2nd Chance for Christmas (2019) - full transcript

Woman: # I remember
how just last December #

# We were here together
in the cold #

# Snow was falling
and I heard you calling me #

# To meet you by the mistletoe #

# And you held me by the fire #

# With the lights
all on the tree #

# When everything was perfect #

# Just you and me #

# I don't need no presents #

# 'Cause my only wish is
that you're home for Christmas #

# Counting down the se... #



Okay, I can't hear my vocals,

so can we pump those up
a little bit?

Yeah. No problem. I'll
pump 'em up right now. Uh...

Thank you.

Here we go. Set?

# And you held me
by the fire #

- # Held me by the fire...
# - # With the lights all on the tree #

# When everything was perfect #

# Just you and me #

Okay.
I-It's still not up enough.

Can you try
turning the track down?

All right.
Consider it pumped up,

and I will bring the track down
just a little bit for you.

- How's that?
- Hello. Hello.



Okay. Yeah, let's do it.

Here we go.

# I don't need no presents #

# 'Cause my only wish is
that you're home for Christmas #

Okay, sorry.
Can you take the click out?

Taking the click out.

Thank you.

Anything else?

No, that's it. Thanks.

# Favorite carols
and the sound of sleigh bells #

# Running through the city
and the night #

# Fingers frozen,
but your arms were open #

# So you pulled me close
and wrapped me tight #

# And you held me by the fire #

# With the lights
all on the tree #

# When everything was perfect #

# Just you and me #

# I don't need no presents #

# 'Cause my only wish is
that you're home for Christmas #

# Counting down the seconds #

'Cause I need your kisses #

# So come home for Christmas #

# To me #

That was really nice, Chance.

Your grandfather'd be really
happy for you over this one.

You good?

You don't wanna
do one more run-through?

No, I'm good.

We should do
one more for safety.

I said I'm good.

Merry Christmas.

I'm doing
everything I can to be there.

Aw, man.

Uh, can she talk?
How's she doing?

No, don't worry about it. Just...

Yeah, just let her rest.

Yeah, I'll call later.

Yeah, I love you, too, Dad.

Ah, it's about damn time!

Somebody get me
a sparkling water!

Here you go.

Mom, I swear
that is the last time

I sing that stupid
Christmas song.

What?
Everyone loves that song.

Because my image
needs to be rock 'n' roll!

I'm so sick
of this Christmas thing!

This Christmas thing
is what got you here.

Hey, what's up? How'd it go?

Uh, cancel my flight home.
And when's my meeting

with Trevor Grossman
about the new album?

Chance,
it's been, like, an hour.

You know I'm working on it.

And?

And I'm trying really hard.

Why are...Why cancel the flights?
What happened?

Well, because we
need to be here

for when Roger
sets up the meeting.

We need to be here? Chance...

with Christmas happening,

I don't think anyone's
gonna be available

till, like, the 27th, and my mom
is really having a hard...

Brian, get it done.

Now get out. Need some quiet.

Chance, please.

You don't understand.

All I need is a few days
to see my mom.

Oh, you can leave
whenever you want.

Thank you. I can't tell you
how much that means to me.

It's just gonna be really hard
to get a new assistant,

especially this time of year,
but if you really need to...

Nah, just...

I'll stay.

Good.

Great.

Brian, what's up, man?

We gotta talk about
that scheduling for Chance...

Cory, I can't talk
right now. Sorry.

...scheduling. Come on.

Jason! How's my favorite
male pop star?

Coo...We gotta talk
about the Europe tour, baby!

Hey, I'm family.

- Hell of a day.
- Hey, baby.

Mmm.

Hey, Nate,

why don't you
hang out in the car?

I'll let you know
when I need you.

Copy that.

Nate, I really
need to speak to Ja...

Great. Great.

- I hate that song.
- Ahh.

- I keep telling Cory not to...
- I know. Mine, too.

They had me do the bridge,
like, 40 times,

like I'm some beginner,
so I fired my manager

right there in front of them.

- You fired Tom?
- Yeah.

I had to let 'em know
who they're dealing with.

You put your guard down
for one second,

and people start thinking
they're in control.

- What did Tom do?
- He set up the session.

Haven't you been
with him for, like, ever?

Let's not talk about that.

Hey, no more work,

'cause I have
a little surprise for you.

I love surprises.

Why don't we spend
New Year's Eve in Paris?

Are you serious?

Serious as a heart attack.

It'll be the most romantic week.

Oh, my God, baby!
I love you!

Of course. I'm gonna get you
a front-row ticket to the show.

The show? What show?

I'm playing
the stadium in Paris.

Can you believe that?

And you can be
my little groupie.

Your groupie?

Yeah, my sexy groupie.

Okay, Jason, not now.
My mom's in the other room.

Aw, come on.

I've been working
with these hacks all day long.

You texted me to stop by.

I know, but I actually
just want to be alone, so...

You don't wanna spend time

with your boyfriend
on Christmas Eve?

Oh, screw Christmas!

What is your problem?
I stopped by to be with you.

Now you're trying
to throw me out?

I'm not throwing you out.
I'm just tired,

and we can see
each other tomorrow.

Come on.
God, don't be like this!

I'm not being like anything!

Why can't anyone
just listen to me?

Because you're acting crazy.

Oh, I'm crazy now?

Just get out.

Fine. Eh, have it your way.

Uh, Jason, wait!

Give her a minute, chief.
She's in a mood.

Thanks for the heads-up.

Hey, you...you wrap up
that European deal?

Yeah, I told you. Tonight.

Your car's ready outside, sir.

You got this.

Cory!

- Hi.
- Hi.

Now, why is Brian having
to get me all my meetings

when I have one
of the best agents in town?

Merry Christmas to you, too.

I asked you to get me
that meeting last week.

And I told you last week that I would
get you in with him when he's available.

Patience.

So, anyway,
how'd the recording go today?

I can't believe
I let them talk me into it.

But it is a good paycheck,
so I'll take it.

Actually, I wanted
to talk to you about that.

About what?

When I picked your mom up
at the airport,

we were talking,
and we were thinking maybe

we could donate the proceeds
from this to charity.

What are you talking about?

My cut, too.
You know, we give it all away.

