Happy Howlidays (2024) Movie Script
Fa-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la...
Fa-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la...
Yo, I just woke up
and this is crazy
It's crazy
Normally, I'd stay in bed
be lazy
In the driveway
is a new Mercedes
Mercedes
How did this big thing
fit on Santa's sleigh?
When did he come?
Did he come?
When did he leave?
Did he leave?
It must have been
when I was fast asleep
Asleep
I left him treats
Left him treats
Under the tree
Under the tree
I love the holidays
There's nothing
quite like Christmas
Have a happy holiday
Christmas...
All the months
we've had to wait
It's Christmas...
So much love to go around
'Cause nothing feels
like Christmas
Have a happy holiday
Christmas...
All the months
we've had to wait
Christmas...
So much love to go around
'Cause nothing feels
like Christmas
It feels so right
It's Christmas-time
It's Christmas-time
It's Christmas-time
Mia.
Don't think I don't know
what you're doing.
What? Is it so wrong
to get a jumpstart
on the holiday cookie swap?
More like grabbing
all the cookies now,
so that you don't
have to participate
with everyone later...
or adhere to the dress code--
here.
I thought "festive dress"
was more of a suggestion
than a rule.
Not when it comes to Christmas,
my friend.
So, I just got invited
to the raclette tasting menu
at the new restaurant
on Union.
Come, be my plus-one?
Wow. Um...
You know, as cheese-rific
as that sounds--
Come on, Mia!
Don't yuck my yum.
It's 12 days
until Christmas,
and you know
how the boss gets
about keeping the website
timely and current.
I am the boss,
but your friend first.
All the more reason
for me to work harder,
so that I'm not accused
of nepotism.
And, as much as I love
having you here...
the reclusivity thing
is a little concerning.
You don't go out.
You're not meeting anybody.
Have you been outside?
It's cold!
And it's usually rainy.
What are you gonna do?
Hide... forever?
Of course not!
Of course not.
But that won't stop me
from hiding for now.
Mm-hmm.
I'm watching you.
Hi!
Hi, Mom.
I would love to chat,
but I am so busy
at work right now.
Ah! Okay,
just one quick thing.
I just need
your flight information.
Yeah, about that--
I don't think I can come home
for Christmas this year.
You're not coming home?
- Oh! Hi, Dad.
- Hi.
Mia, this--
this is very disappointing.
Your mother and I
finally have a break--
Yeah!
...And we would like
some family time.
You know,
as good as that sounds,
it's just so busy here
right now,
and it's, frankly,
a horrible time to travel.
Don't you work
in the travel industry?
Yes! Which is why I know
how bad it is.
Okay, excu--
honey, move, please.
Move.
Honey, listen.
This has gone on long enough.
Okay?
We really need to talk.
Sorry! I gotta go.
But I will call you guys
later, 'kay?
W-What?
- Mia--
- Okay! bye!
Oh! Hey, buddy!
It's okay. It's okay.
Please don't bite me.
Here.
Here.
Hey, sweetie.
Yeah, over here.
There you go. Okay!
You're free!
Seriously.
There's a whole world
to explore.
Sky's the limit!
Okay.
No.
Flash those brown eyes
all you want,
but I can barely
take care of myself.
Okay.
But we're not making
a habit of this.
You stay right there,
I'm gonna go grab us some--
No, no, no!
Wait--
Towels.
So what's your story?
I mean, you had
to come from somewhere.
What, cat got your tongue?
Tch.
Okay... I get it.
You're the strong, silent type.
Well, my story
is that I'm not really
a dog person.
I mean, not
that I'd actually know,
because I've never
had a dog.
Or a cat.
Or...
a pet of any kind.
Well, you know what?
That's not entirely true.
I had a goldfish once--
- ...and let's just say,
it did not end well
for Huck Finn.
No, the rest is mine.
Are you kidding me?
Okay, that's it!
There's only room
for one hot mess here,
and I was here first!
Please let that be water.
No! No, no.
Okay, no!
Okay, give--
give it to me.
No.
Seriously?
Ser--
It's no personal.
Come on.
Don't give me that look.
Trust me--
this is better
for the both of us.
Come on.
Okay... hmm.
Come on.
I don't know--
- Hi! Um, I--
I'll be right with you.
There's some pretty big gaps
in this fence.
My neighbor said
he'd get those fixed.
- And you believe him?
- Uh...
You'll be at work
for how long?
We're putting in a doggie door,
so he can come and "go"
as he pleases.
Not if
you just used weed killer.
My son can
also help walk him.
Your son?
He's not listed
on your application.
Yes, well...
he's eight.
Uh, excuse me--
You're supposed to list
all residents in your household.
Uh, excuse me-- I just--
I need to just drop him off.
Did you just say "drop off"?
That's a dog,
not a sweater
you drop at a dry cleaner.
Yeah, well, fine, I mean,
I know there's no disputing
it's a dog,
I just-- I really
have to get to work,
- so if I could just leave--
- You know what?
Why don't I fill that out...
again...
and bring it back.
Sure.
Or-- you could take this dog.
You can have him right now.
No. No!
That is not how this works.
I... I...
really need to go.
Please don't leave me.
Sorry!
All right.
All right, no microchip...
no collar.
Looks like he's been on his own
for a while.
But you'll still take him?
Can't. We're full.
You made me wait all this time
to tell me no?
Okay, I'm trying to do
a good thing here,
and you're making me feel
like I'm doing a bad thing,
because I'm unable
to take care of a dog.
Maybe you're feeling guilty.
Not at all.
You sure?
You know what?
Seriously?
I'm just gonna
take him somewhere else.
That's fine. Let's go.
Let's go.
You'll get the same answers.
Everything's filled up
right now.
Okay, I don't know
what you expect me to do.
I am not a caretaker.
For starters,
you can give this dog a name...
and by the sound of it,
he's already
got a place to stay.
Okay. Wait,
you don't know anything
about me or...
Well... thanks for nothing.
This place is terrible.
Zero stars!
- Come on, let's go.
Ooh, let me guess...
another satisfied customer?
People!
Think they can drop a dog off
because they had one bad night?
News flash...
not everyone's a dog lover...
and she did
rescue the nugget!
Whose side are you on?
Mm, the side that wants
to keep the shelter open.
December rent is overdue.
That's how it is
with non-profits, sis.
She's still not eating?
No.
My pet psychic was right!
She's heartbroken.
It's hard for both of us,
but I'm not sure
what I can do about that.
Maybe take her for a walk.
Yeah...
cleanse your auras.
Funny.
I never thought of you
as a dog person.
Yeah, because I'm not.
I just found him.
Oh...
But look at that face!
You know, I read having a dog
can lower your blood pressure.
Not this one.
He just tore up
my entire apartment.
What's his name?
No idea.
You should give him one.
Why? I am not keeping him.
Uh...
because it's dignified,
and how else
will you get his attention?
Okay, that's a good point.
But no obvious dog names,
like Rover or Fido,
or inanimate objects
like Gem... or food!
I had a neighbor
who named their dog "Fudge".
Definitely not!
You're better than that,
and he's better than that.
He kind of looks like that guy
from the Gladiator movie.
Gerard?
No, that's Sparta.
Hemsworth?
No, that's Thor.
You know, the--
Russell!
Okay, fine!
Until I can find a place
to take him,
"Russell" it is.
Great!
Russell can accompany you
on your new assignment.
What new assignment?
Go out, find
some interesting holiday feels,
write 'em up,
post 'em... voila!
Um, could you remind
Boss Isabel
that I'm just
a coordinator here.
I don't go out--
I barely even know the city.
Boss Isabel is telling you
that we are getting killed
by other Pacific Northwest
cities in engagement, so...
we need to step it up.
Friend Isabel
would never make me do this.
Friend Isabel
gave you this job,
thinking you would
use it as a transition
to something more suitable,
but it's been six months,
and you're still here.
Boss Isabel
wants a holiday segment
up on the site
by the end of the day.
Consider it the Christmas spirit
getting you back into the world.
I think I'd rather
have coal in my stocking.
Noted.
Come on.
Don't hate me.
Magic in the atmosphere
Acts of kindness
everywhere
This is my favorite
time of year
Ringing bells
on busy streets
Twinkling lights
and...
I'm sorry, bud,
but it's better you than me.
What do you say
we kill a bunch of birds
with one stone here?
I mean, not literally,
because...
I don't know
what you're capable of.
Okay, come on.
Okay...
Wait! Russell... Russell!
Can you work with me, please?
Russell, work with me!
Where are you going? Stop!
Fa-la, la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la
This is the season of love
Give a smile
and lift somebody up
Lift somebody up!
Come together now
and share the love
This is the season
You gave your love away
Gave it away
Every day's a holiday
This is the season of love
Russell!
Fa-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la...
Okay, this is pretty cute.
Oh, you met a friend.
Who's this cutie?
Oh, I love this.
Adorable.
Can you not
take video of my dog?
You.
You?
You've gotta be kidding me.
What a cruel twist
of Christmas fate.
Come on, Russell.
Let's go.
Jules, let's go, girl.
What's the point
of naming a dog,
if they don't come
when you call it?
Does this mean
you're keeping him?
No.
And not that
it's any of your business,
but I don't have room
for anything else in my life.
I'm fairly new to the city.
My job is more demanding
than ever right now.
You know what you sound like?
Every other dog owner
on the planet.
Seriously?
If I wanted to feel judged,
I would just call my parents.
And who do you think you are?
"Ooh, I know dogs.
I like to tell people
what to do
and how they should be,
even though my own dog
won't come when I call."
Maybe it's best
if we don't talk.
Finally, we agree.
- Fine.
- Hmm.
And this is my park.
Oh, wow!
Unpleasant, arrogant,
and territorial.
There are plenty
of other dog parks.
Marymoor, on the Eastside,
is right by the river.
Golden Gardens and Magnuson
both have dog beaches.
Is there any dog place
in the city you don't know?
Doubtful.
Well, if it means
never seeing you again,
they all sound great.
Okay. Hey, Russell.
Let's go.
Come on.
Come here.
Let's get out of here.
...One thing on my list
Not to be alone
It's Christmas-time
in the city...
Russell!
Oh, great. Now what?
Unbelievable.
Okay.
You've been holding out on me!
What?
"Pawsome Christmas"
is a hit!
Wait... really?
It's everything people love--
Christmas, dogs...
romance.
I don't get it.
Doesn't Seattle have
more dogs than children?
Whatever the reason,
it has boosted site traffic 25%
Oh!
When are these two love-dogs
seeing each other again?
-"Again"?
- Yes!
This could be the holiday
love story of the season.
It's the magic
we've been searching for.
Yeah. No, I'll--
I'll keep searching.
No.
I don't care what it takes--
I want more content
with these two cuties.
Much, much more.
Is this different food?
No!
Is this a different dog?
Because,
the last time I saw Jules,
she was on a hunger strike.
I don't know,
she just woke up
with an appetite.
It's like Christmas came early.
What changed?
I mean, she was exhausted from
playing at the park yesterday.
Whoa, playing?
Oh! She must be feeling better.
And remember
that really annoying woman
that came in yesterday?
Mm...
dark hair, plaid jacket...
muddled aura,
but super-cute dog?
She wasn't wearing
a plaid jacket.
She is now.
Wait, what?
Can I help you with something?
Okay, this is just the cutest!
I don't remember
giving permission
to use my dog's likeness.
Oh, come on, Max!
You gotta admit--
it's pretty cute.
So it would just be more things
like this--
photos, videos,
telling their holiday story
by way of the city.
Does this mean
you're keeping Russell?
Well... n-no.
Don't you think
he deserves to know
where you stand
in this relationship?
No.
I'm not working with
anyone this condescending.
Ho-ho! Excuse me!
I'm condescending?
Okay, what if...
Mia agrees to foster Russell
until he finds
a permanent home?
And, in exchange...
Jules gets a playmate,
and Mia gets her content.
I can do that.
And... if Mia posts their story
to her site,
Puptown might
get more awareness,
and that means more adoptions.
So, they'd hang out...
which means
we'd have to hang out...
through Christmas.
Yes.
No.
Bro!
Look at them.
Jules already said yes.
If this is gonna be a thing,
I need to know Russell is safe
and taken care of.
What does that mean?
I need to check out
where he lives.
Come over to my house?
