Santa's Boots (2018) Movie Script

Mom, you'll hardly miss me

at Thanksgiving.

Dad will be busy at the store

and I'm swamped.

I do take time off.

I'm coming home for Christmas.

Yes, I have a life outside

of work, mom.

I actually went on a date

this weekend.

Nobody special,

I haven't found my Sleepless

in Seattle yet

but I'm still looking.

Yes, when I'm ready to introduce

someone you will know, OK?

I'm at work, mom.

I gotta go.

I gotta go. Bye.

OK. Not so fast.

You didn't call me yesterday.

It is way too early

to be interrogated.

No it's not.

If I tell you will you let

me go to work?

Dish.

It wasn't exactly

a love connection.

So?

I don't like boats

and we went sailing.

OK, I didn't know that

you don't like boats.

I didn't know that I don't like

boats but it was a lot of boats.

Like sailing and stories

and pictures and trophies.

OK, that is too bad.

I just don't think I could

ever compete with his boat.

OK, alright, look.

Forget Boat Guy,

we just gotta get you back

in the saddle pronto.

Get you a few more swings at

bat before the clock runs out.

Take it easy on the metaphors.

It's a bit of a problem,

I'll work on it.

Addison, it's OK.

Really.

Is it?

Have you been conspiring

with my mother?

Not saying anything.

Holly, can I have a word?

You know, once a year I get

a report on employee's

unused vacation time.

Did you know that you have 41

days of unused vacation time?

I must really love working here.

Holly, if you don't use your

vacation time you'll lose it.

Look, I get it. You wanna

be the best.

You are the best.

I got you.

But you don't need

another bonus,

you need a vacation.

So take one.

Starting tomorrow.

Wait, what?

Hand things off to Addison

and your team,

come back in January refreshed.

And Holly, say "thank you".

Thank you?

Welcome to Montell's.

It's Holly Montell.

Welcome home!

Hi honey!

Hi dad!

Excuse me, I have a complaint.

It is way too early

for Christmas carols.

It isn't even Thanksgiving yet.

Come here, girl!

Are you here to spell me?

Because I have a plane to catch

to the Bahamas.

You wish.

Did you seriously just fly here?

You look amazing.

You are too kind.

My mom doesn't even know

that I'm here yet,

but I had to come by and say hi

to my bestie.

So how was your boat date?

I can't talk about it.

But how about you?

How's Jay?

How's the kiddo?

The kiddo is this big.

No.

My dear daughter!

Well, she's been here

three and a half minutes

and she's already running

the store.

Nope, she's here

on personal business.

Exactly.

Just don't stay too long.

We'll never hear the end of it

from your mother.

I promise, dad.

So?

Looks good out there, right?

It does.

Why are you hanging

them out here?

They'll get all beat up

by the weather.

Because I like 'em, Uncle Ralph.

Plus it's Christmas time.

Nick, shouldn't those be

at the counter

so we can sell them?

When you're finished that

come and help me in the field.

OK.

So Jenny was thinking about

putting the Doug firs up front.

Yeah?

Well, maybe she's right, Nick.

Really?

Whatever happened to "if

it ain't broke don't fix it"?

Well, you know,

this is my last year.

Are you gonna threaten me on

the day before Thanksgiving,

Uncle Ralph?

What, you thought I was

joking when I said

I'd turn the business over

to you when you turned 35?

I wasn't joking.

I know.

Do we have to talk

about that now?

Why not now?

You know, your father

and I started this business

42 years ago when I was 26.

I know.

So when are you gonna be ready?

You should take the rest of

the afternoon off.

Come on, Uncle Ralph...

In fact, take all the time

you need,

and don't come back

until you're really ready.

There's a lot to do.

We gotta hang the lights and...

Look. Just go home, Nick.

I ran this business

for 36 years without you,

I think I can manage

a few lights.

Nick, where are you going?

Home.

Why?

Babe, what's going on?

Ask Uncle Ralph.

Holly, I'm glad

you made it home.

Me too, Grammy.

OK, that needs to be turned.

Ivy, darling, can you ask Kyle

to come to the kitchen?

I do need a man to do that job.

Yes. Sure thing.

And perhaps next year

it'll be your young man

that I summon to turkey duty.

Really, mom?

I just got here.

Elaine, she didn't go to Wharton

so she could chase a bunch

of kids around the house.

She could have done that without

spending two hundred grand.

You always take her side.

I always take the right side.

Chef Rob has arrived.

You scared me but

you're a lifesaver.

Yeah, you're welcome.

For both.

Day?

Don't ask.

Too much trees, not enough dirt?

Ha ha.

Couldn't have been worse

than my day.

Yeah? Spill it.

Four.

Count 'em, four Santas quit.

What?

Yeah.

And two elves.

How does that happen?

Let me tell you.

Hip replacement,

lower back pain,

the flu... that's actually

good that he quit,

that would have been bad...

and get this.

Hearing aid not

working properly.

He didn't think he was gonna

be able to hear the kids.

That would be a problem.

That is a problem.

Maybe that's what I get

for only hiring old Santas.

What about the elves?

I couldn't get a hold of one,

the other one got in a fight

with her boyfriend

so she was too upset to work.

That's what you get for only

hiring young elves.

What am I gonna do?

I can play Santa for you.

Don't you have a ton of trees

to sell?

Like, literally a ton of trees?

No, 'cause Uncle Ralph

sent me home today.

What do you mean,

he sent you home?

You're almost 35.

Did you get grounded, too?

What're you talking about?

Can we watch TV later,

or is that off the table?

He wants me to take over

the business and insisted

that I make a decision

on it today.

OK.

Isn't that your plan?

It is.

It was. I...

So... I'm sorry,

what's the problem?

I'm confused here.

Do I have to, you know, decide

the day before Thanksgiving

what I'm gonna do with

the next 30 years of my life?

I mean, well I've committed

to staffing Santas

for the foreseeable future.

Hey, if I can do Santas

you can do trees.

Well, I'm not doing trees

right now,

which is why I'm gonna do

Santa for you.

No can do.

They send the young Santas home.

Not if they're good with kids.

Do you even know any kids?

I mean, I was great with the 4H

volunteers in the lot.

You remember?

Right.

Wait, Rob, you don't think

I can do this?

Well, I didn't say that, per Se.

It was more implied than said

but it's just...

where are you going, man?

