With Love, Christmas (2017) - full transcript

Thanks.

So, there's this guy
in my building...

No.

Can I at least
tell you about him?

Mm, is
this peppermint?

- Yes.
- Great! He's a fireman...

Uh, "yes" to the peppermint,

"no, thank you"
to the date.

He's really cute
and he has a dog.

Well, then you
should date him.

But you're
my best friend,



and it's the season
of giving!

Come on, Melanie.

What have you
got to lose?

Okay.

Great!

Because I already
gave him your number.

What?

Morning!

Good morning.

Did you have
a good weekend?

I did.

Oh, they lit up
the Christmas tree

in Cummings Park
last night.

Did you see it?



I did not.

You really should.
It is so special.

They use, like
40,000 lights.

I'll keep that in mind.

Oh, hey, uh, Donovan?

Good luck today.

Thank you.

Should've been yours.

Hmm?

The Evergreen Mobile
Christmas pitch.

Well, Mr. Farnsworth
gave it to Donovan.

What was I supposed to do?
Fight him for it?

Yes! Earnest and heartwarming...
That's your wheelhouse.

I don't own Christmas.

You didn't
want a crack at it?

Well, maybe a little.

You know what
your problem is?

No.

You're too nice.

Okay, there is no such thing
as "too nice".

Sure there is.

You stayed quiet

while someone else bid on
an account you were perfect for,

and you agreed to a blind date
you never wanted to go on.

That you set me up on!

And you caved,
like always.

Too nice.

Okay, you know what?
You're way off-base.

- Okay.
- Hey, Melanie

The photographer from
the ketchup campaign's

on the phone.

He needs to bump
Friday's shoot again.

- Scheduling conflict.
- What?

He told me he was
available this time.

Well, he seems pretty firm,
but I could try to push back?

Uh, well, no, don't do that.

Um... do you know what?
Don't worry about it.

I'm sure I can move
some stuff around.

You got it.

What?

Okay. I'll work on it.

Good!

But I'm holding you
to that blind date.

He really is
a great guy.

All right, everybody!
It's that time of year again!

Gather around, please,
gather around.

Now, as you know
the Secret Santa gift exchange

is a ritual as old
as Farnsworth advertising.

It was started
by my grandfather

and has become
a time-honored tradition.

You folks work hard all year,

so it's important to remember

what this season
is really about.

Tracey has a hat!

It's got
everybody's name in it.

She's gonna
make her way around,

and when she gets to you,
grab a slip.

I'm gonna pass.

Uh, participation
is mandatory, Donovan.

Absolutely no exceptions.

Now, you have three weeks
until the Christmas party

to really get to know
the person that you pick

and figure out a thoughtful gift
under $50.

After all...

we are an ad agency,

so it's not an exaggeration
to say

it's your job

to figure out
what makes a person tick.

This is also
an intra-office activity,

so, for some of you,
it'll be a good opportunity

to get to know your co-workers
in other departments.

Fingers crossed
you don't

draw the mailroom
on the first floor!

Yeah, right.

I hope you embrace
this little tradition.

It really does make
our holiday party extra-special.

We're greeted with
a big, beautiful vista.

The man grabs
his Evergreen phone,

sweeps the panorama
with the phone's camera.

Then... the screen goes black.

In stark white letters...

"Evergreen Mobile...

distance...

erased."

Well, you certainly
know our product.

That presentation says
"sleek, modern."

What it doesn't say
is "Christmas."

Well, I-it might not have
come across on the storyboards,

but there will be

a heavy emphasis
on the winter setting...

Trees, snow...

That still doesn't
give me "holiday."

Mr. O'Ryan, I mean,
all fairness,

we're selling cellphones.

All year,
we have dozens of ads

that push our functionality
and design.

Our annual holiday commercial's
an appeal to the heart.

Heart?

Last year's
featured a little girl

building a snowman
for her baby sister.

It was very touching

and it really struck a chord.

Shared over five million times
from our social media accounts.

I appreciate your time
and effort,

but this isn't
what we're looking for.

Well, this is all
excellent feedback.

I'm sure, uh,
Donovan here's

gonna take that direction
and really run with it.

Of course.

I'll be frank.

We have multiple agencies
tackling this campaign,

and I've promised them all

a decision
by the end of next week.

Mr. O'Ryan, I can give you
exactly what you want.

I just need the chance.

Okay. I'll circle back around

and check in with you
next Thursday,

before I make my final choice.

What do you
think this says?

Uh... fire...
"firetruck".

- Cool!
- Yeah.

Yeah, I can see that.

Next year, I'm getting Zach
to write his letter to Santa

in colored pencil.

The markers
always smudge.

Hey...

Do you think
I'm a pushover?

No.

Are you just saying that
to spare my feelings?

Really?

You're just... nice.

Why does everybody
keep saying that,

like it's a bad thing?

It's not.

It's just you have
this tendency

to put everyone
else's feelings

before your own.

And since when is it
a crime to be considerate?

Melly, you know
I love you,

and the world
could really

use a lot more people
with your outlook,

but there are times

when it's okay
to just put yourself first.

Hmm.

