Fresh Off The Boat (2015) s03e11 Episode Script
Clean Slate
1 Evan, I know you're nervous about your first grown-up haircut, but you're in safe hands with Reuben.
He's the best in the biz.
I used to cut Gregory Hines' hair.
So what will it be today, Louis? Well, with Chinese New Year coming up, we're gonna need extra fresh cuts.
Better make it two usuals.
Actually, I'll have the "Randy.
" The who? Randy from "Home Improvement.
" You know, Jonathan Taylor Thomas.
Is that one person or three people? One, but with the talent of three.
Okay, your haircut, your choice.
One usual and one "Randy," please.
A usual and a "Randy," coming up.
I hope we don't run into any balloons on our way home because we are gonna look sharp.
[Chuckling.]
Thanks, Reuben.
See, what did I tell you? Isn't Reuben the best? S03E11 Clean Slate Fresh off the boat I'm gettin' mine everywhere I go If you don't know, homey, now you know Fresh off the boat Homey, you don't know where I come from But I know where I'm goin' I'm fresh off the boat [Birds chirping.]
Art thou the bird who man loves best? The pious bird with the scarlet breast.
Is that a "Yes, I returned Marvin's birdfeeder" or a "No, I didn't return Marvin's birdfeeder"? Yes, I returned it.
Good, Louis is clean.
That just leave you boys, with the exception of Emery, who is clean all year round.
I don't get why we're going through all this trouble for a holiday.
Having a clean slate is an important part of the lunar New Year.
All debts, disputes, and grudges have to be resolved in order to ensure good fortune for the coming year.
Mom's just looking out for future us.
Well, she better also be looking our for Mariah Carey because that's who the future me is married to.
I'm gonna marry Jewel.
[Sternly.]
Stay away from Jewel.
Evan, did you settle things with Carol-Joan after your incident? And so the bartender says, "Why the big pause?" And the bear says "I don't know.
I've always had them.
" [Laughter.]
I apologized with a fig basket.
- It's done.
- Good.
Eddie, did you care for Grandma's flowers like I asked you to? Care for them? I spoiled them.
Turns out, they love Mr.
Pibb.
Technically, it's still alive, so good enough.
Second cousin Susan? You've been in a fight with her for 30 years.
Louis, do you know what this means? This could be the first time our entire family has a clean slate for the New Year! Imagine what that kind of good fortune could mean for our future business dealings and scratch-offs.
But, Mom, you've never had a clean slate.
You always end up getting into a fight with somebody.
You're kind of a loose cannon.
A loose cannon downs more ships.
- I don't - Don't worry.
This year, to ensure success, I am putting myself on lock down.
If I don't leave the house, I can't get into any fights.
Really? You're just gonna stay inside? I've already run all my errands, paid all my debts, settled my disputes, and had enough time to rent "Courage Under Fire.
" Um Who is that? Very [Sighs.]
Simon, welcome.
Eddie will take good care of you.
[Whispering.]
Me? Have Evan do it.
He's basically a big Evan.
Look at him! Welcoming family is an important New Year's tradition.
He is your new "Grandma's flowers.
" Don't let him die.
[Tune of "Hit Me with Your Best Shot".]
Organize my dress socks Why don't I organize my dress socks? Organize my dress socks and put them away Uh Dad.
Oh, Evan, hi.
What's up? I have a problem.
The letter was right here, stamped and addressed, and now it's gone.
So? Your mom probably mailed it.
You don't understand.
The letter was hate mail.
You sent hate mail? I was gonna send it after the New Year, but then someone went and mailed it.
Now Reuben's gonna read it today, and I'll have bad luck for the entire year.
Evan, relax.
I'm sure whoever Wait.
Reuben who? You know, Reuben.
Your barber? [Rapping.]
Your rhymes are like air balls Mine are Magic, I Shaq it You tryin' to kill me in a battle? Break out that old Browns jacket Ooh! Ooh! Ooh! - Eddie! - Trent: I hate the Browns now.
What are you doing? Get in here and take care of your cousin.
I found him reading an old MAD magazine.
I was teaching him about America through humor.
"Dunces with Wolves.
" [Laughs.]
Genius.
That's your cousin? Is he cool? His shorts almost touch his nipples.
What if he reads your letter and won't cut my hair anymore? Or he tells the other barbers? You know how they talk.
Do you know how hard it is to find a good barber? It's like dating but for your hair.
He's not that good, Dad.
I mean, look at this mess.
I asked for a "Randy," and he gave me a "Brad.
" Nobody knows who those people are! I've been going to Reuben since we moved to Orlando.
I can't start over and find somebody new.
Maybe he won't know who sent it.
I signed the letter "Unhappy Customer.
" Oh, really? [Chuckles.]
What else did it say? It said, "You don't know how to cut Asian hair.
I asked for a 'Randy, ' and you gave me a 'Brad.
'" Evan, he's gonna know that's us! Put your shoes on.
We've got to get that letter back before it ruins the New Year for the both of us.
[Sighs.]
[Movie plays on TV.]
Ugh! Well, good thing I'm wearing my movie jeans and not my lucky red [Gasps.]
Emery[Sighs.]
- I need your help.
