Christmas Bells Are Ringing (2018) - full transcript

So, playing with
this year's concept,

"The Light of Christmas,"

I went from day to night,
light to dark, ending here.

Or, alternatively, we could
reverse the order.

Start here, and then
move towards the...

The order doesn't matter.

I like what you've captured.

You do?

The architectural aspect
is super high-concept,

and well, your point of view
as a photographer

has always been unique.



That's why we've hired you,
for, what...

Six assignments, so far.

But this?

This is the magazine insert
for Christmas Day.

It's not only a great
portfolio piece,

it's also, as you know, a chance
to join our staff.

I know.

I know. I can't believe
an opening came up.

And since it showed up
over the holidays,

we thought, why not offer it
to the photographer

who lands the Christmas spread?

I love that.

And I'm very grateful to be
in the running.

Look, I'm a fan of these,
I am, but...



Is that a maybe?

We'll see what the chief says.

Thank you.

Christmas or not,

you'll absolutely get
our volume discount.

Okay, great.

I'll send our rates over now.

Merry Christmas.

Please tell me he said yes.

He said it's up to the chief.

How's that?

That's great!

Is it?

Yeah.

Anne loves your work.

And when you start here,
just think.

Lunches all the time.

How fun is that?

I know, I just... I don't want
to get too excited just yet.

You know?

You're the hardest worker
I know.

You're gonna land this spread,
and the position.

Just, is it what you want?

It's a lot of 9:00 to 5:00.

Yeah, I wish I could say I was
cut out for the hustle, but...

9:00 to 5:00 sounds pretty good
right about now.

You know?

Maybe it would be good
to change up the pace.

Hey, it might even give you
some time to go on that date

with my neighbour.

What? He's cute.

I'm sure he is, I just...

...Haven't been on a date
in way too long?

...Need to get through this next
week first.

How are you feeling?

About going back to the Cape?

Your family's summer home.

I don't know.

I mean, I... I used to love
going there.

And how long's it been?

Thirteen years.

But you have a lot of great
memories there.

Yeah.

Yeah, every summer.

But it's gonna be great.

It's where my Dad met Helen,
they're gonna retire there.

I've never been for Christmas
or a wedding, so...

Yeah, that's the spirit.

Just go, relax,
and enjoy Christmas.

Two double lattes, please.

Ta-Dah.

Wait, what's this?

I thought we said no presents.

It's just a little somethin'.

Stop.

Is this my apartment?

I mean, yeah.

You say you're never there,

so I thought you could leave it
at your desk.

You're amazing.

I love it.

Merry Christmas.

I would like mine in this,
please.

Hi, Dad.

Yep.

Yep, no, I'm literally walking
out the door right now.

I've already packed the car.

Yep, of course.

I'll drive safe.

Dad, gotta get off the phone
to get in the car.

Bye.

Mrs. Miller, I know
the holidays are slow,

but we should be able to find
you a tenant before New Year.

Yep.

No, I...

I can't tell you where I'm gonna
be moving the snowman.

It... that would be cheating.

Happy Holidays.

Hey, bud.

Hey buddy.

I know you're busy.

I just want to let you know
I'm still working on

getting you that interview.

You do realize this is poaching,
don't you?

I'm sorry, I was just...

My mom's kidding, Josh.

Of course.

Merry Christmas,
Mrs. Phillips.

You're not five anymore, Josh.

You can call me Judy.

And, it's not poaching if I'm
the one asking.

I just wish your agency wasn't
all the way in London.

IF I get the job.

I'll try and set something up
before Christmas.

You're the best.

Yes, I am.

I'll see you tomorrow night,
buddy.

All right.

Bye.

So, you really want to move?

I just wish we had more exciting
work for you.

I love it here, Mom.

That's not the issue.

It's just, everything
that happened with Beth.

I dunno, I think change
could be good.

We just want you to be happy.

Me?

I am happy.

I'm very happy.

Look.

Look at this smile.

This is a happy smile.

Very happy.

Hey, we need you to get
over there as soon as you can.

Okay.

Where am I going?

A leak at the River Street
rental.

And, since they're
family friends...

You are Mr. Fix It.

I don't know about all that,
but I can take a look.

Okay, great.

And, while you're there,

see if you can ask Lee
about his plans.

What they're gonna do with
the house after the wedding?

I left them a message.

Okay.

I got this.

Shoot.

I am so sorry.

I... I was turning around,

I didn't expect to see
anyone coming.

To my driveway?

Well, at the exact same...

Sam?

Mike?

Hi.

It's... it's been a...

...A long time.

Dad.

Honey.

So good to see you.

Good to see you.

You're the handyman?

I am today.

Well, grab your tools.

Let's get at it.

Honey, how was your drive?

It's good.

Yeah?

Yeah, it's so different here.

I noticed the drip this morning.

It's not good.

Ooh.

Yeah, okay, all right, well,
I'm on it.

I just need to get up
into your attic.

Okay.

Thanks, Mike.

Now, how long have you
known Mike?

You know, I don't even
remember when we met,

we were so young.

No.

They were inseparable as kids.

Yeah, for the summers
when we came here.

Yeah, but, I mean, best friends
with school kid crushes,

it was...

Dad, that's a long time ago.

It's nice to see you two
together again.

Okay, you know what,

I think you've talked your way
outta getting your treats.

No.

No.

Is that something that you
requested from the city?

Honey, we've been here
for two weeks.

Two weeks and loving it, yeah.