Look, this paycheck is peanuts
compared to your last release.

We could easily give it

to the less fortunate
for Christmas.

Hmm.

Who exactly is this "we"
we're talking about?

- What?
- This is my money.

How dare you and my mother talk
about my money behind my back?

I-I thought
you would love the idea,

a-and your mom said
that, for Christmas...

Oh, for Christmas?
I hate Christmas.

It's a stupid,
unnecessary holiday

where I'm expected
to buy things for people

and pretend I care about them.

I'm boycotting this year.

Wow. Wow.

You know what, Chance?

Take a long, hard look
in that mirror.

You might be surprised
what you see.

Oh.

My car's here.

Looks like
we're done for the day.

They got everything they needed.

Do you wanna grab dinner
on the way to the airport?

- You can. I'm staying.
- What?

But feel free to take
Santa Claus over here with you.

- What?
- Okay, look, Mom,

I know you might
not understand this concept,

but I have a business to run,
and I am the business,

so I can't just be running off
for no good reason.

No good reason?
It's Christmas.

Everyone's waiting for you.

We have a whole party
planned for us.

Well, then,
tell them I said hello.

My car's here.

Cory, get me that meeting!

Don't do this.

Your father's
gonna be devastated.

She's coming. She's coming.

Get ready. Get ready.

Watch your step.

Chance! Hey, Chance!
Please sign this!

- Hold on.
- Chance, please!

Take a moment.
Say hi to my daughter!

Say hi to my daughter?
She loves you!

Bodyguard: Back up. Sir!

Excuse me.

It's okay, sweetie.

It's okay.

I tell you what.
You wanna go get some ice cream?

Yeah?

Want some ice cream?

Okay.

Let's go.

Survive the crowd okay?

Yeah, barely.

Phew.

Merry Christmas, Ms. Love.

Man, they really love you.

Please.

Hey, one thing.
If you mistreat your fans,

you just might
not have any one day.

No one's asking
for your advice, Brian.

Fine. Here. You know what?

I'm gonna catch up
on your taxes.

Disclaimer, you might
have to hire a CPA,

'cause we're two years
behind already.

I can handle my own business.

Chance, you really
can't keep pushing this off.

They're really
gonna come after you.

Bobby, what's the holdup?
Take me home already.

We're not waiting
for your mom?

No. Just drive.

How's she gonna get
to the airport?

We're not going
to the airport, Bobby.

Are your ears clogged?
Drive home now!

You're the boss.

It's gonna take
just a couple of minutes

for the fans to clear us a path.

Fine.

I hate this time of year.

No, you don't.
You're just hungry.

No, you're hangry again.

Shut up.

My place is
just down the street

if you want
to grab something.

Are you serious? No.

Fine. I was...
was just offering.

Your dad had this cute
little guy sent to the office.

Look at him.

I grabbed him off the desk
on the way out.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Little guitar.

Sir...

get rid of this.

That wasn't very nice,
Ms. Love.

You know, he probably
had that specially made.

I'm not a little girl anymore.

So? He's still your dad.

He sent that to you,
because he loves you.

He's gonna notice when he comes
to visit and it's not around.

I pay you to drive,
not give me advice, okay?

So, uh, hey,

did your mom mention the thing?

- You knew about that?
- Yeah.

I think it's a great idea,

giving presents
to, like, the kids

at orphanages and hospitals,
that's amazing.

You know how happy
they're gonna be?

So happy.

See?

Do you wanna give away
all of your money to charity?

Actually, yeah.

N-Not all of it,
but some of it.

Good for you.

Me? I gotta look out
for number one.

My music makes people happy.

That's how I give back,
and that's enough for me.

Ah, that's not
the Chance I grew up with.

You don't even sound like you.

Deal with it.

Hey, if it's about money,
I can make sure

there's tax write-offs,
charity donations.

I'll make sure
you save money on it.

Brian, just shut
your trap, okay?

Okay.
I was just trying to help.

Yeah, I got it.

Okay, they're clearing up.

We can go now.

All right, I'm gonna take a nap.

Wake me up when we get there.

You got it, Ms. Love.

Seriously?

All the lights on?

What, am I made of money?

I'm so firing
those cleaning ladies.

Really? 500 channels,
and there's actually nothing on?

Did Brian forget to pay my bill?

Oh, no.

Oh, wow! It's really you.

I-I'm a little starstruck.

Um, I-I got you
your kale smoothie right here.

I put in, um,
some extra vitamin shots,

an immunity boost,
and some extra protein powder,

- because, yeah...
- Okay.

I gotta tell you,
I'm a huge fan.

- Yeah.
- Thank you.

No, hey, do you think
I could actually get

your...your signature on this?
You can make it out to Toby?

Oh. Yeah, no,
my hand's tired.

- Your hand is...
- I'm sorry, yeah.

No. No, don't close it.

Please don't.
No, no, don't close it.

Mm-mmm.

Mm-mmm.

Merry Christmas!

There we go.

Much better.

Aw, man

Chance!

Chance?

Stay away from me.

- Chance!
- Who are you?!

What do you want?!

Don't you recognize
your own grandfather?

Grandpa Jack?

You've started to go down
a road that leads into the dark.

What is going on?

How are you here?
Wh-Why are you here?

Look at you.

Look what you've become!

It was
that delivery guy, Toby,

with the kale sm...He spiked
my smoothie. That's it.

No, no, no, no!

This is not a trick.

Your time has come.

I'm an old man.
I need a seat.

What?

It never gets easier.

I have a gift for you.

I'm getting a gift?

- Mm-hmm.
- Okay.

Now I know I'm crazy.
I've lost it.

I'm sitting here, talking to
my dead rock-star grandfather.

All right, all right.
Let's cut to the chase.

Let's stop with
the chitter-chatter, all right?

Let's get to it.

Okay.
So, ghost of Grandpa Jack,

why don't you
just give me the gift,

and we can wrap this up,

'cause it's freaking me out
a little bit.

Oh, no, no, no, no.
You see,

my actions in life
have had consequences

that have lasted
throughout my living years.

These contracts
became my life, my family...

and to them,

my soul is bound forever.

I must carry these
throughout all time,

retribution...

for a wasted life.