Hey, do you have any clue
what I could get Zach?

Yep. Here.

You don't need it?

Oh, we have backup.

Thanks.

Oh!

What do
you think of this?

He's six.

Oh, no, not for Zach.

For my office
Secret Santa.

Well, does he
like cologne?

I don't know.

Well, what
does he like?

I don't know.

Wow.

You're usually so good
at finding the perfect gift.

I know, I know, this guy's
really tricky, though.

He's been at our office
for, like, almost a year,

and I don't know
the first thing about him.

I mean, honestly, I have
no idea where to start.

Well, so,
why don't you ask?

Because
it's "Secret" Santa.

So ask... secretly.

Hi, Mittens.

Okay.

Hey, Jude? Um...

Do you have
my advent calendar?

Oh, you mean
the cute Santa one?

Yes. That one!

Nope. Haven't seen it.

'Kay. Let's...

Oh! Wait!

Never mind.
Found it!

You're only
just decorating now?

That is so unlike you.

I know, I know.

I normally have
this place decorated

way before Thanksgiving.

I'm a little late
this time.

Anyway, I'm gonna
call you later, okay?

Bye!

Well, that doesn't help us,
does it, Mittens?

Meow.

So Donovan wants
a tie for Christmas.

You're exchanging
gifts now?

Oh, no, no,
I'm his Secret Santa.

Then get him a tie.

Well, that's not
very thoughtful, is it?

So add a card
that says

"I thought
you might like this."

I don't think that it works
quite like that...

Oh, Melanie,
I'm sorry to interrupt,

but, uh, Farnsworth
needs to see you.

Oh. Did he say
what it was about?

No clue. He said
just head over right now.

Okay.

If you need to speak
to Mr. Farnsworth,

it's gonna have to wait.

He asked to see me.

Oh, uh, actually,
he asked to see me, too.

Hi.

Come on in, you two.
Have a seat.

Melanie...

you're familiar with
the Evergreen Mobile account?

Yes. Yes.

This is a unique opportunity.

Securing
this Christmas commercial

would mean big things
for our agency.

Absolutely! Yeah.

So I've decided to team you up.

I'm sorry...

Team us up?

That's not really necessary.

I have it completely
under control.

This isn't
a punishment, Donovan.

Look, I love what
you bring to the project.

I just think
that you and Melanie

would complement each other.

I'm sure she's busy
with all of her projects.

She probably doesn't
even want to do it.

I-I do have
a lot on my plate.

See?

I should go at this alone.

Well, I've already
made up my mind.

So, Melanie,
any current assignments

I want you to slide on over
to Jacqueline.

This takes priority.

Okay.

You start immediately.

I got a good feeling
about this partnership.

It's clever.
It's high-energy. It's...

...A little

cold.

It's winter.

Oh, that's not
what I meant.

Um, Christmas commercials
are supposed

to evoke a feeling

of fun and family
and warmth.

Have you ever used
an Evergreen phone?

Because you can't sell
what you don't know.

Yes. I have.

It's not
about "fun".

It's about
the 64-bit quad-core chipset,

40% faster performance,

256 gigabytes of storage,

and oleophobic coating.

So, what, do you suggest that
we put Santa in a business suit

and have him order
the gifts for the kids online?

Yes! I like that!

I'm joking.

Donovan. Okay...

Christmas isn't sleek.

It's messy.

It's families singing
Christmas carols off-key.

It's giving
your family presents

that they didn't even
know they wanted.

It's...

it's magic.

The only thing magical
about Christmas

are the sales numbers.

Okay, um...

Do you know...
I have an idea.

Why don't you tell me about
your favorite Christmas memory?

Last year,
I went skiing in Aspen.

With your family...?

Look, I'd like to focus
on the campaign.

We only have two weeks left.

Yeah, no, no.

I-I was just trying
to find a starting point.

All right, look.

We're obviously
at an impasse.

So... let's split up,

mock up some ideas.

Independently.

Uh, Farnsworth
specifically said

we should work on it together.

And we will!

Later.

Okay.

All right,
if you think

that it's the best
way to do it.

Let's reconvene
tomorrow.

Sure.

Yep.

Good morning!

Morning.

Are you ready to reconvene?

Yeah, pull up a chair.

Yeah. Sure.

Ready for
your thoughts.

I've used the Evergreen phone
for over a month now...

Yeah.

And the video chat
is the best aspect.

Smooth video, crisp audio.

You know what?
This past Christmas,

my parents couldn't make it
out here for Christmas,

and my sister and I
weren't able to make it back,

so we actually video-chatted
the entire Christmas dinner,

right from cooking the turkey
to eating the meal,

to unwrapping the presents.

- The whole day?
- Yeah!

Why?

Well, because we wanted
to be together...

Sounds like
a hassle to me.

Oh, no, no, no.

It was
totally worth it.

That's what Christmas
is all about, right?

Being with
the people you love.

No, Christmas is about people
spending money they don't have

on gifts
that people don't want.

Okay, you know what
I think we need?

I think we need
some Christmas reconnaissance.

So what do you propose we do?
Go stake out a mall Santa?