But nothing beats Boston coffee
and did you get the holiday...

Yes.

Good girl.

Now I know that you
were born and raised here,

so you probably have all
your own holiday chocolates

all lined up, but this is from
our favourite local store.

It's not too sweet,
it's not too minty,

and I figured it would help
you push through that

final little wedding planning.

Peppermint bark is my favourite.

I kid you not.

I love this.

Thank you so much.

Yay.

What else do we got?

What other treats?

I can't believe you made this.

I used to make 'em every
year with my art students.

Even though I'm retired,

I figured I would just keep
the tradition going.

And since this is our
first Christmas together,

I thought that it was
the perfect Christmas slash...

...slash Wedding gift, right?

Perfect.

And there's chocolates
in every one of 'em.

Oh, cute.

I'll get out of your guys' hair.

But, looks good up there.

If you have any more leaks,
just give us a call.

I definitely will.

And, tell your dad
that I'll call him another time

about the house stuff, okay?

Will do.

Okay.

All right, good to see ya.

You too.

I'll see you guys
all at the wedding.

Hey.

Good to see you.

Yeah, you too.

I mean, except for the near
collision outside, but...

Yeah, well, hey.

You never were a very
good driver.

Hey.

I was learning, and I was being
responsibly cautious.

Yeah.

15 miles an hour, rocking out
to Sarah McLachlan?

You can't speed to Sarah.

Nah?

Okay.

Well, I know you're going to be
busy this week,

but if you need a Christmas
in the Cape tour guide,

let me know.

Thanks. Yeah.

But you're gonna be busy
with your family and your wife,

and all that.

I'm, yeah, I'm not
married anymore.

What?

I guess I... I figured
you woulda heard.

No... no, I didn't...
I didn't hear that.

I'm so sorry.

It's all good.

Really is.

And, I wanted to say
I'm sorry too.

For what?

That summer.

Your mom got sick.

I really meant to...

Thank you.

But we don't need
to talk about that.

Okay.

'Kay.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

It took four people-

Four-

to get the tree in.

Okay, how big is your tree?

And, we actually had
to cut a foot of it off

to even get it in.

I've always been a sucker
for the most ridiculously large

Christmas trees.

And holiday weddings.

Well, okay, I will admit it.

I'm a little Christmas crazy.

It's a Christmas Eve wedding.

Exactly.

With our closest friends
and family.

It's just my absolute
favourite time of the year.

It always makes me feel like
I'm part of something bigger.

So, it's an unconventional day
for a wedding, but...

But perfect for us.

It is.

And finding this love now is
my own Christmas miracle.

Mine too.

Well, I got that tree decorated,

and I'd love for you
to come see it.

So, do you want to come
by the house,

and we can make some cookies,

or finish making the chocolate
moulds for the wedding favours?

Yeah, but not tomorrow.

Oh, no.

Why, what's tomorrow?

We're going to get
your Christmas tree.

We wanted you here
to get the tree.

Yeah.

And we have to swing by the
hotel and finish some details

with the wedding coordinator.

You don't have to go if you
think it's gonna be boring.

I mean, you could always check
out the town.

It's a lot different
at Christmas

than what you're used to.

Thank you.

Well, I have some very special
Christmas bark

that I'd like to share.

May I interest you?

Christmas bark.

Yes.

I'm gonna need some
extra energy,

'cause I'm walking you home.

Like you need an excuse.

Cheers.

Cheers.

Cheers, Merry Christmas.

First family photo
we ever put up.

It's a good one.

Yeah.

She was really talented,
wasn't she?

Well, like I always say,
you guys are a lot alike.

You still wear
your mom's necklace.

What is it she always
used to say?

"Look up at the stars and..."

"Know that I'll always
be there."

Yeah.

I never take it off.

You know, I just wanna
thank you.

You know, for all your support
with this.

Means a lot to me.

Dad. I just want you
to be happy.

You know that.

And I really like Helen.

I'm excited for you to get
to know her better.

I know it's only been 10 months,
but once we move in together.

Is that what you and Mike
were talking about earlier,

about what to do with the house?

Well, they just kinda need
to know if,

I'm gonna continue to rent

after I move in with Helen,
or... sell.

Is that what you wanna do?

Do you... do you wanna sell it?

Well, I think it's something we
both need to decide, right?

I don't think so.

I mean, I haven't been here
in so many years.

I don't...

Hey. Hey. You know what?

We... we don't have to talk
about this right now.

We have lots of time.

Okay?

Thanks.

'Kay.

Want more tea?

You know what, I think,
I um, I'm beat.

I think I'm gonna go to bed.

Okay, honey.

Okay.

I love you.

I love you too, babe.

Jasper, hi.

I was actually going
to call you,

to see if there are any...

Updates?

Well, there are.

Good.

Great.

As I suspected, our chief editor
loves your photos, but...

She also loves three
other submissions.

There are three other people
in the running still?

Unfortunately, there was
no clear-cut decision

on who should get it,

so we're giving all four of you
the chance to resubmit.

Same title and concept, but...

I'm not in Boston,
I'm on the Cape.

Well, that's okay.

It's the feeling of
Christmas we're after.

And everyone loves
Cape Cod, so...

You have until midnight on
December 23rd to turn it in.

I know it's a bit of a rush,
but...

Is it still for the staff
position, too?

It is, and editor's quirk,

she wants to give someone
a gift on Christmas.

So, that's when we'll reveal
which one of you we select.

That's...

Christmas.

Something we haven't seen.