- What's up? I forgot to pick up my lucky red dress from the dry cleaner's The one I've worn every New Year's since I retired my women's-powersuit- dragon-broach combo in 1989.
And, let me guess, you want me to make you a new one.
What? No.
No, I want you to come to the dry cleaner's with me - to pick it up.
- Why me? Because I want to make it to New Year's dinner with a clean slate, and I don't trust myself out there alone.
So you want me to be your kindness Sherpa, your karma spirit guide, your bodyguard for Enough examples, but yes.
You get along with everybody, so I'm just gonna follow your lead.
No more loose cannon.
Don't worry, Mom.
Just put your hand on my shoulder, and I'll guide you, like a seeing eye dog except I'll wait outside.
[Wind chimes ring loudly.]
Hey! You like? We brought it back from New Mexico.
Too big for the overhead, so we had to check them.
If the wind blows just right, they play the intro to "Jack & Diane.
" [Laughs.]
Emery, go get my step ladder and the big scissors I use to cut meat.
We love them! Wind chimes are nature's instrument.
[Both chuckle.]
What are you doing? Those pipes sound like somebody let an octopus loose in the Williams-Sonoma.
I know, Mom, but if you're gonna stay clean today, you're gonna need to control your temper.
I'm your kindness Sherpa, remember? Yes, you're right.
But just so you know, as soon as the New Year is over, I'm going to steal those chimes and drop them in the bottom of the ocean.
I know you will, Mom.
- Hide them where no one can find them.
- Okay, Mom.
Wrap them in chains, drive them to the pier, and then I'm gonna drop them off Mom! I get it.
You hate the chimes.
Ding-dong! You're at the bottom of the ocean.
[Video game music plays.]
Are you sure I'm controlling the Koopas? Yeah, yeah, I told you, I control Mario, and you control the Koopas and the Boos.
It's how the game works.
Hey, what'd you do that for? Grandma, what does it look like I'm doing? He's having fun.
Grandma, that's a great idea.
I know just the place.
Hey, Simon.
Have you ever built a bear? I built a miniature model of the Titanic once for history class.
I used Tic Tacs for the life boats.
Uh-huh.
Well, here, you build a bear.
All the cool kids do it.
Okay, do you want to build one together? We can make it a blend of both of us.
What boy names do you like? I like Carl.
It's kind of something you do by yourself.
Like, the bear chooses you.
That kind of thing.
Have fun.
And then you just hand the dry cleaner your ticket, smile, and I'll handle the rest.
He calls me "Jessie.
" You know that? Jessie.
Like I'm a German shepherd.
You can do this.
I believe in you.
All we have to do is walk over there and Uh-oh.
Hello, can you spare any change today to save the whales? Okay, new plan.
I go in alone and get your dress.
- What do I do? - You stay here, relax, and listen to the soothing sounds of NPR.
Man: And with that, Coney Island was born.
The boardwalk, the cotton candy, and, of course, La Marcus Thompson's [Yawns.]
switchback gravity railway.
You know what? I am relaxed.
- I'll be back in five minutes.
- Okay.
- Stay in the car and lock the doors.
- Mm.
The island itself? Named for all the Coneys, or rabbits Louis: Reuben always goes on break at 1:30.
He'll head to the back to eat a yogurt, and we can duck in and see if the letter's been delivered yet.
How will we know? Reuben always gets the new issue of Sports Illustrated in the mail.
If the new issue's on the counter, that means the mail has been delivered, and it's too late.
If it's still last week's, we're okay.
Now's our chance.
Let's go.
"America's Top 50 Jock Schools.
" Is that this week's or last week's? I only read "Zillions.
" Last week's, which means the mail hasn't been [Door opens.]
Louis.
What are you doing here? Oh.
[Laughs.]
We're here because, um, Evan needs another haircut.
Thanks, Reuben, great work as always.
This is great.
Reuben hasn't gotten your letter yet.
Great? Look at my hair.
I look like Grace Jones.
What's the problem? She's a handsome woman.
[Rapping.]
You don't want this fire My words burn, bet your health Put you out with water But you're only gonna wet yourself Hey, cousin Eddie.
You were right about that place.
It was awesome.
You can design your bear's shirt and everything.
I made one of you and one of me.
Why is mine holding a fishing rod? I had to guess your hobbies.
Nice tweddy bear, Eddie.
Walter, give me a beat.
[Beatboxing.]
[Rapping.]
I don't know you, dawg If we're related, it's barely I could care less So if I'm hating, it's barely Why are you here, ringside? You made weight? Barely Oh, you're just watching, on a date with bear me Come to my town, and you're whacker than whack Pick any store, Simon, I'll get a bag for you to pack Return to manufacturer, It's personality you lack I'm done babysitting, I'll just give my money back Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Ohhhhhhh! [Rapping.]
Young Frankenstein thinks I'm dumb? Well, the truth is, I'm dumb nice You's a sucker like a lollipop In other words, you're dumb twice You think you're better, wrong You think you're fresher, wrong And after this spanking I'mma call you Wedgie Huang An hour away from you? I was thrilled, on balance Yeah, I built two bears I charged it to your allowance So call your mom to pick us up Then do us a favor Shut your trap I'm in Orlando to see Mickey, not a little Goofy rap - That was so cool.