- Do you need my help?
- No, I don't need your help.

That ship has...
long gone. Nah.

But living for one's self,

only for one's self,
has a price.

I came here
to give you this gift,

the gift of another chance.

Another chance?

That's right.

Tonight, you'll
be visited by three spirits,

one of which will reveal
themselves within the next hour.

You're sending me
three ghosts?!

That's right, my dear,

my gift
to my lovely granddaughter.

Some gift.

Chance, y-you gotta
change your ways.

If you don't change your ways,
you're gonna end up like me!

A rock star?

No, doomed!

Doomed, I tell thee!

I lived my entire life
for fame, money, fortune,

and look where it brought me!
Here!

When my life should have
been about sincerity...

humility...

kindness, and mercy.

Do you hear what I'm saying?

Think I just broke something.

But it might not be
too late for you.

Another chance.

Oh, man.

Grandpa Jack...

out.

Yeah. There was definitely
something in that smoothie.

I gotta get out of here.

Christmas...

lies told to force kids
to sit on the lap

of a jiggle-bellied pimp
in a red velvet suit

to capture that Kodak moment,

hoping he's real,
hoping for rewards,

hoping he don't attack,

but no time
for thought on that.

Hang ten on the Net to catch
that cyberwave of capitalism,

ripping, running,
racing through stores

to buy more things
we can't afford,

then wrap them
in festive gaudy paper.

Oh, we destroy that later.

That is how we celebrate,

like my inebriated Uncle Jimmy,

who, once again,
this holiday season,

drowns his failed hopes
and dreams in a bottle.

What a treat,

overeat processed meat.

St. Nick is
a jive turkey from Turkey.

No grace, tight space,
tight waist,

slips down inside your place,

eats your cookies and milk,

leaves packages
under a murdered tree.

Rich cat with a pimpish red hat.

Did you know that?

Celebrate.

Joy, excitement, family.

Focused on an overweight,
out-of-date clown

so unrelated,
I can't concentrate.

Why can't we remember...

Hey, good evening.
Happy Holidays.

Would you like to see a menu?

Yeah.

...playing their hand
to get the common man

to follow their plan.

Hey. Uh, merry Christmas.

What can I get for you?

Cranberry vodka.

All right.

...a brand-new rendition
of a pagan tradition

designed to keep
the people in check.

And so we celebrate...

There you go,
little Christmas cheer.

Poet: # Love and happiness #

Joy, excitement...

- # All is calm #
- family...

# All is bright #

# Sleep in heavenly peace #

# Sleep in heavenly peace #

Mmm, "Silent Night."

Hello, doll.

Ah, that is
just one fine piece of music.

Mm, mm, it's a classic.

My opinion,
Ol' Blue Eyes did it best.

I didn't think your generation
went in for that kind of thing.

It was my grandfather's
secret favorite song, so...

Now, look,
I don't mean to be nosy,

but, uh, aren't you Chance Love?

Guilty.

Oh, well, well, well, Chance.

It's an absolute pleasure.

I'm Gus.

It was nice to meet you, Gus.

Mm, well, doll,
let me tell you this.

With legs like that
and a suit like this,

we could dance the night away.

Okay, thanks, but I'll pass.

Ah. Well, that's too bad.

What's a nice girl like you

doing in a dive like this
on Christmas Eve, huh?

Shouldn't you be at some big
Hollywood shindig in the Hills?

Can you please
stop talking to me?

Oh, I'm sorry.
I meant no offense.

Well, Merry Christmas.

You have yourself
a nice evening.

Uh, one more thing, doll face.

What?

What's happening?
Where am I?

No, no, no, no.
Have a drink. Take the edge off.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.
This is...This is...

This is your childhood home.

Mom? Dad?

Sweetie, sweetie,
no, no, no, no touchie.

No, no, can't hear you.
Can't see you.

It's just us, okay?

Yeah, the tree
looks really good this year.

You did a great job.

Mama bear, Papa bear.

Gus is the name.

Ghost of Christmas Past
is my job,

though I've never been
too keen about that title.

I find it too on the nose.

Oh, hey, look, look,
look, look! A second Chance!

A guitar!

- Hey, Merry Christmas, sweetie!
- Hey!

I just got it as I said it.

There goes a second Chance,

'cause your...
your name is Chance, and...

And, yeah,
yes, it was corny, okay,

but, my God,
how could I not have said that?

Oh! It's just the one I wanted!

Oh, it must be
from Grandpa Jack.

Grandpa, he's amazing.

We told him you'd been
taking lessons, sweetie.

Ah, Grandpa Jack.

Couldn't make Christmas
once again,

but look at those
nice presents he sent.

I would have loved him,
no matter what.

Mm-mm-mm. Let's put away

that social media following
of yours for now, okay?

This is about you, Cherry Bear.

Don't call me that.

Oh, that guitar,
that gift of love.

It sure pushed you to practice,
huh? Am I wrong about that?

Why are we here?

Well, you know,
being a spirit has some perks.

One, I get to help you
find your way.

And, I consider
the most important,

the drinks are free!

That thing is
gonna make me so rich.

Okay, I have
a notion that you're

not exactly getting
the point of this,

so we might need
to do this again.

You know what?
Let's see it one more time.

Chance: Whoa, whoa, whoa!

Are we both watching the same
ghostly flashback thing?

Because what I see
is a star in the making.

Kiddo, we have
got some work to do.

Oh, I remember this.

This is the day. This is...

This is "A.G.T.S.,"
the show that made me famous.

Bingo! You hit that one

straight out of the ballpark,
sweetheart.

But now tell me this.

Do you remember everything?

But, Mom,
what if I forget the words?

What if I don't want
to do it anymore?

Is it too late
to tell them not to?

You could do
whatever you want to do.

I don't think
you want to quit. Do you?

Plus, you're gonna
totally kill it.

Thanks, Mom.

All right.
I'm gonna get us some water.

Okay.

Don't worry, kid. You nail it.

Without people like us,

some people don't get to eat
or... or pay the bills.

Like, they depend on us
for survival.

People like us?

Yeah, you know, stars.

I don't think so.

Well, you look
like a star to me.

That's really sweet.