I mean, we don't even
know each other!
It's not a date,
it's an inspection.
Yeah, well, I don't think
you'd even know the difference.
You don't agree,
I don't agree.
Okay, fine. Fine.
Okay.
First things first--
and I can't believe
I have to say this...
but we don't use a belt
as a leash.
But it's Italian leather.
Leash... collar...
food.
What's the bed situation?
Uh, he had this pillow thing...
until he ate it.
Well, he's a dog,
and you surround him
with goose feathers.
What'd you expect?
Okay...
Dogs are an investment.
Uh-huh.
This one's on me.
For your Christmas tree.
Oh, I don't have a tree.
I mean, it's just me,
why decorate for the holidays?
It's not just about you now,
it's also about Russell.
What if he doesn't
celebrate Christmas?
I don't wanna presume.
Look at him--
clearly,
Russell is a holiday dog.
Time to deck some halls.
- Okay.
- Go ahead.
This place is a death trap.
Toxic.
Possibly fatal!
It's a wonder
anything survives here,
much less a dog.
He's got a roof over his head,
doesn't he?
So, where you from?
Miami.
How long you been here?
Uh, about six months.
Hmm. Any family nearby?
Like... siblings,
or other adults
to enhance
his support system?
Nope, it's just me.
Mm. What were you doing
before you got here?
I'm sorry.
What does this have to do
with taking care of a dog?
Russell needs
a stable environment,
which means
he needs a stable owner.
Okay, well,
then he's in the wrong place.
In the last two years,
I've been a cater waiter
in New Orleans,
a bartender in Austin,
and a line cook in Denver,
so, it is what it is.
Okay, well,
at least he'll be well-fed.
Why Seattle?
Uh, my friend
from college lives here,
and it was the furthest
I could get away.
Away from what?
From everything.
I think...
I think the tree is done.
What do you think?
Um, where's Russell sleep?
Uh... like, right there.
Uh... no.
What do you--
What do you mean?
Wait, no--
Hold on, wait! Hang on a second.
Hey. Hey, hey.
Where are you going?
No, hang on!
Hang on a second, no.
No, no, no!
No!
No!
Hold on a second.
No, what are you doing?
Hard no.
This is my room,
my space.
The likely reason
Russell chewed up your pillows
is because
he has separation anxiety.
You have to show
that you're here for him,
so your space...
is now his space.
Oh!
Okay.
So are you signing off?
For now,
but...
this is still
a probationary period.
Seriously?
Do I look like I'm kidding?
No, not even a little bit.
Okay. Well, I held up
my end of the bargain,
so, tomorrow, I'm gonna
make you hold up yours--
these dogs,
in Seattle,
celebrating the holidays.
Can't wait!
Can't wait.
Okay, I'm up.
I'm up.
Hold your horses.
Okay...
that was your warning bark,
not your "I have to go" bark.
Got it.
The landlord just called.
Rent payment
is officially overdue.
It's okay--
I just got off the phone
with Mr. Baker's office,
and they don't anticipate
any issues
with their annual gift.
Whew.
That is such a relief.
Good news!
It's not kennel cough for Luna,
and all the others
are up on their vaccines.
Thank you for making
the rounds, Dr. Hannah.
Oh, are you kidding?
Spending time
with these doggos
is the best part of my day.
I will see you next week.
So...
home inspection went
a little late last night.
Place needed a lot of work.
Hmm!
And you're seeing her
again today?
No...
Jules is seeing Russell
again today.
I'm just chaperoning.
Right.
Joint chaperoning.
With snacks for two,
I see?
Mia needs
all the help she can get.
Okay!
Have fun...
So, it's official.
The city of Seattle
is Jussell-obsessed.
Wait, did you just
say "Jussell"?
"Jules and Russell,"
unless you'd prefer "Rules"?
Please, no more rules.
Well...
I have a great idea to build
on Seattle's obsession.
There's this POV app where
fans can go to our website,
which turns your phone
into a sort of disposable camera
that allows you
to take photos and videos
of Jussell in the wild,
so we can incorporate
fans' footage,
to drive even more
interactive engagement.
It sounds really cool,
but I can't imagine people being
interested in two random dogs.
Have you not seen the comments?
People can't get enough!
Of Russell?
Not just Russell--
Jules.
"What's her story?"
"Who does she belong to?
Is he cute?"
The fans want to know,
and so do I.
- So... is he?
More like
bossy and insufferable.
Yeah, but, like,
cute "bossy and insufferable"?
No, the kind of insufferable
that sends coordinates
instead of an address.
Or...
a man who thinks
outside the box.
Izzy!
It's not a date.
It's a work thing
that you assigned.
Yeah, but Work Mia
doesn't have to get in the way
of Person Mia.
Don't forget--
where's Mr. Bossy-Pants from,
where'd he get Jules,
and is there a Mrs. Bossy-Pants
in the picture?
Gotta give the people
what they want!
Hmm?
So what's your story?
Not sure what my story
has to do with anything.
Well, your story
is Jules' story,
and the people
want to know.
I'm just the tour guide.
Okay.
Well, then, as a responsible
foster parent to Russell,
I feel like
it's really important
to know who
he's spending his time with--
preferably
before I die on this hill.
Fine.
Seattle born and raised.
I have a younger sister, Penny,
who you met.
Both of my parents are away
on a two-month cruise
to Antarctica.
I'm a long-suffering
Mariners fan.
You love dogs.
I do.
Why dogs?
Why not cats?
Or bearded dragons?
You ever try hiking
with a bearded dragon?
I grew up with dogs.
They accept you
for who you are,
and you know exactly
what you're gonna get.
The don't lie...
and they don't leave.
Are we there yet?
Almost.
Thank Christmas.
Okay, it's just up there.
Come on!
Hold up.
You're telling me that I just
hiked two hours for this?
It should be raining
marshmallows and candy canes.
Will Ferrell should be dressed
in an elf costume,
jumping up and down.
There isn't even any snow!
We don't get
a lot of snow in Seattle.
You might have a skewed idea
of Christmas...
and hiking.
This was supposed to be
a romantic holiday dog romp
through the city.
You wanted a holiday-themed
activity for dogs.
Well...
here it is.
Good girl!
Just tie it around?
Yep. Just like this.
So, is that it?
Not exactly.
Wishing all my Christmases
could be with you
May all my Christmases
Be...
With you!
Wow.
This is so beautiful.
Worth the hike?
Definitely worth it.
So...
Russell's concerned
about something.
Oh, yeah? What's that?
Have you ever dated
someone new
where, for whatever reason,
they only want
to come to your place?
Like, maybe
they're hiding something?
Ah, I get it. Say no more--
I'll bring him over.
You will?
Sure.
Oh, you mean,
without me?
You said Russell's the one
that's concerned, right?
Just say it, Mia.
My boss said that viewers
want to see where Jules lives.
And you couldn't ask,
because...?
Because...
you have a tendency
to say no to most things.
Well, not this time.
Did you just move in?
Um, about four years ago.
What's with
all the empty frames?
Um...
Russell, give me the toy.
Russell, leave it!
Hey!
Don't talk to him like that.
Hey, it's okay.
It's okay.
"Biscuit"?
Who's Biscuit?
It doesn't matter.
There's certain things
Jules doesn't like to share.
Jules and Russell have
been sharing toys all week.
What's this about?
You know what?
I think we're done.
Okay.
Text me tomorrow?
No.
I mean the whole thing.
Uh...
Max!
We had a deal.
Hey.
I know you're upset,
but skipping breakfast
is not an option.
What if I add chicken?
Just to be clear--
this is not my fault.
This is totally his fault.
He's the one
who kicked us out--
without a reason.
She has no understanding
of boundaries.
I know what
that toy meant to you.
I mean,
if they can't even share a toy,
we don't know what's next.
We're lucky
we got out when we did.
We should be glad
this is over.
We don't need this drama!
We don't need this headache.
I actually feel better.
Don't you?
This is good. Right?
Really?
What now?
"Christmas cheer has run out
for our favorite doggie duo.
Russell and Jules
have consciously uncoupled.
Please respect their privacy
at this difficult time"?
What is this?
Um, only the biggest
Seattle break-up
since Bill and Melinda!
I cannot believe
she posted this.
It's no one else's business.
So it's true?
What did you do?
Why do you assume
this is my fault?
What? Did she put water
in the bowl marked "food"?
Did she buy
a retractable leash?
I just didn't see a future.
Didn't see one
or didn't want to see one?
And did you "cc" Jules?
This is a joke, right?
Turning the best,
most heart-warming holiday tale
into the saddest
Christmas story ever?
I wish it was.
Mia! What happened?
Honestly, I don't know!
One moment,
it was all "jingle bells,"
and the next,
we were in the doghouse.
Well, you have to fix it!
I don't think I can.
Sorry, buddy.
I know! Right?
This is why we don't
put ourselves out there.
Okay, there we go.
Would you believe
a surprise inspection?
Oh, look, Russy--
someone with a lot of nerve
just showed up,
and he doesn't even
have any treats.
If I had a tail,
it'd be between my legs.
Yeah, well, now's not really
a great time.
Russell and I are super-busy.
We've got so many holiday
activities lined up,
and our social calendar
is full.
Let me explain?
I think Russell
wants to hear me out.
I think you misheard him.
He's actually telling you
to get lost.
Please...
it's not about me--
it's about Jules.
This isn't the first time
Jules has been in love.
There was someone else.
Hmm. Let me guess...
Biscuit?
Jules was just a puppy
when I rescued her,
so Biscuit
was all she knew.
And I assume
Biscuit had an owner?
My ex-girlfriend, Amy.
For three years,
we were inseparable.
And then what happened?
We broke up last Christmas.
She took Biscuit
and moved to L.A.,
along with half our stuff.
Thus, the half-life?
Mm-hmm.
I'm sorry. Sounds rough.
I mean, yeah.
You build a life with someone,
thinking they're the one,
and then... they leave.
You don't bounce back
from that right away--
if at all.
I mean,
Jules certainly didn't!
So I resolved
never to let that happen again.
But then,
Russell came along...
and the toy--
no, I wasn't ready for it.
But now, without Russell,
Jules is back in her funk again.
Russell too!
Zero interest in plants...
pillows.
It's silly,
but it's also endearing
that these two souls
found each other after all this.
It's almost unfair
to get in the way.
So, let's give these dogs
a chance.
All we gotta do
is promise not
to fall in love with each other,
so that the dogs can.
Easiest terms
ever spoken.
Was hard to even say
without laughing.
- Ha.
- So, agreed?
We'll continue to meet up...
for the dogs' sake.
Put out the press release--
"Jussell" is back!
Oh...
Good boy!
Russell!
Good boy!
Good boy, you did it!
You did it.
Oh! Good boy. Yes!
Come on, girl.
You brought me all the way
out here to see a barn?
Where's the Christmas?
I'm sensing patience
doesn't come easy to you.
Never had the time for it.
Come on.
Oh, it's good to see you!
Long time!
Yeah.
Mia, this is my buddy, Eddie.
The best of the best.
Hi. It's so nice to meet you.
I can't believe
that you do all of this
with that.
Well, every artist
has their tools.
Mine just requires
a little gasoline.
Mia's from
the travel bureau--
covering dogs and Christmas
in Seattle,
and it would not be complete
without her seeing what you do.
Well, Christmas
is my busiest time of year.
Animal lovers, like this guy,
can never get
enough of their pets.
Haven't seen you
in a while, Max.
Haven't been out in a while,
but Mia here has been
dragging me all over town.
Well, I mean, the dogs
have been dragging us both.
Well, looks to me like
no one's getting dragged around
anywhere here.
Well, like he said,
it's a work thing.
Right.
We'll let you get back to it.
It's good to see you, bro.
You too.
It was nice meeting you.
You too.
Go get it.
Wow, your friend
is really talented.
He sure is.
And sorry if he implied
that we were--
A couple?
It's weird, isn't it?
I mean, yeah, we barely
even know each other.
I don't even know
how you started
running your dog rescue.
Well...
when I got out of the Navy,
I was volunteering
at the shelter,
helping to pair dogs
with returning vets.
They're very therapeutic...
especially with PTSD.
Sounds like you're really
making a difference.
Yeah, it's a big part
of what we do.
When the Director retired,
the Board asked me to step in.