- That was tight.
[Laughter.]
- How did you do that? - Sick, man.
- That was so cool.
- Love it.
Woman: And that's where I met my husband, right there on the boardwalk.
Why is this taking so long? He was an engineer on the Cyclone, and I sold cotton candy at the Hello.
Can you spare any change today to save the whales? Yes.
[Coins clink.]
You owe me another $5.
I gave a $20.
No, you gave me a $10.
You owe me another $5.
Oh, now you're in for it, buddy.
Mom, this guy's a liar, and he's trying to steal my money.
Emery, just pay the man what he says you owe him.
What? Me? But he's a liar.
You come into my store and call me a liar? That's it.
You're going on the wall.
[Camera shutter clicks.]
Aren't you gonna say anything? [Sighs.]
Great, now how are people going to know we do shoes? Why didn't you stick up for me? Don't you believe me? Of course, I believe you.
We're supposed to be avoiding conflicts, not starting new ones.
Last week, you yelled at a bus driver for not wearing his hat.
But the one time I need you to get angry for me, you leave me hanging? You care more about your holiday superstitions than you do about me.
No.
That is not true.
I just want our whole family to start out the New Year on the right foot for once.
That is worth $5 to me.
So please, just go in there and give that man his money.
No way.
You know, $5 could de-barnacle a whole pod.
Okay, now let's go over the plan again.
I pretend to lose my car keys down this grate, then when the mailman comes to help me, I hit the mail out of his hands, you grab the letter and rip it up.
Isn't holding up a mailman worse than just sending an angry letter? Can we just ask for it back? Have you ever tried reasoning with a mailman, son? You can't.
They're crazy.
You've got to come strong.
Oh.
[Laughs.]
Thank God you're here.
Uh, my keys have fallen down this grate.
- Oh, no.
- Yeah.
Now! What'd you do that for? Oh, uh, I'm sorry.
I don't know what came over Now! Will you stop doing that? [Siren wails.]
Everything okay, Louis? Looks like you're trying to assault a federal employee.
Assault? [Laughs.]
Oh, no.
I just, uh I My keys fell down a grate.
Look, I'm late for a bamitzvah, so I'm gonna let you off with a warning.
Just, you know, be cool.
[Whistling.]
There goes my relationship with Reuben.
[Sighs.]
We didn't get the letter back, and I have a terrible haircut.
My year of bad luck has already begun.
So you didn't exactly get the haircut you wanted.
I didn't like my haircut when I first went to Reuben.
I wanted the "Clooney," but he gave me this.
After a while, I got used to it.
Why'd you keep going back to him if it wasn't what you wanted? I don't know.
He was just so nice.
He called me "Big Guy.
" I didn't want to hurt his feelings.
Plus, it's a good haircut.
But it could be a great haircut.
You said that finding the right barber was like dating.
Would you have settled for anyone less than Mom? No.
You deserve the "Clooney," Dad.
We all do.
[Wind chimes ring to the tune of "Jack & Diane".]
Looks like we're getting a storm.
[Laughs.]
That's right, girls.
Sing for your supper.
Are you sure? I could have sworn I gave you a $20.
Nope.
You gave me a $10.
I'm sure of it.
You owe me another $5.
[Sighs.]
Not you again.
I am here to make things right for my son.
This is the extra $5 he owes you.
I apologize for his behavior.
And I ask that you take his photo down from your shame wall so he can start out the New Year with a clean slate.
Apology accepted.
But only because I need the business.
My wife has expensive tastes.
- My son's photo, please.
- Oh! Thank you.
And now you're going to want to take my picture.
Why would I want to take Trust me.
You're going to want to take my picture.
- Hey.
- Hey.
What you did back there It [Sighs.]
It was impolite.
I'm sorry.
Don't be sorry.
You were awesome.
I'm the one who should be saying sorry for the way I treated you.
You're not mad that I embarrassed you? I was just mad because you were so good.
I mean, you rhymed "balance" with "allowance.
" You're amazing, dawg.
How'd you get so dope at freestyling? I love hip-hop.
How come you never said anything? You never asked.
Hmm.
For real though, you could become a famous rapper one day.
Rap's just a hobby for me.
My real passion is marine biology.
Do you see any Asian rappers in here? Me neither.
You have a gift.
You have a chance to change the game.
I'll think about it.
Come on.
How did you get this? I'm sorry for not having your back.
I get it.
It's Chinese New Year, and you wanted to start clean.
It's not just that.
I didn't stand up for you because I don't want to set that kind of example for you.
I don't want to teach you that fighting is always the answer.
But u fight with, like, everybody Delivery guys, firemen, the cat outside the frozen yogurt place.
Yes.
And you're good.
And you get along with everybody.
And you're always smiling.
I don't want you to be more like me.
I want to be more like you.
I've witnessed the softening of the hardest of hearts by a simple smile.
Goldie Hawn said that.
Goldie also sounds like a dog's name.
[Speaking Chinese.]
What happened to your hair? Tried out a new barber.
He finally gave me exactly what I asked for The "Clooney.
" You hate it, don't you? So much.
[Inhales deeply.]
But at least now I know.
Like I know sending that letter won't bring me bad luck because it wasn't hate mail, it was truth mail.