Funny, but no.

You can't sell
what you don't know, right?

That's right.

So, there's this
craft holiday fair,

it's just outside of town.

I think we could get
some really good

inspiration from there.

And if we don't,

we can always get
a good cup of hot cocoa.

Let's do it! Okay.

So... take
a look around.

What am I looking at?

Love.

Happiness. Wonder.

I think you've been
peddling Christmas too long.

You're buying into
this way too much.

I don't
peddle Christmas.

I celebrate it.

If you say so.

Isn't that a little cynical?

It's realistic.

Do you know

how many people see the annual
Evergreen Christmas commercial?

It is off the charts,

and we get to reach
all of those people

with a message of family
and generosity and hope.

And cellphones.

Yes, but just because
we're selling phones

doesn't mean we can't say
something meaningful. Okay?

Oh. Okay. Wait. Look at
that little girl right there.

Do you see how her whole face
is lit up with excitement?

That's because,

right now, she's talking
to the Santa Claus,

something she's been
waiting for all year.

That, right there,

is what
we want to tap into.

When people see our campaign,

we want them to remember

those cherished
holiday memories.

The thing is,

I don't have
memories like that.

What? Any?

Growing up, December was
just another month in our house.

Well...

I'm about to give you
a crash course.

Come on! Keep up!

Right here. Hi!

Oh, it's so good
to see you, dear!

You too, Bea.

This is Donovan,
my co-worker.

Bea makes the best cookies
in all of Connecticut.

Oh, thank you, dear.
You're so sweet.

We're actually
gonna need

a half-dozen of your
gingerbread cookies

with buttercream icing.

Oh, I-I don't eat sugar.

At all?

Not if I can
help it, no.

Thank you.

Just...

indulge me?

Please?

Christmas spirit
is sensory.

It's all about
seeing the lights,

you smell the smells...

and you taste
the tastes...

So?

It's okay.

These cookies,

they have a memory
attached to them for me.

It reminds me of making
gingerbread cookies

with my mom
and my sister, Jude.

We'd always sneak little
tastes out of the bowl

and my mom would
pretend not to notice.

You know, that can actually
make you sick, right?

So when I taste
these cookies,

I'm reminded
of those afternoons,

covered in flour...

and it makes me happy.

Sounds like
a nice memory.

It is.

Can I have
another cookie?

Hi there.
Merry Christmas.

You too.

What do you think of this?

Um, well,
who's it for?

My Secret Santa.

Well...
does she wear bracelets?

I don't know.

Doesn't every woman?

Oh, no. No.

Women who draw, or type a lot,
like myself,

we tend to stay
clear of bracelets,

'cause they knock
on the keyboard,

and then some women
love to wear necklaces,

but others never wear them,

that's not even touching
on the question

of gold versus
silver, so.

Wow. Okay.

This is gonna be a little more
complicated than I thought.

Or you could tell me
who she is

and I'll tell you
what she likes.

Nice try.

Are those stars?

No, they're
snowflakes.

My grandmother had
a pair just like them.

She wore them every Christmas.

They're beautiful.

Thank you.

♪ ...What fun it is
to ride and sing ♪

- ♪ A sleighing song tonight ♪
- No.

No.

- Oh, yes.
- No.

- Yes.
- No.

Come on!

♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride ♪

♪ In one-horse open sleigh
Hey! ♪

♪ Jingle bells
Jingle bells ♪

♪ Jingle all the way ♪

♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride ♪

♪ In one-horse open sleigh ♪

Hey!

Hey.

It's a start.

So?

So?

So did it help?

It was educational.

Good! That's good.

Uh, this is me.

Oh. I've got
something for you.

Oh, but you didn't have
to get me any...

It's my market
strategy analysis.

See if you can have it
read by tomorrow.

I think it'll really help us
focus our direction. Goodnight!

But the cook...

Yeah.

I just don't get it.

He's so cynical.

I mean,
who dislikes Christmas?

You do realize
you don't have to fix him,

you just need
to get him a present?

Well, it's not
about the present.

Although Farnsworth takes
the gift-giving very seriously.

Oh! Bud! Are you done?

Are you ready
for your big reveal there?

- Yeah!
- Let's do it!

One...

Two...

Three!

That's a good one.
High-five!

Good job!

Okay, so if it's
not about the gift,

what is it about?

It's about creating
a heartwarming ad

with a person who thinks

Christmas is nothing
but a marketing scheme.

Well, if anyone
can sell a person

on the magic of Christmas,

it's you, little sis.

We are...

fresh out of ties
here at the North Pole.

Are you a sports fan?

Do you like to read?

Why is it important

that you give me
the right gift?

It's my job.

I'm your Secret Santa.

You know, I'm starting to think
that what you really need

is some good, old-fashioned

holiday cheer.

Thank you.

We'll see about that,
won't we?

Good morning.

Good morning.

You still want to work
at the cafe today?

Yes. I don't think

I can drink another cup
of that breakroom coffee.

I know what you mean.

That stuff should have
an octane rating.

I'm just gonna grab
some files on my desk.

I had Steve research
the last five years

of holiday campaigns

with the highest
social media impact.