Pizza's getting cold.

What, you don't think I can be

jolly for a couple hours

with 20 kids?

Yeah, try 50 kids.

Eight hours a day

on the busiest shopping day

of the year.

So yeah. I definitely

don't think you can.

Well, ho, ho, ho!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, Robbie!

Merry Christmas for who?

Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho!

Merry Christmas!

Where are you gonna find Santas

this committed?

Ho, ho, ho!

Don't make me beg, Rob.

OK, OK, I give in.

Yes!

Just take that off.

You're my newest Santa.

Just burn this outfit, I

never wanna see it again,

and keep the boots

'cause you can use those.

I'll do the rest.

Alright.

Cheers.

I can't look at you.

Dad, I can't believe you

were at the store

until 2:00 am last night.

Well, the important thing

is that we are ready

for Black Friday.

Totally ready?

No missing shipments,

no backorder dramas?

No, not this year,

it's smooth like butter.

I gotta see this.

You're supposed to be

on vacation,

not working at the store.

Who said anything about working?

Speaking of being ready,

will you be attending

your birthday ball

with anyone we know?

Mom, it's hardly

my birthday ball.

It is the Christmas Eve ball

and it's your birthday so...

No pressure.

It is your 35th.

OK, dad. Make her stop.

Well, I wanna know, too.

Who are you bringing?

You see?

First of all, we are not

celebrating my birthday

with the entire population

of Noblesville.

And second, I've been home

for, like, two seconds.

When I know who I'm bringing,

if I'm bringing anyone,

I'll tell you.

It's hardly the entire

population of Noblesville.

OK, who wants pie?

I do.

Yes.

Great.

But that...

I'll take that, Grammy.

Anything I can do?

Just don't bother.

Honey, she's just being

your mother.

I know.

Listen, I really don't want

you working

at the store this season.

Take some well-deserved

time off.

Do something you love.

I love the store.

I'm just gonna swing by

and say hi to some folks.

It'll only be an hour.

One hour.

Please tell mom to knock it off.

Otherwise I won't be her kitchen

slave on Christmas.

I mean it.

Da-da-da!

Grammy, you outdid yourself

this year.

Arturo!

I've missed you.

Holly, hey!

What're you doing here?

It looks like you've got things

under control here.

Yeah.

So give me the dirt.

How's business?

Alive, kicking.

Alright, well how about a bike

ride while I'm home?

In this cold? I don't think so,

Seattle girl.

Alright, softie.

Bye, hipster.

Hey.

Hi!

You're back so soon.

Lucky me.

Shh.

It's only for one hour

because I'm on vacation.

Elle.

Your Santa's here.

Hi.

What happened to Larry?

Larry retired last year.

This Santa's kinda young.

He is young.

Excuse me. Hi.

I know I'm young for Santa

but I'm good with kids.

It doesn't matter.

I'm gonna have to call

a staffing company.

I'm so sorry, there's just...

there are so many kids

out there.

It's a lot.

That's great.

And the staffing company

is just running really short

on old Santas.

They know you wanted one

but they sent me

because they knew

I'd do a good job.

Come on, give me a shot.

If you really think I suck I'll

help you find an older Santa.

We got a lot of kids waiting,

just wanna know if we should

tell them Santa's sick or...

Nope.

He's coming.

Let's get that beard on.

OK.

Let's hope this works.

Yeah.

Sorry.

OK, here goes nothing.

Ho, ho, ho!

Merry Christmas, kids!

Merry Christmas!

Come. Come sit next

to Santa.

Hi.

Do you have something important

to tell me?

Crisis averted.

That's an awesome gift.

We'll definitely get

that for ya.

High five.

Merry Christmas.

Bye, Emily.

OK, Merry Christmas.

Come sit next to Santa.

Come on!

Come all ye faithful

No.

Joyful and triumphant.

Nice try but it's not

gonna happen.

Fine.

Cara, are you ill?

Yeah.

Come, sit.

I thought you looked pale.

OK, you know what's not good

for business on Black Friday?

A sick elf and a bunch of kids.

Why don't you send her home

and get someone else?

Not possible.

The staffing company is already

down two elves,

that's why Cara's an elf.

I'm sure it's just

a 24-hour thing.

Well, who else can do it?

I mean, I'm sure you have tons

of temp help today.

I looked all over the store

but I...

Yeah, we're short staffed and

this costume is really small.

What?

No.

No, no, no, no, no.

I wouldn't even be suggesting it

if there was anyone else

who could do it.

I will help Santa but

in my own clothes, OK?

Holls, I hate to break it

to you but that three-year-old

who's been waiting 30 minutes

to see Santa

does not want to see you

as Santa's helper.

She wants to believe.

Are you seriously saying if

I don't dress like an elf

I'm going to ruin Christmas

for a three-year-old?

Remind me to have you fired

after Christmas.

This is great.

A baby-faced Santa

and an elf with an MBA.

Elle, I need...

Don't say a word.

Can we get this over with?

I'm sure I don't need

to say anything

about your elf attitude.

Shut it.

OK.

I'll be an elf.

I'll even have a great

elf attitude, I will.

But please don't make me

wear these shoes.

They are killing me.

And then you're gonna have

to amputate my feet

which defeats the whole purpose

of this elf-speriment.

I have an idea.

Like another person

wearing this suit?

Nope.

See? Look, he's doing great.

Here's a chair just for you.

OK, so what're you thinking

you want this year?

He's doing better than great.

He doesn't even need me.

All he needs is a Montell

to show him the ropes.

No.

Please don't tell him that

my dad owns the store.

Why not?

Because nobody likes working

with the boss's daughter.

Just let him be Santa and please

let me keep a shred of dignity.

I mean, look at me.

I just wanna be

an anonymous elf.

OK, OK.

Those are great.

You better get out there.

Santa needs you.

Go home, Cara.

It's an elf!

It's Santa's elf!

OK, who's next to see Santa?

What's your name?

Holly.

It's Holly the elf.

That's so funny.

Her name's Holly the elf.

OK. Come on.

Go sit in that little chair

over there.

Hi, do you have

your Christmas list.

You sure you're gonna be OK?

Dad.

You're gonna ruin the illusion.

A computer.

Good choice.

Come on, sweetie.

Mommy wants a picture.

Merry Christmas, Todd.

Do you mind?

No, not at all.

Thank you.

Come on, go up there.