[Chuckles.]
You did it, Mom.
You made it to the New Year with a clean slate.
Yeah Uh, orange and full of juice.
Um an orange? The color of my first car.
Tan! Powder blue! Electric plum! You're shouting in my ear.
It's tangerines.
Now sit back and enjoy the entertainment.
[Rapping.]
Big ups to the Huangs Never say you ain't the flyest Never! You can't pick your own family But you can pick your hair stylist Uh-huh! My man Louis the wildest, Jessica mad stylish Yo! Evan's on a short leash, and Emery the least childish Uh-huh.
Mario to my Luigi, Eddie my partner in rhyme Any problems with my people We'll silence you like the chimes Bing-bang.
All love, same blood From the womb to the tomb Just don't ask me to leave I already took Evan's room Sorry, Evan! [Laughter, cheering.]
Well, that's great.
Who is that? Right.
We're running a bit late this morning, darling.
Who's ready for a game of "This or This"? This or this? This or this? This or this? Jeans, red shirt, blue sneakers.
Dylan, what outfit did I say he'd choose? Dylan: Jeans, red shirt, blue sneakers.
Noice! Okay, kids.
Breakfast is served.
Delicious nutrition bars.
"Specially formulated for the needs of a pre-menstrual woman"? Eat it.
Don't read it.
I couldn't write my book report because of my arm.
That's not the arm you use to write with.
Can't sneak anything past you, Mom.
"Tale of Two Cities.
" You loved it.
Hey, that's mine.
Far too brilliant to use only once, darling.
"I forgot my food-drive donation.
" Oh! Hold on.
Was my lunch.
All yours.
Anything you need, Ray? Nothing, and this actually isn't bad.
I'm feeling good about my body and not at all moody.
I'm on fire today.
Gonna be on time for carpooling duty.
I'm making every green light.
[Horn honks.]
That one was actually red.
Well, before it was red, it was green, Ray.
Attitude is everything.
Keep it moving.
Come on.
Keep it moving, please.
Keep it moving.
All the way up to the orange cones.
All right, come on.
I thought people hated this job.
I mean, volunteer hours to boss around strangers.
I don't know how this day could get any better.
I was gonna offer you this, but doesn't seem like you need it.
Oh, now I get to be loud? [Feedback.]
I love my life! Yeah, don't need it.
Captions by VITAC All right, darling.
Go on, hit the target.
And Ka-pow! [Both laugh.]
Well, Mr.
Bruce Lee, what have you done with my son? Great stretching, Mom.
You make him so limber.
Weirdest sucking up ever.
All right, Ray, no need to be snippy just because your science project isn't coming together.
This is how it's supposed to look.
You don't even know what they Phobos and Deimos Moons of Mars.
Jimmy: I got him, honey.
Mom, insulted but impressed.
You are in the zone.
[Door opens.]
Yeah, you know what? Nothing can stop me today.
[Sneezes.]
Sickness! No! We got a sneezer.
This is not a drill! What the hell's going on? You sneezed into your hands like a barbarian.
Am I not supposed to? [Sneezes.]
Jimmy: Kenneth! Oh, are you trying to kill us?! You just told me not to sneeze into my hands.
Sneeze into your elbow.
I mean, not the elbow That's the outside But the inside elbow, the Where the crease-thing is.
The Oh, my God.
What's it called? Thanks, Kenneth, the woman was on a roll, and now she can't even remember the name for a chelidon.
A sniffle can really take out a family like ours.
JJ takes a little bit longer to recover.
We like to be cautious.
Please take your leave.
What? Come back when you have been symptom-free for 24 hours.
Maya, are you serious? Ugh! Oh! I know that was a bit harsh.
If he survives, he'll understand.
So, someone's gonna need to read JJ's board today.
Any takers? Ray: I'll do it.
Great chance for me to check out the classes I'll be taking next year.
I'll do it.
"Dylan.
I like her reason better.
" Geez, upperclassmen sure do like to give each other back massages.
Are they that sore? Hey, sweetie, if you got a sprain up there, that guy's doing a lot more harm than good.
Let me give you the number to my sports medicine guy.
He's the best.
Yeah? Hey, I should probably sharpen my pencil in case anyone tries to give me a back rub.
I'll be right back.
Hey, get in line, los Sorry.
Go ahead.
Wait.
Are you new? No.
I'm here with JJ.
As a sibling! I'm single.
[Chuckles.]
Hi, single.
I'm Chase.
Oh, my God.
You are insanely funny.
I got to go.
Bye.
[Sighs.]
"You seem weird.
" What? No.
Nothing's changed.
Forever.
Right, does everyone got their backpacks, their lunches? [Sneezes.]
Uh-oh.
Germ alert.
Uh-oh.
Nerd alert.
I'm fine.
[Maya groaning.]
Who moved this bloody chair so high? [Breathes heavily, groans.]
[Door closes.]
[Horn honks.]
Oh, relax! I'm just waiting for the light to change.
[Shivering.]
Ohh, I'm so cold.
I just I got to go back and get my parka.
Up the stairs.
Oh, so nice and warm inside this dead bear.
Oh! M-Mom? Oh! I'm here! I'm the only one left.
