, I just analyze data.
Right.
But if you can
correlate the sales
to actual, tangible,
in-store efforts,
then we have something to go on.
If not, then perhaps
David is right,
and this store is
just an anomaly.
I guess I will head there first
thing in the morning then.
Perfect.
See if you can wrap this
up by Christmas Eve.
Oh, absolutely.
Good
meeting everyone.
Good luck in Jersey City.
Thank you.
Don't be surprised if it
doesn't work out.
We all know moving online
is inevitable.
We'll just have to agree to
disagree, won't we David?
Yeah, and hope we all have
jobs by the time you're done.
Merry Christmas, Charlie.
Merry Christmas.
What just happened?
You knocked it out of
the park is what?
No, I have to tell
Gertrude I can't do it.
I'm supposed to visit my
mom in Seattle
for Christmas this year.
So, you get your research
done before Christmas Eve.
No problem.
What research, Steph?
I don't even know what
I'm looking for.
Yet, you'll figure it out,
you always do.
But what if I don't?
And that's so many
closed stores.
So many people out of jobs.
Just focus on the
little details.
It's what you're good at,
and it's what makes
you so smart.
It's what makes you a
good toy designer, too.
What?
No, that's,
it's just a hobby.
For now.
Forever.
Look, once you figure out
what's up with this store,
you'll be well positioned
to pitch your toy
line to Gertrude.
Steph, I love you,
but when I say I have
bigger fish to fry,
I mean giant Goliath-sized fish.
I'm just saying.
Please let it go.
Fine.
You win, this time.
I am going to start by
emailing the store's manager.
Good luck.
Thanks.
Hello, this is Charlie
Sawyer from corporate.
I'm outside the store and
it seems to be locked.
So as soon as you get
this, please call me back.
Hope everything's all right, bye.
Can I help you?
Yes, I have a meeting.
Oh, you must be one of
our seasonals.
I mean you're a little
early, but please come on in.
Marta can help you at
the front desk.
I'm actually-
If you have any idea how
to put up window displays,
she'll probably have you
help with one of those.
No, this place, oh no, no, no.
No, well listen, we got
plenty of good people inside.
Okay, they can help you out.
After you.
I, uh, thank you.
All right, so,
over here we have the coats.
Coffee's over there, and right
next to it is the front desk.
Morning, Ray.
Morning.
Marta, my assistant manager.
She has this place running
like a well-oiled machine.
Don't you, Marta?
Now, we're a team.
You must be one of
the seasonals.
Yeah, and she's early.
Like you already.
Could you please put that
on the shelf right there.
Thank you.
- Sure.
- Message for you, boss.
Boss?
Someone from corporate.
I don't wanna hear this.
Oh, what now?
Are they mad that I swapped
out that game we used to play?
It blew over in the wind
every time the door opens.
So if you'll excuse me, I
just gotta listen to this.
Oh, you don't have to
listen to that.
Oh yes I do.
If corporate calls and I
don't respond,
they'll probably send
somebody down here.
Play it.
Hello, this is Charlie
Sawyer from corporate.
I'm outside the store and
it seems to be locked.
So as soon as you get
this, please call me back.
Hope everything's all right, bye.
Was that you on the?
Yes.
I'm not a seasonal employee.
I'm from the planning
and analysis department,
and corporate did send me here.
We had a scheduled
meeting at 9:00 a.m.
I wasn't aware of any meeting.
Did I have a meeting?
Nope.
I emailed you about it
yesterday afternoon.
I don't check my
messages after hours.
So what exactly is this about?
Well, I'm not sure if
you're aware of this or not,
but your store is our company's
best performing location.
And corporate is very
interested to know
what you do different,
and if your strategy can
be replicated,
we are gonna apply it
company wide.
And how are you planning
on doing that?
I would like to stay and
observe for about a week or so.
It's Christmas, this is the
busiest time of the year.
Look, no offense,
but we don't really have
time to babysit anyone.
You will not have to babysit me.
I promise I will be out
of your hair.
Fly on the wall, you won't
even notice me.
Right.
No, I -
Starting.
Wow, look, you seem like
a really nice person.
Okay, but I don't feel that
this meeting is necessary,
so I'm just gonna
get back to it.
Okay yeah.
It's just, it's not
really up to you, or me.
These orders are from
the CEO herself.
So I'd like to start by
looking at the numbers.
Do you have an office?
Yeah.
Right this way.
Around the boxes.
Nice to meet you.
Yeah.
Nice to meet you.
So, this is it.
You know, it's not a high rise
with the view of the park, but.
It's fine.
It's great.
Thank you.
If you need anything,
I'll be at the front.
Sorry, where's the computer.
What computer?
With the sales reports?
Oh yeah, sales reports.
Yeah.
There ya are,
I file by hand and then Marta
takes it home quarterly,
and logs it to corporate.
Why would you log it by hand?
Because computers crash
and paper's reliable.
Yeah, okay, of course.
Oh, here you go.
That should set you up.
All right.
Okay.
You got this, Charlie.
Oh, there's more.
Just keeps on going.
Good morning team.
It's gonna be another
big one today,
so I say we keep the line up
short and the aisle's clean.
Other than that, have
a great day.
Hi Uncle G.
Hey, good morning Em.
Down low.
How you doing?
Oh, good.
I remembered to pack my
homework this morning.
So my day is already looking up.
Well, that's great.
Thanks for taking her.
My vendor from Newark
canceled her delivery on me
last minute, so I've
gotta go pick it up.
You sure you don't mind
driving her to school?
Not at all.
Finish a few things around the
store and then I'll take you.
I'd call you a saint,
but that would mean admitting
I'm the inferior sibling,
so I won't.
I love you.
Love you, Mom.
Be good, okay?
Drive safe.
So you know that Santa
house I'm building?
I do.
I'm trying to decide how
many rooms should go in it.
That's a very
important question.
What'd you decide?
Well, I asked my teacher
if Santa had any siblings,
'cause they don't need
their own rooms, right?
You know what, I never
thought of that,
but that's a great question.
So what did she say?
It's not in the literature.
Oh, it's not in the literature.
All right, what's up with her?
Don't you worry about it, okay?