Good luck.

Thank you.

All right.

Christmas.

Here.

Whoo!

Hi.

Hi.

I'm sorry to barge in like that.

I'm wondering if that tour
guide offer is still available.

I know it's a bit of an odd req

It's just, Boston, I know.

But I have not been here
since I was 17,

and they've only given me
three days to do it,

and normally I'd take, like,
a week to scout, and plan...

Take this.
It'll help.

Thank you.

All right.

Okay. I'm sorry, it's...
I thought I was done.

You know?

And now...

You're starting over.

But it's a really
good opportunity.

Yeah.

It's just at a really bad time.

And, it's doable though, right?

I, yeah...

Yeah.

Wanna sit?

Sure, yeah.

Okay.

You're saying you want to go see
the old lighthouse?

I know it's restricted, but
I thought maybe you know

somebody that could get me in?

Yeah, I might.

Really?

I mean, I don't know
if it's right.

I just, it was the first place
I thought of,

so I figured I should at least
check it out.

Yeah, I mean, there are some
pretty amazing views out there.

I need amazing right about now.

All right, then.

In my opinion,

you're in the perfect place
for this assignment.

Is that the tour guide talking?

Tour guide voice.

Yeah.

So, 3:30?

I'll take it.

Okay.

I love it.

All right.

It... it's...

there you go.

Thank you.

Cheers.

You know.

Bye.

Want one more?
Here, I'll break it off.

I can't get it.

Here.

I got it.

- Hi.
- Hi.

Hey.

You ready to go find
the perfect tree?

Yeah.

Come on.

Okay.

How's that?

Is that straighter?

That's... doesn't
sound good.

Well, no, I think it's just

the nature of the tree
actually, Dad.

I think it looks... good.

It's... what I got for ya.

Move over just a little bit,
honey.

Okay, it's... it's...
it's fine.

Helen, I can't believe you make
your own ornaments.

These?

Well, feel free to use 'em,
or not.

I just had so many extra ones
from my house that I picked out

a few special ones
from each year,

and brought 'em over here.

It sounds like so much work.

No, I've been doing it
since I was little.

It just brings me so much joy.

Plus, every single one of them
is unique.

Each one tells its very own
special story.

Maybe we could make some?

Of course we can.

Start our own tradition.

Yeah.

Just, maybe later,

'cause Mike's coming
to get me soon.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Guys, I'm so sorry I have to do
this work stuff.

Honey, no.
That's okay.

I know that's not how you want
to spend your holiday, but...

well, just go have fun.

I'll try.

Sorry, I gotta, I gotta
straighten this tree.

It's not working.

It's not working for me.

You ready to be inspired?

Do you remember the picture
my mom took of us up here?

We were so proud of ourselves.

Yeah, as we should be.

A lot of stairs in there.

Yeah.

You beat me to the top.

I did, really?

Oh yeah.

Yeah, I chased you
the whole way.

Well...

She kept that picture on our
mantle for... a lot of years.

She did like me.

Yeah.

She did.

They don't keep the key
under the rock anymore.

Surprisingly, they actually
trust me with it.

After you.

Thank you.

It's so cozy here.

Yeah.

Whoo!

Yeah, these stairs have gotten
steeper, huh?

All right.

Okay.

So, what do you think?

I mean, it's a little different
in winter,

but... it's usually a great
view up here.

Shame about the fog.

If it weren't so remote,

I'd bring the snowman out here.

The... what?

What are you talking about?

Magic?

Magic?

You really don't know about
the magic snowman?

I don't, no.

So, every night, for as long as
I can remember,

someone moves a giant snowman
somewhere in town,

for the week leading up
to Christmas.

And, why would someone do that?

So that some lucky kids can find
a magic snowman,

ring the bell that he's holding,
and make a wish?

And is that somebody... you?

Last five years, yeah.

Pretty adorable.

So, what do you think?

Well, I was hoping to get
the Christmas lights over

on the hillside, but...
I mean, with this fog,

I don't think I can.

I just think we're too far out.

Yeah.

I guess it's a good thing
you know me.

Now, what are you talking about?

Well, I wouldn't be much
of a tour guide

if I only took you to one place,
right?

And, we're too far out, so...

So?

So maybe we just need to get
a little closer to Christmas.

So you have to throw a Christmas
party every year

for the Chamber of Commerce?

Well, I... I volunteer to help
every year,

and securing a house
for the Christmas party's

just a part of it.

They work really hard
for the town,

so it's nice that tonight
they just get to celebrate.

Well, this seems like
the perfect place for it.

You haven't seen nothing yet.

Now this is Christmas
on the Cape.

This is amazing.

Yeah.

Well, you said you kinda needed
it, so...

Yeah.

There you are.

Hey.

Hey, I was wondering when
you were gonna show up.

You're usually one of the first.

Yeah, sorry about that.

I was just helping Sam.

Josh, you... you remember Sam,
right?

We never met, but he talked
about you a lot.

Did he?

Yes, he did.

Not a lot.

This is my wife, Hannah.

Hi.

Hey, Hannah.

I'm Sam.

- Hi Sam.
- So nice to meet you.

You too.

Officially.

Okay, I promised that,

I'd find the biscuits
for my lovely wife, so...

That's uh, that's British
for "cookies."

We've got cookies.

See?

You're already ready
for your move to London.

And I just want to let
you know, my...

boss's assistant will be giving
you a call to set up

that interview, so keep
your phone close.

All right.

Thanks buddy, I appreciate it.

- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.

You're moving to London?

Yeah, well, I mean, it wouldn't
be till the new year,

if I even get the job.

But, he works for a pretty
big commercial leasing company.

They handle a lot of the high
rises in central London.

Sounds exciting.

No, I just... I don't know,

I can't picture you anywhere
else but here.

I guess I was just looking
for something new,

you know?

Fresh start.

And busy's good.

Yes.

But hey, you, why don't you
check out the party,

and I'm gonna gather up
the gifts for the toy drive.

Toy... we're doing a toy drive?

We're wrapping gifts that have
already been collected.

It's sort of a tradition
at this party.

People get real into it.

Nice.

But you, you gotta work, so go.
Go focus.

Yeah, I mean I'm pretty good
at... at wrapping, so...

All right. Well, if you finish
early, you can jump in.

How's that?

Deal.

See ya.

Everybody gather round.

It's present wrapping time.

Okay, now I know that
this isn't a "competition."

But, whoever wraps the most
gifts, all six sides covered,

we know the rules,
may or may not go home

with all of the leftover
cookies.

Are all these gifts
for the kids?

Yeah.

It's a good thing I came
when I did.

Done with your work already?

No, but I'm ready to wrap.

All right.

I have to admit,

I did not know the true value of
double-sided tape until tonight.

Yeah, you uh, you wrapped
about a hundred presents in,

what, ten minutes?

It was for a good cause.

And, you know what?

If this whole photography career
doesn't pan out...

That's not gonna happen.

You know what's funny?

I grew up watching my mom take
all of these amazing photos.

It was so inspiring.

And then I always pictured
that I was going to be

a freelance photographer
when I grew up.

Well, it looks like you...
you nailed that.

Yeah, you know what?
I just...

I don't know
if I'm cut out for it.

I feel like I should be doing
something more practical.

And that's what this staff
position would be?

It's a good opportunity.

But to get it, I really need
to wow them.

Okay.

Like, I need to get
the first rays of dawn,

against the last of
the Christmas lights.

You know what, I...

I just, I need to capture
that hope

that only comes around
once a year.

That's... that's what I need.

Why don't we stay here and see
if you can capture it?

I mean, we're here.

Right?

And if this is the view...

I'm not gonna ask you to stay up
with me all night.

Why not?

Look, I'm the guy who's gotta
lock up, anyways.

Mike.

Why are you doing this?

It's Christmas, isn't it?

Right? And I like
to help people.

I don't buy it.

Why are you doing this?

Okay, fine.

I know you don't want to talk
about it.

But I wasn't there for you
when I should have been.

You didn't know what was
going on with my mom.

It was...

You know, it all happened
so fast.

Still, I know that this is just
a small thing,

but I'd really like to try
and be here for you now.

Let's get you that shot.

Yes, yeah, of course.

And, roger that.

Is everything okay?

As long as we're out of here

before the cleaning crew arrive,
we're good to go.

You're amazing.

Just you wait.

What is that?

That is enough ammo
to keep a horse awake.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Well, I guess we'll need it
if we're gonna stay up till...

sunrise.

Yeah, About that.

Light isn't going to change
for a while, so...

you wanna go see a snowman?

Is he as heavy as he looks?

No.

I dunno.

Then, yes.

Gotta keep that magic alive,
right?

Yep.

All right, so pick a side,
either side.

Sure.

You just... yeah,
reach in.

Yep.

Great. Yeah, he is light.

Awkward, but light.

How do you think I move him
every night by myself?

Just thought it was
your superhuman strength.

I should've gone with that.

Okay.

Okay, up, up, up.

All right.

Now let's just, find
a good spot for him.

Find?

I can't make it too easy
on the kids, right?

Okay.

I don't know.

A snowman in front of
an ice cream shop?

Too cold.

Yeah.

Let's get him out of here.

Which way?

Let's go that... no,
up...

I mean, it's cute, but...

Yeah, too obvious?

Yeah.

Well, get in there, though.

Okay.

Perfect picture opportunity.

I see how it is.

Love at first snow.

Finally, I think he's
actually good for tonight.

I just can't believe you have
the keys to this place.

Yeah, well... I kinda help
sponsor the kids' team.

How will you ever leave this?

You're practically the mayor
of this town.

I don't know about all that.

Yeah, it'll be hard,

but it can feel a little too
small sometimes, too.

You know?

Got a lot of memories.

It's cold. Come on,
let's go.

Here.

Does your ex-wife
still live here?

No.

No. She moved back to Ohio
after the divorce.

It's all good, in the grand
scheme of things.

You always do that, don't you?

Do what?

Make light of things?

I guess I'm just an upbeat
kinda guy.

Yeah, you are.

But...

No, no, no.

Look, it's fine.

We were young, you know?

We grew apart,
wanted different things.

I tried to adapt,
make her happy, but...

end of the day, it just didn't
fix anything.

Yeah, I just wish I had seen
it coming.

You know what, you can't do
that to yourself.

It's easy to get wrapped up.

When's the last time you were?

Wrapped up in a relationship?

Yeah.

I've never done that.

Really?

Okay.

Yeah. You're messing with me.

Yeah.

All right, so when?

A few years back.

I thought he was the one.

We both did.

Which is why he turned down
a job in LA.

Eventually the guilt just
kinda started chipping away

at the relationship until there
was nothing left,

and suddenly he wasn't
in my life anymore.

I'm sorry.

And after him?

Hasn't really felt
worth it since.

Any of your relationships?