You have to take over.
You will be the "me" today.
Look.
I made you a list.
[Cellphone rings.]
He's the best in the biz.
I used to cut Gregory Hines' hair.
So what will it be today, Louis? Well, with Chinese New Year coming up, we're gonna need extra fresh cuts.
Better make it two usuals.
Actually, I'll have the "Randy.
" The who? Randy from "Home Improvement.
" You know, Jonathan Taylor Thomas.
Is that one person or three people? One, but with the talent of three.
Okay, your haircut, your choice.
One usual and one "Randy," please.
A usual and a "Randy," coming up.
I hope we don't run into any balloons on our way home because we are gonna look sharp.
[Chuckling.]
Thanks, Reuben.
See, what did I tell you? Isn't Reuben the best? S03E11 Clean Slate Fresh off the boat I'm gettin' mine everywhere I go If you don't know, homey, now you know Fresh off the boat Homey, you don't know where I come from But I know where I'm goin' I'm fresh off the boat [Birds chirping.]
Art thou the bird who man loves best? The pious bird with the scarlet breast.
Is that a "Yes, I returned Marvin's birdfeeder" or a "No, I didn't return Marvin's birdfeeder"? Yes, I returned it.
Good, Louis is clean.
That just leave you boys, with the exception of Emery, who is clean all year round.
I don't get why we're going through all this trouble for a holiday.
Having a clean slate is an important part of the lunar New Year.
All debts, disputes, and grudges have to be resolved in order to ensure good fortune for the coming year.
Mom's just looking out for future us.
Well, she better also be looking our for Mariah Carey because that's who the future me is married to.
I'm gonna marry Jewel.
[Sternly.]
Stay away from Jewel.
Evan, did you settle things with Carol-Joan after your incident? And so the bartender says, "Why the big pause?" And the bear says "I don't know.
I've always had them.
" [Laughter.]
I apologized with a fig basket.
- It's done.
- Good.
Eddie, did you care for Grandma's flowers like I asked you to? Care for them? I spoiled them.
Turns out, they love Mr.
Pibb.
Technically, it's still alive, so good enough.
Second cousin Susan? You've been in a fight with her for 30 years.
Louis, do you know what this means? This could be the first time our entire family has a clean slate for the New Year! Imagine what that kind of good fortune could mean for our future business dealings and scratch-offs.
But, Mom, you've never had a clean slate.
You always end up getting into a fight with somebody.
You're kind of a loose cannon.
A loose cannon downs more ships.
- I don't - Don't worry.
This year, to ensure success, I am putting myself on lock down.
If I don't leave the house, I can't get into any fights.
Really? You're just gonna stay inside? I've already run all my errands, paid all my debts, settled my disputes, and had enough time to rent "Courage Under Fire.
" Um Who is that? Very [Sighs.]
Simon, welcome.
Eddie will take good care of you.
[Whispering.]
Me? Have Evan do it.
He's basically a big Evan.
Look at him! Welcoming family is an important New Year's tradition.
He is your new "Grandma's flowers.
" Don't let him die.
[Tune of "Hit Me with Your Best Shot".]
Organize my dress socks Why don't I organize my dress socks? Organize my dress socks and put them away Uh Dad.
Oh, Evan, hi.
What's up? I have a problem.
The letter was right here, stamped and addressed, and now it's gone.
So? Your mom probably mailed it.
You don't understand.
The letter was hate mail.
You sent hate mail? I was gonna send it after the New Year, but then someone went and mailed it.
Now Reuben's gonna read it today, and I'll have bad luck for the entire year.
Evan, relax.
I'm sure whoever Wait.
Reuben who? You know, Reuben.
Your barber? [Rapping.]
Your rhymes are like air balls Mine are Magic, I Shaq it You tryin' to kill me in a battle? Break out that old Browns jacket Ooh! Ooh! Ooh! - Eddie! - Trent: I hate the Browns now.
What are you doing? Get in here and take care of your cousin.
I found him reading an old MAD magazine.
I was teaching him about America through humor.
"Dunces with Wolves.
" [Laughs.]
Genius.
That's your cousin? Is he cool? His shorts almost touch his nipples.
What if he reads your letter and won't cut my hair anymore? Or he tells the other barbers? You know how they talk.
Do you know how hard it is to find a good barber? It's like dating but for your hair.
He's not that good, Dad.
I mean, look at this mess.
I asked for a "Randy," and he gave me a "Brad.
" Nobody knows who those people are! I've been going to Reuben since we moved to Orlando.
I can't start over and find somebody new.
Maybe he won't know who sent it.
I signed the letter "Unhappy Customer.
" Oh, really? [Chuckles.]
What else did it say? It said, "You don't know how to cut Asian hair.
I asked for a 'Randy, ' and you gave me a 'Brad.
'" Evan, he's gonna know that's us! Put your shoes on.
We've got to get that letter back before it ruins the New Year for the both of us.
[Sighs.]
[Movie plays on TV.]
Ugh! Well, good thing I'm wearing my movie jeans and not my lucky red [Gasps.]
Emery[Sighs.]
- I need your help.
- What's up? I forgot to pick up my lucky red dress from the dry cleaner's The one I've worn every New Year's since I retired my women's-powersuit- dragon-broach combo in 1989.