How about you go get some
hot chocolate?
Really?
Yeah, really.
But listen, only get like
three marshmallows this time,
okay?
Save some for the rest of us.
Can't make any promises.
It's Marta, right?
That's me.
I'm really sorry about earlier.
Don't even mention it.
Are you finding everything
you need back there?
I know Grant's a
little old school
in the recordkeeping department.
Yeah, no kidding.
Actually, he mentioned
that you might have
some digital copies at home.
Oh yeah, I do.
I can send 'em over
tonight if you want.
That would be wonderful.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome.
And Charlie, try not to
let Grant get to you.
He can be stubborn as an ox,
that one,
but he comes by it honestly.
He grew up helping his
grandfather run a store,
so he's got his own way
of doing things.
And you didn't hear it from me,
but if you're looking for a
way to get on his good side,
he loves the candy cane bark
from the Pale Blue Dot
down the street.
Oh great.
Do they sell it by
the truckload?
He'll come around, don't worry.
He always does.
Thank you for the tip.
Anytime.
You're still here.
Yeah.
Can't close up till you go home,
and didn't want anybody
else to stay late, so.
Right.
Sorry about that.
What are you doing?
Just readjusting these displays.
You're gonna rat me out,
are you?
You know, contrary to
popular belief,
just because I work at corporate
doesn't mean I have all the
display manuals memorized.
Sure you don't.
Thank you.
Although, that's a lot
lower than this picture.
Please, join me.
Okay.
Now, all these displays
are focused on getting the
wrong person's attention.
That's smart.
I wonder if I could
use that data
and correlate it with
increased sales.
Look, I don't need the
data to know that it works.
And quite frankly, it's
not about the business,
it's about the kids.
Of course.
But if I can't prove it
with numbers.
Numbers, yeah.
Fine.
Look,
I know we got off on
the wrong foot,
and it may not seem so,
but I'm here to help.
Well, I mean, according to you,
we don't really need
any help and,
it's getting late,
so, you're probably tired.
Goodbye.
Goodnight.
Morning.
Good morning.
Can I help you
find something?
Yes, actually I am looking
for your infamous
candy cane bark.
Ah, yes.
How much do you need?
As much as you'll sell me.
Well, I usually reserve
some for my brother Grant,
but the rest is yours.
Your brother, Grant?
Oh yeah, he's addicted.
Every year, when the
holiday treats roll around,
he's over here buying in bulk.
It's amazing he still has
any teeth left in his head.
Grant Leviston?
Yeah, you know him?
Sort of.
I work at Big Teddy Toy Company
and head office sent me here to, well,
it's a long story actually.
So I won't bore you with that.
Okay.
Mom look, I just
finished the roof.
That's amazing, honey.
This is my daughter, Emma.
And this is?
Charlie.
Nice to meet you.
Hi Charlie.
Charlie works with Uncle Grant.
I'll be a minute.
Thank you so much.
So you work with my Uncle G?
Kind of, sort of.
You're lucky, he's the best.
He always lets me play and
makes everything a game.
He even taught me how to
build this stuff
without the instructions.
He did, did he?
I'm noticing a trend.
What are you building?
It's Santa's house.
This is where
Rudolph's gonna live.
This will be Santa's room.
And this will be Sally
Clause's room.
Sally Claus? Who's Sally Claus?
That's Santa's sister.
Well, at least in my head.
Right.
They like to argue sometimes,
but they mostly get along,
and they laugh all the time.
You know, that's one of the most
creative ideas I've ever heard.
Really?
'Cause I can't find any
toys like that,
but I know I will.
Besides, I still have some
magic elf dust at home.
Magic elf dust?
What's magic elf dust?
My Uncle G gave it to me.
It's kinda like Pixie dust,
but it's from elves and
it grants wishes.
Oh, I know what you're thinking.
I seem too mature to
believe in that stuff,
but every wish I've made
has come true.
Really?
Every wish?
Definitely, not just for me.
My mom uses it too.
Like when I was a baby,
my mom wished to adopt me.
Of all the little babies she
could pick, she wanted me,
and then that Christmas we
became each other's family.
Pretty cool, right?
Yeah, very cool.
And you're still the best
Christmas present ever.
Thank you so much.
How much do I owe you?
Oh, it's on the house.
Grant's a tough
chestnut to crack.
Thank you, but here.
Oh.
To balance your books.
Thank you.
Bye Emma.
Bye.
Good morning.
Good morning.
You know the play structure
is for the kids, right?
Really? Does it say that
somewhere in the manual?
I guess we'll never know,
since someone doesn't
follow the manual.
You do that often.
Yeah, especially when I'm
playing with the kids,
or it needs a good dusting.
Wanna have a whirl?
No thank you.
I was thinking we could go
over these quarterly reports
that Marta sent me last night.
Really, still on the numbers,
huh?
Yeah, kind of my job.
So I've noticed some
significant sales spikes
that I think we can cross
reference with in-store
activity.
And from there I-
You go for it
Really.
I can't really do it
without you though.
You know what?
Ryan actually needs my
help on the floor.
So sorry.
Wait.
Did you talk to my sister?
No.
I mean, yes, because I
bought this from her,
but Marta said that
you liked it.
Unless you don't like it.
No, I do.
You wouldn't happen to be poking
around in my personal life
on behalf of corporate,
would you?
I had to ask.
What?
No, no, I'm just,
I'm just trying to find some
common ground between us
so that we could get at
the bottom of this
before Christmas, so.
So you wanna know how
my store runs?
Yes, please.
Follow me.
You want me to stock
the shelves?
Sure, later.
But first, that looks
like this person
could really use a hand.
Oh no.
I have no training in
customer service.
I'm a data analyst.
Which is why you could
use this perspective.
Plus, I mean, wouldn't
it be a shame
if we didn't get to her
within the allotted two
minute greeting time
as per the corporate manual?
Okay.
All right.
Okay.
Hi there.
Hi.
Welcome to Big Teddy
Toy Company.
Can I help you with anything?
I'm just browsing.
Thanks.
Oh yeah, of course.
Browse away.
Oh those are cute.
Yes.
Oh, you know this
toy right here.