No, yeah, no, I mean...

Just, taking the chance
in the first place.

I'm kind of done with loss,
so...

I know it's hard but I think
it's worth it, every time.

Yeah.

That's 'cause you're
an upbeat kinda guy.

Can I admit something?

Sure.

Okay.

I wish that
that one kiss we had,

had happened at the beginning
of the summer

instead of at the end.

Are you really going there?

I'm serious.

Well.

I guess we both thought we had
the next summer.

Yeah, we did.

But, hey, if any of that was
different, then...

maybe we wouldn't be here.

Maybe you wouldn't be eyeing
that job in London,

which is very exciting,
so... that's the upside.

Look who's being upbeat now.

You ready to get back to work?

Yeah.

You know what?

You're gonna be just fine,
whenever you go.

This town, however?

I don't think it's gonna do so
well without ya.

Just enough caffeine and
chocolate to wake you up.

Thank you.

Did you get your shot?

I think so?

Awesome.

Okay.

How do you look so awake?

I'm exhausted.

It's adrenaline.

You know?

Luckily, I've got two more days
to round it out, so...

Are you feeling good?

Yeah, I just gotta... I just
gotta keep pushing through.

Just gotta keep shooting
anything and everything.

But, I really do feel like
I can breathe, so, thank you.

Good.

Well, if you do feel like
taking a break,

clearing your head,

we're probably going
to hit the rink later on.

I know.

You're gonna ice skate?

Gotta throw the blades
on at least once a year.

I know it was work,
but I had a lot of fun.

Yeah, me too.

London calling.

All right.

Do you have to get that?

I mean, they're probably just
setting up the appointment.

Then you have to get that!

I do. I do.

I gotta get out anyway.

You're right, you're right.

Okay.

Thank you.

Hello.

Uh, yes.

Mike Phillips here.

Thank you.

Yes, Josh said that
you'd be calling.

You know,

It's super festive,

and there's so much more snow
than I anticipated.

Then we're basically having
the same Christmas.

Okay, so, did you see
the other submissions.

Yeah, but that was
the first round.

I have no idea what
they're doing now.

Right, right, but... they're
mostly lights on buildings,

sculptures, cityscapes,
that kind of thing?

And high concept, very artsy.

Well, maybe they're
all too similar.

That's why they're having
a hard time picking.

You still have a little time,
so just keep going.

If it's Christmas they want...

Well, then I got Christmas.

Thank you.

Talk soon, bye.

Hey.

You ready to go gather
some pinecones?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Let's do it.

Let's do it.

- Pine cones.
- Pine cones.

So, these are for ornaments?

Wedding favours... to go along
with the chocolate bells.

Aww.

Oh, well, good thing there are
a lot of them out here.

Do you remember how many hours
you used to spend out here,

playing by the creek?

Yeah, and in it.

Is it weird that I
find it surprising

how beautiful it is
here in the winter?

No, of course not.

You haven't had a chance
to experience it before.

But it's special
all year around,

now that I'm retired I get a
chance to enjoy it all the time.

Why did we never come
here for Christmas?

You did-

What?

You did. Yeah.

When you were five,
you don't remember?

No.

Yeah.

We were only here a few hours
before the furnace went out.

What?

Yeah.

We didn't have a rental,
company back then,

so no one was available
to fix it.

So, we just camped out
by the fireplace.

We camped?

Yup.

Three nights,
right beside the tree.

It was really sweet.

Although, we decided to come
only in the summer after that.

No, it really is
a magical place.

Probably a bit more magical

with a working furnace though,
right?

I'm so glad you're here.

Yeah.

I wasn't sure how hard it was
going to be to come back,

but...

Me too.

And I know that we still have
to talk about what to do

with the house, so...

We can do that later.

You keep saying that.

Well, you haven't slept.

You still need to hand
in your assignment,

so first thing's first, okay?

'Kay.

Do we have enough?

We got plenty.

Okay, good.

Thirty-five silver dusted
pinecones, done.

How's that reindeer coming?

It's a snowman.

Oh, is it?

I knew that.

Thank you.

And, I think I'm done.

Well then, you need to hang it
on the tree.

Okay...
like here?

Perfect.

Our very first tradition.

Good work.

Did a great job.

So you want me to put each one
of these in one of those boxes?

Yes, dear.

But you know what?

We have two full days to take
care of all of this,

you got plenty of time.

Well, that's why I'm so excited
to fill these little boxes.

Hey, we have to go
to the hotel to do

a couple last minute things.

So, if you wanna come along...

Hey, Mike?

I might need that break.

Well done.

Hey.

I have to admit, I didn't
see him at first.

So, well done.

I have to admit that I had help.

I don't think I was
of much help,

but it was fun.

Well, you'll have fun out
there, too.

Are you guys leaving?

Yeah.

'Cause right now,

we got some hot chocolate
to drink.

- Bye.
- Bye.

The ice is calling.

Let's do this.

I have not done this in years.

Okay, you can't tell,
'cause your... your...

your form is... perfect.

Alright, just give me a minute
to practice.

Okay.

Hey, Tell me this,
what would you do?

Well that's that's
a very broad question.

Yeah.

About my Dad's house.

You're the property guy.

Would you sell?

Would you rent?

That's a very personal question.

Yeah, I just don't know.

You know, I mean, had you asked
me a week ago,

I would've said sell.

But now?

Not sure.

Well, probably wait
until you do know,

'cause once it's gone you're
never going to get it back.