And, let me guess, you want me to make you a new one.
What? No.
No, I want you to come to the dry cleaner's with me - to pick it up.
- Why me? Because I want to make it to New Year's dinner with a clean slate, and I don't trust myself out there alone.
So you want me to be your kindness Sherpa, your karma spirit guide, your bodyguard for Enough examples, but yes.
You get along with everybody, so I'm just gonna follow your lead.
No more loose cannon.
Don't worry, Mom.
Just put your hand on my shoulder, and I'll guide you, like a seeing eye dog except I'll wait outside.
[Wind chimes ring loudly.]
Hey! You like? We brought it back from New Mexico.
Too big for the overhead, so we had to check them.
If the wind blows just right, they play the intro to "Jack & Diane.
" [Laughs.]
Emery, go get my step ladder and the big scissors I use to cut meat.
We love them! Wind chimes are nature's instrument.
[Both chuckle.]
What are you doing? Those pipes sound like somebody let an octopus loose in the Williams-Sonoma.
I know, Mom, but if you're gonna stay clean today, you're gonna need to control your temper.
I'm your kindness Sherpa, remember? Yes, you're right.
But just so you know, as soon as the New Year is over, I'm going to steal those chimes and drop them in the bottom of the ocean.
I know you will, Mom.
- Hide them where no one can find them.
- Okay, Mom.
Wrap them in chains, drive them to the pier, and then I'm gonna drop them off Mom! I get it.
You hate the chimes.
Ding-dong! You're at the bottom of the ocean.
[Video game music plays.]
Are you sure I'm controlling the Koopas? Yeah, yeah, I told you, I control Mario, and you control the Koopas and the Boos.
It's how the game works.
Hey, what'd you do that for? Grandma, what does it look like I'm doing? He's having fun.
Grandma, that's a great idea.
I know just the place.
Hey, Simon.
Have you ever built a bear? I built a miniature model of the Titanic once for history class.
I used Tic Tacs for the life boats.
Uh-huh.
Well, here, you build a bear.
All the cool kids do it.
Okay, do you want to build one together? We can make it a blend of both of us.
What boy names do you like? I like Carl.
It's kind of something you do by yourself.
Like, the bear chooses you.
That kind of thing.
Have fun.
And then you just hand the dry cleaner your ticket, smile, and I'll handle the rest.
He calls me "Jessie.
" You know that? Jessie.
Like I'm a German shepherd.
You can do this.
I believe in you.
All we have to do is walk over there and Uh-oh.
Hello, can you spare any change today to save the whales? Okay, new plan.
I go in alone and get your dress.
- What do I do? - You stay here, relax, and listen to the soothing sounds of NPR.
Man: And with that, Coney Island was born.
The boardwalk, the cotton candy, and, of course, La Marcus Thompson's [Yawns.]
switchback gravity railway.
You know what? I am relaxed.
- I'll be back in five minutes.
- Okay.
- Stay in the car and lock the doors.
- Mm.
The island itself? Named for all the Coneys, or rabbits Louis: Reuben always goes on break at 1:30.
He'll head to the back to eat a yogurt, and we can duck in and see if the letter's been delivered yet.
How will we know? Reuben always gets the new issue of Sports Illustrated in the mail.
If the new issue's on the counter, that means the mail has been delivered, and it's too late.
If it's still last week's, we're okay.
Now's our chance.
Let's go.
"America's Top 50 Jock Schools.
" Is that this week's or last week's? I only read "Zillions.
" Last week's, which means the mail hasn't been [Door opens.]
Louis.
What are you doing here? Oh.
[Laughs.]
We're here because, um, Evan needs another haircut.
Thanks, Reuben, great work as always.
This is great.
Reuben hasn't gotten your letter yet.
Great? Look at my hair.
I look like Grace Jones.
What's the problem? She's a handsome woman.
[Rapping.]
You don't want this fire My words burn, bet your health Put you out with water But you're only gonna wet yourself Hey, cousin Eddie.
You were right about that place.
It was awesome.
You can design your bear's shirt and everything.
I made one of you and one of me.
Why is mine holding a fishing rod? I had to guess your hobbies.
Nice tweddy bear, Eddie.
Walter, give me a beat.
[Beatboxing.]
[Rapping.]
I don't know you, dawg If we're related, it's barely I could care less So if I'm hating, it's barely Why are you here, ringside? You made weight? Barely Oh, you're just watching, on a date with bear me Come to my town, and you're whacker than whack Pick any store, Simon, I'll get a bag for you to pack Return to manufacturer, It's personality you lack I'm done babysitting, I'll just give my money back Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Ohhhhhhh! [Rapping.]
Young Frankenstein thinks I'm dumb? Well, the truth is, I'm dumb nice You's a sucker like a lollipop In other words, you're dumb twice You think you're better, wrong You think you're fresher, wrong And after this spanking I'mma call you Wedgie Huang An hour away from you? I was thrilled, on balance Yeah, I built two bears I charged it to your allowance So call your mom to pick us up Then do us a favor Shut your trap I'm in Orlando to see Mickey, not a little Goofy rap - That was so cool.
- That was tight.
[Laughter.]
- How did you do that? - Sick, man.