Seems important
to them.

Good thinking.

Thanks.

So how did you
sneak over to my desk

without me seeing?

I wasn't
at your desk today.

I know you put
that Christmas tree on my desk.

What Christmas tree?

Melanie...

you don't have
to pretend.

I put it together
after the first email.

Okay, I'm sorry,
you've totally lost me now.

Okay, so you're saying

that you're not
my Secret Santa?

Oh, hold on.

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Yeah.

Guess I was wrong.

Looks like we're going
to be here for a while.

Yeah, looks like it.

What if we did
something with snowmen?

You know, one of them

ventures out of
the front yard

and into the big city?

They did that two years ago.

All right.
Add it to the reject pile.

It's 7:00 already?

Uh, I'm sorry,
I've got to go.

I have dinner at my sister's.

You know, we're listening to our
grandmother's Christmas records,

and trimming the tree, and...

I've lost you,
haven't I?

At "sister's," yeah.

Anyway, I have to go,
because, if not, I'll be late,

and then I'll never hear
the end of it.

Okay, well, I'll, um,
I'll hold down the fort.

You should come.

To your family dinner?

Sure.

Yeah, I mean,
we've been at this for hours,

and a break might help,

and you can't live on coffee
forever.

I don't think so.

A change of scenery might
be good for the inspiration.

What's for dinner?

Yes! Let's pack up.

All right.

You know you didn't have
to bring anything, right?

I'm already intruding
on a dinner I wasn't invited to,

I'm not gonna
show up empty-handed.

You made it!

And you brought a person
I've never met!

Yes, oh, and
he brought wine.

Uh, this is Donovan.
He's my co-worker.

I asked him
to tag along.

I hope it's not
an inconvenience.

No! No, of course not.
The more, the merrier.

Please. Come inside.

The guy who
dislikes Christmas?

Oh, yeah.
It's a long story.

Can't wait to hear it.

So, Zach, are you
excited for Santa?

Yeah. I've been
a really good boy this year.

He sure has.

Last week, I caught him
cleaning out the garage.

Wow!

You know what, buddy?

I don't think you have
much to worry about.

You're a pretty good kid
all year round.

Yes, but Santa certainly
appreciates the effort.

Right.

Donovan, how do you
and your family

celebrate Christmas?

Any fun traditions?

Uh, no.

Not really.

Nothing at all?

Mm, we're not really close.

Oh.

Mom? Could I have
some mashed potatoes?

Sure, sweetie.

Do you like it?

I do.

I made it last year!

Well, you did a fantastic job.

You can have it.

Oh, no, no, no.
I can't take this!

It's a gift.

Thank you.

Angel time!

Yeah. Oh!

You're getting so heavy.

Nice work.

Okay. So what am I
bringing for Christmas?

Pecan pie?

Mom called dibs
on the pie,

but we have
an opening for cookies.

Okay. I can do that.

It was nice meeting
you, Donovan.

Likewise.

Thank you again
for the lovely dinner.

- See you soon.
- You're welcome.

- Nice to meet you.
- Bye, Melly.

- Okay.
- Okay, take care.

- Bye.
- Good night.

Melly?

Yeah,
it's a childhood nickname.

I like it.
It suits you.

You've reach voicemail
of Andrew Goodwin.

He is unable to take your call
at this time.

Please leave your name
and number,

and he will return it
as soon as possible.

Hey, Dad.

It's me.

Um, I was wondering
if you were free next week.

I thought maybe we could
grab some dinner or something.

Let me know.

Didn't hurt.

He has no idea
it's you?

No, I set my Secret Santa email
to "delayed sending"

so that he would get it
when we were out together.

Oh, smart!

I know. One of the new features
of the Evergreen cellphone.

Oh!

When it snows lightly outside

and you can imagine
that you're in a snow globe.

I have a whole collection.

I never took
Ebenezer Scrooge

for the pen-pal type.

I know, right?

I'm discovering so many things
about him that I didn't know.

He has a sense of humor!

I'm gonna need
video evidence for that.

It's true. I swear.

How can he not
guess it's you?

I mean,

who else would care enough
to get an email account

just to figure out

what her Secret Santa
wanted for Christmas?

It's a big building.

Hey. What're
we looking at?

Oh! Uh...
Nothing.

Just the Evergreen phone.
Melanie's on the pitch now.

Oh. Right!

- We'll talk later.
- Sure.

Bye, hon'.

You know Tracey fairly well,
don't you?

Yeah.

Any idea what she might like
for Christmas?

Sounds like somebody is fishing
for a Secret Santa gift.

Well, if someone
were fishing...

In this totally
hypothetical situation,

I would tell them

that she's highly addicted
to the peppermint lattes

from the cafe
across the street.

You're the best.

What about a story
about our military

overseas on Christmas?

O'Ryan wouldn't want
anything too heartbreaking.

A Christmas dog.

He delivers the paper,
then he delivers the slippers,

and then he delivers
the Evergreen phone.

You're not serious, are you?

Apparently not.

Everything okay?

Uh, yeah. No, it's fine.

It's just this photographer.