I know it doesn't look
like much.
We have to fight every year
just to keep it funded.
But...
it's worth it.
You're lucky...
that you found
what makes you happy.
What about you?
I'll let you know
when I find it.
Excitement's in the air
I got candy canes
and mistletoe
Santa's coming down
the chimney
Singing "Ho-ho-ho!"
I'm on that list
'cause I feel so nice
Plates full of goodies
Oh, what a time
What was that?
What was what?
That sound that was
coming out of your mouth.
It wasn't angry or sneering,
it almost sounded like...
singing...
and not just any song,
but a Christmas song.
And Max...
It's good to have you back.
You going to do some yoga?
Uh, no. Thanks to you,
I'm on my way
to another excursion with dogs.
Oh!
You wanted it fixed,
it's fixed.
You've seen the site.
Oh, I've seen it,
and all the videos
people are sharing.
Five days till Christmas
and traffic
is higher than ever.
So, I take it
he's behaving better?
Uh, yeah.
He's definitely a lot less
bossy and insufferable.
I was talking about Russell.
Right! Yeah. Him too.
Uh-oh, Mia.
You're not catching feelings,
are you?
What? No, absolutely not.
Because it would be
totally okay.
I mean, you have to admit,
he's not bad to look at.
It's hard to notice,
with the barking.
I wasn't talking about Russell.
Neither was I.
But seriously, though,
you seem less insufferable, too,
and I am all here for it.
We're almost there.
Seriously?
Just trust me, all right?
Not everyone gets
a chance to see this.
Yeah.
That's because
it's a place people go in
and never come out.
It's true.
Wow, it's amazing!
They call it
the "True Love Christmas Tree".
It's a little hard to find,
because they move it
somewhere new every year.
Why do they make it
so hard to find?
They say that's how love works.
I guess you gotta
get lost sometimes
before you find it,
or it finds you.
Some people never do.
Oh! I had Eddie make these.
Oh.
That's surprising
and thoughtful.
Look, I know I haven't
seemed like the biggest fan
of this whole
Russell-and-Jules thing, but...
I've really enjoyed myself
these past couple days.
I know Jules has, too.
Seeing her with Russell,
it's like...
maybe there's hope.
Watch.
They complete each other.
It's cheesy isn't it?
I knew it!
No.
No, it's really beautiful.
I love it.
Uh-oh!
Oh, my gosh!
Oh, my gosh.
Okay, inside.
Inside.
Oh, it's cold.
You deal with the dogs,
and I'm going to get changed
and get you something dry.
- On it.
- Okay.
Okay, come on, guys.
Right here, right here.
Yes.
Okay.
This should be clean.
What do you want me to do
with this?
I-I'm sorry, what?
My shirt?
Can we stick it in the dryer
or something?
Oh! Yeah. Of course.
And maybe I can
put on that one?
Absolutely. Yeah, you should
definitely put that on.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
Is this where
you went to school?
Yes, it is.
What'd you study?
Biochem.
Okay! Didn't see that coming.
Yeah. Well, that was...
the old me.
You expecting someone?
Uh, not that I know of.
Ah!
Mom! Dad?
Surprise!
Uh, what are
you guys doing here?
Uh, well, when you said
you couldn't
come home for Christmas,
we decided to come to you.
- Whoa!
- Oh, no!
- Wait, Jules.
- Hey...
Oh, my. Does he bite?
And, uh--
And you are?
Max Covington.
So nice to meet you,
Mr. and Mrs. Park.
Oh. it's actually "Doctor--"
Sorry, Dr. and Missus--
- Uh, no.
- No.
"Dr. and Dr."
That's a lot of doctors.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
So, uh, you, uh, went
to school in Miami as well?
Oh. No, this is Mia's.
- Is it?
- Huh!
And he was just leaving. Right?
Right! I'm sure you guys
have got a lot to catch up on.
- Nice to meet you both.
Come on, Jules.
- Yeah.
- Come on.
- Okay.
I'll see you later?
Yeah, I'll see you later.
Oh... Max seems nice.
Yeah. We're... colleagues.
Oh, colleagues
who share clothes?
We were working,
and then, it just
started raining, so...
- Hmm.
- Hmm.
It doesn't matter.
Ahem.
Didn't know
you were a dog person.
Oh!
Yeah, well, it's just until
I can find him a permanent home.
- Oh.
- Oh.
Frankly, I'm really
surprised to see you guys.
Oh. Well, um...
we just wanted to see
how you were, darling.
Um... and can you blame us,
the way things were left?
Yeah. Well, you have
nothing to worry about.
Look, I'm... doing great.
- Hmm.
- Oh...
This is, um...
Great. Great.
Great.
Super-great.
Uh, you know what?
I'm gonna just take a minute.
I'll be right back.
- Whoa!
- Oh!
Oh, my god!
That is a lot of hair.
That is a lot of dog.
I'm worried about her.
Jim, we promised
we wouldn't overreact.
I think our reaction
is appropriate,
given the situation.
She just seems so lost.
Any luck?
No coffee.
Ohh! No? Not even instant?
No.
I wonder if Mia's up yet.
- I need coffee.
Our daughter loves her bed
more than life itself.
You can say that again.
Morning!
- Oh!
What have you got there?
Good morning.
Russell had to go out,
so I grabbed us some breakfast.
Oh!
Chai for you, Dad.
- Thank you very much.
- How thoughtful.
- Low-fat, you remembered.
- Of course.
Oh, and I got you
your favorite--
everything bagel.
You are the absolute best.
Gluten-free, I suppose?
Yeah.
Oh, wow.
Well... thank you.
Um, cheers.
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
Whoops.
]
Here...
Ooh!
Here we go.
- Okay.
Your parents didn't
want to share
in the golf festivities?
They opted for the Diving Santa
at the aquarium instead.
I'm gonna meet up
with them later.
Too bad.
They're really missing out.
I mean, honestly,
it's probably better this way.
They're both doctors
who've dedicated themselves
to saving lives,
and here I am,
chasing dogs around
in argyle sweaters
in between "six geese a-laying"
and "seven swans a-swimming".
Still, though,
they have to know
you're doing something good.
I don't think
they see it that way.
To them,
I'm just a giant disappointment.
I can't imagine that's true.
They love you.
They're your parents.
Otherwise,
they wouldn't be here.
I know they love me,
but the reason they're here
is because
they're worried about me.
Worried?
About what?
Aw, it doesn't matter.
Come on.
Clearly, it does matter.
Hey.
Okay, how do I explain this?
My parents aren't
the only doctors in the family.
You're a doctor?
Yeah.
I was.
What happened?
It was a crazy night
at the hospital.
This patient came in
with stomach pains,
and didn't have insurance,
and they asked her
to wait in the hallway,
and so I had just been rushed
into an emergency surgery,
and when I came back out...
...she was still
sitting in the hall,
but her skin was jaundiced
and her pulse
was barely readable...
and it turns out
she was internally bleeding
the entire time.
So, I rushed her into surgery,
and...
By then,
it was too late.
She died on my table,
and then...
I got reprimanded for operating
without authorization.
That's the night I left...
and I never went back.
I'm sorry.
Yeah.
I became a doctor
'cause I wanted to save lives...
but I can't do that
with one hand tied
behind my back
by a system that's broken.
So that's why
you're still searching?
Mm-hmm.
I mean...
you spend your entire life
working towards that one goal
and that one dream,
only to get there
and realize
that it's not what
you thought it would be.
So, yeah, I...
I don't know
what to dream about next.
Is everything okay?
Yeah. Yeah.
Really?
You don't look okay.
Listen--
Hey, Max,
if you have to go do something,
totally go.
It's... It's fine.
I'm good.
It was also kind of freeing,
just saying the story out loud.
I'm sorry.
Hey, it's good.
I should probably go
meet my parents, anyways.
I'll call you later?
Yeah.
Okay.
Bye.
Come on.
Oh, and that Diving Santa
was something else.
Wasn't it, honey?
- Mm-hmm.
- Yeah.
Oh, and I got you
a little something.
Ha-ha!
A hat?
Yes!
Just a little something
to remind you of Florida.
Mom...
Yeah!
Yeah.
We're just a little bit worried
about you, sweetie.
All the way out here,
away from everything, really,
and doing who knows what?
Can't we just be together,
and have me worry about
my own life, please?
Um...
You should--
you should tell her.
Tell her.
Tell me what?
Your mom and I
are gonna retire.
Mm-hmm.
And we would like you
to take over the practice.
What part of "I don't want
to be a doctor anymore"
are you not getting?
Everyone has
setbacks, kiddo.
What's matters
is how we get through them.
And it would be
your own practice.
You could run it
however you want--
make all your own rules!
Oh, okay.
So this is why you're here.
You are a gifted doctor, honey,
and we would hate to see you
throw it all away
because of one...
unfortunate event.
Mm-hmm.
"Unfortunate event"?
Is that what
we're calling it now?
Doctors can't save every life,
honey, but we...
we can't stop trying.
Okay, well, if this
is the reason
for your little pep talk,
you just wasted a trip.
What did we say?
Okay, let's go.
Obviously, the wrong thing.
Come on, Russell. Let's go.
- That went well... not.
- See you at the house.
Mia...
Hi.
I'm so sorry
to show up like this.
I just-- I needed space
from my parents.
Turns out,
the only reason they're here
is because they want me
to take over their practice,
and they want me to pretend
like that thing that happened
never happened.
Wait, is there
another dog in there?
Um... yeah.
Oh, my gosh, who's this?
This is Biscuit.
Oh! Hi!
Wait. "Biscuit"?
As in...
Biscuit.
Mia... this is Amy.
Amy... Mia.
Hi.
Hi.
I can't believe I'm meeting
the famous Russell in real life!
Oh, you've seen the videos?
Oh, my friend sent them to me,
and Biscuit went
absolutely bonkers over them,
so I just knew
I had to get Biscuit and Jules
back together
for a visit.
Amy's also here visiting family
for the holidays.
Well, of course,
but I also think Biscuit
really missed his friend.
So, uh,
what is the deal with them?
Is this
just till Christmas, or...?
I mean, who knows? Right?
Given Jules and Russell's
strong connection,
anything's possible.
I'm sorry...
is Biscuit okay?
It's just allergies.
But are we sure this isn't,
like, a showmance thing?
You know, just putting
a couple together
for the publicity
and the clicks?
Come on, Ames.
What? You can't believe
everything you see online.
I mean, look at them.
It's just like old times, right?
Have you had him
checked for psoriasis?
Because that silver patching
is actually
a telltale sign in humans.
Well, it's a good thing
he's not a human then, right?
Oh, my gosh!
Max, I can't believe
you still have this!
Wait, where did
we get this again?
Was it, uh--
Was it U Village?
It was the flea market--
- With the actual fleas.
- ...That actually had fleas.
I think I should go.
Hey... sorry about that.
She just showed up.
'Tis the season, I guess.
Right.
Your parents!
I'm sorry you're having
to deal with that.
Mm. Yeah.
I mean, it's been a long day.
Yeah.
But I'll see you tomorrow?
For the Santa's Helper 5K?
Honestly, you really
don't have to.
But I want to.
And Jules is looking forward
to it, too.
Okay, yeah.
- Okay?
- I'll see you tomorrow.
All right. Bye.
Hi, Mom.
Hi.
Oh! Um, been
watching your videos.
I can see why
they're so popular.
The dogs are adorable together.
Warm and festive.
And... well, that Max
isn't hard to look at, either.
Yeah.
So... what happens
after Christmas?
Do you just give the dog away?
Yeah.
What about Max?
He might go away, too.
Then what?
Mom, I don't know!
I don't know.
I'm really sorry about
what happened earlier.
It's just,
your father and I know
that medicine is something
that you loved.
No.
What I loved
was fixing things
that were broken,
healing things that hurt.
If I don't have the freedom
to do that, I don't--
Sweetheart, I know
it's complicated,
but you can still help.
You can still save lives.
I'll go see where your dad is.
I cannot believe Amy
had the nerve to show up here!
She wanted the dogs
to see each other.
Ha! And you believe that?
She said it was wrong of her
to take Biscuit
out of Jules' life.
Yeah. And?
And that we should
come visit them.
In California?
You should've seen how happy
Jules was to see Biscuit.
Well, I think that
she's plenty happy
with Russell...
and Mia.