- That was so cool.
- Love it.
Woman: And that's where I met my husband, right there on the boardwalk.
Why is this taking so long? He was an engineer on the Cyclone, and I sold cotton candy at the Hello.
Can you spare any change today to save the whales? Yes.
[Coins clink.]
You owe me another $5.
I gave a $20.
No, you gave me a $10.
You owe me another $5.
Oh, now you're in for it, buddy.
Mom, this guy's a liar, and he's trying to steal my money.
Emery, just pay the man what he says you owe him.
What? Me? But he's a liar.
You come into my store and call me a liar? That's it.
You're going on the wall.
[Camera shutter clicks.]
Aren't you gonna say anything? [Sighs.]
Great, now how are people going to know we do shoes? Why didn't you stick up for me? Don't you believe me? Of course, I believe you.
We're supposed to be avoiding conflicts, not starting new ones.
Last week, you yelled at a bus driver for not wearing his hat.
But the one time I need you to get angry for me, you leave me hanging? You care more about your holiday superstitions than you do about me.
No.
That is not true.
I just want our whole family to start out the New Year on the right foot for once.
That is worth $5 to me.
So please, just go in there and give that man his money.
No way.
You know, $5 could de-barnacle a whole pod.
Okay, now let's go over the plan again.
I pretend to lose my car keys down this grate, then when the mailman comes to help me, I hit the mail out of his hands, you grab the letter and rip it up.
Isn't holding up a mailman worse than just sending an angry letter? Can we just ask for it back? Have you ever tried reasoning with a mailman, son? You can't.
They're crazy.
You've got to come strong.
Oh.
[Laughs.]
Thank God you're here.
Uh, my keys have fallen down this grate.
- Oh, no.
- Yeah.
Now! What'd you do that for? Oh, uh, I'm sorry.
I don't know what came over Now! Will you stop doing that? [Siren wails.]
Everything okay, Louis? Looks like you're trying to assault a federal employee.
Assault? [Laughs.]
Oh, no.
I just, uh I My keys fell down a grate.
Look, I'm late for a bamitzvah, so I'm gonna let you off with a warning.
Just, you know, be cool.
[Whistling.]
There goes my relationship with Reuben.
[Sighs.]
We didn't get the letter back, and I have a terrible haircut.
My year of bad luck has already begun.
So you didn't exactly get the haircut you wanted.
I didn't like my haircut when I first went to Reuben.
I wanted the "Clooney," but he gave me this.
After a while, I got used to it.
Why'd you keep going back to him if it wasn't what you wanted? I don't know.
He was just so nice.
He called me "Big Guy.
" I didn't want to hurt his feelings.
Plus, it's a good haircut.
But it could be a great haircut.
You said that finding the right barber was like dating.
Would you have settled for anyone less than Mom? No.
You deserve the "Clooney," Dad.
We all do.
[Wind chimes ring to the tune of "Jack & Diane".]
Looks like we're getting a storm.
[Laughs.]
That's right, girls.
Sing for your supper.
Are you sure? I could have sworn I gave you a $20.
Nope.
You gave me a $10.
I'm sure of it.
You owe me another $5.
[Sighs.]
Not you again.
I am here to make things right for my son.
This is the extra $5 he owes you.
I apologize for his behavior.
And I ask that you take his photo down from your shame wall so he can start out the New Year with a clean slate.
Apology accepted.
But only because I need the business.
My wife has expensive tastes.
- My son's photo, please.
- Oh! Thank you.
And now you're going to want to take my picture.
Why would I want to take Trust me.
You're going to want to take my picture.
- Hey.
- Hey.
What you did back there It [Sighs.]
It was impolite.
I'm sorry.
Don't be sorry.
You were awesome.
I'm the one who should be saying sorry for the way I treated you.
You're not mad that I embarrassed you? I was just mad because you were so good.
I mean, you rhymed "balance" with "allowance.
" You're amazing, dawg.
How'd you get so dope at freestyling? I love hip-hop.
How come you never said anything? You never asked.
Hmm.
For real though, you could become a famous rapper one day.
Rap's just a hobby for me.
My real passion is marine biology.
Do you see any Asian rappers in here? Me neither.
You have a gift.
You have a chance to change the game.
I'll think about it.
Come on.
How did you get this? I'm sorry for not having your back.
I get it.
It's Chinese New Year, and you wanted to start clean.
It's not just that.
I didn't stand up for you because I don't want to set that kind of example for you.
I don't want to teach you that fighting is always the answer.
But u fight with, like, everybody Delivery guys, firemen, the cat outside the frozen yogurt place.
Yes.
And you're good.
And you get along with everybody.
And you're always smiling.
I don't want you to be more like me.
I want to be more like you.
I've witnessed the softening of the hardest of hearts by a simple smile.
Goldie Hawn said that.
Goldie also sounds like a dog's name.
[Speaking Chinese.]
What happened to your hair? Tried out a new barber.
He finally gave me exactly what I asked for The "Clooney.
" You hate it, don't you? So much.
[Inhales deeply.]
But at least now I know.
Like I know sending that letter won't bring me bad luck because it wasn't hate mail, it was truth mail.
[Chuckles.]
You did it, Mom.