It's our top seller.
Okay.
It is very popular in the
seven to 10 age range,
up 6% from last year, which I
know doesn't sound like a lot.
Okay, thank you.
Actually quite an
increase considering
the competitive nature of
the demographic.
And if you need
anything else just,
I'll be right over there.
Okay.
Cool.
Isn't bad, huh?
That was awful.
I majored in math and fine arts,
okay?
Do either of those things
scream extrovert to you?
No.
Look,
okay, I'll get this next one.
You just observe, all right?
But, little tip.
Doesn't have to be so
data driven, right?
It's a toy store, just
act like a kid.
Hey, good morning.
Oh, hi.
It's a cold one out there, huh?
Oh, it's freezing.
Yeah, hey, if you guys
need to warm up,
I've got some hot
chocolate right over there.
Well thank you,
that's very nice.
Not a problem.
Can I help you find
anything today?
Well, we're here to pick out
a gift for her older sister.
I get to give it to her myself.
Wow, and how old is
your older sister?
She's nine.
Nine, that's awesome.
Hey, you know what?
When I was nine,
I had like a mountain of
Stuffy's like this high.
You think she'd like those?
I don't know.
No? Okay.
That's all right,
how about this?
Excuse me, ma'am.
Now, this here.
It's our latest scooter.
It's got lights.
It's pretty fast.
Think should be into that.
I don't think so.
Okay.
My niece, she's nine.
She has this exact set.
She loves it.
What do you think of that?
Oh.
Let me see here.
Oh, see that sticker
right there.
That means Santa
Claus came in here
and said that was 50% off.
Oh?
That work?
Oh yes, it does.
Yes.
Okay.
All right, well you take that.
We're gonna go over here
and Ryan's gonna help you.
Thanks so much.
Not a problem.
Boss, I don't think
this one's sale.
Just use my employee discount.
Thanks for locking up.
Goodnight.
He's going to the Christmas
market down on the corner.
Thank you.
Make that two, please.
So, employee discount, huh?
When the situation calls for it.
You're gonna tell the big boss?
No, I was actually gonna say
that that was really
nice of you.
We didn't have a lot of
money growing up,
but I loved all that art stuff,
and those kits would've
been right up my alley.
Anyway,
I was thinking tomorrow
we could finally
tackle those spreadsheets?
You know what we can do,
story time.
Story time?
Yeah, story time.
It's just this thing
that we do with the kids.
Look, I know it's not the
policy handbook, okay?
But, we have the space
and the kids love it, so.
Am I giving off some kind
of corporate tyrant vibe?
Or am I missing something?
I just know how this goes.
Oh really?
You know how, what goes exactly?
Well, they send you in here
to stick your nose in our
business, right?
Then you gotta find a way
to cut overhead costs,
so you fire a bunch of people
and put in self-help kiosks.
How am I doing?
That's not what I'm doing.
- No?
- No.
Look, these are my employees,
my friends,
my family.
I understand.
I'm really, really
trying to help you.
Really?
Yes, really.
You wanna make us get
rid of the cocoa stands?
No.
- You gonna stop our events?
- No.
You're gonna make us
use accounting software.
Well, maybe.
Knew it.
I'm trying to save your store, Grant.
And every other Big Teddy Toy
Company Store while I'm at it.
What do you mean?
Head office is
threatening to shut down
every brick and mortar and
move everything online.
No, that can't be right.
It is, actually.
And I only have six days
to figure out a solution,
or, you, me, all of your
employees could be out of jobs.
So please?
Take my bribe,
and let's start over.
I'll see you in the morning.
Charlie?
Thanks for telling me.
c]
Now, the north pole
didn't seem so far away,
but Santa and elves got lost,
and they couldn't find
their way back home.
They were stuck in
New York City.
Look at this.
Now how were the children
gonna get all their
Christmas presents?
Instead of feeling glum,
Santa and the elves decided
to build a brand new workshop.
Pretty awesome, right?
They worked extra
hard to make sure
that all the little girls
and all the little boys
got their presents.
So, everyone was filled
with Christmas cheer.
But what's Christmas
cheer look like?
Show me.
That's good.
Well, after Christmas day,
Santa got a letter from
Missus Claus with a map.
What?
That map showed him how to
get back to the north pole.
Sweet.
Okay, now what was
Santa gonna do now?
I mean, couldn't just abandon
his new workshop, right?
He needed someone to
step in and help.
So, from that day forward,
I promised Santa that I
would step in
and I would help him
run that special shop.
It's just outside the city,
right here.
Now, before Santa left,
he gave me something very
special, okay?
And I want to share that
with all of you.
So,
this,
it's magic elf dust.
Okay?
Now I'd like to give some
elf dust to each one of you.
And I have some very special
instructions first, okay?
So just hold your hands out,
come here.
Here you go.
All right, now all you
hold on to that.
For me?
Oh, thank you.
Little bit here.
You ready?
So, we have a little bit here.
We're gonna close our eyes,
I'm gonna count to three,
then you're gonna make a wish.
Okay?
Ready? Close your eyes.
And three, two, one.
That sounded like it worked.
Well that's it.
Thank you all for coming today.
That's the end of story time.
- Whoa!
- There we go.
All right, you can run back
to your parents and listen,
please drop your Santa
letters in the big red box
by the cash register before
you leave, don't forget.
Hi!
- Hey Charlie, right?
- Yes.
How are you?
Oh, we're good.
Grant's not giving you
too much trouble, is he?
Well.
He's all bark and no bite,
trust me.
I trust you.
Hey, how's your Santa
house coming?
Did you find Sally Claus yet?
Not yet, but I keep wishing.
Well we'll find one soon, honey.
Anyway, we gotta get going.
See you around, Charlie.
Yeah.
- Bye.
- Bye.
Hey, go easy on her
or you'll have to answer to me.
Oh, thanks mom.
Hi.
Hello.
So what'd you think?
I think you hold a captive
audience, I'll give you that.
Nothing to do with the costume?
Apparently it draws a crowd.
Look at this place.
Oh it's normal, every
time we have an event.
Do you have a second?
Yeah.
I wanna show
you something.
Okay.