Let me give you
a piece of advice.

Always look out for number one.

Give them your talent.
That's what the people want.

Keep the rest for yourself.

Do you really think
I could be a star?

Oh, hello.

Who's your new friend?

Mom! It's Jason Cleavers.

Are you one
of the contestants, too?

That's cute.

I'm the host.

I didn't know.

And what am I
supposed to learn

about my mom embarrassing me?

It wasn't about...

It was about Jason
giving you bad advice.

You know what?
Let's look a little forward.

How 'bout a year?

Is that Brian?

I haven't thought
about this in years.

Mm, he's thought
about it a lot.

Yeah?

Uh, hi, Mr. Love.

I'm here to pick up Chance
for the Christmas Eve dance.

Brian. Looking sharp, buddy.

Hmm.

Cherry Bea...Oh.

I'm here.

Wow.

Hi.

You look beautiful.

Thank you. So do you.

Hey, let me get a picture.
Mom will kill me if I don't.

- Okay.
- All right.

Get together now.

All right, ready?

Oh, yeah, that's awesome.

All right, listen.

Have fun. Drive safe, okay?

- You got it, sir.
- Dad.

11:00. 11:00.

Agh, that dress!
What was I thinking?

No, no. Shh, shh, shh.
This is the cute part.

- Right here.
- Oh, right there.

- Yeah!
- Okay.

- Oh, my God.
- Gotcha.

Chance: Thank you.

Oh, boy.

And now the sad part.

Jason?

What are you doing here?

I got a show tonight,
lost my opener.

How'd you like
to open for me?

Are you serious?

You wanna be a star?

Chance.

I'd like to go home now.

Even after
you broke his heart,

he followed you around
like a puppy dog.

Now he does your bidding
without ever a word of thanks.

I never meant to hurt him.

He's the best friend
I've ever had.

Do you ever tell him that?

I said
I'd like to go home now.

Mm-hmm.

I said now!

...designed to keep
the people in check.

And so we celebrate.

# Love and happiness #

Christmas is...

joy, family...

Okay.

Deuces.

Are you kidding me?

Mm.

Hey...

that was pretty intense.

Never met someone
so anti-Santa before.

Nah, I love Santa.

He... He roasted me last week,

so I had to hit him back.
You know what I mean?

So are you
the, uh, entitled rich girl?

Excuse me?

I-I'm supposed to let you
stew in your own guilt,

and then you get all scared
with anticipation,

but, uh,
it's not really my style.

You know what? I'm good.

Hold on, Second Chance.

Don't touch me!

I got a job to do,

and your leaving wouldn't
allow me to accomplish that,

so why don't you
do us both a favor

and just drop the
"I'm better than everyone" act?

Okay, look. I don't know
what you're getting at,

but I don't even know you!

Well, I know you.

Fifth grade,
you stole a candy bar.

Sixth grade, put gum
in Cindy Fletcher's hair

at recess and blamed it
on Frankie Fletcher.

Oh, same here.
Cheated on a test.

Then eighth grade...Hoo!

Okay, okay, I get it.

You're a stalker,
a really committed one.

Super impressive, really.

I'm a ghost.
You got that part, right?

If you run, I'll catch you.

If you hide, I'll find you.

Think of me like you
would think of a cold.

You got me.
I'm gonna be here for a while.

You gotta put up with me.

Then I'll be gone.

You want me
to think of you like a cold?

That's the best
you can come up with?

I'm thinking on the fly here.

Look, shut up, and let's ride.

We didn't go anywhere.

You gotta move your feet.

If you wanna go somewhere,

I'm parked out front.

Fine.

Okay. So you have
some type of ghost magic

where you can transport,
but we're in your car?

I like driving.

Well, at least
my dreams are creative.

Baby, I'm the Ghost
of Christmas Present.

You're the Ghost
of Christmas Presents?

Present.

- Present!
- Oh.

Guess you're awake now, huh?

Now get on board
with the process.

Okay, okay.

I'm having a nervous breakdown.

Wonderful.

So, where are we going?

Almost there.

Where's there?

Well, you never gave him
a housewarming gift,

and you never, ever
let your driver

drop him off first.

Look,

can we just be done
with all of this?

Oh, I can maybe give you
something that you want,

and you could tell your boss
or whoever's in charge

that you got the job done?

Are you trying to bribe me?

Well...

Girl, please!

Your assistant
has nothing in here

but condiments and pickles.
Are pickles a condiment?

What are we doing
in my assistant's kitchen?

Your choices, boo.

My choices?

Let's have a look.

Hey, Dad.

How you guys holding up?

Hey, champ. We're doing okay.

Did you get that girl
to marry you yet?

Oh, I don't know. Not yet.

Uh, she's, you know, busy.

He has a girlfriend?

Nope.

Uh...

my cards are maxed out.

Did you send the transfer
for the week?

Yeah, I-I just sent it.

Is that Brian?

Oh, hey.

Come on.

Look who's awake!

Hey.

There she is!

How you doing, beautiful?

How they treating you?

Um, not too bad.

Oh, I'll be dancing
out of here tomorrow.

How are you, Brian?
How's your week been?

Aw, my day was good,
and I'm fine, Mama.

I just wish I was
right there, right next to you.

I'm sorry I'm not.

Don't you worry yourself,
sweetheart.

We understand.

We'll spend Christmas
together next year.

We are so proud of you.

Yeah.

Thank you, Mom.

Oh. Uh, feeling...

No, i-it's all right,

It's okay. It's okay.

- Just hold on.
- Hey, what's going on?

I'll get somebody.

Is Mom all right? Mom!

Sh-She's okay.

Uh, the I.V. just popped out.

Okay. All right.

Just a second, pal.

Nurse?

Your choices
have consequences.

My choices?

I chose to give him a job.

I chose to pay him
more than fair wage.

I didn't choose
to make his mom sick.

He sends every dime home.

His father spends every moment
he can with her at the hospital.

He left his job at the plant.

Well, then,
I'm happy Brian's paycheck

allows for him
to take care of his family.

You think what you pay him

is...is taking care
of that woman?

He sends her everything,
and it still

barely just keeps her
in the hospital.

Well, why didn't he tell me
that his mother was sick?