Merry Christmas, young lady.

Have you been a good girl?

I thought so.

And is there maybe something

that you want from Santa?

That's an amazing gift.

Picture?

Yes.

Perfect.

OK, Merry Christmas.

Say "Merry Christmas".

Merry Christmas.

Aw, thank you.

Great, Merry Christmas.

Thank you so much.

Merry Christmas.

So, Holly the elf.

I'm afraid so, yep.

And your name is...?

St. Nick.

Funny Santa.

I don't wanna tell you how to

do your job but I had an idea.

Maybe if you usher the kids up

and you take the picture

for the parents and

then we hustle them off

we can keep the line moving.

Sure, great. Great idea.

Alright everybody.

Sorry for the wait.

Get your cameras

and your phones ready

and I'll take the pictures

and we'll get some great shots

of you and Santa.

Come on, it's your turn.

Hi.

Sweetie, let me

take your jacket.

Alright, say "cookies".

Cookies.

Thanks for your help.

I'm gonna post this

on social media.

Great.

He'll be here until six tonight.

Hashtag "Santa at Montell's".

Perfect.

Where do you keep

the princess dresses?

Floor 3, next to kid's shoes.

Thank you.

You good, sweetie?

Merry Christmas.

Hey.

Santa, you need some cookies?

No.

Santa has other needs.

Got it.

You are killing it out there.

You're not so bad yourself,

you're a natural.

Careful.

What, being an elf

isn't a life's dream?

Not exactly.

But I'll do just about anything

for my friend Elle.

Those are some serious boots.

Thanks. We've been through

a lot together.

Holly, there you are.

Hey.

Elle asked me to see if

you guys could head back out.

We just sat down.

Just the messenger.

Nice boots.

Gibney's?

Yeah.

Your eye-stay piece is loose.

Why don't you bring them

by the shoe department,

I'll fix it for you.

Great, thanks so much.

That's awesome.

OK, I'll see you guys out there?

Alright.

Great.

Alright.

Back at it.

Do I look OK?

I... so many things

could go wrong.

Actually your bell is crooked.

Thanks.

OK sweetie, it's your turn.

I like your antlers.

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Christmas,

what's your name?

Would you like to tell Santa

what you want for Christmas?

You wanna bet this next guy's

a slugger?

A slugger?

Hi.

What do you want for Christmas?

Easy.

Boxing gloves?

OK, cool. High five.

Open fist.

There you go.

Merry Christmas.

How did you know?

Santa's intuition?

I didn't think

you meant literally.

Yeah.

OK, so I have to look out for

sluggers and what else is there?

I don't know, let's see.

Hi.

You want to sit next to Santa?

Nope.

OK.

Snubber.

Couldn't care less.

I feel for you.

Those are the ones that hurt.

How's it going?

Great, but I think Santa

needs his halftime break.

I know a place where you can

get lunch without any snubbers.

Down the hall.

Santa needs to have

his milk and cookies

but he'll be back in 30 minutes.

I've been catching the

parents in line and asking them

what they need to get their kids

for Christmas

and then telling them

where to get it in the store.

I love it.

Even better,

let's do it for them.

Perfect.

Yeah.

OK, it looks like we have turkey

and ham.

Ham please.

Okay.

What is it that you do

when you're not being Santa?

Lumberjack?

Kind of, yeah.

How'd you know?

Seriously?

Yeah.

I... it's just that you look more

like Paul Bunyan than Santa.

Don't tell the bosses that.

Your secret's safe with me.

OK.

OK, you're next.

Hope on up there.

Hi.

Two of you.

Nice.

Picture?

Mom!

Holly.

Mom?

Check you out.

What are you doing here?

Well, when your father told us

why you didn't come home

we thought we better come

and see for ourselves.

Do you need more help dear?

I swear I've got an elf suit

packed away somewhere.

Only if mom wears one, too.

We could start a trend.

Multi-generational elves.

Elaine, Ivy, what about it?

I always knew that suit

would come in handy.

But mom, seriously.

You gotta go.

Why?

Well, elves don't have moms

checking up on them.

Yes, quite right, the children.

Alright.

OK, bye.

Bye.

Is that your mom?

And my grandma and my sister.

That's awesome.

It's so nice to be with family

this time of year.

Is it?

I'm joking.

Where are all the kids?

It's Black Friday.

I guess people are shopping

online nowadays.

There's gotta be some way we can

get more kids over here.

I have an idea but I'll need

some things from my truck

and we'll need a table.

Can we do that?

Sure.

OK.

Alright.

This is such a great idea.

How much should we charge?

Charge?

I don't know.

I never thought about it.

I just make them.

What, you made these?

Yeah.

Hey, guys.

Fun ornaments.

Hey.

Is this Santa's workshop?

It is.

I love it!

I'm gonna make an announcement

on the PA.

Let's draw some business

over here.

Great.

He's adorable.

Someone's here to see

Santa again.

OK, kids.

I hate to ruin the fun but Santa

has some business

up at the North Pole.

He has a long list of gifts

that he has to make for you.

Are you gonna have this

decorating workshop tomorrow?

Hey, Santa!

We doing this tomorrow?

Great.

OK, we'll be here

at 10:00 am.

Tell all your friends.

Hashtag "Santa's workshop

at Montell's".

I did. I will.

Great.

Merry Christmas.

Mommy, can we make an ornament?

Yes, we can come back tomorrow.

Hey there.

Hey.

Thanks.

How's everything going

on the lot?

We've only sold 30 trees an

hour throughout the entire day.

How'd you pull that off?

Ralph let me print out flyers

and I had the 4H kids

pass them out.

Really?

I thought he was against flyers.

He was.

Until he saw the flyer.

That's great.

I'm impressed.

So I thought I would stop by

to see what was going on

between you and Ralph.

It seems kind of weird.

You two are always conspiring

like two thieves

about to break out of jail,

so what's going on?

He wants to retire

after this season.

OK.

Yeah, I don't blame him.

42 Christmas seasons

on some cold dirt,

I'd probably want my spot

on the sand in Aruba, too.

And?

He decided that I had to make

a decision on

whether I was taking over

the business that day.

But I thought that

was your plan,

to take over the business.

Yeah, it is.

But I just need some time.

To do what?

Make ornaments?

OK, Nick.

OK.

You know where to find me,

if you need me.

So much for only an hour?