Here are your
sales reports
for the last two quarters.
Wow.
Accounting software lays
out nice and clean, huh?
You see these peaks?
So, originally I thought they
correlated with flash sales
or redesigning an NCAP
or something.
But now I am willing to bet
that all of these line up
with some kind of special
event you had.
Yeah, I think right here we
did a fall harvest thing,
painted pumpkins and whatnot.
Okay.
This is just before Halloween.
We did trick or
treating play around.
Whoever had a costume
could participate.
Do you have some kind of
official calendar I can use
to cross reference
these numbers?
Nope.
Every Saturday morning,
10:00 a.m.
everybody knows to show
up for reading time.
The rest is word of mouth.
Do you think that you could
fill one out for me
for the year?
The year?
To the best of your ability,
of course.
I need it to run
statistical analyses
before I present to the board.
Sounds fun, yeah.
I'll see what I can do.
Great, excellent.
This is just what we needed.
Exactly what we need.
Okay, I'm just gonna
zip back to the office
and start on this,
so by the time you send
me the calendar,
we will be off to the races.
Oh, unless you need me
to stay here.
I can totally stay here.
No, no, we're good.
Okay.
Look, to be honest,
just really trying to find out
why you're working so
hard to help us.
It's my job.
And you know,
I don't wanna see people
lose their jobs,
and families suffer
just because I didn't do
my best to find a solution.
So just looking for a solution?
Listen, when I was growing up,
my mom had to work three
jobs just to pay the rent.
Retail during the day,
waitressing at night,
and housekeeping on
the weekend so,
my entire childhood,
I was just hanging out
in a toy store.
It's my favorite place to be.
Can't say I blame you.
I guess I really don't
wanna see them closed.
It's not the answer I
was expecting.
- Nice.
- Oh.
I'm sorry, what were
you expecting?
No, just something
more by the book,
less by the heart.
I'm sorry to disappoint you.
You didn't.
Are you gonna tell me
what's in the elf dust?
Sugar, salt, flour?
Gonna have to ask Santa.
I'll get right on that.
It works, you know.
Yeah, so I hear.
You don't believe me, okay.
I'll prove it to you.
Pick you up first thing
tomorrow morning, 8:00 a.m.
Okay.
Pick me up at 8:00 a.m.
But you have to send me
that calendar tonight.
Consider it done.
Hey.
Where are we going?
Santa's workshop.
No, Grant, seriously.
Seriously.
Who's G?
What, what are you doing here?
Oh, I just came to tell
you the rumblings
from the water cooler gang,
but more importantly, what are
you doing smiling like that?
What?
Like what?
Like a normal human being?
I was thinking more like
it's Christmas, 1998,
and you just opened up
Spice World on VHS.
I just got an important document
from the manager of the store.
I think we're really
onto something.
Mm-hmm, it sure looks like it.
Stop, seriously.
I just need to run a
few more stats
and then I'm ready to
present to the board.
About that.
What?
Gertrude held a closed door
meeting with the board today.
Uh oh.
They're shutting down all the
west coast stores, Charlie.
What?
I haven't finished my research,
and Gertrude told me I
had till Christmas Eve.
I'm so sorry,
but David's been lobbying the
board ever since you left and.
David?
Charlie.
All right, well you
have a good night.
David.
Wait.
Yes, Charlie.
I heard the news.
What news?
That you convinced the board
to close all our west
coast stores.
I tried to tell you moving
online was inevitable.
But I am on the verge of
a breakthrough, really.
I just, I need a few more days.
If you could just
please talk to-
Charlie, forgive me
for saying this,
but have you ever considered
you might be wasting
everyone's time?
Excuse me.
What if the only thing
that comes from this
is our retail employees
have less notice.
They need to find a new job.
If we tell them now
they can start looking,
planning for a future.
Instead of living off these
false hopes and empty promises.
I haven't promised anything.
Well, maybe that's because
you know, deep down,
this is a wild goose chase, too.
You okay?
You seem a little off.
Yeah, I'm fine, yeah.
Just a
long night,
way too much coffee.
Did you get those stats
off to the board?
In progress, yeah.
Mm.
You sure you're okay?
I am just curious about
where we're headed.
I mean, am I about to
meet the big man himself?
Wow.
What is this place?
Oh, is this your
grandfather's store?
How did you know that?
Marta might have mentioned it.
Marta?
Yes, this was my
grandfather's store.
Man, myth, legend.
But it's still here,
what happened?
Well, he died when I was 16,
and he gave it to my dad
who didn't want to run it.
He was a financial planner.
So he closed it, Iz and I
begged him not to sell it,
which he didn't, thankfully.
And here it is.
Doors have been
closed ever since.
Hmm, that's really too bad.
You wanna see inside?
When's the last time
you were in here?
It's been a while.
Charlie?
Back here.
Ah, I see.
The source of the magical
mystical mysterious elf dust.
What are you doing?
Well, only a few more
days until Christmas.
We are fresh outta this
stuff, so we gotta stock up.
Right, gotta make those
Christmas wishes
come true somehow.
You know it.
Why does it feel like
we're stealing
from the fountain of
youth or something?
You do believe
there's a little bit
of magic happening here.
Okay, I didn't say that.
You're thinking it.
No, no, I'm not.
I'm actually thinking,
why doesn't he just
make this himself?
We could easily find
out what's in it.
Nope, impossible.
This stuff here.
It's directly from
the north pole.
Oh, I see.
Go on.
You want me to taste it.
Why not?
No, it's for making
wishes, not for tasting.
I wish that you would taste it.
So you believe in wishing.
It could be powdered sugar,
like the candy from
when we were kids,
with the stick,
then you just dip it in the,
it's like sugar on sugar.
Just try it.
You can't tell me
that you've never thought
about at least tasting it.
It's 30-year-old sand
from Coney Island.
Aha, I knew it.
Give me that, it doesn't
mean it doesn't work.
Yeah, for kids.
And adults.
- Mm-hmm
- Mm-hmm.
Look no harm in asking
for what you want.
That's a wish.
Is that why you run a toy store?
So you can keep being a kid?
Look just because
you're an adult,
doesn't mean you have
to abandon everything
about being a kid.