- He did, several times.
- When?

When you yelled at him
to go get your dry cleaning,

when you yelled at him for not
getting a reservation at Enzo's,

when you yelled at him
for using his phone

to deposit your royalty check.

Yeah, okay. I get it.

Father: There we go.

All's well that ends okay.

Uh, I could probably
make it out there within a few...

Uh, shoot, Dad.
I gotta...I gotta take this.

I'll talk to you tomorrow, okay.

I love you. Love to Mom.

All right, bye.

Hey, what's up?

Uh...

yeah, no, not a problem at all.

I-I could rush over there.

I could be there in...

I could be there
in 20 minutes, if that's okay.

Okay, yeah, I-I'm rushing over.
See you soon.

Told you.

You suck.

I didn't make anybody
lose their job or get sick.

It's not my fault
that the healthcare system

in this country's
so messed up.

What, are you gonna
blame that on me, too?

Yeah.

Shall we?

- Goose!
- No, no, an eagle.

- Uh, duck! A lame duck!
- Keep going!

You guys know what it is.

- Aww!
- Aw, no talking!

Come on. You can't talk.

Sit down.

So what held her up this time?

Uh, she had a meeting
with a big music executive.

She's really excited about it.

She couldn't schedule it
for the day after Christmas?

- Come on. Your turn, sweetie.
- Okay.

- Ready?
- Yeah.

Um...

Bruce, did you cut one?

Oh, very funny, Stinky!

Uh, smelly!

Gross? Yucky?

D-Disgusting. It's smelly.

Oh! Chance!

Chance.

Hey, hey, now! Be nice!

No, wait. Actually,
it's really close enough.

Spoiled.

Spoiled?

They think I'm spoiled?

I worked my butt off
to get where I am!

What about that boy
that follows her around, Brian?

They dating?

I wish they were.

He's really good to her.

I love him. He's amazing.

He's actually her assistant now.

- Wow, her assistant.
- Hmm.

Hey, uh, why don't we get
another cheese plate, yeah?

Yeah.

More cheese, Stinky?

Yes, that would be good.

- I'll take some wine.
- Okay.

I know you're disappointed
she didn't come,

but she's
our workaholic little girl.

Did you try to call her?

Yeah. She isn't answering.

Maybe she changed her mind
and she's already on the plane.

Yeah, maybe.

Your father worked hard
to keep a roof over your head,

put food on the table,
clothes on your back.

Yeah, and I'm grateful,
but I don't owe anyone anything!

I'm not talking about money.

He wouldn't take it, anyway.

She never even
so much as calls

unless she needs something.

- She's such a brat.
- Yeah.

I mean, she's gotta
be worth millions now.

It's not like she can't
take off the weekend and spend...

- Hey, guys.
- Hey, hey, you got the cheese.

All right, Karen,
it's your turn.

Get up there,
and make a fool of yourself.

- All right. All right.
- Here you go.

There you go. Sorry.

- Oh, hey, I'll be right back.
- Okay.

What the heck?

What's the card say?

"Merry Christmas.
Love, Chance."

What?

What?!
I didn't send them anything!

Oh, Brian, that idiot!

That was supposed
to go to Roger!

That guy
takes good care of you.

What? You need a road map?

He's trying to patch up things
between you and your parents.

If I'd know any better,
I'd say he loves you.

Let's go set this baby up!

Can we go, please?

Jason isn't texting me back.

Jason, baby,

I'm so sorry
that I threw you out!

Look, how hard is

the "no one can see or hear us"
part of this?

I didn't realize
we were still doing the thing.

The thing where we
transported into the back

of a moving vehicle?
You missed that?

Okay, you have
a serious attitude problem.

No. I have a woman
who won't acknowledge the fact

that she has not taken
one positive move

toward fixing herself.

Take a chill pill, okay?

You chill!

She is still texting me!
The nerve.

I heard that.

I-I made her!

God! Without me,
she would be doing

the fair circuit
somewhere in Podunk, Nowhere.

She is nothing.

Nobody treats J. Cleavers
like that, nobody.

I'm nothing? You're nothing!

You're a has-been pop star
with one good album, maybe!

And three of the songs sucked.

Ah, there she is.

Who's she?

Oh, you wouldn't dare!

I can't believe
this is happening!

This is amazing.

Thank you so much.

Merry Christmas to me!

Ooh! Jason Cleaver,
if you are cheating on me,

I'm gonna wring
your scrawny little neck!

You hear me?

There's nothing
you can do now!

Jump pump your brakes!
Chill out!

So, uh, what are
these questions you have for me?

Okay, how do I get an agent?
Also, who's your agent,

and do I take the band with me
to meetings?

And how do I get my demo out?
Should I send emails,

or is it better
to send hard copies?

- Who do I talk to about...
- Okay, whoa.

First thing that I do
is breathe, relax.

Excitement shows
your lack of experience,

so be bold.
Demand their attention.

There's a certain
kind of decorum

expected from people like us.

People like us?

He wouldn't.

Stars.

I'm not a star.

You look like a star to me.

Oh, you skeeze-ball!

You used that line on me.

Oh, you are a piece of garbage!

Nice mentor you got there.

You're such a lucky girl.

I don't need him.

My album's gonna outsell his.

My fans are gonna
tear him apart.

Your fans?

Wow. You just take me
to the nicest of places.

Remember that pathetic fan

with her daughter that was
trying to get your autograph,

just dying to meet you?

Oh, no, please.
Can we just go home, okay?

Look, I get it. I know
what you're trying to tell me.

That autograph
would have been the only treat

she could give
her daughter this year.

Great. Wonderful.

Um, I didn't know that you
were gonna be so late tonight.

I-I have to be
at Christmas tomorrow

at 9 A.M. with my parents.

I'll pay you double.

You don't have to do that.

No, it's holiday pay.

Um, I get paid on Friday.
Is that all right?

I mean, okay. I mean,

but what time are you
gonna be back tonight?

I don't know,
but please, please just stay.

I can't miss this shift.

I-I already swapped

so that I could take Becca
to go see Chance Love.

Oh, how was the concert?

Oh, we didn't
get to see her play.

Just to try to get an autograph.