He's been giving me
the runaround for a few days.

We hired him for
the ketchup campaign,

and he's just been
really unreliable.

I thought Jacqueline
took that account over.

Uh, no, she did, she did.

She, um... he's just
been so difficult,

I said
that I would handle him.

You know, I don't want
to saddle her with a headache.

I see.

What?

Oh. Nothing.

You obviously want
to say something.

I just noticed that
you have a tendency to...

be overly accommodating.

So?

So I think it'd be good for you
to learn how to say no.

You won't offend people.

They might
appreciate your... honesty.

Well, that's coming
from the expert, so...

What expert?

You, um, have a tendency
to be...

Well, not so friendly.

That's not true.

You've been working with us
for almost a year.

Why don't you ever go out
with us after work?

I'm here to do a job,
not make friends.

Okay, but you can
actually do both.

So, what?

Spend my Friday nights
shooting pool?

Chit-chatting with Joe
from accounting?

Joe is actually really nice,

and he's got great stories.

And anyway, what's so bad
about chit-chatting with Joe?

He might actually be
your Secret Santa.

He's not my Secret Santa.

Oh, and how do you know that?

I just do.

All right.

Uh, I'm gonna go get a refill.
Do you want anything?

No. I'm fine.
Thanks.

Honestly?
I think you can be.

Don't tell me
you're not dying

to find out
who yours is.

I'm not.

Why not?

Because I have lousy luck
with Secret Santa.

Last year, it was
Bill in accounting.

He quit two days
before the party.

And the year before that,
it was Kenny from the mailroom.

He just re-gifted
his Secret Santa.

It was a t-shirt that was
three sizes too large

and it said
"I love mail."

And then,
the year before,

it was, um...

Betty the receptionist.

She made me two pounds
of homemade peanut butter fudge.

That doesn't
sound so bad.

I'm allergic to nuts.

Oh. That's a bummer.

Anyway, you know what?
It's fine.

I have always been
a bigger fan

of giving than
receiving anyway.

Well, no, look.

If anybody deserves
a really great gift,

it's you.

I mean, the holidays
obviously mean a lot.

To you.

From your lips to my
Secret Santa's ears, I guess.

Melanie?

Yeah?

Any progress
with the photographer?

I'm on it.

You know what,
I've called him

five or six times.

He's not getting
back to me.

But I'm gonna
try him right now...

Uh, um...

Um...

Do you know what, actually?

We're really busy with
the Evergreen Mobile pitch.

I don't think I have time
to keep chasing him down.

Oh.

I'm sorry.

It's okay.

Do you know what?

Never mind.
I can probably...

Melanie, listen.
If you're busy, you're busy.

I'll just get
Steve to do it.

All right.

All right.

Hi.

Hey!

It was supposed
to be a surprise.

I guess you caught me.

I picked up
some gingerbread cookies

cookies from
The North Pole Tree Farm.

Have you ever heard of it?

I have.

Well, they always go fast when
I leave them in the breakroom,

and you were
out of the office,

so I saved you one!

Thank you.

You're welcome.

By the way, nice tree.

How's the Evergreen pitch
coming along?

Good. Good, yeah.

I think we've got
some really strong leads,

I'm sure we'll gonna have
something very solid

to present to you soon.

Excellent. I have
the utmost faith in you both.

Thank you.

Before you leave,

there's something else

I'd like to discuss
with you.

Okay.

James Porter is retiring
at the end of the year,

which means there's gonna be
an opening

for Creative Director,

and I'd like
to promote internally.

Is that something
you'd be interested in?

Yes. Uh, yes, sir.

Yes. I would very much
like to be intere...

I, um...

I'm very interested in that!

Great. Great.
I'm glad to hear it.

I think you'd be a great fit
for the position.

You know, I've been
so impressed with your work

over the past few years.

Thank you.
Thank you.

I'll be announcing my decision
at the Christmas party,

so that gives you and Donovan
time to make your cases.

Donovan?

Yeah, he's one of the other
candidates we're looking at.

Okay.

Yeah, we've been writing
back and forth for a week.

What do you mean?

Oh, I took your advice.

I set up a fake email account,

so I could figure out
what he wants for Christmas.

Okay, that was not my advice.

Well, it was in the spirit
of your advice.

Anyway, it just sort of
snowballed from there.

Well, that's... unexpected.

So, he doesn't
know it's you?

Oh, it's complicated.

Why's that?

Well...

in writing,

he's sweet

and funny, and...

then, working on our project
together,

we disagree on everything,
and...

Now we're up
for the same promotion.

Creative Director?

You've wanted
that forever!

Yeah.

Well, so how come
you're not more excited?

No, no. I'm... I am excited.

But...?

You know, I think
it just caught me off-guard.

I mean,
we were working together,

you know?

And now, suddenly,
he's the competition.

Is that all?

What else would it be?

Are you really
gonna make me say it?

What?

Melly... you like him.

Of course, I like him.

He's a nice guy.

I don't think
this has to do

with a Secret Santa anymore.

You're falling
for this guy.

That's...

not... true.

Are you sure?

Mr. Farnsworth?