It's not an either/or.
We're seeing them
later this afternoon.
Look...
I just want it on record
that this is the happiest
I've seen you in a long time,
and I think we both know
why that is.
Hello, hello.
Hope I'm not interrupting.
Your timing
is impeccable, Amy.
As is your charm, Penny.
I don't know about you,
but there's only
so much holiday baking
with my family
I can take.
Would you and Jules
be up for some last-minute
Christmas shopping?
Sure.
Ah! I am so productive today.
Leave it to you
to keep me on track.
So, um, what do you think
about January?
As a month? Or--
For you to come and visit.
Jules would love it.
It's sunshine,
beaches for miles--
a much-needed break
from the rain and the cold.
- Amy--
- Just...
hear me out.
You know that moving
to California
had always been my dream,
so when I got the job
in L.A.,
it felt like
everything I wanted.
But as great as
this new life has been,
I realized
that it is not everything,
because it's missing you...
and Jules.
It's been a over a year, Ames.
I know, but we're so good
together, Max--
us and the dogs.
I guess what I'm asking for
is a second chance.
Hey, Max.
Hopefully you're on your way,
because the race
is about to start,
and the Santas
are getting restless.
Oh, no!
Come on, girl.
I was doing fine
in my own little world,
taking care of myself--
which is hard enough,
I might add--
and then Russell shows up,
and I was trying
to do a nice thing--
you know,
be a good citizen--
but not according to Max,
who comes into my little world,
all bossy and annoying,
and takes me to go
see that stupid tree...
What tree?
The one that's hidden
in the middle of the forest.
Max brought you
to the True Love Tree?
Mia, he likes you.
No. He was doing it
for Jules and Russell.
Oh, no! You like him.
No, I don't.
It's just an assignment.
Then why are you
getting all worked up?
Because
I got caught up in the story,
and I started to picture a life
here in Seattle.
I even started
to like the rain.
I don't know.
Maybe my parents are right.
Maybe I...
gave up my whole life,
for what?
I just need to get
back on track.
Yes, you're the one.
- So much hair, Russell!
You need to get a trim!
One, big beautiful dog.
Yes, you are!
- Yes, you are.
- Hi.
- Sweetie, hi!
- Hi, honey!
Glad you're here.
Yeah.
Do you need to get that?
- Uh... no.
It's nothing.
Everything okay?
Yeah.
I've been thinking
about what you said,
and maybe you are right.
Maybe I was just
running away from life...
from the career
that I worked so hard for.
Wait a minute.
Does this mean
you're coming home?
Uh, well, I-I still need time
to tie up some loose ends.
Yes! Best Christmas ever.
- She's coming home, buddy.
- I'm so happy.
- Oh.
Uh...
Did you hear that?
She's coming back to Miami.
What are you doing here?
Can we talk? Please?
Yes,
I was with Amy and Biscuit,
but I came
as soon as I realized.
Hey, you don't owe me
anything, Max. Okay?
It was just a stupid race.
Don't say that.
It's true.
If anything, it just
helped confirm my decision.
What decision?
I'm going back to Miami.
Wait, what?
Back to the thing
you moved across the country
- to get away from?
- Yeah.
Don't stop searching
for happiness
just because
you haven't found it yet.
Yeah, well, sometimes,
you have to make the most
of what you've been given.
Sure.
You keep everybody
at arm's length,
out of a fear
of getting hurt.
Fair enough...
but at least I own it.
Bye, Max.
Max?
I'm not in the mood
right now, Penn.
It's Mr. Baker.
Oh.
Mr. Baker,
glad to hear from you.
I'm sorry, what?
But your office said--
Times are tough,
of course.
Yep, Merry Christmas
to you, too.
They don't have the funds
to make their donation...
which means
we're not gonna make our year.
Meaning...
we lose the rescue?
You're mad at me.
No.
I was supposed to have
a happy holiday ending
for Russell and Jules,
tag all the businesses...
make it a holiday love letter
to the city.
Boss Izzy
would've fired me by now.
But Friend Izzy feels bad
for pushing you
outside your comfort zone
in the first place.
Seeing how miserable
you are
makes me wish
we had never done this.
No.
It's exactly what I needed--
to open up...
and I'm really grateful
for that.
You're a good boss, Izzy,
but you're
an even better friend.
Mm.
Or maybe I'm just the fool
who wants to still believe in
love and hope at Christmas.
That would be nice,
wouldn't it?
So there's nothing else
Max can do?
Does he even know
you're here?
Oh, no.
I heard things went south
with you two.
He's actually
taking it as a sign
that he should
move to California.
California?
But his entire life is here.
Everything he loves
is here.
Right?
But...
at this point,
we don't even know
if Puptown's gonna make it
to the end of the year.
Okay, so you want me
to help get the word out,
to find these dogs a home?
I just figured
since Jussell has
such a huge following...
I have a better idea.
A fundraiser?
I need to finish my job,
and you need to save yours,
so this is a way
to combine both.
How's that?
Well, people are expecting
another Jules-and-Russell post,
and my boss wants me
to tag all of the businesses.
I figured we could invite
the entire community to join,
and make it an adoption fair
as well.
People are invested in Jussell,
and this will help
give them a chance
to save the place
where they first met.
Why are you doing this?
Because.
I know how much Puptown
means to you,
and it's a huge part
of who you are.
I'm not gonna let you
let that go.
What do we have to lose?
Remind me to tell you
that I'm mad at you
for going behind my back.
You're welcome.
So... what do you say?
Holiday Rescue Operation?
"Operation: Holiday Rescue"?
"Operation--"
"...Howliday Rescue!"
Okay!
And about what was said
the other day--
Hey, we were both upset.
But we should get started,
if we want to be done in time
for Christmas Eve.
It's time to deck the halls.
Oh
It's my favorite time
of year
Fa-la-la
Oh, it's finally here...
Go put these everywhere.
The snow is falling
Friends and family near
Ooh
Can you feel the chill?
Fa-la-la
It's my favorite
My favorite time of year
My favorite, favorite
My favorite...
- That looks good.
- Yeah.
Okay, great.
Hi!
Thank you so much
for being here.
Of course, honey.
Fa-la-la
- Seeing all the ones we love
- Okay...
Buying gifts
And soon
we're gonna wrap 'em up
Fireside feels just right
Stockings hung up
We'll sleep tight
It's my favorite time
of year
My favorite, favorite
My favorite
My favorite time of year
My favorite-favorite...
Hi.
Oh! Hi.
So, it turns out
you were right--
Biscuit has psoriasis.
Oh. Well, I'm glad
you caught it early.
No, you caught it early.
So, how can I help?
Here you go.
You had time to put together
a reel, as well?
Uh, this was
Penny's doing, actually.
Between all the footage,
she said she had enough
to "highlight
a compelling love story."
I can't believe
it all came together.
I know. It's not bad
for a last-second effort.
I know you don't think
you're making a difference,
but that's all you've been doing
since the first day I met you.
Okay!
We ready to do this?
- Yeah!
- I think so.
This is gonna be amazing.
Let's go.
Ring, ring, ring the bells
Come on
Sing out with joy now
Everybody's here
Come on
Sing out with joy now
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
We sing
We sing with joy now...
We are gonna raise
a lot of money with this.
- Thank you.
- Happy to help.
You're really good
with your hands!
I'm here to adopt.
Hi. So, I--
No need. My name is Troy,
and I already know the drill.
I have a lovely three-bedroom
with a fully-enclosed
942-square-foot backyard,
natural grass--
no pesticides or weed killers.
Dog door already installed.
I work from home,
as does my partner, Dale,
who is very active.
Maybe not as active as you,
but still,
he will take the dog
on daily runs.
I will come and take the dog
to lunch every day.
We're both committed to being
the best dog parents
we could possibly be.
Troy!
Oh, no.
Did I miss something?
The most important thing.
Are you gonna love this dog
with all your heart?
Yes. Of course.
We're gonna smother it
with love.
Okay, you're good to go.
Wow.
You're a lot nicer
than people say.
Thanks?
You're welcome...
Mr. Christmas.
Let's take you
to meet Dexter.
Yeah! Oh, boy!
Okay. They're the cutest.
Yeah.
Yeah, they are.
Why do you look like you just
swallowed a lump of coal?
Penny wants me
to make a speech,
she says
"it's what normal people do."
Yeah, but you're not
normal people.
Exactly!
Last time I made a speech,
I lost my lunch.
Before we announce the winner
of the silent auction,
we are going to have
a few words
from the Director of Puptown
himself--
Max Covington!
Yeah!
I'm Max Puppington.
I mean Covington.
The Director
of Puptown Rescue.
I would like to thank myself--
I mean, I would like
to thank you all--
Thanks, Max,
for pretending like
you suck at public speaking
and forcing me
to come up here.
I get it, you know?
I've been rejected
from Puptown,
and Russell was turned away.
- What?
I know... right?
Who gets rejected
from a rescue?
Max wouldn't let me
give Russell up,
and what I thought
was going to be the worst thing
that could possibly
happen to me
actually turned out
to be the best.
Russell introduced me
to things, places...
people I would have never met
otherwise,
and changed my life
in ways I could never imagine.
See, I didn't think
that I had room
for anything else in my life...
and now I can't imagine
my life without him in it.
He got me out of my head...
...had me open my heart,
and made this cold, wet,
gray place feel like home.
How could I possibly
give that up?
Which is why...
I've decided
to officially adopt Russell.
So, I guess my takeaway
this holiday--
or, I mean,
"howliday" season...
...is that we should
take a chance on ourselves
and each other.
Make room for others.
Find the thing
that makes you happy--
because
it can change your life...
and it certainly changed mine.
Amy, hold up.
Um...
What a day.
Yeah.
Listen, Ames, about California--
Your life is here,
and I don't have a right
to ask you to leave.
It's nice
to see you so happy, Max.
I truly want
the same for you, too...
and this doesn't mean
that Jules and Biscuit can't
stay in each other's lives.
Sure.
Yeah, they can FaceTime.
Bye.
All right.
This is it.
Make it or break it.
Okay.
I'm not great with numbers.
Does someone want to tell me
what that means?
We're still really short.
Max, I'm really sorry.
It's not all lost.
Some of the dogs got adopted...
like Russell.
Yeah.
We can just use this money
to resettle the dogs
we still have.
Um...
well, maybe this will help.
Will this cover the difference?
And then some!
I don't know what to say.
Thank you.
We're very happy to help.
Dad...
When you said you didn't
want to be a doctor anymore,
we worried that you were
turning your back on your gift.
But then, we saw you
with Russell and all of this,
and we realized
that you are saving lives.
And we couldn't be more proud.
Group hug, come on.
I love you.
- Aw, we love you, baby.
- We love you, too, sweetheart.
I guess this is it.
I guess so.
Well, I think
we get another point
for not giving up, right?
Yeah.
Hey.
Thanks again.
For everything.
Yeah.
Well... I should probably
get back to my parents.
Hey, Russ. Let's go.
Russell, come here.
Okay, good boy.
Goodnight.
Hey, Mia?
Yeah?
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Max.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
I'm glad we came here.
Oh! Good morning, sleepyhead.
Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas, honey.
- Merry Christmas.
Sorry I wasn't up sooner.
Rough night?
Ohh...
Cheers.
Yes! Cheers.
Cheers.
Listen, I can't
thank you enough
for what you did
to help the rescue,
and for being here
and celebrating Christmas
together...
...but I'm not
going back to Miami.
- We know.
- Yeah.
Pretty clear to us
that you've created
this beautiful life here,
and we just want you
to be happy.
So, I've been thinking
about what
we talked about last night--
about saving lives,
and I still wanna do that,
but with animals.
You want to be a vet?
Wow!
What do you think of that?
Oh, we think--
I think
you'll be extraordinary!
- Extraordinary.
- Really?
Yeah!
So...
is that all you want, Mia?
No.
Come on.
Hey, come on, girl.
I know, I know.
I know.
Jules, wait!
Russell, wait!
- You...
- You...
What are you doing here?
You first.
I came here to find you.
Same.
Don't go.
I know we promised
we weren't gonna fall in love,
but all I know is,
I love Jules...
and Jules loves Russell.
Somehow, somewhere...
I fell in love with you, too.
Don't go, because--
I'm not going.
I found what makes me happy.