You made it to the New Year with a clean slate.
Yeah Uh, orange and full of juice.
Um an orange? The color of my first car.
Tan! Powder blue! Electric plum! You're shouting in my ear.
It's tangerines.
Now sit back and enjoy the entertainment.
[Rapping.]
Big ups to the Huangs Never say you ain't the flyest Never! You can't pick your own family But you can pick your hair stylist Uh-huh! My man Louis the wildest, Jessica mad stylish Yo! Evan's on a short leash, and Emery the least childish Uh-huh.
Mario to my Luigi, Eddie my partner in rhyme Any problems with my people We'll silence you like the chimes Bing-bang.
All love, same blood From the womb to the tomb Just don't ask me to leave I already took Evan's room Sorry, Evan! [Laughter, cheering.]
Well, that's great.
Who is that? Right.
We're running a bit late this morning, darling.
Who's ready for a game of "This or This"? This or this? This or this? This or this? Jeans, red shirt, blue sneakers.
Dylan, what outfit did I say he'd choose? Dylan: Jeans, red shirt, blue sneakers.
Noice! Okay, kids.
Breakfast is served.
Delicious nutrition bars.
"Specially formulated for the needs of a pre-menstrual woman"? Eat it.
Don't read it.
I couldn't write my book report because of my arm.
That's not the arm you use to write with.
Can't sneak anything past you, Mom.
"Tale of Two Cities.
" You loved it.
Hey, that's mine.
Far too brilliant to use only once, darling.
"I forgot my food-drive donation.
" Oh! Hold on.
Was my lunch.
All yours.
Anything you need, Ray? Nothing, and this actually isn't bad.
I'm feeling good about my body and not at all moody.
I'm on fire today.
Gonna be on time for carpooling duty.
I'm making every green light.
[Horn honks.]
That one was actually red.
Well, before it was red, it was green, Ray.
Attitude is everything.
Keep it moving.
Come on.
Keep it moving, please.
Keep it moving.
All the way up to the orange cones.
All right, come on.
I thought people hated this job.
I mean, volunteer hours to boss around strangers.
I don't know how this day could get any better.
I was gonna offer you this, but doesn't seem like you need it.
Oh, now I get to be loud? [Feedback.]
I love my life! Yeah, don't need it.
Captions by VITAC All right, darling.
Go on, hit the target.
And Ka-pow! [Both laugh.]
Well, Mr.
Bruce Lee, what have you done with my son? Great stretching, Mom.
You make him so limber.
Weirdest sucking up ever.
All right, Ray, no need to be snippy just because your science project isn't coming together.
This is how it's supposed to look.
You don't even know what they Phobos and Deimos Moons of Mars.
Jimmy: I got him, honey.
Mom, insulted but impressed.
You are in the zone.
[Door opens.]
Yeah, you know what? Nothing can stop me today.
[Sneezes.]
Sickness! No! We got a sneezer.
This is not a drill! What the hell's going on? You sneezed into your hands like a barbarian.
Am I not supposed to? [Sneezes.]
Jimmy: Kenneth! Oh, are you trying to kill us?! You just told me not to sneeze into my hands.
Sneeze into your elbow.
I mean, not the elbow That's the outside But the inside elbow, the Where the crease-thing is.
The Oh, my God.
What's it called? Thanks, Kenneth, the woman was on a roll, and now she can't even remember the name for a chelidon.
A sniffle can really take out a family like ours.
JJ takes a little bit longer to recover.
We like to be cautious.
Please take your leave.
What? Come back when you have been symptom-free for 24 hours.
Maya, are you serious? Ugh! Oh! I know that was a bit harsh.
If he survives, he'll understand.
So, someone's gonna need to read JJ's board today.
Any takers? Ray: I'll do it.
Great chance for me to check out the classes I'll be taking next year.
I'll do it.
"Dylan.
I like her reason better.
" Geez, upperclassmen sure do like to give each other back massages.
Are they that sore? Hey, sweetie, if you got a sprain up there, that guy's doing a lot more harm than good.
Let me give you the number to my sports medicine guy.
He's the best.
Yeah? Hey, I should probably sharpen my pencil in case anyone tries to give me a back rub.
I'll be right back.
Hey, get in line, los Sorry.
Go ahead.
Wait.
Are you new? No.
I'm here with JJ.
As a sibling! I'm single.
[Chuckles.]
Hi, single.
I'm Chase.
Oh, my God.
You are insanely funny.
I got to go.
Bye.
[Sighs.]
"You seem weird.
" What? No.
Nothing's changed.
Forever.
Right, does everyone got their backpacks, their lunches? [Sneezes.]
Uh-oh.
Germ alert.
Uh-oh.
Nerd alert.
I'm fine.
[Maya groaning.]
Who moved this bloody chair so high? [Breathes heavily, groans.]
[Door closes.]
[Horn honks.]
Oh, relax! I'm just waiting for the light to change.
[Shivering.]
Ohh, I'm so cold.
I just I got to go back and get my parka.
Up the stairs.
Oh, so nice and warm inside this dead bear.
Oh! M-Mom? Oh! I'm here! I'm the only one left.
You have to take over.
You will be the "me" today.
Look.
I made you a list.
[Cellphone rings.]