Can I speak
to you, please?

Sure, Donovan.
Come on in.

Perhaps I misunderstood,

but I thought I was a lock

on the Creative Director
position.

You mentioned that to me when
I first started at the agency.

But I've been hearing that
there are multiple candidates.

Donovan, I really value
your work here at the firm.

It's great.

Very well-researched.

And I continue to bring
high-profile clients.

Yes, you do.

So?

So, I'm taking all of that
into consideration.

Well, what can I do to show you
that I'm the one for the job?

Donovan,

you're very talented,

but this isn't a solo sport.

We win and lose here
as a team.

Take Melanie, for example.

She makes the effort

to get to know the people
she's working with,

and make herself
a part of that team.

As a result,
people come to her.

Is Melanie
one of the other candidates?

Yes, she is.

Look, Donovan,
you've got lots of time

to show me you can be
a team player.

Thank you.

Don't forget!

Meet up tonight
at Harbor Point rink.

Who's coming?

I'm in!

Me too.

- Carpool?
- Yeah, sure.

I'd like to come.

You mean you're actually gonna
come hang out after work?

Voluntarily?

Sure.
Sounds like fun.

Since when
does he like fun?

Wonderful! Okay, everyone.

Meet at the rink
in an hour.

I guess
I'll see you there.

See you there.

You know, I think

the last time I went skating
was in high school.

Really?

Yeah, but it's like
riding a bike, right?

It all comes back to you
once you're out there?

Totally. You just got
to shake off the dust.

Okay. So do you think
he's really gonna show?

Well, he said
he'd be here.

Why the sudden urge
to mingle, I wonder?

I may have
suggested it.

What did you say?

I just said that

if he took the time to get
to know his coworkers,

he might discover that
he actually likes them.

Wait. Did you suggest it,
or Secret Santa?

Both, I guess.

Well...

it looks like you two
are pretty persuasive.

All right. Any final advice
before we hit the rink?

Um, just go out
and have fun.

Oh, and don't forget
the, uh, toe-pick.

Ah. Oh, here he comes.

- Act natural.
- Hi, ladies.

Hi.

Mr. Farnsworth.

Donovan! Glad
you could make it tonight.

It's good to see you.

Thought I'd give
this a whirl.

You know, I appreciate
the feedback,

and the chance to show you
that I can change.

Oh, no problem, Donovan.

I want to make sure
that you get every advantage.

I appreciate that.

You much of a skater?

Not even a little.

I'll see you out there.

Can't wait.

Hi, Donovan.

Hi, Melanie.

Uh, are you just gonna watch,
or are you gonna skate?

Oh, I'm just taking it all in.

Ah.

Well, it's been awhile?

A long while.

As in, never.

What?

Oh, nothing. Nothing.
I just, um...

I don't think I've ever seen you
this laid-back.

Oh, I thought
that a suit and a tie

might be a little bit formal
for the rink.

Well, it's really nice
to have you here.

Yeah, well, trying
to open myself up

to new opportunities.

A friend thought
it would be a good idea.

Smart friend.

Yeah. She is.

Hey, Melanie.

Was skating
as the office activity,

was that your idea?

Uh, no.
No, it wasn't.

So do you want to...

do you wanna give it a shot?

Yeah.

Do you need a lesson?

Yes.

Okay.

Hey, Alicia.

Hey!

That is a lot of work.

No kidding!
You got some moves.

Yeah, I think
I found my new sport.

Was ice skating your idea?

It was.

It's one of my favorite
things to do at Christmas.

Me and my family
go every year.

Kinda puts us
into the holiday spirit.

That's great.

Anyway...

See you
back at the office.

- Yeah. See ya.
- Bye.

Is that right?

Well, you saw me out there.

What are your scores?

I am.

Well, I've wanted to ask this
for a while...

...And my dad...

he was never
much for holidays.

He's a lawyer,
very successful.

I can't remember
a single Christmas

he didn't spend in the office.

He was disappointed
when I turned down law school.

I'm sorry.

Merry Christmas.

Thanks again for
offering to take him

to the North Pole
Tree Farm today.

He has been talking
about it non-stop.

My pleasure.
You know what?

I think I'm just as excited
about it as he is.

So how goes the hunt

for the perfect
Secret Santa gift?

Oh, uh, not good.

Still haven't
figured out

what to get him?

No, I have no clue.

But you spent the last week
with the guy.

You must have gotten
to know him pretty well.

He's an early-riser.

He does not like sugar
in his coffee.

He's stubborn,
but fair.

And he's a horrible skater,
but refuses to admit it.

Hey, hey! Not so fast
with that scarf!

- Come here.
- But the snowman needs a scarf!

No, he's not getting
yours. Come here.

Aw, but he'll be cold.

No, you'll be cold!

You know what, Zach?
I think green's his color.

Thanks, Auntie Mel.

Welcome.

Melly, it's gonna be
in the teens today.

Aw... Worth it.

Nice!

I'm looking for some
snowflake-shaped earrings.

You had them here
the other day.

I'm sorry.

I sold those
this morning.

But I can show you
something else.

We have a lot of
very festive jewelry.