We don't have
the money for tickets right now.

Um...

maybe you should find
some other child care.

I can't afford day care.

I mean, I can't work for free.

I mean, I would if I could,

but I've gotta
pay my bills, too.

I know. I know.

Please just watch her for today.

And I'll pay you on Friday for
next week in advance, I promise.

Okay, but if
Friday doesn't happen,

you're gonna have
to find another sitter.

- A-And you understand, right?
- Oh, I do.

Oh, God, I do.

Um, I gotta go. Thank you.

Thank you.
I'll be back in the morning.

Um, thank you.

I really do appreciate you.

Okay, bye.

What a sweet woman.

Okay, now can we go home?

Becca.

Girl, you gotta go to sleep.

Come on. Why don't you lay down?

Besides, tomorrow is Christmas,

and Santa is not gonna come
if you aren't asleep.

Mama says Santa
can't come this year.

Well, adults
don't know everything,

so why don't you hush up
and get some sleep?

And I betcha he might

just have something for you
in the morning.

You think so?

Well, you don't know
if you don't go to sleep.

I'm gonna
leave this one on for you.

Good night, girl.

It's not like my autograph
would have paid for their bills.

You're right. It's worthless.

But it would have made
that little girl's Christmas

just a little bit brighter.

Well, my agent told me
that I can't just sign

everything that gets
shoved in my face.

Otherwise,
it devalues my autograph,

and I wouldn't get
to sign at conventions.

I see.
It's your agent's fault.

Let's see what he has to say.

Yep.

That blonde little tyrant
wants me to get her a meeting

with Roger Grossman
of Grossman Records.

- Is he talking about me?
- Nope.

Brought you here to listen
to him talk about someone else.

No, I did not call him.

She's a diva. I don't want him
thinking I work with crazies.

But now her assistant's
trying to get her a meeting,

so I don't know what to do.

He didn't call?

Oh, he's so fired!

You said you'd been
waiting to hear back!

You think he's the problem?

You think he didn't want
to make a new album

so he can earn his cut?

I think he's lost his mind

if he's not gonna
get me in to see Grossman!

If she messes this up,

I'm cutting all ties.

She treats me like hell, anyway.

Oh, you think
I treat you like hell now?

You just wait
until I get ahold of you!

I'm gonna tear you a new one!

You ever sent him
a thank-you note

for everything he's done?

A Christmas gift?

Ask him how his day is?

Take him to lunch? No?

Do you take
any other stress meds?

'Cause I've been
popping these like Tic Tacs,

and I really don't see
a difference.

Whoa, Grandma!

Aren't those illegal?

Ah, anyway, I will see you
at Christmas breakfast.

Yep, I know. It's late.

Gotta get back
to the wife and kids.

Okay. Merry Christmas.

Love you, too. Good night.

That's his grandma.

I have a totally different
relationship with mine.

He's married?

He has kids?

How long
has he been your agent?

Ever since I first started.

You suck.

Yeah, you mentioned that.

Hey, babe.

Yeah. Yeah, I know.
I-It's so late.

Look, I-I've just been trying
to close Cleaver's deal

for the Europe tour.

Yeah, okay.

Uh, I'll be home in 15 minutes.

I love you, too, babe.

Wow, he has really
gotta get his life together.

I see why you're so popular.

Okay, look,
I have had enough of this.

- Is that it?
- Yes.

How dare you come
into my life and judge me?

What gives you the right to kick
a girl when she's down, huh?

Are you perfect?

I'm an angel.

Hello?

Any more ghosts?

I have a stick!

What am I doing?

Get out! Get out!

I don't want to do this anymore!
I didn't ask for any of this!

I'm gonna call the police!

- 911. What's your emergency?
- Yes! Yes!

I have an emergency!
I have a stalk...

Hello?

Of course.

I am the third.

What, did you
die at Comic-Con?

You will follow.

Okay. Just let me get dressed.

You will follow.

Okay.

Right. Jeez.

Okay. Okay, right.

Just...

Whew.

Hold on.

You just had the...

And...And you...Blehh.

And now you...

You gotta admit,
pretty scary, right?

What is going on?

Ooh, the old tricks
are the best tricks.

Got your attention.

You're trying to scare me?

Literally the only thing
that I hope to do.

I don't understand.

You will get but one view.

You will not speak
unless prompted.

You will not move unless told.

You will not get another chance.

Girl, you must have
seriously screwed up. Mm.

Okay, let's do this, then.

Let's get it over with.
Wh-What is this?

Oh, please.

Don't be a fool.

It's time to prove
you're worth the effort.

Don't waste this.

A Christmas gift like this
only comes once in a lifetime.

Okay, yeah. I got it.

So where we going?

Remember in Hawaii?

We pestered her until we
got her to try skimboarding.

Again? I've been here already.

And she fell,

bruised her butt so bad.

Yeah, I remember.

And she didn't sit for two days.

Did she, uh...

Did she go peacefully?

In her sleep.

She died?

She dies?

What happened?

I come for her
two weeks before next Christmas.

Dad, stay as long
as you want, all right?

Your mom
would be proud of you...

taking care of your old man.

Man, it's so strange

referring to her
in the past tense.

Yeah. I...

I still wake up at night...

expecting her to be next to me.

God.

Ah, sorry.

- Dad, don't worry about it.
- Sorry.

Just let it all out, okay?

Let it all out.

I'm sorry I wasn't there.

She knew you loved her.

How 'bout I make us
uh, some tea, yeah?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Okay.

He's not even there
when she passes?

So now you care?

This isn't real!

None of this has even happened!

Y-You're a liar!

This is some sick joke that...

A joke?

The weak and foolish tempt me.

The brave laugh in my face.

I am eternal.

I am the constant!

All will come to me in the end!

I speak only truth!

Why are you
showing me all this?

This? This is the result
of your uncaring greed,

your self-importance...

your complete blindness

to the plight of others
who genuinely...

care about you.

You have one hope.

Chance...

open your heart.

Announcer: Welcome back
to "Dance or Bust,"

where former celebs...
- What is this?

- Is that me?
- ...social media has-been...

What happens to me?

Karma, fate,
call it what you want.

Shane, what did you think
of today's performances?