So, what do you say, do a little
backwards skate?

What? No,
no. No, no, that's...

No, no, that's a terrible idea.

That's... It's easy.

Put your butt down.

I don't wanna.

Do a little spin?

Woah! Woah!

You're crazy!

I take that as a compliment.

Mike, I can't.

I'm so sorry.

No, no, no.

I...

Our timing's off.

No, I... I... it's just,
I know.

I was just... look,
I'm... I'm... yeah, I'm sorry.

But just so you know,

I do wish that that kiss had
happened earlier, too.

Yeah?

Yeah.

Okay.

Power lap.

I'm gonna race ya.

I'm gonna...

I'm gonna win.

Okay.

I mean, you're gonna lose.

Whoo, well, probably going
to be sore tom

but worth it.

Yeah?

Glad you took a break?

Spent so much time
with my mom in there.

It's actually where I realized
I wanted to do this.

Be a photographer?

It's also where she found out...

She was sick.

Just makes it really hard to go
back in, you know?

I'm sure it does, but...

If you avoid it all together,

you know, you're avoiding
all the good memories, too.

Yeah.

Let's just see if I can get
this photography thing going.

Then let's finish strong.

This event is... it's different.

Okay?

But there's gonna be people,
a lot of faces.

Oh no, I usually do landscapes
and cityscapes.

I know, I know, but...
this is Christmas, right?

Christmas is all about people.

True, yeah.

Meet me here in the morning?

That all you're gonna tell me?

See you in the AM.

Okay, so it's a Christmas fair.

Nope.

Are you seriously not going
to tell me why we're here?

You're just gonna have
to wait for it.

Want a cocoa?

No, are you serious right now?

They have coffee.

I didn't say you'd have
to wait long.

Come on.

Ho, ho, ho!
Merry Christmas!

What?

Oh, my gosh.

This is amazing.

Worth the wait?

Definitely.

Thank you.

Oh, my gosh.

Ho, ho, ho!
Merry Christmas!

Aw. Now I really don't know

how you're going
to give all this up.

Me neither.

I got... I'm just gonna...

Yeah.

Not quite done?

No.

I'm, I'm almost done,

I just... this is so different
from what I normally do,

and I feel like he really liked
my initial direction,

so I just...

But he had you redo it, right?

That's a good point, yeah.

I don't know, I just feel
like this is...

So different than
where I started.

The light of Christmas,
that's the title.

Right?

So, it... it's different
for everyone.

It's personal.

That's what makes it special.

So, as long as your light
is coming through,

I don't think you can go wrong.

Good work.

I... I've never seen anything
like this tree.

Well, I warned you that it might
be a little bit over the top.

No, it's beautiful.

In fact, your whole house
is beautiful.

Well, it's a little bit
different than your dad's place,

but we're happy here.

Yeah.

I think it's perfect.

Thanks for coming over, Sam.

Here, let's sit down.

I want to talk to you
about something important.

Sure.

I know that I would have loved
your mother.

I mean, she sounds like such
an amazing woman.

And I'll never try
to take her place,

or what you guys had.

And I want you to know
how lucky I feel

to be marrying into this family.

So, I'm just hoping that maybe
you'll be my maid of honour.

Me?

There's nothing extra you have
to do, I promise.

And I've already set a couple
dresses aside, just in case.

But, it's so important for me
to have you be a part of this.

I'd love to.

Really?

Yeah.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I am so happy.

Are you still up for helping me
finish those wedding favours?

I am, I am, yes.

Let's go.

Okay.

It sounds like an incredible
opportunity, and a...

a pace that I'd definitely be
up for.

Great.

I look forward to hearing
from you.

How'd it go?

Good. Good.

I mean, he's gonna get back
to me later on today.

But.

Yeah, it went...
went pretty well.

Are you sure?

You don't look like it did.

I don't know.

It's a lot to process.

Well, you've always
been decisive.

So I think you just gotta figure
out what it is holding you back,

and go from there.

I've never done moulds before,

but I have been baking
gingerbread waffles

every Christmas morning

since I was about nine, so...
if you're interested...

I will definitely be there.

So I heard you got some
good pictures of Santa today.

Oh, yeah.

You know, the whole thing
was just amazing.

Well, it's always more special
when you share it

with someone you care about.

Yeah.

Wait, do you mean Mike?

No, no.

No, we...

We're friends.

Old friends.

We're old friends,
so, but... Any...

Anyway, he's thinking about
moving, so...

Yeah, but he's here now.

Yeah, but you know?

You know what, I think it's just...
our timing was always off.

When we were kids,
and then again now.

But something tells me that
those feelings are still there.

Smells amazing in here.

Hey, there's my groom.

So now I think it's time
to celebrate.

We're gonna be celebrating
plenty tomorrow.

Yeah, you and I,
but this is for Sam.

For me? Why?

Well, you turned in
your assignment.

Didn't you?

Yeah.

I'm not gonna hear
if I get the job

till Christmas day, though.

But you gave it everything
you got,

and that's all that matters.

So?

Gourmet hot chocolate
at the hotel?

What do you say?

Are the carollers there?

Yeah, so we better hurry,
or we might not get a spot.

Apparently, it's kind of
a thing.

Okay.

I just wanna try one of these
for the road.

What?

She's the boss.
She says no.

Those are for the wedding.

Okay, okay.

We'll get some later, right?

When we get back.

Let's go.

I don't know how they're
possibly going to add

more decorations for tomorrow.

I'm sure they could fit a
few more poinsettias in here.