I had my heart set on those,
but, thank you.

Oh!

Hi.

Hi! I didn't expect
to see you here,

of all places...

I had a craving
for those gingerbread cookies.

I told you so!

Auntie Mel!

Can I get my picture
taken with Santa?

Yes, of course, you can.

Mr. Donovan, do you
want to see him, too?

- Oh, no, that's fine, no...
- You can tag along.

If you want.

You can tell him
what you want for Christmas!

Okay.

Okay...

I've been really good
this year, Santa!

Did you get my list?

Why not make this
a family photo?

Everyone squeeze in.

- Oh, no...
- No, we're not the...

Come on, Auntie Mel!

Come on, Mr. Donovan!

Do you mind?

- Sure.
- Okay.

All right, everybody!

Let's say
"candy canes!"

Candy canes!

Can I have
some quarters?

Oh, sure you can.

Uh, do you know what?

I think
I'm all out of quarters.

Oh, wait.
I should have some.

Oh.

Yeah, here.
Here you go, Zach.

Thanks.

You're welcome.

Thank you.

Okay, wait. Oh, wait.
One second. Gotta show you.

You gotta hold your hand
out flat, like that.

'Cause they're gonna nibble
right out of there.

Have fun!

You're so good with him.

Oh, he makes it easy.

You cold?

Uh, a little.

I gave my scarf
to a snowman.

Do I even need to ask?

Nah, probably not.

Here.

What? Oh,
no, no, no, no.

I'm totally fine.
Don't worry about it.

You're shivering.

Well...

There.

Thank you.

Yeah.

Auntie Mel!
Auntie Mel!

Yes! Zach. Yeah?

Can I make
an ornament?

Of course you can.
Go on!

Thank you.

Hey, did you know
that reindeer

are the only mammals that can
see ultraviolet light?

No. Is that how
they lead the sleigh?

You know what.
I bet it is.

Is that true?

Uh, yeah. Yeah, I saw it
on a nature show.

Wow.

Yeah.

Nice!

Go for it.

Oh! Hi.

What's this?

Our pitch.

Our pitch?

Yeah.

When I went home yesterday,
it hit me.

What does Santa's sleigh need
that an Evergreen phone has?

I don't know.

GPS!

I've got the whole
script right there,

and some mock-ups.

Okay. Great.

I'm gonna take
a look at it right now,

and I'll get back
to you with notes.

No need.

Worked on it all night.
It is perfect.

You don't think I should
at least give you some input?

There's no time for that.

Look, I tell you what.
Let me take point,

and you can chime in
if you feel the need to,

but I highly doubt it...

I mean, this here?
Real winner.

I already let Farnsworth know
we're coming by.

Oh... um...

Okay, yeah, I mean,
If you really think it's ready.

Trust me.
He's gonna love it.

I don't think this is the one.

Sir, we have
only three days

before we pitch
to O'Ryan.

I think we should
run with it.

Sorry. It's not a bad idea,
it's just missing something.

We only get
one shot at this.

So, we need...

more.

More what?

More heart.

We'll get there.

Okay.

What are you working on?

Secret Santa.

Got a few likes, a few dislikes,
from him, which is a start,

but he's tough.

You know, I thought...

You know that cafe
that he goes to,

where he works
all the time?

Would it be too impersonal
to get him

a gift card for coffee?

Uh, yeah.

Okay. Um, what about cookies?

He doesn't eat sugar.
You know that!

I know.

What about a membership
to the astronomy club?

Oh, he's coming!

Dad.

Donovan!

What are you doing
in my neck of the woods?

I saw
I missed your call,

so I thought
I'd just come by.

Are you busy?

I'm on my way
to the courthouse.

How've you been?

Good. You know,
busy as usual.

You, uh, do you have
any plans for Christmas?

Ah, same as
every year.

Work.

Avoid the crowds
by Grand Central.

Good time
to get caught up

and get things done
when the office is quiet.

Yeah.

Yeah...

There's something
I wanted to ask you...

Excuse me.

Hello?

What do you mean,
he's not there?

Well, please do your best
to track him down.

We have his deposition today.

I'm sorry.
It's been like this all day.

It's okay.

It's been a pretty busy
few weeks at work for me, too.

I'm working on
a big account.

Evergreen Mobile.

The CEO has
one heck of a poker face,

but...

when we bring him
back in,

I think I can sell him
on our vision.

You always were
very persuasive.

Your mother used to say

that you could sell
a red popsicle

to a woman
with white gloves...

...On the fourth
of July.

You would have made
a fine attorney.

I don't think so.

Of course,
you would have.

It's in your blood.

Three generations
of litigators.

Four, now,
with your sister.

Did she tell you

that she's arguing

two cases before

the California Supreme
Court this year?

Very influential.

No. She didn't
mention that.

All I'm saying is I think
you missed your calling.

No. No, Dad. I didn't.

I'm sorry
I don't have more time.

What was it
you wanted to ask me?

It's not important.

I'll see you later, Dad.

I knew the pitch
was off.

I should've insisted
on looking it over

before we went in there.

So why didn't you?

Because he got so excited.