It's you...
and the dogs--
all of it.
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la...
Fa-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la...
Yo, I just woke up
and this is crazy
It's crazy
Normally, I'd stay in bed
be lazy
In the driveway
is a new Mercedes
Mercedes
How did this big thing
fit on Santa's sleigh?
When did he come?
Did he come?
When did he leave?
Did he leave?
It must have been
when I was fast asleep
Asleep
I left him treats
Left him treats
Under the tree
Under the tree
I love the holidays
There's nothing
quite like Christmas
Have a happy holiday
Christmas...
All the months
we've had to wait
It's Christmas...
So much love to go around
'Cause nothing feels
like Christmas
Have a happy holiday
Christmas...
All the months
we've had to wait
Christmas...
So much love to go around
'Cause nothing feels
like Christmas
It feels so right
It's Christmas-time
It's Christmas-time
It's Christmas-time
Mia.
Don't think I don't know
what you're doing.
What? Is it so wrong
to get a jumpstart
on the holiday cookie swap?
More like grabbing
all the cookies now,
so that you don't
have to participate
with everyone later...
or adhere to the dress code--
here.
I thought "festive dress"
was more of a suggestion
than a rule.
Not when it comes to Christmas,
my friend.
So, I just got invited
to the raclette tasting menu
at the new restaurant
on Union.
Come, be my plus-one?
Wow. Um...
You know, as cheese-rific
as that sounds--
Come on, Mia!
Don't yuck my yum.
It's 12 days
until Christmas,
and you know
how the boss gets
about keeping the website
timely and current.
I am the boss,
but your friend first.
All the more reason
for me to work harder,
so that I'm not accused
of nepotism.
And, as much as I love
having you here...
the reclusivity thing
is a little concerning.
You don't go out.
You're not meeting anybody.
Have you been outside?
It's cold!
And it's usually rainy.
What are you gonna do?
Hide... forever?
Of course not!
Of course not.
But that won't stop me
from hiding for now.
Mm-hmm.
I'm watching you.
Hi!
Hi, Mom.
I would love to chat,
but I am so busy
at work right now.
Ah! Okay,
just one quick thing.
I just need
your flight information.
Yeah, about that--
I don't think I can come home
for Christmas this year.
You're not coming home?
- Oh! Hi, Dad.
- Hi.
Mia, this--
this is very disappointing.
Your mother and I
finally have a break--
Yeah!
...And we would like
some family time.
You know,
as good as that sounds,
it's just so busy here
right now,
and it's, frankly,
a horrible time to travel.
Don't you work
in the travel industry?
Yes! Which is why I know
how bad it is.
Okay, excu--
honey, move, please.
Move.
Honey, listen.
This has gone on long enough.
Okay?
We really need to talk.
Sorry! I gotta go.
But I will call you guys
later, 'kay?
W-What?
- Mia--
- Okay! bye!
Oh! Hey, buddy!
It's okay. It's okay.
Please don't bite me.
Here.
Here.
Hey, sweetie.
Yeah, over here.
There you go. Okay!
You're free!
Seriously.
There's a whole world
to explore.
Sky's the limit!
Okay.
No.
Flash those brown eyes
all you want,
but I can barely
take care of myself.
Okay.
But we're not making
a habit of this.
You stay right there,
I'm gonna go grab us some--
No, no, no!
Wait--
Towels.
So what's your story?
I mean, you had
to come from somewhere.
What, cat got your tongue?
Tch.
Okay... I get it.
You're the strong, silent type.
Well, my story
is that I'm not really
a dog person.
I mean, not
that I'd actually know,
because I've never
had a dog.
Or a cat.
Or...
a pet of any kind.
Well, you know what?
That's not entirely true.
I had a goldfish once--
- ...and let's just say,
it did not end well
for Huck Finn.
No, the rest is mine.
Are you kidding me?
Okay, that's it!
There's only room
for one hot mess here,
and I was here first!
Please let that be water.
No! No, no.
Okay, no!
Okay, give--
give it to me.
No.
Seriously?
Ser--
It's no personal.
Come on.
Don't give me that look.
Trust me--
this is better
for the both of us.
Come on.
Okay... hmm.
Come on.
I don't know--
- Hi! Um, I--
I'll be right with you.
There's some pretty big gaps
in this fence.
My neighbor said
he'd get those fixed.
- And you believe him?
- Uh...
You'll be at work
for how long?
We're putting in a doggie door,
so he can come and "go"
as he pleases.
Not if
you just used weed killer.
My son can
also help walk him.
Your son?
He's not listed
on your application.
Yes, well...
he's eight.
Uh, excuse me--
You're supposed to list
all residents in your household.
Uh, excuse me-- I just--
I need to just drop him off.
Did you just say "drop off"?
That's a dog,
not a sweater
you drop at a dry cleaner.
Yeah, well, fine, I mean,
I know there's no disputing
it's a dog,
I just-- I really
have to get to work,
- so if I could just leave--
- You know what?
Why don't I fill that out...
again...
and bring it back.
Sure.
Or-- you could take this dog.
You can have him right now.
No. No!
That is not how this works.
I... I...
really need to go.
Please don't leave me.
Sorry!
All right.
All right, no microchip...
no collar.
Looks like he's been on his own
for a while.
But you'll still take him?
Can't. We're full.
You made me wait all this time
to tell me no?
Okay, I'm trying to do
a good thing here,
and you're making me feel
like I'm doing a bad thing,
because I'm unable
to take care of a dog.
Maybe you're feeling guilty.
Not at all.
You sure?
You know what?
Seriously?
I'm just gonna
take him somewhere else.
That's fine. Let's go.
Let's go.
You'll get the same answers.
Everything's filled up
right now.
Okay, I don't know
what you expect me to do.
I am not a caretaker.
For starters,
you can give this dog a name...
and by the sound of it,
he's already
got a place to stay.
Okay. Wait,
you don't know anything
about me or...
Well... thanks for nothing.
This place is terrible.
Zero stars!
- Come on, let's go.
Ooh, let me guess...
another satisfied customer?
People!
Think they can drop a dog off
because they had one bad night?
News flash...
not everyone's a dog lover...
and she did
rescue the nugget!
Whose side are you on?
Mm, the side that wants
to keep the shelter open.
December rent is overdue.
That's how it is
with non-profits, sis.
She's still not eating?
No.
My pet psychic was right!
She's heartbroken.
It's hard for both of us,
but I'm not sure
what I can do about that.
Maybe take her for a walk.
Yeah...
cleanse your auras.
Funny.
I never thought of you
as a dog person.
Yeah, because I'm not.
I just found him.
Oh...
But look at that face!
You know, I read having a dog
can lower your blood pressure.
Not this one.
He just tore up
my entire apartment.
What's his name?
No idea.
You should give him one.
Why? I am not keeping him.
Uh...
because it's dignified,
and how else
will you get his attention?
Okay, that's a good point.
But no obvious dog names,
like Rover or Fido,
or inanimate objects
like Gem... or food!
I had a neighbor
who named their dog "Fudge".
Definitely not!
You're better than that,
and he's better than that.
He kind of looks like that guy
from the Gladiator movie.
Gerard?
No, that's Sparta.
Hemsworth?
No, that's Thor.
You know, the--
Russell!
Okay, fine!
Until I can find a place
to take him,
"Russell" it is.
Great!
Russell can accompany you
on your new assignment.
What new assignment?
Go out, find
some interesting holiday feels,
write 'em up,
post 'em... voila!
Um, could you remind
Boss Isabel
that I'm just
a coordinator here.
I don't go out--
I barely even know the city.
Boss Isabel is telling you
that we are getting killed
by other Pacific Northwest
cities in engagement, so...
we need to step it up.
Friend Isabel
would never make me do this.
Friend Isabel
gave you this job,
thinking you would
use it as a transition
to something more suitable,
but it's been six months,
and you're still here.
Boss Isabel
wants a holiday segment
up on the site
by the end of the day.
Consider it the Christmas spirit
getting you back into the world.
I think I'd rather
have coal in my stocking.
Noted.
Come on.
Don't hate me.
Magic in the atmosphere
Acts of kindness
everywhere
This is my favorite
time of year
Ringing bells
on busy streets
Twinkling lights
and...
I'm sorry, bud,
but it's better you than me.
What do you say
we kill a bunch of birds
with one stone here?
I mean, not literally,
because...
I don't know
what you're capable of.
Okay, come on.
Okay...
Wait! Russell... Russell!
Can you work with me, please?
Russell, work with me!
Where are you going? Stop!
Fa-la, la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la
This is the season of love
Give a smile
and lift somebody up
Lift somebody up!
Come together now
and share the love
This is the season
You gave your love away
Gave it away
Every day's a holiday
This is the season of love
Russell!
Fa-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la...
Okay, this is pretty cute.
Oh, you met a friend.
Who's this cutie?
Oh, I love this.
Adorable.
Can you not
take video of my dog?
You.
You?
You've gotta be kidding me.
What a cruel twist
of Christmas fate.
Come on, Russell.
Let's go.
Jules, let's go, girl.
What's the point
of naming a dog,
if they don't come
when you call it?
Does this mean
you're keeping him?
No.
And not that
it's any of your business,
but I don't have room
for anything else in my life.
I'm fairly new to the city.
My job is more demanding
than ever right now.
You know what you sound like?
Every other dog owner
on the planet.
Seriously?
If I wanted to feel judged,
I would just call my parents.
And who do you think you are?
"Ooh, I know dogs.
I like to tell people
what to do
and how they should be,
even though my own dog
won't come when I call."
Maybe it's best
if we don't talk.
Finally, we agree.
- Fine.
- Hmm.
And this is my park.
Oh, wow!
Unpleasant, arrogant,
and territorial.
There are plenty
of other dog parks.
Marymoor, on the Eastside,
is right by the river.
Golden Gardens and Magnuson
both have dog beaches.
Is there any dog place
in the city you don't know?
Doubtful.
Well, if it means
never seeing you again,
they all sound great.
Okay. Hey, Russell.
Let's go.
Come on.
Come here.
Let's get out of here.
...One thing on my list
Not to be alone
It's Christmas-time
in the city...
Russell!
Oh, great. Now what?
Unbelievable.
Okay.
You've been holding out on me!
What?
"Pawsome Christmas"
is a hit!
Wait... really?
It's everything people love--
Christmas, dogs...
romance.
I don't get it.
Doesn't Seattle have
more dogs than children?
Whatever the reason,
it has boosted site traffic 25%
Oh!
When are these two love-dogs
seeing each other again?
-"Again"?
- Yes!
This could be the holiday
love story of the season.
It's the magic
we've been searching for.
Yeah. No, I'll--
I'll keep searching.
No.
I don't care what it takes--
I want more content
with these two cuties.
Much, much more.
Is this different food?
No!
Is this a different dog?
Because,
the last time I saw Jules,
she was on a hunger strike.
I don't know,
she just woke up
with an appetite.
It's like Christmas came early.
What changed?
I mean, she was exhausted from
playing at the park yesterday.
Whoa, playing?
Oh! She must be feeling better.
And remember
that really annoying woman
that came in yesterday?
Mm...
dark hair, plaid jacket...
muddled aura,
but super-cute dog?
She wasn't wearing
a plaid jacket.
She is now.
Wait, what?
Can I help you with something?
Okay, this is just the cutest!
I don't remember
giving permission
to use my dog's likeness.
Oh, come on, Max!
You gotta admit--
it's pretty cute.
So it would just be more things
like this--
photos, videos,
telling their holiday story
by way of the city.
Does this mean
you're keeping Russell?
Well... n-no.
Don't you think
he deserves to know
where you stand
in this relationship?
No.
I'm not working with
anyone this condescending.
Ho-ho! Excuse me!
I'm condescending?
Okay, what if...
Mia agrees to foster Russell
until he finds
a permanent home?
And, in exchange...
Jules gets a playmate,
and Mia gets her content.
I can do that.
And... if Mia posts their story
to her site,
Puptown might
get more awareness,
and that means more adoptions.
So, they'd hang out...
which means
we'd have to hang out...
through Christmas.
Yes.
No.
Bro!
Look at them.
Jules already said yes.
If this is gonna be a thing,
I need to know Russell is safe
and taken care of.
What does that mean?
I need to check out
where he lives.
Come over to my house?
I mean, we don't even
know each other!