Definitely.

Your timing seems pretty good
to me right now.

So, that is why it is important
for us

to be able to promote
local artists.

So almost everyone
that you see in here,

is either from here
or lives here.

Umm...

Won't you excuse me
for a moment please?

Hi.

Hi.

You must be Elizabeth's
daughter, Samantha.

Right?

Forgive me.

As I'm looking at you,
it's like staring right at her.

You think so?

I never thought so.

Thank you, that's nice to hear.

We spent so much time in here.

You remember?

Yes, I do.

It actually inspired me
to follow in her footsteps.

Well, your mom
was very talented.

I used to always want her
to submit more of her work.

But, she made it very clear.

Life came first.

You guys.

Really?

That's what made her work
so beautiful.

And that is also what I will
remember most about her.

Please, won't you have a seat?

I've been wanting to come in
here for days, but...

I know.

It was hard.

Listen.

I know that it's been
a long time,

but I am so sorry for your loss.

Thank you.

But I'm so glad that you share
the same passion,

and the same love of art.

Like your mom.

And you can see her
in everything you do.

And that is a gift.

Yeah.

It is.

Listen, I'd love it
if you would like

to bring in your work sometime.

I would be more than happy
to take a look at it.

Thank you.

That means the world.

I'm really glad you came in.

Excuse me.

Yeah.

Okay, so I know we're still
putting the deal together.

But congrats on the job!

This is great, right?

Yes.

Yeah. Thank you.

Look man, I owe you.

But...

What?

It's just... look.

You know that I would love
to work with you again.

You... you don't wanna move?

I don't think so, no.

I get it.

You do?

It's a lot to leave.

Yeah.

I mean, my family,
and you know, this town.

And the rest of it.

What?

Hey.

I've seen you fall for a few
girls through the years.

Sam's the only one you've
fallen for twice.

It's...

What?

You talked about her.

A lot.

When I left, I had a whole lot
to move for.

Hannah was there, work, family.

Everything you love is here.

Okay, everything except me.
I won't be here, but...

So yeah.

I get it.

Thanks, man.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no,

no, no, no, no, no.

Hi, Dad.

Yeah, I'm so sorry
to bother you,

but the um, it's leaking.

The ceiling is leaking again.

Okay.

Yep.

I'll... You call the handyman,
I'll get a bucket.

Okay, bye.

That'll do.

Right.

Help has arrived.

I'm so glad you're back.

Did you get a handyman?

Well, I got a not-so-handyman
that's very helpful.

All right. Let's fix this.

I found this-

- in the attic from our
first Christmas here.

And then I found this,

that I made for Mom here,
remember?

I remember this.

I just think there are so
many memories here, and...

I don't want to let them go.

Me either.

Really?

Yeah.

Who else is going to come
and play in the creek,

or come for Christmas? Huh?

All right, this time,
definitely fixed.

Are you sure we shouldn't
call a professional?

Hey, I'm a professional
jack-of-all-trades.

Is that even a thing?

Are you sure this wasn't just
an excuse to get back here?

Dad!

I mean, I'm just saying.

Look.

I think there was a...
a second leak

that I didn't see
the first time.

But it's definitely
all patched up now.

Good.

'Cause we're keeping the house.

You are?

All right, thanks
for coming by Mike.

Take care of yourself.

See you tomorrow, sir.

I am so sorry.

He's kind of embarrassing
sometimes.

It's fine.

I really did try and fix it
last time, though.

I'm glad it happened.

'Cause it gave me a chance
to ask you in person.

Ask me what?

If you wanted to be my date
to the wedding.

I know.

I know what you said
about my leaving.

And I... I get it.

I've been thinking a lot,
and I don't think this is

the right time for me
to move anyways.

You're not going to London now?

Okay...

Does it have anything
to do with...

With...

No, us?

No. No.

Okay.

No. Like you said, this place
is hard to leave.

And... I mean, who else is gonna
move the snowman next year?

Right?

So, what do you say?

I don't know.

I mean, I'm kinda in the wedding
now, so...

Is that a no?

No. Just means you're gonna have
to meet me there.

Awesome.

Bye.

Right this way.

And you can set up in there,
and we'll be right in.

Thank you.

You ready for some pampering?

I am, I am, but you really
don't have to do this.

It... it's your big day.

I wanted to.

Aw....

Well, I wanted to get you
something, too.

You didn't have
to get me anything.

But thank you.

I know I'm not the most seasoned
maid of honour,

but... I'm pretty sure you need
something old.

That's beautiful.

That is beautiful.

I actually made it for my mom.

When I was like ten.

Are you sure?

Yeah.

Yeah, you know...

We're really lucky to have
found you, too.

Well, let's...

Yeah.

Let's... let's do this.

Let's also consider it
something borrowed.

Because I look forward to
when I can give it back to you.

'Kay.

Okay, so other than handing
them the rings...

Just enjoy the moment.

Take it all in, and keep your
father relaxed.

What?

I'm relaxed.

Well, your guests are here,

so I'm just going to make sure
everyone is seated.

Sure.

Thank you.

Thank you.

So?

Are you nervous?

Well, I kind of thought I would
be, but no, I'm... I'm good.

How about you?

Same.

That makes me happy.

Yeah.

Me too.

It's time.

You ready?

Yeah?

I'm ready.

Okay.

Let's do it.

I do.

I do.

Okay, so, admittedly, this was
my first Christmas wedding.

I thought it was pretty perfect.