I am gonna hear about this

when I get home.

Suddenly it's everyone's

business

how I choose to spend

my vacation.

Well, tell them sales went up

five percent in the first hour

you were on the floor as an elf,

and they held steady 'til 5:30.

Normally it drops off around

3:30 on a Black Friday.

I told some parents that we'll

be decorating ornaments

in the morning so I guess

that means...

You have a hot date with

a certain Santa at 10:00 am?

What?

Come on.

You can't fool me.

I got eyes to see.

What are you talking about?

You look at that Santa the way

you looked at Roland Pierce

in the fifth grade.

You remember him?

Yes, I remember him.

He was my boyfriend from

early morning math class

until recess when he moved

on to greener pastures.

He was a player.

He was.

OK, back to Nick.

You are completely delusional.

There is nothing going on

between me and Nick.

Plus, I live like 2,000

miles away.

I am not interested in a

long-distance relationship.

Plus, he's probably married.

Like you didn't notice he

wasn't wearing a wedding ring.

Or he has a girlfriend,

or a significant other.

Whatever.

A guy like that is too...

Gorgeous.

Good with kids.

To be alone.

Well, I could find out.

No.

No, no, no, no, no.

We're not in high school.

I do not need my BFF going

to check

and see if some guy

is available.

Elle.

I mean, I'll be cool about it.

No.

I got... I gotta go.

Promise me.

Fine.

I gotta go pick up

the little guy.

You coming?

Sorry. My real work

needs me.

Alright.

You know, I don't know

how we're gonna keep up.

We went through two boxes

of ornaments today.

I can't believe people are

actually buying them.

Of course they're buying them.

They're amazing.

You know, we could open

this whole area up

and make like a real

Santa's Workshop.

You know, I was just thinking

the same thing.

It feels like it wants to be

something more.

Yeah.

I could bring my work bench,

my tools...

Yeah?

Yeah.

Well, when do you

want to do that?

I don't know, I mean,

I could do it tonight.

Tonight?

Yeah.

That would be great.

Great.

Hey.

How're you doing?

You know, I've been

thinking all day

about what I wanted

to say to you

and I came up with

all of these great things

but come back, Nick.

We need you.

Ralph needs you even if

he's too stubborn to say it.

What is going on with you?

Look, he told me to go away

and think about it

until I was ready.

I've been thinking about it

and I'm still not ready.

I thought that this has been

your plan since...

It was.

Are you having second thoughts

about us?

Are you?

I am.

We've been drifting apart

for a long time now.

We don't talk anymore.

I think we should break up.

Yeah, I think you're right.

I think we just want

different things.

So don't tell your mother

but I made some of

my special hot cocoa.

You want some?

Alright.

I'm on vacation.

Coulda fooled me.

Hey, can I ask you a question?

Yeah, shoot.

Why didn't you tell me

that the store was in trouble?

Honey, I just didn't

want you to worry.

Well, I am worried.

Well, don't.

We've got miles to go

before then.

Marshmallows?

You're the worst.

I thought you were on vacation.

Alright, I'll take a few.

You looked great

out there today.

Yeah, it was fun.

Go ahead.

What?

I know there's something

you wanna ask me.

No, no.

Nah, I just... I'm just enjoying

our special tradition.

Well, I gotta head off.

At this hour? Where?

I gotta make some

Christmas magic.

Hey.

Out of the Santa suit.

Nice.

You too.

You OK?

You're not your usual

jolly self.

The life of a Montell Santa

isn't always so jolly,

I guess.

You wanna get started?

Yeah.

That looks better.

You really love Christmas,

don't you?

I do.

I really do.

Christmas is a big deal

with my family.

Yeah?

Yeah, Santa and cookies

and decorations and...

and of course there's

the Christmas Eve ball.

I'm told I attended

my first one in diapers.

I've never been.

Are you serious?

Yeah.

How is that possible?

I thought everyone

in Noblesville

has been at least once.

Everyone except me

and maybe my Uncle Ralph.

How's the sign coming?

It's coming.

It looks really good.

I'm impressed.

It looks pretty good.

Are you kidding?

It looks amazing.

You got mad skills, Santa.

I bet by Christmas

it'll be perfect.

So, you never told me

what it is you do

when you're not Santa-ing.

I'm a tree farmer.

A tree farmer.

Yeah.

I should have guessed

by the flannel.

Are you dissing my flannel?

No, no.

I live in Seattle where flannel

is practically a religion.

Seattle?

So are you a sailor

or a computer coder?

No, not quite.

I I'm an executive

at an active wear company.

But I'm also a cyclist

so I fit in.

A cyclist.

Is that a more

serious bicyclist?

I guess.

I mean, I did bike over

1,500 miles last year.

That's impressive.

So I thought you were a

carpenter or like an artist.

I am.

I wanna be.

I make custom furniture.

That's cool.

So you do that and you run

a tree farm?

Well, the farm was owned

by my father and uncle.

Was owned?

Yeah, my dad passed

when I was 14,

so I sorta took over

and run it with my uncle now.

I'm so sorry to hear about

your dad.

Thanks.

What about your mom?

She died two years ago.

I'm officially going to stop

complaining about my mother.

So I mean it's

it's there for me to take over

if I want it to be.

Do you want it?

That's the question everyone

keeps asking me.

Only they don't ask "if",

they ask "when".

I totally get it.

My dad owns a company, too, and

he hasn't asked me in a while

if I'm gonna take over

but I know that he wants me to.

What do you want?

It's hard, isn't it?

It is.

It's so hard.

'Cause I do, but I don't,

you know?

I love my job in Seattle.

I just got a promotion,

I love the pacific northwest,

but my family's here.

My best friend's here,

and I grew up in

my dad's business,

if you know what I mean.

Yeah, I know exactly

what you mean.

Let me know when

you figure it out.

I will.

So did you move to Seattle

for someone?

Yes and no.

I moved there after grad school

with my boyfriend

but when we split up I stayed.

What about you?

Did you stay for someone?

I think I did for a while.

Then I realized I really stayed

for the place itself.

It's funny how it knows you.

It does, doesn't it?

Yeah.

I feel like I can talk to you

about anything.

So do I.

Merry Christmas.

Bye, Merry Christmas.

You were so right.

That area needed trees.

How did you know what it needed?

Santa's intuition?

You know what we should do?

We should have an ornament

decorating contest.