All right, you have
everything you need?
Yeah, pretty much.
Wait.
Oh, you gotta see this.
Pretty cool, right?
Yeah. my grandfather, he dressed
up like Santa all the time.
He loved it.
And then he would have the kids,
they would sit right there.
I've been here before.
What?
I remember.
I, I've sat here.
You'd press a button and this
would rise up to eye level.
It was like seeing Santa
on a roller coaster.
That was your grandfather?
Yeah.
How old were you?
I was six, maybe seven.
My mom worked every Christmas,
but that year she had off.
I remember she took me here.
Wow, it was so magical.
I'd never seen anything like it.
I'm pretty sure I asked him, wow,
your grandfather, for this
hand-carved wooden reindeer,
pulling Santa in a sleigh.
It was so cute.
Yeah, it was my favorite
toy in the store.
Did you get it?
Yeah, I did.
And I played with it
every day that year.
I mean, it didn't matter
if it was July.
I had it out, I was obsessed.
Do you still have it?
No.
Wow.
I mean, my mom and I moved
around so much,
packing, unpacking.
It gets to a certain point where
if it's not necessary
for survival,
you have to leave it behind.
So.
It makes sense why you'd be
so into structure and
spreadsheets and certainty.
You always want to be a
data analyst?
No, I mean, I was always
good with numbers,
but I kind of wanted to be
a toy designer.
Really?
Yeah, I'd build things outta
popsicle sticks all the time.
Once I built this
three-story house,
and I sold it at a garage
sale in Queens for $10.
I was really proud of myself.
It's a great sale.
Do you still design?
I do, yeah.
Okay, well it's settled then.
You gotta show me.
- What?
- Yeah.
- No.
- Yeah.
No.
I run a toy store.
We can put your
product dead center.
We can't do that.
Why not?
Corporate pre-sales its
displays for years in advance.
And besides they're
just drawings.
For now.
Forever.
Why do you say that?
Because the odds of
success as a toy designer
are extremely low,
talking like 1% low.
I have a great job.
Well, somebody's gotta do it.
Might as well be you, right?
Okay, let's go.
I have to get back
to the office.
Do you have a minute?
Charlie.
I wanted to go over my
research of store 24.
It turns out that this manager
goes above and beyond for
his community.
And I have the hard numbers
that prove his bottom line
is connected to in-store events.
I really appreciate how
thorough you're being.
This is exactly what we need.
I mean, we could save all
our east coast stores.
It's not too late.
Maybe you should come
back to the office,
just for the time being.
But this is our
chance to preserve
the in-store experience.
I just feel-
We're still figuring
out next steps.
Okay, what if we made this
a standalone flagship store?
Charlie, what?
What did you just say?
A flagship store?
Interesting.
You have until Friday.
Thank you.
Hey, how's your day?
The board's decided to
close most of our stores.
What do you mean they're
closing the stores?
I'm sorry that I didn't
tell you right away.
When did you find out?
Yesterday.
Why didn't you tell me?
I wanted to tell you
this morning,
but truthfully I was trying
to figure out a plan first.
Well, I have to tell Marta,
I mean.
No, you don't have
to tell Marta.
Yeah, look, her son goes
to college next year.
She's been saving up for that,
and Ryan's a fantastic employee.
He's gonna need help
finding a new job.
These are people's lives that
we're talking about here.
It's not over.
I have a meeting with
Gertrude on Friday.
I'm gonna pitch this store as
one of their flagship stores.
With the success of your store,
they would be crazy not
to agree to it.
Yeah maybe.
Or maybe they just shut us
down by New Year's Eve, right?
They're not gonna close
you New Year's Eve.
Can you promise that?
Then your plan better work.
Steph, we need to make this
store not just any store.
They have to know that
it's essential
to the success of their company.
Exactly.
We need to show it off.
We need to make it look
like a flagship store.
I can even put pictures
in the slideshow
and they'll see with their
own eyes its potential.
That's a great idea.
And then I'll hit them
with the numbers.
Then bam, they sign on
the dotted line.
Exactly.
Hopefully.
Look, I think your
numbers are gonna get you
really close to the finish line,
but it's gonna be stories
that really hit it home.
Okay.
I'm listening.
What do you mean?
Well, I think you need to bring
this manager guy into it more.
I mean, he's
obviously a big reason
why that place is so successful.
I mean, he is really great.
Oh yeah?
Stop it, no, I mean, you
know, professionally.
Okay.
I'm serious though.
Focus on what he does differently.
You're right.
I have a photographer coming
in first thing in the morning.
I think it's pretty good.
It does need
something.
That narrows it down.
Yeah, like what?
Like,
you.
Like how?
Like you in that elf costume.
No, corporate's not gonna
love that idea.
If it won me over, maybe
it can win them over too.
You never know.
Did I now?
Hmm?
I won you over?
I also think we need a
Christmas tree, like right here.
Picture it.
- Okay.
- Okay.
I'll go get one outta the back.
No.
Grant, a real tree.
Oh, but corporate manual states
that we can't have a real tree.
Well, the corporate manual
wasn't made for emergency,
SOS, save-our-store-by-Christmas
moments, now was it?
Wow.
Look at you go.
Okay.
Marta, we're getting
a real Christmas tree.
I know just the spot, follow me.
Good.
Great.
Yes.
Grant, we just passed
16 perfectly good trees.
No, no, no, no.
Trust me, good ones
are at the back.
Follow me.
Is this where you come to
get your tree?
Every year.
You know this used to be
a lumber yard actually,
when I was a kid.
I didn't know, no.
Well it's where my grandpa
Henry got his start, actually.
Pulled long hours, saved up
enough and opened Trinket Town.
Can I ask you something?
Yeah.
Why didn't you just
reopen Trinket Town?
Well, turns out banks
don't trust kids
who have no experience.
But you said your dad
was a financial planner.
He could have helped.
No, no.
He thought that I should,
you know,
be doing something more respectable,
professional, profitable.
Oh, okay.
What about now?
You have all this experience,
you could get a startup loan,
no problem.
Well, man, I have
employees now and.
Okay, part of me thinks that,
maybe it wouldn't live
up to what it used to be
if I was at the wheel.