It's not a date,
it's an inspection.
Yeah, well, I don't think
you'd even know the difference.
You don't agree,
I don't agree.
Okay, fine. Fine.
Okay.
First things first--
and I can't believe
I have to say this...
but we don't use a belt
as a leash.
But it's Italian leather.
Leash... collar...
food.
What's the bed situation?
Uh, he had this pillow thing...
until he ate it.
Well, he's a dog,
and you surround him
with goose feathers.
What'd you expect?
Okay...
Dogs are an investment.
Uh-huh.
This one's on me.
For your Christmas tree.
Oh, I don't have a tree.
I mean, it's just me,
why decorate for the holidays?
It's not just about you now,
it's also about Russell.
What if he doesn't
celebrate Christmas?
I don't wanna presume.
Look at him--
clearly,
Russell is a holiday dog.
Time to deck some halls.
- Okay.
- Go ahead.
This place is a death trap.
Toxic.
Possibly fatal!
It's a wonder
anything survives here,
much less a dog.
He's got a roof over his head,
doesn't he?
So, where you from?
Miami.
How long you been here?
Uh, about six months.
Hmm. Any family nearby?
Like... siblings,
or other adults
to enhance
his support system?
Nope, it's just me.
Mm. What were you doing
before you got here?
I'm sorry.
What does this have to do
with taking care of a dog?
Russell needs
a stable environment,
which means
he needs a stable owner.
Okay, well,
then he's in the wrong place.
In the last two years,
I've been a cater waiter
in New Orleans,
a bartender in Austin,
and a line cook in Denver,
so, it is what it is.
Okay, well,
at least he'll be well-fed.
Why Seattle?
Uh, my friend
from college lives here,
and it was the furthest
I could get away.
Away from what?
From everything.
I think...
I think the tree is done.
What do you think?
Um, where's Russell sleep?
Uh... like, right there.
Uh... no.
What do you--
What do you mean?
Wait, no--
Hold on, wait! Hang on a second.
Hey. Hey, hey.
Where are you going?
No, hang on!
Hang on a second, no.
No, no, no!
No!
No!
Hold on a second.
No, what are you doing?
Hard no.
This is my room,
my space.
The likely reason
Russell chewed up your pillows
is because
he has separation anxiety.
You have to show
that you're here for him,
so your space...
is now his space.
Oh!
Okay.
So are you signing off?
For now,
but...
this is still
a probationary period.
Seriously?
Do I look like I'm kidding?
No, not even a little bit.
Okay. Well, I held up
my end of the bargain,
so, tomorrow, I'm gonna
make you hold up yours--
these dogs,
in Seattle,
celebrating the holidays.
Can't wait!
Can't wait.
Okay, I'm up.
I'm up.
Hold your horses.
Okay...
that was your warning bark,
not your "I have to go" bark.
Got it.
The landlord just called.
Rent payment
is officially overdue.
It's okay--
I just got off the phone
with Mr. Baker's office,
and they don't anticipate
any issues
with their annual gift.
Whew.
That is such a relief.
Good news!
It's not kennel cough for Luna,
and all the others
are up on their vaccines.
Thank you for making
the rounds, Dr. Hannah.
Oh, are you kidding?
Spending time
with these doggos
is the best part of my day.
I will see you next week.
So...
home inspection went
a little late last night.
Place needed a lot of work.
Hmm!
And you're seeing her
again today?
No...
Jules is seeing Russell
again today.
I'm just chaperoning.
Right.
Joint chaperoning.
With snacks for two,
I see?
Mia needs
all the help she can get.
Okay!
Have fun...
So, it's official.
The city of Seattle
is Jussell-obsessed.
Wait, did you just
say "Jussell"?
"Jules and Russell,"
unless you'd prefer "Rules"?
Please, no more rules.
Well...
I have a great idea to build
on Seattle's obsession.
There's this POV app where
fans can go to our website,
which turns your phone
into a sort of disposable camera
that allows you
to take photos and videos
of Jussell in the wild,
so we can incorporate
fans' footage,
to drive even more
interactive engagement.
It sounds really cool,
but I can't imagine people being
interested in two random dogs.
Have you not seen the comments?
People can't get enough!
Of Russell?
Not just Russell--
Jules.
"What's her story?"
"Who does she belong to?
Is he cute?"
The fans want to know,
and so do I.
- So... is he?
More like
bossy and insufferable.
Yeah, but, like,
cute "bossy and insufferable"?
No, the kind of insufferable
that sends coordinates
instead of an address.
Or...
a man who thinks
outside the box.
Izzy!
It's not a date.
It's a work thing
that you assigned.
Yeah, but Work Mia
doesn't have to get in the way
of Person Mia.
Don't forget--
where's Mr. Bossy-Pants from,
where'd he get Jules,
and is there a Mrs. Bossy-Pants
in the picture?
Gotta give the people
what they want!
Hmm?
So what's your story?
Not sure what my story
has to do with anything.
Well, your story
is Jules' story,
and the people
want to know.
I'm just the tour guide.
Okay.
Well, then, as a responsible
foster parent to Russell,
I feel like
it's really important
to know who
he's spending his time with--
preferably
before I die on this hill.
Fine.
Seattle born and raised.
I have a younger sister, Penny,
who you met.
Both of my parents are away
on a two-month cruise
to Antarctica.
I'm a long-suffering
Mariners fan.
You love dogs.
I do.
Why dogs?
Why not cats?
Or bearded dragons?
You ever try hiking
with a bearded dragon?
I grew up with dogs.
They accept you
for who you are,
and you know exactly
what you're gonna get.
The don't lie...
and they don't leave.
Are we there yet?
Almost.
Thank Christmas.
Okay, it's just up there.
Come on!
Hold up.
You're telling me that I just
hiked two hours for this?
It should be raining
marshmallows and candy canes.
Will Ferrell should be dressed
in an elf costume,
jumping up and down.
There isn't even any snow!
We don't get
a lot of snow in Seattle.
You might have a skewed idea
of Christmas...
and hiking.
This was supposed to be
a romantic holiday dog romp
through the city.
You wanted a holiday-themed
activity for dogs.
Well...
here it is.
Good girl!
Just tie it around?
Yep. Just like this.
So, is that it?
Not exactly.
Wishing all my Christmases
could be with you
May all my Christmases
Be...
With you!
Wow.
This is so beautiful.
Worth the hike?
Definitely worth it.
So...
Russell's concerned
about something.
Oh, yeah? What's that?
Have you ever dated
someone new
where, for whatever reason,
they only want
to come to your place?
Like, maybe
they're hiding something?
Ah, I get it. Say no more--
I'll bring him over.
You will?
Sure.
Oh, you mean,
without me?
You said Russell's the one
that's concerned, right?
Just say it, Mia.
My boss said that viewers
want to see where Jules lives.
And you couldn't ask,
because...?
Because...
you have a tendency
to say no to most things.
Well, not this time.
Did you just move in?
Um, about four years ago.
What's with
all the empty frames?
Um...
Russell, give me the toy.
Russell, leave it!
Hey!
Don't talk to him like that.
Hey, it's okay.
It's okay.
"Biscuit"?
Who's Biscuit?
It doesn't matter.
There's certain things
Jules doesn't like to share.
Jules and Russell have
been sharing toys all week.
What's this about?
You know what?
I think we're done.
Okay.
Text me tomorrow?
No.
I mean the whole thing.
Uh...
Max!
We had a deal.
Hey.
I know you're upset,
but skipping breakfast
is not an option.
What if I add chicken?
Just to be clear--
this is not my fault.
This is totally his fault.
He's the one
who kicked us out--
without a reason.
She has no understanding
of boundaries.
I know what
that toy meant to you.
I mean,
if they can't even share a toy,
we don't know what's next.
We're lucky
we got out when we did.
We should be glad
this is over.
We don't need this drama!
We don't need this headache.
I actually feel better.
Don't you?
This is good. Right?
Really?
What now?
"Christmas cheer has run out
for our favorite doggie duo.
Russell and Jules
have consciously uncoupled.
Please respect their privacy
at this difficult time"?
What is this?
Um, only the biggest
Seattle break-up
since Bill and Melinda!
I cannot believe
she posted this.
It's no one else's business.
So it's true?
What did you do?
Why do you assume
this is my fault?
What? Did she put water
in the bowl marked "food"?
Did she buy
a retractable leash?
I just didn't see a future.
Didn't see one
or didn't want to see one?
And did you "cc" Jules?
This is a joke, right?
Turning the best,
most heart-warming holiday tale
into the saddest
Christmas story ever?
I wish it was.
Mia! What happened?
Honestly, I don't know!
One moment,
it was all "jingle bells,"
and the next,
we were in the doghouse.
Well, you have to fix it!
I don't think I can.
Sorry, buddy.
I know! Right?
This is why we don't
put ourselves out there.
Okay, there we go.
Would you believe
a surprise inspection?
Oh, look, Russy--
someone with a lot of nerve
just showed up,
and he doesn't even
have any treats.
If I had a tail,
it'd be between my legs.
Yeah, well, now's not really
a great time.
Russell and I are super-busy.
We've got so many holiday
activities lined up,
and our social calendar
is full.
Let me explain?
I think Russell
wants to hear me out.
I think you misheard him.
He's actually telling you
to get lost.
Please...
it's not about me--
it's about Jules.
This isn't the first time
Jules has been in love.
There was someone else.
Hmm. Let me guess...
Biscuit?
Jules was just a puppy
when I rescued her,
so Biscuit
was all she knew.
And I assume
Biscuit had an owner?
My ex-girlfriend, Amy.
For three years,
we were inseparable.
And then what happened?
We broke up last Christmas.
She took Biscuit
and moved to L.A.,
along with half our stuff.
Thus, the half-life?
Mm-hmm.
I'm sorry. Sounds rough.
I mean, yeah.
You build a life with someone,
thinking they're the one,
and then... they leave.
You don't bounce back
from that right away--
if at all.
I mean,
Jules certainly didn't!
So I resolved
never to let that happen again.
But then,
Russell came along...
and the toy--
no, I wasn't ready for it.
But now, without Russell,
Jules is back in her funk again.
Russell too!
Zero interest in plants...
pillows.
It's silly,
but it's also endearing
that these two souls
found each other after all this.
It's almost unfair
to get in the way.
So, let's give these dogs
a chance.
All we gotta do
is promise not
to fall in love with each other,
so that the dogs can.
Easiest terms
ever spoken.
Was hard to even say
without laughing.
- Ha.
- So, agreed?
We'll continue to meet up...
for the dogs' sake.
Put out the press release--
"Jussell" is back!
Oh...
Good boy!
Russell!
Good boy!
Good boy, you did it!
You did it.
Oh! Good boy. Yes!
Come on, girl.
You brought me all the way
out here to see a barn?
Where's the Christmas?
I'm sensing patience
doesn't come easy to you.
Never had the time for it.
Come on.
Oh, it's good to see you!
Long time!
Yeah.
Mia, this is my buddy, Eddie.
The best of the best.
Hi. It's so nice to meet you.
I can't believe
that you do all of this
with that.
Well, every artist
has their tools.
Mine just requires
a little gasoline.
Mia's from
the travel bureau--
covering dogs and Christmas
in Seattle,
and it would not be complete
without her seeing what you do.
Well, Christmas
is my busiest time of year.
Animal lovers, like this guy,
can never get
enough of their pets.
Haven't seen you
in a while, Max.
Haven't been out in a while,
but Mia here has been
dragging me all over town.
Well, I mean, the dogs
have been dragging us both.
Well, looks to me like
no one's getting dragged around
anywhere here.
Well, like he said,
it's a work thing.
Right.
We'll let you get back to it.
It's good to see you, bro.
You too.
It was nice meeting you.
You too.
Go get it.
Wow, your friend
is really talented.
He sure is.
And sorry if he implied
that we were--
A couple?
It's weird, isn't it?
I mean, yeah, we barely
even know each other.
I don't even know
how you started
running your dog rescue.
Well...
when I got out of the Navy,
I was volunteering
at the shelter,
helping to pair dogs
with returning vets.
They're very therapeutic...
especially with PTSD.
Sounds like you're really
making a difference.
Yeah, it's a big part
of what we do.
When the Director retired,
the Board asked me to step in.
I know it doesn't look
like much.