We can announce the winner

with the holiday bake-off winner

at the Christmas Eve ball.

I love it.

Hi.

Merry Christmas, man.

Mom, Grammy, Ivy.

Let me guess.

You got the elf costumes.

Where do I change?

I do wish you would stop

bringing that up

as if it actually might happen.

I've always wanted to do that.

Like LeBrain Jones.

LeBron James, Grammy.

But A for effort.

The reason why we're all here

is because we wanted

to bring you this.

It's perfect.

Thanks, Ive, can you put it

over there?

Sure.

I do wish I had a grandchild

to bring to Santa.

And on that note I'm gonna

go look for a gift for Kyle.

Mom, don't you have somewhere

you need to be?

Holly, I have barely seen

you all week,

and did you know that

my daughter is turning 35

on Christmas Eve and she has yet

to tell us who she's bringing

to the Christmas Eve ball?

OK, mom.

Santa does not care

about my love life.

He has Mrs. Claus.

Look who it is again.

Santa, are you flying your plane

to the North Pole?

I am gonna take my plane.

How did you know my sleigh

was out for repairs?

I was thinking very hard with

my brain and I figured it out.

You're very smart.

Put it here.

OK, Merry Christmas.

Bye.

Ho, ho, ho.

Santa needs to go feed the

reindeers for a little bit.

So I'm gonna take

a little break.

So you must be

Holly's grandmother.

You can call me Grammy.

OK Grammy, I will do that.

Thanks.

You know, I can always use

a good elf around here.

Don't keep a promise

you can't make.

That's... that's so funny,

my mom used to switch up

little sayings like that.

Really?

I only know one person

that did that.

Is your mother Rachael Porter

by any chance?

Yeah.

Well, that's who I got it from.

Well, she could make me

laugh out loud.

How is she?

She passed away a couple

years ago.

I'm so sorry to hear that.

Thank you.

She was such a light in my life.

How did you know her?

I volunteer at the hospital.

You know, I remember she used

to bring you up there

on snow days when she

couldn't cover her shift.

Yeah.

You have an amazing memory.

Well, I'm not one

of those old ladies

who can't remember things.

You're definitely not.

Well Grammy, it looks like Holly

cannot join us for lunch today.

Quite right.

She has big elf

responsibilities.

Yes, she does.

It's so nice to see you again,

but you know, I didn't get

your name.

It's Nick.

Nick.

Yeah.

OK, Grammy, I'll see you soon.

Good.

Bye-bye.

Bye.

Lovely to meet you.

Nice to meet you.

Bye.

Hey.

Let's go.

Thank you.

I think mothers were put on this

earth to torture their children.

I'm so sorry.

I said I was going to stop

complaining about her.

It's OK.

All elves make mistakes.

I think you're gonna want

these on a day like today.

Thank you.

It's you!

It's me.

Well, between the boots

and the eyes I recognize you.

You're actually handsome

without that get-up.

Thank you.

Almost as handsome as JD.

Who's JD?

My husband of 62 years.

You guys had quite the run,

didn't you?

Yes.

JD would have loved

to have seen Holly in there.

She's so like him,

vibrant and kind and so smart.

You must really miss him.

Every day.

We did have something special.

Kind of like what I see

between the two of you.

Holly?

We're not... I mean,

we're friends.

JD and I were friends once, too.

Time will tell.

Alright, I gotta get going.

Stay warm.

You too.

Bye.

Dinner's almost ready.

Remember that trip

we took to California?

I do.

We were visiting your cousins.

You two were so young

I can't believe you actually

remember that trip.

Uncle Jimmy's beach,

that's what I remember.

Visiting Uncle Jimmy's beach.

I think I thought all of

Santa Monica bay

was Uncle Jimmy's beach.

Awe.

Those dresses you and Grammy

made for us

with the fairy tale theme.

Yeah.

I remember it was

a really big deal

that you let me wear that dress.

I had to promise like ten times

not to spill anything.

Well, you didn't disappoint me.

Like I am now?

Disappointing you?

You don't disappoint me.

Is that what you think?

Yeah.

If I don't bring the right guy

to the ball or if I don't...

Honey.

I am so sorry.

You don't disappoint me.

You, married or unmarried,

you are enough.

Thanks, mom.

Holly.

I love you, sweetheart.

Dinner?

Yeah.

Not funny.

You never don't have a joke,

Rob.

Well, always come prepared.

That's the first thing

they tell you in boy scouts.

So I talked to Jenny.

Yeah.

I'm sorry, man.

It's OK.

She was right.

We haven't been connecting

for a while now.

Women.

How do they know

so much about us?

That sigh doesn't sound like

it was about a woman, though.

What a day.

I'm all ears.

Well, one, I think it's weird

you know so much about my sighs,

but two, I forgot how hard

it was to Santa.

You put the suit on?

I put the suit on.

I swore I'd never do it again

and here I am cursing my own

self, Rob you idiot.

I would say I know what you mean

but I don't know.

What?

I love it!

Really?

Yeah, really.

Don't tell me you found

your calling.

I don't know about

my calling but,

you know, the kids are great

and I have this awesome elf

who's helping me out.

Elf?

I didn't send you an elf.

Yeah, I think she's just giving

her friend a hand

from the store.

Now I have more questions.

What's her name?

Her name's Holly,

and she's really funny

and she gets the crowd going

and the kids love her, so...

I don't know.

You like her.

I barely know her.

Sounds like you like her.

Yeah, because you know,

she's... she's really great.

And she's making my job easier.

OK. What's her story?

What do you mean,

what's her story?

What's her last name?

Where'd she go to school?

Where does she live?

These are questions humans

ask other humans

when they like them.

Yeah, OK, well I don't know

her last name, actually.

And I don't know where

she went to school

but none of it really matters

'cause she lives in Seattle.

So?

Seattle Schmeattle.

Who cares?

Like she's gonna move back home

because a complete stranger

likes her.

Well, they say every important

person in your life

starts out a stranger.

Who's they?

I don't know.

I just like the way it sounded.

I'll bring in the team.

Holly, let me introduce Mallory

Tuckman from Wincoff Retail.

Holly Montell.

You're John's daughter.

I am.

And Elle Simmons, our head of

marketing and special events.

Charmed.

Ladies, please join us.

Well, John just took me

on the complete tour.

I have to say you run

a tight ship.

They run the tight ship.