Yeah, no, I know, Mom.
I wish I could be there, too,

but I'm just so swamped
with work right now.

Hi, Dad. Hi. Merry Christmas.

No, I know. I'm...I'm so sorry.
I really gotta go.

Okay, all right.
I love you. O-Okay, bye.

So sad.

Our judges have made
a final decision.

With the lowest score

recorded in the history
of "Dance or Bust,"

former teen pop icon
Chance Love

has officially been eliminated

in the first round
of the competition.

Seems like the judges
have been pretty harsh on her.

The judges?
Life's been harsh on her,

and it's not letting up
any time soon.

I do a celebrity
dance show? Aw, jeez.

Who are you to judge?

Not everyone does it
to pay their lawyer.

My lawyer?
What do I need a lawyer for?

There's a price
for living only for yourself,

and the bill comes due.

Thank you, guys,
so much for watching

and tuning in
to "Dance or Bust."

Yeah, uh...

- Chance Love?
- Yes.

I'm Agent Harris with the FBI.

You're under arrest
for tax evasion.

- Cuff her.
- What? This is ridiculous!

Miss, I need you
to turn around,

put your hands
behind your back.

Oh, my God!

There's no way that happens!

Oh, but it does.

...against you
in a court of law.

No! No! Get off of me!

- Stop resisting!
- No! Ow!

You understand these rights?

Yes, I do!
I freaking want an attorney.

Oh, I'm gonna lawyer up so hard,
and you're gonna be so screwed!

You have no idea!
I hope you like your job,

because you're gonna miss it!

Ow! I'm gonna wear your badge
like a belt buckle!

Officer: Get in!

You'll be sorry.
I'm Chance Love.

You have no idea
what you're doing!

Charming.

You can't treat me like this.

Ah, whatever.

Are you kidding me?
I get arrested on Christmas?

What kind of a horrible person
arrests someone on Christmas?

Aw, sweetie pie,

you ain't seen nothin' yet.

Let's go.

Let's take a trip
further down the rabbit hole.

Jail?

I'm in jail?

What's going on?

Okay, look.
Now I know you're lying,

because my lawyer
would never let me rot in jail.

You are so full of it.

You got 18 months.
Prison ain't no joke.

Toughens you up a little bit.

I've been in jail a year?

Mm-hmm.

I'm broke?

What? You're untouchable?

The rules don't apply
to the great Chance Love?

Turns out Uncle Sam
doesn't agree.

# 'Cause my only wish is #

# To go home for Christmas #

Prisoner 23582,
step back from the bars.

It's time
for your scheduled visitation.

Please step out.

- Are they...
- Walk!

Oh! He shoved me!

He can't shove me!

I am so tired of you.

Shut up. Open your eyes.

Maybe you'll actually
learn something.

Well, who am I visiting with?

Thanks for all the help.

Ms. Love,
I'm sorry to inform you

that your visitors
were unable to make it.

Miss?

N-No, they said
they're coming.

Look, you're not
the only prisoner

whose family didn't show up.
Now please stand up.

They're gonna come, okay?

They're coming.

Miss, let's go.

No.

They're coming.

- Miss, come on.
- They're coming.

- Let's go.
- They're gonna come, okay?

They're coming.

I'm sure they
just got held up at the airport.

It's the holidays, so...

Yeah.
The holidays.

I'm sure
that's exactly what it is.

I guess I'd have to say

that this beautiful flower
is my inspiration.

Career gone.

Family gone.

Looks gone. Money gone.

You wither.

You never marry.

You never travel.
You never leave the house.

But this is
just a possible outcome

if everything goes
a certain way, right?

It's not definite.

You spiral.

You lie to family and friends.

You sit right there.

You watch
as the world forgets you.

Okay, I'm ready
to go back now.

Can you just please
take me back?

Mm-mmm.

One last stop.

All the furniture
is included if you want.

And this is
this fantastic master bedroom.

And right off to the side here
is the bathroom.

I like that tub.

If you guys
follow me right over here,

I'm excited to show you
this spacious backyard.

So I sell my house? Great.

You didn't sell it.

What do you mean?

The house's previous owner

was recording artist
Chance Love.

- Oh.
- Who...Who is that?

- Honey, he's in The Roots.
- Oh.

No. She did
one of those reality shows once.

It's a quite sad story,
actually.

Anyway, follow me this way.

I'm gonna show you this
fantastic, beautiful kitchen...

What's the sad story?

Be careful what you ask of me.

You cannot unsee your fate.

What happens to me?

Ms. Love?

Ms. Love, can you hear me?

Can you hear me?

The air bag did a number on her.

We need to clear her airway.
Get her head back.

What's happening?

The crash
threw you clear of your car.

She's shaking.

Hold her still.
I can't get the I.V. in.

Do I die?

Is this how I die?

I don't believe you.

You're liars!

I want to go home.

I want to go home right now.

Check
the other victim's pulse!

What other victim?

Brian?

What is he doing here?

He was in the passenger seat.

Never abandons you.

Sticks by your side
to the very end.

He doesn't die, okay?

He doesn't die.

Take me, okay?

Take me instead,
but he doesn't die!

Take me instead!

I'm sorry.

He's gone.

Time of death, 2:27.

He does not die.

He does not die.

I'm sorry.

Okay, let's get her going.

Okay, let's get her back.

- Let's get her back.
- Chance: Take me instead.

- Charging at 360!
- Take me.

Take me instead.

Charging.

Clear!

Shocking!

Chance: Don't die.

Take me instead.

Take me instead.

Please.

Please, no.

I'll change. I swear.

Please just give me
one more chance.

Hey! You all right?

We're here.

Sorry. Traffic was really bad.

Brian?

You're alive?!

Yeah, last I checked.

Thank you!

Wait! What...What day is it?

It's Christmas Eve.

Wow, that must have been
one heck of a nap.

Really? I didn't miss it?

No, you only been asleep,
like, less than an hour.

What?

Thank you. Thank you.

You're welcome?

H-Hey, are you feeling okay?

I've never felt better
in my whole life!

Well, that's good.
That's amazing.

Wow, I'm so happy
how happy you are.

Hey, guess what?

While you were asleep,
Ron Grossman called.