But my grandpa was a
special guy.
I mean, he whittled toys
from scrap lumber
that he'd find on his
lunch breaks.
Actually, we could find you
some scrap lumber probably.
You could take some
home with you.
Are you serious?
Why would I take
scrap lumber home?
For your toy line.
Oh, well,
it's not a toy line,
and I don't know how to whittle.
I just draw.
Oh, I could help you with that.
I still have my
grandfather's carving knife.
No, you don't need to do that.
Well, I'd like to do that.
I mean, if that's what you
imagine, right?
I just assumed that they
would be wood,
not plastic because,
hey, you mentioned that
you loved the reindeer so much.
Yeah, that is how I imagined it.
Wood, not plastic.
All right then well, you
know what that means.
- No.
- Mm-hmm.
What?
You're gonna have to
show me your sketches.
- No.
- What? Come on.
Why not?
I don't know, I don't
wanna make you
do anything that's so.
What, important to you?
Juvenile.
Juvenile?
Why do you do that?
What, do what?
That.
Not doing anything.
Yeah, you just did it again.
I'm just looking for trees.
Look, stop.
Making toys is not easy.
It's not frivolous or naive,
but think about how much
toys impacted you
when you were a kid,
how much they impact you
now, even as an adult.
I can't believe I'm
gonna say this,
but at the end of the day,
it's still a business,
so there's gonna be market
research and product testing.
- Wow.
- Yeah.
But you know this stuff, you
have experience with this.
I have done a little
market research.
Things are trending
towards nostalgia,
and back to the basics,
is a draw.
See, you're doing it right now.
Are we gonna get a tree?
We should get a tree,
don't you think?
Yeah. Yeah.
I just need to say
one more thing.
The next time I ask to
see your sketches,
don't talk yourself out of it.
Okay?
Okay.
Okay.
I think this is it, yeah?
Yeah, looks great.
- Okay.
- You got this, I'll pay.
Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing
o'er the plains
And the mountains in reply
I think I'm done.
No, it's nice.
No, it's really nice.
Yeah?
Have you thought about
using more silver garland?
What, you don't like it?
I can basically see my
reflection in it.
Yes, that's great.
Hey, hey, hey!
Hi!
So, did you get the thing
that I asked for yet?
Mm-hmm.
You didn't tell me
what it's for?
No.
You know like those little
tiny Santa toys
that you can get?
Yeah.
I tried to buy one,
but mom said no.
So then I tried to
buy one myself,
but mom wouldn't give me
her credit card.
You know, I kind of understand
where she's coming from.
She's nine.
And a half.
And still capable of
accidentally purchasing
200 of something I can't return.
Hey.
I want to show you something.
I was thinking about
the problem.
Yes.
And I started to doodle,
and I was wondering
if this could work
for Sally Claus?
It's perfect.
- Really?
- Where are they?
Oh, well they're not toys yet.
They're just drawings.
Oh.
But.
I know, I'll use my elf
dust to make them real!
Slow down, honey.
Come on, we gotta go.
We're going,
see you later.
Bye.
Bye.
So, what you got there?
Oh yes, you're here.
Hi, welcome.
Right this way.
hestral]
How's it going?
It's going great.
Just waiting for the last
of these photos to upload,
and then we should
be good to go.
You think it'll work?
I do.
- Okay.
- Okay.
What's in the box.
Well, I'll show you if
you show me your sketches.
Oh, sneaky.
Mm, I see what you're doing.
- No.
- Yes.
Trying to make a deal, I
think you should take it.
It's a good deal.
Okay, fine.
Okay.
They're still a work in
progress, okay?
So, if you don't like them, you
can just be honest as well.
There's some dimensions that
I still need to tweak in that.
They're supposed to be simple,
that's what I was going for.
I didn't wanna add
too many details
so that the kids could
add the details.
You know, inspire imagination.
They could create their own
world and write their own rules.
Okay, your silence
is killing me.
I like that.
What?
It just means you care
about my opinion.
Of course I care about
your opinion.
I mean,
you're a professional
in the industry.
Right.
Important opinion.
These are incredible.
Really?
You got something
really special here.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Now, your turn.
That's the one you were
talking about, right?
How?
That's exactly how I
remember it.
It's yours, keep it.
No, I can't keep this.
This is from your grandfather.
We made a deal, fair and square.
It's yours, please keep it.
Why are you being so nice to me?
You're supposed to hate
corporate minions.
I do.
It just turns out that
you're the furthest thing
from a corporate minion
that I can imagine.
Hey, I was wondering if
maybe, you know, we could-
Oh, that's Steph, I
have to meet her
for the pitch practice tonight.
Okay.
Good luck.
- Thanks.
- All right.
Oh, hey.
They're gonna go for it,
don't worry.
What if they don't?
What's Grant gonna do?
Grant?
So we're on a first
name basis now.
Oh, I mean, well we,
yes, we are.
You're rattled.
No, I'm not rattled.
Yes, you are.
And you only get rattled when
you're really into someone
or completely horrified by them.
You really like him.
You know, you and Grant
are very similar.
Never know when to let up,
especially about my toy designs.
Wait, you told him about
your toy designs?
I did.
Whoa, that's-
Insane.
Crazy, stupid.
- I know.
- No.
I also told him I could
save his store.
What am I doing?
It's okay.
We got this.
Run it again.
Flagships build brand power
through store experience.
They're a place for discovery, excitement,
connection and fun.
Perfect.
Making it the perfect location
for Big Teddy Toy Company's
very first flagship store.
Well, it's an
interesting proposal.
But I have concerns
with the location.
Is it really central
enough to be a flagship?
Well, I can assure you
that this store's reputation
continues to spread,
and with a larger
marketing budget,
we can increase traffic significantly.
Thank you, Charlie.
We'll take it into consideration.
You know,
maybe you should see
it in person
before making any decisions.
There's just something that
statistics and spreadsheets
can't show you.
In fact, they are hosting
a holiday party tonight.
You and your families
should come on down.
That's a great idea.
We'll be there.
Fantastic.
And we'll see you there.
Okay.
There you go, Ryan.
Oh, Marta, a return.