I'm... I'm just a passenger.

Well, I'm gonna cut

to the chase.

You have a thriving business

serving a loyal customer base

and Wincoff Retail has

aggressive growth goals

and to meet them

we need to acquire.

That's where Montell's comes in.

We've actually had our eye on

your store for a few years now.

We're flattered.

Well, why don't we talk

after you've had a chance

to fully review our offer.

Let's do that.

I'll show you out.

Well, I don't have a Christmas

tune for this one.

Hey, hon.

Still working I see.

These gifts aren't gonna

wrap themselves.

You deserve a break.

I love wrapping gifts.

It's therapeutic.

I can't argue with that.

So, see our latest numbers?

I may have taken a look.

So you know how good they are.

And I don't know what's going on

with you and that Santa

but if you figure it out tell me

because I wanna bottle it

and sell it.

I also looked at the offer.

Good.

What do you think?

It's solid.

It is, isn't it?

Yeah.

I know what you're thinking.

Yeah, I am.

I mean, look at what you did

out there.

Santa's corner is the reason

we're 40 percent up

over last year.

You're driving business

throughout the entire store.

So yeah, I wish you could stay.

Hey, I know.

You love Seattle.

You just made VP and

I'm very proud of you.

I was just... I was just dreaming

out loud.

I knew that one day you were

gonna have to sell.

It's just kind of a shock

that that day is already here.

So hey, if after this little

chat you feel like you need

more therapy I got some presents

you can wrap.

Bring 'em on.

I love you, dad.

OK.

Hey.

Good morning, Holly.

You're here early today.

An elf's work is never done.

Are these new?

No.

They've been here a while,

you've just been too busy

to notice them.

You know, they say boots

are coming back.

They're sturdy, comfortable,

and unexpectedly stylish.

Believe me.

I know all about boots.

You know, if you find

a pair that fits

you can wear them forever.

No, I'm telling you.

Emma wanted a basketball,

Abby wanted a doctor's kit,

Connor wanted a dump truck...

You are making all of this up.

I'm not.

Sarah wanted an art kit

and she was very specific

about the colours.

There is no way you remember

what all these kids want.

It's a steel trap.

I'm not convinced.

I'm Santa, I know

what the kids want.

You, on the other hand, though,

I'm not so sure about.

Me?

Well, I want what every

elf wants.

What does every elf want?

A toy for every child.

Of course.

I don't know, I'm new

to this elf thing.

Apparently, it goes

with the job.

I can get behind a toy

for every kid.

I'm Santa.

But what else?

I want to find my true North.

And I really, really

want a new hat.

Sorry kids, Santa will be

back tomorrow at 10:00 am.

He's gotta go get some

milk and cookies.

Awe.

It's OK, we'll come back.

Let's go.

I'm thinking no milk and cookies

for me tonight.

I've actually got a beer waiting

for me at the Santa convention.

The Santa convention?

Yeah.

Supposedly all the local Santas,

meet up at Malone's Bar

on the 20th every year

to celebrate, commiserate,

you name it.

I gotta see this.

You should come.

Wait, are you inviting me,

an elf,

to the Santa convention?

Maybe I am.

Maybe you'll see me there.

Great. Maybe you should come

at 8:00.

Maybe.

No.

We can't do that.

Because it's against our policy.

With you in just one second,

ma'am.

I know.

My hands are tied.

OK.

Do your best.

How can I help you?

Hi, I'm Holly Montell.

I called earlier from Montell's

department store in Noblesville.

I don't know if you've

heard of it.

I've heard of it.

My mom used to work there.

Really?

Yeah, in cosmetics.

Jan Darling.

Mrs. Darling.

How is she?

She's good.

Retired, lots of gardening,

watching grand-babies.

Please tell her I said hello.

I'm... I'm sorry,

what was your name?

Jordie.

Jordie. Nice to meet you.

I... I just had a question.

How long have you worked here?

Seven years.

OK, so you were here

before new management.

Yep.

How are things different?

We're more efficient,

but if you ask me the heart's

gone out of this place.

Why do you ask?

Wincoff Retail offered

to buy Montell's.

You stand to make

a lot from that.

Probably.

Well, what's your heart worth?

Santa.

Yeah.

Hey, I thought I would take

you up on your offer

to fix my boots.

Yes.

'Cause I love it when people

repair their shoes

instead of just tossing

them out.

I would never toss them out.

I love 'em.

I even have a nickname for them.

Really?

Yeah, I'm not gonna tell you.

OK.

Well put your name there.

Alright.

And I will fill out the rest.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Your name is seriously Nick?

It is, I swear.

Well, I will have these for you,

Nick,

before your next shift.

Thank you. I really

appreciate it.

Hi.

Excuse me, I'm sorry.

There you are.

You made it.

I can't believe I found you

in a room of a zillion Santas.

It's crazy.

This is, I know.

What do you want to drink?

White wine please.

You look amazing.

Thank you.

You look...

Yeah.

The same.

Well, you can't come

to the Santa convention

in your street clothes.

Excuse me, since when

does Santa wear sneakers?

These?

Well, my Gibney's

took the night off.

They've been working hard,

they deserve it.

I noticed there are no elves

at this convention.

Yeah, no elves.

They gotta get themselves

organized.

We're the unsung heroes

of Christmas, we elves.

Absolutely.

Thank you.

To elves.

So tell me the truth.

Is your last name Claus?

You ask tough questions.

A man of mystery.

I guess it's a little unfair,

though.

I do know a bit more about you

than you know about me.

How's that?

I mean, I know your birthday.

Right. My mom.

Thanks mom.

I know what it's like to have

a birthday on a big day,

even better a big birthday

on a big day.

Really?

Try and top having your birthday

on Christmas Eve.

Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day? No.

Yes.

No.

That is so much worse.

Yeah, it's pretty bad.

That is so much worse,

especially for a guy.

I'll drink to that.

It's bad enough having your

birthday being made a big deal of

but to have your birthday

and your love life

being made a big deal of

every year?

Sorry.

And plus, I mean, this year

is the big 35.

Brace yourself now.

Trying to brace myself.

I'm sorry.

Sorry.

No.

Is everything OK.

I'm so sorry, I have to go.

OK.

I'm sorry.

It's an emergency.

I totally understand.

I'm so sorry.

What happened?

He was complaining

about being cold,

he wouldn't go to the hut

to warm up.