He wants to set up
a phone meeting ASAP.

Can you come inside with me
for just five minutes?

- Sure.
- Okay.

Is that okay, if you
just wait for five minutes?

Fine with me.

Thank you. I appreciate that.

Hey, you sure
you don't want me

to get Roger on the phone again?

No.

Come with me.

Okay.

All right.

What's going on? What you doing?

Okay. Oh, good, good, good!

I found them! Right.

What? What are they?

Come on!

What...What are you up to?

Airplane ticket vouchers.

Okay. You going somewhere?

Uh-uh. We are.

We're going home.

Seriously?

Mm-hmm.

Come on.

You need a bag or something?

Jason?

What up, girl? Great news!

I got us the deal!
I talked to Grossman!

He wants us to produce
a duet album, media gold mine.

You will not believe the money!
Time to celebrate!

Seriously? A duet with you?

Heck, yeah.

Get on in.

Aw, Chance...

Jason...

this just isn't working out.

Are you sure?

Come on.

Babe?

You laughing at me?

I always hated that guy.

Airport, please.

You're the boss.

I can't believe
this is happening.

Cory? Hi. It's Chance.

Look, I am so sorry
for how I've acted with you,

and I know I've been
a slave-driving diva,

but I really need a favor.

I know it's really late
on Christmas Eve, but please.

Hello?

Hello. Merry Christmas!

Uh, oh. I'm sorry.

Can I help you? I'm sor...
What are you doing?

Look, I don't live here.
I'm just the sitter.

Actually, I'm looking for you.

Uh, for me?

I have no clue what you
said to her, but thank you.

Uh, to who?

Uh, these are all
for the little girl,

and we have one more that needs
to be special ordered.

I'm sorry.
I don't understand.

And this is for you.

My client instructed me
to give you this.

She's paying for your services
to this household.

A-Are you kidding? I mean,

this is three times
what I make in a year.

Well, Merry Christmas!

Wait. Um...

Di...

Did anyone else see that?

Merry Christmas.

Mom? Dad?

Mom? Dad?

- Cherry Bear, hey!
- Hey!

Merry Christmas!

- Merry Christmas!
- Yeah!

I'm so sorry I'm late.

I love you guys so much!

I'm so sorry for how I've
treated you and how I've acted.

Aw, don't worry about it.
You're right on time.

- Are you gonna stay?
- Yeah.

We're gonna spend Christmas
as a family.

Ah, yes.

Okay. I have an idea,

and I need your guys' help.

It's gonna sound a little crazy.

Excuse me.
Uh, where Mrs. Barnes' room?

Are you friend or family?

I'm a friend.

Oh, you just missed
visiting hours.

It's, uh, family only.

Oh, my gosh.

You're Chance Love!

Yeah, in the flesh.

I follow you on Instagram.

That is so sweet. Thank you.

Look, I'm sorry.
A-Are you a paramedic?

Th-That's just so weird
that you would ask that.

I'm actually training
to become one,

hoping to move out west
and hop on an E.R. unit.

I have a feeling
you'll do really well.

Thanks.

Look, is there any way

that you could sneak me
into my friend's room?

I mean, it is Christmas.

Well, I'm not supposed to,

but I'm happy
to make an exception this time.

- I'll show you where.
- Great.

Oh, wait. Okay, um...

this is for the children's wing,

but don't tell anyone
who it's from.

You're an absolute angel.

Administration is gonna freak!

Okay, one more favor.

Uh, come here.

I just don't understand.

I thought you said
you couldn't come. I mean,

we're so happy that you're here,
but what about your job?

Yeah, Mom,
I can stay as long as I need to,

paid, and she gave me a raise.

Oh, my...

What a wonderful girl.

Well, I'll be.

It looks like I'm gonna have
to get you a pig to kiss, son!

You know, he's right.
I did promise,

so, yeah, you go ahead,
and find that pig,

'cause I will kiss it!

Am I interrupting?

Chance?

What are you doing here?

Brian, I asked,
am I interrupting?

No, I don't believe you are.

Great. Come on in, guys!

Let's go.

Hey, all right.

Merry Christmas!

Yeah, Merry Christmas!

Brian: Thank you!
You guys shouldn't have.

Wait.

Chance, I can't
believe you did all this.

Well, you've done
so much for me,

and I've never even
said thank you,

so I just wanted to show you
how much you mean to me.

Well, it's incredible.

Thank you so much.

I donated all of the proceeds
from the single

to the children's wing,

and all of your mom's bills
are paid for.

Thank you.

Thank you. You are amazing.

Becca! Come here!

Yes, Katherine?

Come here. Hurry.

Look!

Who brought them?

I think an angel.

# I remember
how just last December #

# We were here together
in the cold #

# Snow was falling,
and I heard you calling me #

# To meet you by the mistletoe #

# And you held me by the fire #

# With the lights
all on the tree #

# When everything was perfect #

# Just you and me #

# I don't need no presents #

# 'Cause my only wish is
that you're home for Christmas #

# Counting down the seconds #

# 'Cause I need your kisses #

# So come home
for Christmas to me #

# Our favorite carols
and the sound of sleigh bells #

# Ringing through the city
and the night #

# Fingers frozen... #

We did all right, huh?

Yeah, we did.

Not too shabby.

Hmm.

# And you held me
by the fire... #

I could go for Chinese.

Mmm. I could eat.

Sure, but no fusion.

Ooh. No. No, no, no.

Pickles a condiment?

Mm, as a purist, I'd say no.

You know, to me,
it's the ketchups,

it's the mayos,
it's the relishes.

- Then again...
- Technically, relish is...

Exactly. It's just
chopped up pickles, so...

# Counting down the seconds #

# 'Cause I need your kisses #

# So come home
for Christmas to me #

No! I thought we were
done with all of this!

I learned my lesson! I swear!

I just have
one more thing to show you.

You'll like this.

Becca, look!

It's for you!

Oh, she got it.

I hope she likes it.

Just watch.

Oh, my...

Oh, my God.

Oh, my goodness!

Mommy, I love Christmas!

Oh, sweetie.

I love you.

Ohh. I love you,
too, sweetheart.

Thank you.

Well done.