Oh.
Hey.
Hey.
So how'd it go?
Oh no, good.
Good?
Yeah, really good.
- But.
- What?
The board wants to come here.
What, here? When?
Tonight.
Tonight?
I kind of told them
that we are having
a holiday party.
A party, okay.
I just needed a way to
get them in the store
so that they could see the
potential for themselves.
Oh Grant, I'm so sorry.
Are you mad?
No, no, not at all.
I'm just trying to figure
out where to start.
Oh, great.
Yeah, where to start.
I want them to feel the
magic of the store, you know,
it already looks so good.
Yeah, but we wanna blow
their socks off.
Exactly.
Bring in appetizers,
maybe desserts.
Oh, I love desserts, yeah.
And we'll put out the
arts and crafts table.
Yes, and set up games.
Absolutely, I love games.
We don't have a lot of time.
- No.
- We need help.
Yes.
Okay, I will ask Marta and
Ryan if they can stay late,
and I'll see if Izzy
can bring Emma.
Oh, that would so
would be perfect.
'Cause teamwork makes
the dream work.
You know it.
Steph? What are you doing here?
Oh, well I thought you could
use an extra set of hands.
Oh my goodness, we can.
You are the best.
Grant, this is Stephanie, my-
Coworker, best friend,
Bonnie to her Clyde,
Louise to her Thelma.
Excuse me, I'm Louise,
you're Thelma.
Oh, that's cute,
you're 100% Thelma.
I don't think so.
We talked about this, so.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
Anyway.
We have a lot to do, so we're
gonna get started over here.
See the snow falling
on your shoes
Dusting off those
winter blues
All the yuletide
spirit's high
There's a ring into the sky
Big celebration
I hear the children
laugh and play
Here's to vacation
And Santa coming on
his sleigh
It may be Christmas
Joy all around us
The choirs sing
loud caroling
Bright sparkles
in the trees
Bringing our wishes
Just give you my kisses
A warm fireplace is
all I need
To see your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
See your face on
Christmas Eve
Hey.
Hey, almost done.
You get that candy
station set up yet?
Yeah, love candy.
Wow.
You look.
A little less corporate?
Yeah.
But still professional, right?
I mean it's the board after all.
Yeah, you look beautiful,
it's perfect.
Thanks.
What do you got there?
Open it.
I snuck a peek at your sketches,
and this isn't quite as
good as what you drew,
but I think it's close.
You made these?
Yeah, I used my
grandfather's carving knives.
I hope you don't mind.
You gotta stop making
me presents.
Yeah, can't promise that.
Are you ready for tonight?
Yeah.
You?
Yeah.
Just put this in the safe.
Okay.
I count the hours
and minutes
Till the last week
of December
For me, the Christmas spirits
flow as early as September
It's the best of seasons
Come and raise your
glass and sing
No need for other reasons
Glory to the newborn king
Jingle them bells and frolic
It's the best day
of the year
It looks great.
It looks just like snow.
Hey, how you doing?
You having fun?
Yeah.
So, what about her?
Wow that's more complicated.
Just ask her out and see
what she says.
If it all falls apart,
then so be it.
But if it works out.
Hey, Charlie.
Great job.
Very impressive.
Thank you, David.
- Hi.
- Hi.
What do you think?
I think it looks like
you flew Santa in
right from the north pole.
Looks good, huh?
But seriously, tonight
is incredible, Charlie.
Win, lose or draw, you should
be really proud of yourself.
You laid it all on the line.
Yeah, I guess I did.
So, are you finally gonna
tell him how you feel,
or am I gonna have to
do it for you?
You wouldn't dare.
Oh, I most certainly would.
Stephanie.
Hi, Gertrude.
I'll leave you two ladies to it.
Charlie, what a lovely evening.
Thank you.
I'm so glad that you're
enjoying yourself.
Board and I are very
excited about
some of the ideas you
put forward.
Great.
Yeah, oh, what a relief.
Your pitch was spot on.
And what you've done
tonight has proven
that a flagship store is the
answer we've been looking for.
Really?
David has connected the board
with a great location
in Las Vegas
that I think will really carry
the sales we're looking for.
In Las Vegas?
I thought we were-
I know it's unexpected.
It's all been happening
very quickly.
But you have done some
great work here, Charlie,
and I would love to sit
down with you
and talk next steps.
Yes, of course.
The Vegas store will open
up a lot of opportunities
I think you'd be great for.
Anyway, we're pulling
the team together
for a meeting in the
morning, we can talk then?
Mm-hmm, yeah.
Thank you for a
wonderful evening.
Thank you for coming.
Hey,
there you are.
Couldn't find you.
Did you hear anything yet?
They've decided that
Vegas is a better place
for our flagship store.
Vegas?
Yeah.
Okay.
I'm so sorry.
I feel like I should have known.
I mean, the odds were
never in our favor.
You should never have
trusted corporate.
Maybe it's not all bad.
I mean, I could get you a
really great severance package.
But if you think I care
about a severance package,
then clearly you don't know me.
I meant you could use it
to reopen Trinket Town.
It's your dream.
What about you?
What about your toy line?
I don't have a toy line, Grant.
Okay, you want me to trust
and believe in my dreams,
but you're not willing
to admit what yours are?
Yeah, I'm not you.
You don't have to be.
I'm not spontaneous and
playful and magical.
I'm a data analyst for a reason.
Why do you think you chose
to work at a toy company?
To take the leap.
I can't.
It's not me.
I'm sorry, I gotta go.
All right, everyone bring it in.
- Morning.
- Morning.
There's no easy way to say
this, I'm just gonna say it.
Corporate has decided that
it would be a good idea
to close all their stores.
Now I know this
comes as a shock,
and not the best time of year.
But you know what?
I'm gonna help each and
every single one of you
stay on your feet, I
promise you that, okay?
If you have any
questions at all,
anything, do not hesitate to
call me, write me, text me,
show up at my front door, okay?
Outside these four walls,
you're still my team.
That's it.
Matt, we're gonna find
you something, all right?
Thanks, boss.
Keep your chin up, all right?
Marta.
I am so sorry.
It's not your fault, Grant.
We'll figure something out.