I forgot about it and then

he just fell over.

I'll give you two a minute.

Hey.

You know if you wanted to see me

all you had to do was call.

I'm sorry I wasn't there.

I'm fine, I told you I don't

need to be here.

I always say when I see a farmer

I know it's serious.

Farmers never go

to the hospital.

What does that mean?

It's just an observation.

Well, you have hypothermia, sir.

And a heart palpitation

that needs monitoring.

But with proper care he can

be home in a few days.

However, no more working

outdoors in the cold.

You need to rest and recuperate.

Thank you.

I'll be back to check

on you later.

Is this why you insisted

that I take over

the day before Thanksgiving?

I want you to take over

because...

the farm is yours.

It's your inheritance.

And it's what your father wanted

for you.

It's time.

What's going on?

What do you mean?

You never sing with me.

You're in love.

What?

With that Santa.

Stop, I'm not in love.

Yet.

Holly, you better snatch him up

while there's still time.

Speaking of time, this elf

has to get to the North Pole.

Holly!

Take these to Nick?

Of course.

That's, like, 13 gifts.

You know what? Sure.

I see a lot of sluggers

in this line.

Where's Nick?

It's St. Nick to you,

my dear.

Look, it's one of my elves.

Ho, ho, ho.

You're next.

Hop on up there.

There you go.

I'll be right back.

OK, one gift.

What do you want?

Hey, where do we get

our Santa's?

Rob's Holiday Staffing, why?

I need to find out what happened

to our Santa.

He's not out there?

No, it's just some old guy.

He left his boots with Arturo

last night and he put his name

on this work order form

but I can't read it.

Could be Parker?

Let's call the staffing company.

You OK?

Yeah, go ahead.

Rob's Holiday Staffing,

Rob speaking.

Hi.

I'm calling from Montell's

department store

regarding our Santa.

Hi.

Did he show up?

Yes.

It's just that we're

a little concerned.

We were really happy

with the Santa you sent before.

Nick?

Nick had a family emergency.

Right.

I'm so sorry.

I hope everything's OK.

I think so.

Well, please tell him that

we hope everything improves

and we'd like

to send him a card.

Is it alright if we send it

to Nick Parker,

care of Rob's Holiday Staffing?

Yeah, that's fine.

I'm... I'm sorry,

are you still there?

Hello?

She's gone.

OK.

Hello?

I hate tapioca.

Nobody hates tapioca.

I do.

What? I do.

See? What'd I tell you?

It tastes awful.

Well, let's get this exam over

so I can get you some jello.

OK, now you're talking.

Alright, time to get

my own tapioca.

Take mine.

Please.

Hey, bro.

Hey.

Hey man.

Thanks for coming, guys.

Yeah.

How is he?

Stubborn.

What else is new?

It never ends.

That's fine, take it, Rob.

Yeah?

Yeah.

OK, two minutes.

Hello?

Hey.

You wanna talk?

Sure.

OK, let's go.

Thanks again for bringing

him in,

for being there.

I'm glad I was.

How's everything over

at the lot?

Do I need to go over there?

Nah.

Things have slowed down now

that we're so close

to Christmas.

My brother's got it covered.

OK, good.

I don't know if Ralph told you

but this season has been

our best in over ten years.

Really?

Yeah.

I've been able to do all of

these things

that I wanted to do.

At first I was upset with you

for leaving us with so much to do

but then I realized

I can do this myself.

Jenny, that's really amazing.

And I've had so many

ideas and...

not arguing with you about them

has just been easier.

I get it.

And I'm glad.

Friends?

Of course, friends.

Anything?

Who knew there were so many

Nick Parkers?

But no Santa Nick.

I know. This is impossible.

We're never gonna find him.

Holls?

Maybe we're going about this

the wrong way.

Yeah?

I have an idea.

Really?

It's pretty perfect?

I don't know.

What do you mean?

It's brilliant.

We're already getting buzz

on social media.

We're driving business to the

store and finding your Santa.

Not so far.

We will.

I know it.

OK.

You're out of the elf

outfit already?

So?

Listen, I wanted to tell you,

I went to Broman's in Carmel.

You did?

When did you find time for that?

Well, after my elf duties I

squeezed in a scout

the offer trip.

OK.

And I ran into Jan Darling's

daughter.

She's worked there

for seven years.

Jan, she was a great employee.

Yeah.

And?

She said the heart's gone

from the place, dad.

So the offer's good for us.

Us?

You.

You're the reason Christmas

was such a success.

You cracked the code.

Well, who knew the code was

an elf suit and a young Santa?

It surprised me.

I thought you were gonna

kill Elle

when she made you

put that outfit on.

Yeah.

I couldn't have done it.

I really enjoyed being there

with the kids and the parents

and all the customers who have

been coming to the store

for as long as I can remember,

and they're bringing their kids.

Those kids are our future.

It was rewarding and fun

and the numbers went up.

But?

But it's all making it

so much harder.

So.

That's that.

Accept the offer.

Yeah.

Hey.

My little elf.

You put a lot of heart

into your work,

and that's good.

Save some heart for the other

parts of your life.

Promise me.

OK.

That's done.

This is a great idea, Holly.

It was all Elle.

Gotta go, it's crazy in here.

This is so fun, right?

Right?

Why am I doing this?

What do you mean?

Why am I trying to find him?

I'm sorry, is this

a trick question?

No, seriously.

I leave in two weeks, I love

my job in Seattle,

I live in one of the most

beautiful cities in the world.

Close your eyes.

What?

Just do it.

Tell me, what's your

favourite colour.

You know it's blue.

Favourite Christmas song?

"The Christmas Song".

- Beach or mountains?

- Mountains.

- Favourite name?

- Nick.

Ha.

And that's why you're doing it.

Holly, I have never

seen you happier

than when you're with him.

Yeah?

Yeah.

And if you don't at least

try to find him

you'll always wonder

what might have been.

OK.

You know you're

kind of brilliant, right?

Well, I mean, I wouldn't say it

but if you wanna say it.

I love you.

OK, I gotta go find out why

the sale signs aren't up.

He'll be back.

Why is everyone so sure?

I'm sure he already misses...

his boots.

You're starting to look like

your old self, Uncle Ralph.

See? I told you I was fine.

Hey, I didn't say anything.

It was that lady

in the white coat

that was making all the fuss.