We have to fight every year
just to keep it funded.
But...
it's worth it.
You're lucky...
that you found
what makes you happy.
What about you?
I'll let you know
when I find it.
Excitement's in the air
I got candy canes
and mistletoe
Santa's coming down
the chimney
Singing "Ho-ho-ho!"
I'm on that list
'cause I feel so nice
Plates full of goodies
Oh, what a time
What was that?
What was what?
That sound that was
coming out of your mouth.
It wasn't angry or sneering,
it almost sounded like...
singing...
and not just any song,
but a Christmas song.
And Max...
It's good to have you back.
You going to do some yoga?
Uh, no. Thanks to you,
I'm on my way
to another excursion with dogs.
Oh!
You wanted it fixed,
it's fixed.
You've seen the site.
Oh, I've seen it,
and all the videos
people are sharing.
Five days till Christmas
and traffic
is higher than ever.
So, I take it
he's behaving better?
Uh, yeah.
He's definitely a lot less
bossy and insufferable.
I was talking about Russell.
Right! Yeah. Him too.
Uh-oh, Mia.
You're not catching feelings,
are you?
What? No, absolutely not.
Because it would be
totally okay.
I mean, you have to admit,
he's not bad to look at.
It's hard to notice,
with the barking.
I wasn't talking about Russell.
Neither was I.
But seriously, though,
you seem less insufferable, too,
and I am all here for it.
We're almost there.
Seriously?
Just trust me, all right?
Not everyone gets
a chance to see this.
Yeah.
That's because
it's a place people go in
and never come out.
It's true.
Wow, it's amazing!
They call it
the "True Love Christmas Tree".
It's a little hard to find,
because they move it
somewhere new every year.
Why do they make it
so hard to find?
They say that's how love works.
I guess you gotta
get lost sometimes
before you find it,
or it finds you.
Some people never do.
Oh! I had Eddie make these.
Oh.
That's surprising
and thoughtful.
Look, I know I haven't
seemed like the biggest fan
of this whole
Russell-and-Jules thing, but...
I've really enjoyed myself
these past couple days.
I know Jules has, too.
Seeing her with Russell,
it's like...
maybe there's hope.
Watch.
They complete each other.
It's cheesy isn't it?
I knew it!
No.
No, it's really beautiful.
I love it.
Uh-oh!
Oh, my gosh!
Oh, my gosh.
Okay, inside.
Inside.
Oh, it's cold.
You deal with the dogs,
and I'm going to get changed
and get you something dry.
- On it.
- Okay.
Okay, come on, guys.
Right here, right here.
Yes.
Okay.
This should be clean.
What do you want me to do
with this?
I-I'm sorry, what?
My shirt?
Can we stick it in the dryer
or something?
Oh! Yeah. Of course.
And maybe I can
put on that one?
Absolutely. Yeah, you should
definitely put that on.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
Is this where
you went to school?
Yes, it is.
What'd you study?
Biochem.
Okay! Didn't see that coming.
Yeah. Well, that was...
the old me.
You expecting someone?
Uh, not that I know of.
Ah!
Mom! Dad?
Surprise!
Uh, what are
you guys doing here?
Uh, well, when you said
you couldn't
come home for Christmas,
we decided to come to you.
- Whoa!
- Oh, no!
- Wait, Jules.
- Hey...
Oh, my. Does he bite?
And, uh--
And you are?
Max Covington.
So nice to meet you,
Mr. and Mrs. Park.
Oh. it's actually "Doctor--"
Sorry, Dr. and Missus--
- Uh, no.
- No.
"Dr. and Dr."
That's a lot of doctors.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
So, uh, you, uh, went
to school in Miami as well?
Oh. No, this is Mia's.
- Is it?
- Huh!
And he was just leaving. Right?
Right! I'm sure you guys
have got a lot to catch up on.
- Nice to meet you both.
Come on, Jules.
- Yeah.
- Come on.
- Okay.
I'll see you later?
Yeah, I'll see you later.
Oh... Max seems nice.
Yeah. We're... colleagues.
Oh, colleagues
who share clothes?
We were working,
and then, it just
started raining, so...
- Hmm.
- Hmm.
It doesn't matter.
Ahem.
Didn't know
you were a dog person.
Oh!
Yeah, well, it's just until
I can find him a permanent home.
- Oh.
- Oh.
Frankly, I'm really
surprised to see you guys.
Oh. Well, um...
we just wanted to see
how you were, darling.
Um... and can you blame us,
the way things were left?
Yeah. Well, you have
nothing to worry about.
Look, I'm... doing great.
- Hmm.
- Oh...
This is, um...
Great. Great.
Great.
Super-great.
Uh, you know what?
I'm gonna just take a minute.
I'll be right back.
- Whoa!
- Oh!
Oh, my god!
That is a lot of hair.
That is a lot of dog.
I'm worried about her.
Jim, we promised
we wouldn't overreact.
I think our reaction
is appropriate,
given the situation.
She just seems so lost.
Any luck?
No coffee.
Ohh! No? Not even instant?
No.
I wonder if Mia's up yet.
- I need coffee.
Our daughter loves her bed
more than life itself.
You can say that again.
Morning!
- Oh!
What have you got there?
Good morning.
Russell had to go out,
so I grabbed us some breakfast.
Oh!
Chai for you, Dad.
- Thank you very much.
- How thoughtful.
- Low-fat, you remembered.
- Of course.
Oh, and I got you
your favorite--
everything bagel.
You are the absolute best.
Gluten-free, I suppose?
Yeah.
Oh, wow.
Well... thank you.
Um, cheers.
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
Whoops.
]
Here...
Ooh!
Here we go.
- Okay.
Your parents didn't
want to share
in the golf festivities?
They opted for the Diving Santa
at the aquarium instead.
I'm gonna meet up
with them later.
Too bad.
They're really missing out.
I mean, honestly,
it's probably better this way.
They're both doctors
who've dedicated themselves
to saving lives,
and here I am,
chasing dogs around
in argyle sweaters
in between "six geese a-laying"
and "seven swans a-swimming".
Still, though,
they have to know
you're doing something good.
I don't think
they see it that way.
To them,
I'm just a giant disappointment.
I can't imagine that's true.
They love you.
They're your parents.
Otherwise,
they wouldn't be here.
I know they love me,
but the reason they're here
is because
they're worried about me.
Worried?
About what?
Aw, it doesn't matter.
Come on.
Clearly, it does matter.
Hey.
Okay, how do I explain this?
My parents aren't
the only doctors in the family.
You're a doctor?
Yeah.
I was.
What happened?
It was a crazy night
at the hospital.
This patient came in
with stomach pains,
and didn't have insurance,
and they asked her
to wait in the hallway,
and so I had just been rushed
into an emergency surgery,
and when I came back out...
...she was still
sitting in the hall,
but her skin was jaundiced
and her pulse
was barely readable...
and it turns out
she was internally bleeding
the entire time.
So, I rushed her into surgery,
and...
By then,
it was too late.
She died on my table,
and then...
I got reprimanded for operating
without authorization.
That's the night I left...
and I never went back.
I'm sorry.
Yeah.
I became a doctor
'cause I wanted to save lives...
but I can't do that
with one hand tied
behind my back
by a system that's broken.
So that's why
you're still searching?
Mm-hmm.
I mean...
you spend your entire life
working towards that one goal
and that one dream,
only to get there
and realize
that it's not what
you thought it would be.
So, yeah, I...
I don't know
what to dream about next.
Is everything okay?
Yeah. Yeah.
Really?
You don't look okay.
Listen--
Hey, Max,
if you have to go do something,
totally go.
It's... It's fine.
I'm good.
It was also kind of freeing,
just saying the story out loud.
I'm sorry.
Hey, it's good.
I should probably go
meet my parents, anyways.
I'll call you later?
Yeah.
Okay.
Bye.
Come on.
Oh, and that Diving Santa
was something else.
Wasn't it, honey?
- Mm-hmm.
- Yeah.
Oh, and I got you
a little something.
Ha-ha!
A hat?
Yes!
Just a little something
to remind you of Florida.
Mom...
Yeah!
Yeah.
We're just a little bit worried
about you, sweetie.
All the way out here,
away from everything, really,
and doing who knows what?
Can't we just be together,
and have me worry about
my own life, please?
Um...
You should--
you should tell her.
Tell her.
Tell me what?
Your mom and I
are gonna retire.
Mm-hmm.
And we would like you
to take over the practice.
What part of "I don't want
to be a doctor anymore"
are you not getting?
Everyone has
setbacks, kiddo.
What's matters
is how we get through them.
And it would be
your own practice.
You could run it
however you want--
make all your own rules!
Oh, okay.
So this is why you're here.
You are a gifted doctor, honey,
and we would hate to see you
throw it all away
because of one...
unfortunate event.
Mm-hmm.
"Unfortunate event"?
Is that what
we're calling it now?
Doctors can't save every life,
honey, but we...
we can't stop trying.
Okay, well, if this
is the reason
for your little pep talk,
you just wasted a trip.
What did we say?
Okay, let's go.
Obviously, the wrong thing.
Come on, Russell. Let's go.
- That went well... not.
- See you at the house.
Mia...
Hi.
I'm so sorry
to show up like this.
I just-- I needed space
from my parents.
Turns out,
the only reason they're here
is because they want me
to take over their practice,
and they want me to pretend
like that thing that happened
never happened.
Wait, is there
another dog in there?
Um... yeah.
Oh, my gosh, who's this?
This is Biscuit.
Oh! Hi!
Wait. "Biscuit"?
As in...
Biscuit.
Mia... this is Amy.
Amy... Mia.
Hi.
Hi.
I can't believe I'm meeting
the famous Russell in real life!
Oh, you've seen the videos?
Oh, my friend sent them to me,
and Biscuit went
absolutely bonkers over them,
so I just knew
I had to get Biscuit and Jules
back together
for a visit.
Amy's also here visiting family
for the holidays.
Well, of course,
but I also think Biscuit
really missed his friend.
So, uh,
what is the deal with them?
Is this
just till Christmas, or...?
I mean, who knows? Right?
Given Jules and Russell's
strong connection,
anything's possible.
I'm sorry...
is Biscuit okay?
It's just allergies.
But are we sure this isn't,
like, a showmance thing?
You know, just putting
a couple together
for the publicity
and the clicks?
Come on, Ames.
What? You can't believe
everything you see online.
I mean, look at them.
It's just like old times, right?
Have you had him
checked for psoriasis?
Because that silver patching
is actually
a telltale sign in humans.
Well, it's a good thing
he's not a human then, right?
Oh, my gosh!
Max, I can't believe
you still have this!
Wait, where did
we get this again?
Was it, uh--
Was it U Village?
It was the flea market--
- With the actual fleas.
- ...That actually had fleas.
I think I should go.
Hey... sorry about that.
She just showed up.
'Tis the season, I guess.
Right.
Your parents!
I'm sorry you're having
to deal with that.
Mm. Yeah.
I mean, it's been a long day.
Yeah.
But I'll see you tomorrow?
For the Santa's Helper 5K?
Honestly, you really
don't have to.
But I want to.
And Jules is looking forward
to it, too.
Okay, yeah.
- Okay?
- I'll see you tomorrow.
All right. Bye.
Hi, Mom.
Hi.
Oh! Um, been
watching your videos.
I can see why
they're so popular.
The dogs are adorable together.
Warm and festive.
And... well, that Max
isn't hard to look at, either.
Yeah.
So... what happens
after Christmas?
Do you just give the dog away?
Yeah.
What about Max?
He might go away, too.
Then what?
Mom, I don't know!
I don't know.
I'm really sorry about
what happened earlier.
It's just,
your father and I know
that medicine is something
that you loved.
No.
What I loved
was fixing things
that were broken,
healing things that hurt.
If I don't have the freedom
to do that, I don't--
Sweetheart, I know
it's complicated,
but you can still help.
You can still save lives.
I'll go see where your dad is.
I cannot believe Amy
had the nerve to show up here!
She wanted the dogs
to see each other.
Ha! And you believe that?
She said it was wrong of her
to take Biscuit
out of Jules' life.
Yeah. And?
And that we should
come visit them.
In California?
You should've seen how happy
Jules was to see Biscuit.
Well, I think that
she's plenty happy
with Russell...
and Mia.
It's not an either/or.