I agree, but I'm biased, so...

I guess here's to the rest
of the night

being perfect as well?

Woah!

You a professional dancer now,
too?

How would you tell?

No.

You know what,

I have to go help set up
some bridal photos, so...

What?

They hired another photographer?

Cute.

I think they've had enough of me
working for a while.

Good.

Okay, well, I'll grab
some appetizers.

Meet you back at the table.

Sure.

I'm gonna go.

Okay.

Like, right now.

Okay.

Okay.

Hi.

Hi!

If there are any specific family
photos you want to get,

let me know, otherwise
she's just gonna do candids.

I think candids sound great.

Sam?

Yeah. No, I love candids.

Great.

I just need to grab you
for one more thing.

Hey, you did an excellent
job out there.

Well, thanks.

We're so happy you guys
could make it.

So are we.

Yeah.

And I have to say, we're pretty
glad he's not moving.

I bet you are.

Yeah.

It was a pretty big opportunity,
so, he must really like you.

Yeah... no, no,
he's not staying for me.

He's staying for the town,
and for you guys.

Yeah, yeah, well, you know,

he likes to keep
everybody happy.

That's true.

But hopefully we'll see
a lot more of you.

Yeah.

If my favourite Christmas
music wasn't enough,

there's gonna be sparklers too.

Come on.

Hey.

Hey.

Sorry I took so long.

I had to ask your dad
a rental question,

just 'cause it's, like,
time sensitive.

But, I did manage to get
the good apps

before they were taken.

Thank you.

Are you okay?

I think you should go.

You wanted to go.

Is... is this about London?

That was... that
was just an offer.

It was an opportunity,
and it was a really,

really good one.

Are you... are you trying
to get rid of me already?

That's, no, that's not
what I'm...

Did they say something?

I know that there are probably
many different reasons

that you would
want to stay here.

Your family, the town, and us,
but... before I came back,

you wanted to go, right?

You... you... you wanted to go
and do something new for yourself.

I... I did, but...

And I think you should do that.

Right?

Mike, this is about
what makes you happy.

So, what are you saying?

I don't want you
to have any regrets.

You're just assuming
that I would.

Because I've been here before.

You know you don't think
that you're gonna be giving

anything up in the moment,
but then over time,

it just...

I don't want that.

For either of us.

Why are you trying
to sabotage this?

I'm not, I just...
think our timing is off.

Again.

Look, I get it.

Okay?

We've... we've both lost.

But you can't hide behind
that forever.

You can't always take
the safe way out

because you don't want
to risk anything.

Pfft.

Ladies and gentlemen,
it's time to cut the cake.

I gotta...

Sam.

...get back in there.

Sam.

I'm gonna...

Now, some of
these are a little silly

But, I hope you like 'em.

We're gonna love them, but...

I wanna do this one.

Let's do it.

Merry Christmas.

Guys, I told you not
to get me anything.

I know, but it's important
to us.

What is this?

This is about the house.

You signed the house over to me?

What?

Helen and I really want you
to have the house.

And I know your mother

would want you to have
the house, too.

Guys, I don't even...
I don't...

Thank you.

I don't know what to say.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

It's so nice to have you here.

Thank you.

You know, I think this might
be the first time ever

that you haven't devoured your
donut before we left the café.

Hey, well, if you don't want
it, I can always...

All right, never mind,
I don't want it.

You feeling okay?

Yeah, no, I... I just didn't
sleep much last night.

Is this about Sam?

Well, what about Sam?

Did I mess things up
by mentioning that...

Dad.

You were just stating a fact,
you know?

It was a good opportunity,
but... It's all good.

No it's not all good.

Not even a little.

No.

No.

She's amazing.

I can't believe you worked
with Mike on this.

He said you guys were talking
about rental stuff.

Yeah, he knew a guy that could
help us out last minute

to get it done.

Of course he does.

He's a good guy.

Is that?

Is it?

It's from Vanessa.

What does it say?

"Have you checked your email?"

Let's check.

I don't know, Dad.

I'm trying, I'm trying.

It must be a large file.

Okay, thank you for capturing

the guiding light of Christmas.

You got it.

You got it?

I got it.

You got it!

You got it!

I got it!

You got it!

Yes!

You got it!

Does that mean you get
the job, too?

Yeah, I mean, I guess so, yeah!

If I want it, yeah.

I had a really good tour guide,
didn't I?

You had an excellent guide.

Sweetie?

You deserve love
as well as success.

I gotta go.

Yeah, I gotta go!

I'm sorry.

What?

I had to give you this.

Every tour needs a souvenir,
right?

This is mine.

I'm so sorry about yesterday.

No.

I'm scared.

I don't want to miss out
on our chance again.

'Cause this is what I want.

All of it.

And you helped me see that.

Well then, that would be pretty
awful to walk away from.

Did you...

...get the job?

Yes.

Yeah.

Of course you did.

Why didn't you tell me earlier?

Congrats.

Thanks.

Okay, does that mean
that you need to...

Get back?

Yeah.

No.

So?

You're gonna keep freelancing?

Well if... if I'm staying,

and you're just gonna roll
with it, then, uh?

Looks like our timing
is improving.

Yeah, it's about time.

You ready for the final stop
on our tour?

Yeah.

Okay, so, it's a choir?

Nnn... not exactly.

Come on, are you really
not gonna tell me again?

I promise you it is worth
the wait.

If the bells are ringing,

does that mean I get
to make a wish?

Absolutely.

Merry Christmas.