Yeah, maybe she's right.

Maybe I did need to take it

a little easy.

I mean, she may know

a thing or two,

she's a doctor after all.

So what's the word?

I can't work the lot anymore,

so you gotta take over.

Uncle Ralph, I love working

with you

and I'm so grateful for

everything you've done for me.

You know, you taught me to be

responsible and honest,

but the farm and the business,

it just isn't for me,

and this is probably the hardest

thing I'll ever do.

But I love making furniture,

and I'm good at it,

and I wanna follow that.

I figured you'd say something

like that.

But you do make good furniture,

though.

You think so?

Yeah.

I also may have a solution

that would let you retire

and me do what I love.

Yeah. What's that?

Hand the farm over to Jenny.

Jenny?

Yeah.

I mean, she loves it,

she's great at it.

She said you guys had the best

season in 10 years.

What do you think?

Well, she's a hard worker.

Works harder than anyone.

Yeah.

Jenny.

Well, I think you may be right.

- Hey.

You did this.

All this.

It happened because of you.

Thanks, dad.

You know what I'm thinking?

Some special hot cocoa

when we get home?

Thank you.

Hi.

Grammy, what're you doing here?

I'll ask you the same question,

Saint Nick.

Just visiting my uncle,

but as me.

Well, I hope everything's OK.

Thanks.

Yeah, we're getting there.

You know, you never got to put

your elf suit on.

Sadly, not my only regret

in life.

You know, I'm so glad

I bumped into you.

Do you have plans

on Christmas Eve?

You sure know how

to put a guy on the spot.

Well, at my age I don't want

to waste time,

you know, dancing around

the subject.

No, ma'am, I don't have

any plans,

but don't tell anybody

because I don't want them

worrying about Santa.

How would you like to be my

guest at the Christmas Eve ball?

You could be my one plus.

You know, I'm just really not

in the party mood.

You have a girlfriend.

There you go again.

No, I don't.

Well, then you'll be my guest.

I'll leave a ticket at will call

under my name.

You know, I just don't think

I'm gonna be able to make it.

It's impossible to say no to me.

Is it?

Futile is resistance.

There you go again,

slaying me with those sayings.

How about I say

I'll think about it?

Arrive at 8:00.

Put on a nice jacket and a tie.

And don't forget

your dancing shoes.

No Santa suit?

Give the old boy a rest.

There's my car.

Let me give you a hand.

Thank you.

The ticket will be

under my name,

Adeline Montell.

I know you won't disappoint me.

Adeline Montell?

I really appreciate all this,

Elle,

but it's just one Christmas wish

that's not gonna come true.

Hey, you don't know that yet.

It's not Christmas.

Hey.

I love you, I'm gonna

miss you so much.

I love you, too.

And nothing says

you gotta go back.

Ladies and gentlemen,

we would like to begin

by thanking you very much

for joining us here

this evening.

We should head in.

Yeah.

It's your support year

after year that makes

the Christmas Eve ball

such a success.

And now, the winner

of the holiday bake-off...

Alegra Hunter and her caramel

macchiato bundt cake.

You came.

I did.

Merry Christmas, my dear.

Merry Christmas, Grammy.

Allow me.

And of course our

newest competition,

the ornament decorating

competition...

Nicola Rose.

I need to stop here

for a second.

I thought you might.

How're you doing, old girls?

Looking good tonight.

Please be careful

when trying the boots on.

I've got a difficult

announcement tonight.

It's something I spent a lot

of thought on.

Wait, you're him.

You're Santa... I mean,

you're Nick?

Yeah.

...but this is something

bittersweet

that's been in the works

for a long time.

I am very proud of what we have

built here at Montell's

over the years and I...

excuse me.

That's my daughter.

What is it Holly?

Don't sell, dad.

I'm staying.

As I was saying, I have

a big announcement tonight.

This year was a roller-coaster

until a magical elf

joined our team.

My daughter's worked

at Montell's on and off

since she was very young.

She knows the business well,

but this year she proved that

she is the key to our future.

I am excited and very proud

to introduce

the new CEO of Montell's

department store,

is Holly Montell.

Yes!

Holly Montell?

She's in there somewhere.

Go find her.

Thank you dad.

Thank you everyone.

I can't wait to get started.

Come here, girl.

Congratulations.

I can't believe I get you back.

I don't know why it took me

so long to figure it out.

We're going to make

an unbelievable team.

Excuse me, Elle,

I have to steal her.

Yeah. Of course.

I have to get home

before Santa does,

so Merry Christmas,

Merry Christmas.

So, nice surprise to me you

did not sing "happy birthday"

so thank you.

I think this is a much

better surprise.

A celebratory father-daughter

dance?

A celebratory dance.

So what was it?

What do you mean?

What was it that made you

change your mind?

Falling in love.

With the store,

with Noblesville.

It's as if it knows me.

What about Wincoff Retail?

You said it,

I couldn't let them take

the heart out of our store.

And I may have built a 30-day

out clause into the contract.

I thought just maybe

you might come around.

May I have this dance?

I'm gonna go find your mom.

How...?

Am I here?

Well, your grandmother can be

very persuasive.

Yes.

You had an emergency.

Is everything OK?

Yeah.

Everything is great.

And happy birthday.

Thank you.

So you are

the new CEO of Montell's,

congratulations.

I decided to come back

to the family business.

So you figured it out.

I did.

With a little help from Santa.

And I saw that there was

a boot contest.

Were you really gonna give

my boots away?

Only to the rightful owner,

I promise.

So, what do you think?

The famous Christmas Eve ball.

Admit it, you wish you'd come

every year.

I wish I had come every year.

And I'm glad I dressed up.

You do look dashing.

I'm glad you're here.

I'm really glad I'm here, too.

I'm sorry.

Santa's boots.

Alright, alright.

This is really

impressive wrapping.

Open it and find out.

I love it.

Love it.

That's lovely, Holly.

Flannel from Seattle.

It's gorgeous.

Look at that colour.

But the real gift is being

here with you,

Uncle Ralph and the rest

of your family.

Maui?

Mom!

Dad!

Maui!

What is this?

Just something I made.

I love it.

That's adorable.

And he made it, yeah.

Look at that.

I figured it'll tide you over

until it's cycling weather.

It'll tide me over,

as long as you come with it.

Calm down, mom.

Santa's Boots (2018) - full transcript