We're seeing them
later this afternoon.
Look...
I just want it on record
that this is the happiest
I've seen you in a long time,
and I think we both know
why that is.
Hello, hello.
Hope I'm not interrupting.
Your timing
is impeccable, Amy.
As is your charm, Penny.
I don't know about you,
but there's only
so much holiday baking
with my family
I can take.
Would you and Jules
be up for some last-minute
Christmas shopping?
Sure.
Ah! I am so productive today.
Leave it to you
to keep me on track.
So, um, what do you think
about January?
As a month? Or--
For you to come and visit.
Jules would love it.
It's sunshine,
beaches for miles--
a much-needed break
from the rain and the cold.
- Amy--
- Just...
hear me out.
You know that moving
to California
had always been my dream,
so when I got the job
in L.A.,
it felt like
everything I wanted.
But as great as
this new life has been,
I realized
that it is not everything,
because it's missing you...
and Jules.
It's been a over a year, Ames.
I know, but we're so good
together, Max--
us and the dogs.
I guess what I'm asking for
is a second chance.
Hey, Max.
Hopefully you're on your way,
because the race
is about to start,
and the Santas
are getting restless.
Oh, no!
Come on, girl.
I was doing fine
in my own little world,
taking care of myself--
which is hard enough,
I might add--
and then Russell shows up,
and I was trying
to do a nice thing--
you know,
be a good citizen--
but not according to Max,
who comes into my little world,
all bossy and annoying,
and takes me to go
see that stupid tree...
What tree?
The one that's hidden
in the middle of the forest.
Max brought you
to the True Love Tree?
Mia, he likes you.
No. He was doing it
for Jules and Russell.
Oh, no! You like him.
No, I don't.
It's just an assignment.
Then why are you
getting all worked up?
Because
I got caught up in the story,
and I started to picture a life
here in Seattle.
I even started
to like the rain.
I don't know.
Maybe my parents are right.
Maybe I...
gave up my whole life,
for what?
I just need to get
back on track.
Yes, you're the one.
- So much hair, Russell!
You need to get a trim!
One, big beautiful dog.
Yes, you are!
- Yes, you are.
- Hi.
- Sweetie, hi!
- Hi, honey!
Glad you're here.
Yeah.
Do you need to get that?
- Uh... no.
It's nothing.
Everything okay?
Yeah.
I've been thinking
about what you said,
and maybe you are right.
Maybe I was just
running away from life...
from the career
that I worked so hard for.
Wait a minute.
Does this mean
you're coming home?
Uh, well, I-I still need time
to tie up some loose ends.
Yes! Best Christmas ever.
- She's coming home, buddy.
- I'm so happy.
- Oh.
Uh...
Did you hear that?
She's coming back to Miami.
What are you doing here?
Can we talk? Please?
Yes,
I was with Amy and Biscuit,
but I came
as soon as I realized.
Hey, you don't owe me
anything, Max. Okay?
It was just a stupid race.
Don't say that.
It's true.
If anything, it just
helped confirm my decision.
What decision?
I'm going back to Miami.
Wait, what?
Back to the thing
you moved across the country
- to get away from?
- Yeah.
Don't stop searching
for happiness
just because
you haven't found it yet.
Yeah, well, sometimes,
you have to make the most
of what you've been given.
Sure.
You keep everybody
at arm's length,
out of a fear
of getting hurt.
Fair enough...
but at least I own it.
Bye, Max.
Max?
I'm not in the mood
right now, Penn.
It's Mr. Baker.
Oh.
Mr. Baker,
glad to hear from you.
I'm sorry, what?
But your office said--
Times are tough,
of course.
Yep, Merry Christmas
to you, too.
They don't have the funds
to make their donation...
which means
we're not gonna make our year.
Meaning...
we lose the rescue?
You're mad at me.
No.
I was supposed to have
a happy holiday ending
for Russell and Jules,
tag all the businesses...
make it a holiday love letter
to the city.
Boss Izzy
would've fired me by now.
But Friend Izzy feels bad
for pushing you
outside your comfort zone
in the first place.
Seeing how miserable
you are
makes me wish
we had never done this.
No.
It's exactly what I needed--
to open up...
and I'm really grateful
for that.
You're a good boss, Izzy,
but you're
an even better friend.
Mm.
Or maybe I'm just the fool
who wants to still believe in
love and hope at Christmas.
That would be nice,
wouldn't it?
So there's nothing else
Max can do?
Does he even know
you're here?
Oh, no.
I heard things went south
with you two.
He's actually
taking it as a sign
that he should
move to California.
California?
But his entire life is here.
Everything he loves
is here.
Right?
But...
at this point,
we don't even know
if Puptown's gonna make it
to the end of the year.
Okay, so you want me
to help get the word out,
to find these dogs a home?
I just figured
since Jussell has
such a huge following...
I have a better idea.
A fundraiser?
I need to finish my job,
and you need to save yours,
so this is a way
to combine both.
How's that?
Well, people are expecting
another Jules-and-Russell post,
and my boss wants me
to tag all of the businesses.
I figured we could invite
the entire community to join,
and make it an adoption fair
as well.
People are invested in Jussell,
and this will help
give them a chance
to save the place
where they first met.
Why are you doing this?
Because.
I know how much Puptown
means to you,
and it's a huge part
of who you are.
I'm not gonna let you
let that go.
What do we have to lose?
Remind me to tell you
that I'm mad at you
for going behind my back.
You're welcome.
So... what do you say?
Holiday Rescue Operation?
"Operation: Holiday Rescue"?
"Operation--"
"...Howliday Rescue!"
Okay!
And about what was said
the other day--
Hey, we were both upset.
But we should get started,
if we want to be done in time
for Christmas Eve.
It's time to deck the halls.
Oh
It's my favorite time
of year
Fa-la-la
Oh, it's finally here...
Go put these everywhere.
The snow is falling
Friends and family near
Ooh
Can you feel the chill?
Fa-la-la
It's my favorite
My favorite time of year
My favorite, favorite
My favorite...
- That looks good.
- Yeah.
Okay, great.
Hi!
Thank you so much
for being here.
Of course, honey.
Fa-la-la
- Seeing all the ones we love
- Okay...
Buying gifts
And soon
we're gonna wrap 'em up
Fireside feels just right
Stockings hung up
We'll sleep tight
It's my favorite time
of year
My favorite, favorite
My favorite
My favorite time of year
My favorite-favorite...
Hi.
Oh! Hi.
So, it turns out
you were right--
Biscuit has psoriasis.
Oh. Well, I'm glad
you caught it early.
No, you caught it early.
So, how can I help?
Here you go.
You had time to put together
a reel, as well?
Uh, this was
Penny's doing, actually.
Between all the footage,
she said she had enough
to "highlight
a compelling love story."
I can't believe
it all came together.
I know. It's not bad
for a last-second effort.
I know you don't think
you're making a difference,
but that's all you've been doing
since the first day I met you.
Okay!
We ready to do this?
- Yeah!
- I think so.
This is gonna be amazing.
Let's go.
Ring, ring, ring the bells
Come on
Sing out with joy now
Everybody's here
Come on
Sing out with joy now
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
We sing
We sing with joy now...
We are gonna raise
a lot of money with this.
- Thank you.
- Happy to help.
You're really good
with your hands!
I'm here to adopt.
Hi. So, I--
No need. My name is Troy,
and I already know the drill.
I have a lovely three-bedroom
with a fully-enclosed
942-square-foot backyard,
natural grass--
no pesticides or weed killers.
Dog door already installed.
I work from home,
as does my partner, Dale,
who is very active.
Maybe not as active as you,
but still,
he will take the dog
on daily runs.
I will come and take the dog
to lunch every day.
We're both committed to being
the best dog parents
we could possibly be.
Troy!
Oh, no.
Did I miss something?
The most important thing.
Are you gonna love this dog
with all your heart?
Yes. Of course.
We're gonna smother it
with love.
Okay, you're good to go.
Wow.
You're a lot nicer
than people say.
Thanks?
You're welcome...
Mr. Christmas.
Let's take you
to meet Dexter.
Yeah! Oh, boy!
Okay. They're the cutest.
Yeah.
Yeah, they are.
Why do you look like you just
swallowed a lump of coal?
Penny wants me
to make a speech,
she says
"it's what normal people do."
Yeah, but you're not
normal people.
Exactly!
Last time I made a speech,
I lost my lunch.
Before we announce the winner
of the silent auction,
we are going to have
a few words
from the Director of Puptown
himself--
Max Covington!
Yeah!
I'm Max Puppington.
I mean Covington.
The Director
of Puptown Rescue.
I would like to thank myself--
I mean, I would like
to thank you all--
Thanks, Max,
for pretending like
you suck at public speaking
and forcing me
to come up here.
I get it, you know?
I've been rejected
from Puptown,
and Russell was turned away.
- What?
I know... right?
Who gets rejected
from a rescue?
Max wouldn't let me
give Russell up,
and what I thought
was going to be the worst thing
that could possibly
happen to me
actually turned out
to be the best.
Russell introduced me
to things, places...
people I would have never met
otherwise,
and changed my life
in ways I could never imagine.
See, I didn't think
that I had room
for anything else in my life...
and now I can't imagine
my life without him in it.
He got me out of my head...
...had me open my heart,
and made this cold, wet,
gray place feel like home.
How could I possibly
give that up?
Which is why...
I've decided
to officially adopt Russell.
So, I guess my takeaway
this holiday--
or, I mean,
"howliday" season...
...is that we should
take a chance on ourselves
and each other.
Make room for others.
Find the thing
that makes you happy--
because
it can change your life...
and it certainly changed mine.
Amy, hold up.
Um...
What a day.
Yeah.
Listen, Ames, about California--
Your life is here,
and I don't have a right
to ask you to leave.
It's nice
to see you so happy, Max.
I truly want
the same for you, too...
and this doesn't mean
that Jules and Biscuit can't
stay in each other's lives.
Sure.
Yeah, they can FaceTime.
Bye.
All right.
This is it.
Make it or break it.
Okay.
I'm not great with numbers.
Does someone want to tell me
what that means?
We're still really short.
Max, I'm really sorry.
It's not all lost.
Some of the dogs got adopted...
like Russell.
Yeah.
We can just use this money
to resettle the dogs
we still have.
Um...
well, maybe this will help.
Will this cover the difference?
And then some!
I don't know what to say.
Thank you.
We're very happy to help.
Dad...
When you said you didn't
want to be a doctor anymore,
we worried that you were
turning your back on your gift.
But then, we saw you
with Russell and all of this,
and we realized
that you are saving lives.
And we couldn't be more proud.
Group hug, come on.
I love you.
- Aw, we love you, baby.
- We love you, too, sweetheart.
I guess this is it.
I guess so.
Well, I think
we get another point
for not giving up, right?
Yeah.
Hey.
Thanks again.
For everything.
Yeah.
Well... I should probably
get back to my parents.
Hey, Russ. Let's go.
Russell, come here.
Okay, good boy.
Goodnight.
Hey, Mia?
Yeah?
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Max.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
I'm glad we came here.
Oh! Good morning, sleepyhead.
Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas, honey.
- Merry Christmas.
Sorry I wasn't up sooner.
Rough night?
Ohh...
Cheers.
Yes! Cheers.
Cheers.
Listen, I can't
thank you enough
for what you did
to help the rescue,
and for being here
and celebrating Christmas
together...
...but I'm not
going back to Miami.
- We know.
- Yeah.
Pretty clear to us
that you've created
this beautiful life here,
and we just want you
to be happy.
So, I've been thinking
about what
we talked about last night--
about saving lives,
and I still wanna do that,
but with animals.
You want to be a vet?
Wow!
What do you think of that?
Oh, we think--
I think
you'll be extraordinary!
- Extraordinary.
- Really?
Yeah!
So...
is that all you want, Mia?
No.
Come on.
Hey, come on, girl.
I know, I know.
I know.
Jules, wait!
Russell, wait!
- You...
- You...
What are you doing here?
You first.
I came here to find you.
Same.
Don't go.
I know we promised
we weren't gonna fall in love,
but all I know is,
I love Jules...
and Jules loves Russell.
Somehow, somewhere...
I fell in love with you, too.
Don't go, because--
I'm not going.
I found what makes me happy.
It's you...
and the dogs--
all of it.