We always do.
Yeah.
Hey.
Thanks for coming.
Just wanted you to
hear it from me.
Hey.
It's gonna be all right, Em,
okay?
But I don't understand.
We all made elf dust wishes.
I know.
I'll talk to her.
You okay?
Not really, no.
Well, there's always
Trinket Town.
Come on, not you, too.
We both know when we were kids
you always wanted to
run that place.
Izzy, that sounds crazy.
Especially considering
one of the largest
toy chains in the country
just closed all their stores.
No, it doesn't.
And yes, the world is
changing fast,
but you've always found a
way to set yourself apart.
You did it for this store,
you can do it again.
Maybe.
Look, I get it.
When I first adopted Emma,
you don't think I was nervous.
I was terrified.
I was worried that no
matter how much I loved her,
I'd never be able to give
her a traditional family.
You're a fantastic mom.
I try, but she's got you
and everyone else here.
And we made our own
family, she's thriving.
But I never would've known
how amazing this turned out,
if I hadn't given it a chance.
I get what you're saying.
But, it just wouldn't
be the same.
You know?
You gotta stop putting
Grandpa on that pedestal.
He was just a guy who loved kids
and wanted to create a place
that would inspire them.
Sounds like someone I know.
For the first time since
I've known you,
you went after something
you believed in.
And just because it
didn't work out
exactly how you had hoped,
doesn't mean you haven't been
the happiest I've ever
seen you before.
That's not failure.
That's growth.
You really think so?
Yes, absolutely.
And it's not even taking
into account all of this.
Are these your designs?
Grant made them.
He made these?
Wow, you've got this guy hooked.
Not anymore.
You should have seen
him look at me, Steph,
just disappointment in
every way imaginable.
That's not really fair.
You worked really hard to
save that store.
He wasn't even disappointed
about the store.
He wants me to quit my job
and focus on the toy
line full time.
I think that's a great idea.
No.
No.
Yes.
You could start online
and in a few small stores
with very little risk to you.
You really think I can do it?
Absolutely.
You're my Thelma.
I'm your Louise,
you're my Thelma.
I don't know.
I was just a kid when I dreamed
up being a toy designer.
Stop, you've wanted this
since you were a kid,
there's a big difference.
Just because something
doesn't seem practical
doesn't mean you can't do it.
You're allowed, even if you
think you're too grown up.
Now, grab a donut and your bag.
We are going to be
late for work.
Let's go.
Come on.
And as David just mentioned,
we will be shuttering
all our east coast stores
after Christmas,
just in time to launch
our Vegas flagship store
in the New Year, any questions
you know where to find me.
Enjoy your holiday.
Charlie?
Hey,
Charlie.
I'm sorry about store 24.
Yeah, me too.
It was a good call with
the flagship angle.
That was smart.
Thank you.
You certainly ran with it.
Well, I saw an opportunity
and I did what I
thought was best.
For who?
Look Charlie, I know you've
gotten close to those people,
but don't take it personally.
It's just business.
Maybe it shouldn't be.
Just stick with the numbers, Charlie,
that's what you're good at.
Terrific.
I'll talk to you soon.
Do you have a moment?
Yes, of course.
Have a seat.
You know Charlie,
the board and I have just been
discussing personnel shifts.
We've been so excited about
the work you're doing,
and we're wondering
how you'd feel
about becoming VP of
data processing.
Wow.
We'd move you to an
office in Vegas.
I think you'd be a perfect fit.
Thank you.
But I have to say no.
I want to design toys.
I already do actually.
And I wanna do it full time.
I'm so sorry.
Don't you apologize.
Do what you want, and
whatever that is,
I know it'll be terrific.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So?
I did it, I quit.
What?
We're gonna need more donuts.
Hey, mom.
Yeah, honey?
Is the elf dust really magic?
Well, why do you ask that?
Because none of the wishes
I made this year came true.
Well,
just because it didn't
come true right away
doesn't mean it won't
come true eventually.
Some things take time.
It's Christmas Eve already.
I know, honey.
Hello?
Oh, hey Charlie.
Hey guys.
What can we get ya?
Nothing actually, I came
to give you something.
What is it?
Well, go on.
Open it.
No, way.
They're my first prototypes,
hand-carved by your
very own Uncle G.
Mommy, you see these?
I saw, it's amazing.
It's just like your drawing.
I designed them for you,
for your Santa house.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome so much.
See, mom, this is Santa,
and he's like Uncle G.
And this is Sally Claus.
She's just like you.
She's in charge of
all the elves.
And I'm Rudolph, obviously.
- Obviously.
- Obviously.
Charlie, you have no idea
how much this means to us.
Truly.
Emma is
a great kid.
I couldn't think of
anyone better
to try my new toy line out on.
Wait, so you don't work for
Big Teddy Toy Company anymore?
No, I don't.
I think I'm gonna need
some more candy cane bark.
Only if it's on the house,
this time.
I don't know.
I think it should go here,
by the cash.
How'd you know I was here?
Izzy.
Another bribe.
Think she'd be upset if I
started selling this stuff here?
Does that mean what I
think it means?
Trinket Town, coming soon.
I'm so happy for you.
And it looks amazing in here.
Marta and Ryan are gonna
help me after the holidays.
Well, let me tell you
what I'm doing.
So right back there,
it's gonna be a permanent
crafting station.
Santa chair, that's gonna
stay out year round,
gonna turn it into the
new book nook.
Amazing.
Over here I'm gonna take
this wall out,
and put in a new and
improved play area.
No corporate displays
allowed of course.
Oh, obviously.
Charlie?
I'm sorry.
I have felt terrible
since you left.
I shouldn't have pushed you
so hard to quit your job.
I was just really-
Right.
You were right.
I quit my job.
I was so terrified to admit
that I wanted to design toys,
and you, well, you just
took it seriously
right from the beginning.
You're amazing, Grant.
I'm serious though, I
don't have a job anymore.
So if you have shelf
space for a newbie,
I'd be super appreciative.
Remember that elf dust
story I told?
Of course.
The green and red tights
were really unforgettable.
I wished for this.
You and me.
You didn't.
I did.
Wow.
So did I.