You know, I didn't want to take
the wind out of his sails.

Melly... his sails
are your sails.

You're supposed to
be a team, right?

Yeah.

So why are you sitting
on the bench for this one?

Was that a sports reference?

My husband's influence.

Speaking of...

Hot chocolate's
getting cold.

Thank you. Sorry.

Bedtime stories
ran a little long.

Got you to read it
twice, did he?

Sure did.

What did I miss?

Oh, just work trouble.

That Christmas account
still throwing you for a loop?

Yeah. You got any advice?

I don't know if I can
give you any advice,

but maybe
an early Christmas gift?

What?

Here you go.

Guys!

Oh, my goodness.

This is amazing.

A must-have
for a new creative executive.

Guys, it's beautiful.

But I don't have the promotion.

"Yet."

Knock 'em dead, Melly.

Why don't we save it?

I've worked
so hard to get where I am.

Tsk.

Maybe instead of focusing
on your differences,

you need to find
some common ground.

What's something
you both like to do?

I begged her to sign me up
for all the dance classes.

It had been her dream,

and then,
suddenly, it was mine.

About halfway through
my first year at Juilliard...

I realized
that I just didn't love it.

Do you know
what she said?

She told me

that the only thing
that she's ever wanted me to be

was happy.

Thank you.

Anytime.

On a lighter note...

I was wondering

if there is
any Christmas activity

you haven't done?

Really?

I have a hard time
believing that.

Meow!

Oh! Okay.

Okay. I'm feeding you.

Okay.

So, Donovan
wants to meet.

You've already met.

He wants to meet
his Secret Santa.

That seems like cheating.

The party's still
two weeks away.

Yeah, but you know what,
maybe it's time I tell him.

We've gotten
really close,

and it feels wrong
to keep it from him.

Okay, so tell him.

Yes, I would,
it's just...

Just what?

This is gonna sound
really silly, but...

What we have
behind the screen

is really special,

and I'm worried that
he'll be disappointed.

Why would he
be disappointed?

He obviously likes you.

He likes
his Secret Santa.

And you are
his Secret Santa.

Yes, but he doesn't
know that.

I think I've just let it
go on for too long.

This started out

as just a way to get
to know him better,

and now he's told me all
these personal things

about himself
and his family,

and, I mean, how's
he gonna react

Hi.

Hi.

Um...

Uh, there's something
I need to tell you.

Uh, I know.

You do?

Well, it's pretty
obvious to me.

It is?

You're nervous
about the pitch.

What?

But you don't
have to be.

Oh?

I've got
a handle on it.

Three new ideas
they'd be crazy to pass up.

I'm about to take them
to Farnsworth.

No.

No?

Donovan,
this whole time...

I've let you take the lead.

But, um...

I want a say now,
I want a real say.

You're standing your ground?

Yes. I am.

This is only going to work
if we do it together.

Okay.

Together.

Together.

Okay!

Um, I brought
some magazines

for inspiration,

they're in that bag
over there.

Do you mind
grabbing them?

Sure.

What's this?

Oh, it's Zach's
Christmas present.

He's gonna love it.

I know. It was
at the top of his list.

Wait a minute...

Wait a minute, wait a minute,
wait a minute! That's it!

That's it!

What's "it"?

Our concept.

It's perfect.

We start on a blizzard.

A six-year-old boy

looks through the window,

watching his father
braves the elements

as he clears the walkway.

He watches,

and thinks of ways
to help his dad.

Suddenly... an idea.

He races to his room,

he picks up paper and a crayon,

and begins to write.

But then...

He notices
the calendar on the wall.

All the red "X" s show
there's only two days left

until Christmas.

He looks back down
at his letter,

realizing it's not gonna
get there in time.

How's he gonna reach Santa?

The A5 Evergreen cellphone.

Out of earshot of his parents,

he calls the operator,

asks for the number
to Santa's Workshop.

Cut to... Christmas morning.

Little boy races towards
the biggest gift under the tree

He plucks the card from it.

It reads...

"To Billy's dad, from Santa."

Beaming with excitement,
he hands the card to his dad.

He tears off the paper,

revealing
a brand-new snowblower.

His father laughs, touched,
gives his son a hug.

And then
we cut to your logo,

with stylish script above
that reads...

"From our family to yours..."

"...Merry Christmas."

I love it.

It's exactly right.

Great work.

I couldn't agree more.

Do you think you can
have this in production

and ready to go
for Christmas week?

Absolutely.
Let's go to my office.

We'll discuss
the details.

Perfect.

Nice work.

Thank you.

What?

Come here!

Sorry. Sorry.

- That's okay. That's okay.
- You were incredible!

I mean, I can't believe
we just did that!

Good work, partner.

You too, partner.

Hey!

Hey.

Heard about
the Evergreen pitch.

Congratulations.

Thanks. Can I
walk you out?

Sure.

This calls
for celebration!

Ooh! Hot chocolate on me.

Sure, yeah.

Oh... you know what?

I forgot my phone
back at the office.

I am just gonna go run get it,
but I'll meet you back here.

- Sure.
- Okay.

Hey. Um...

I think I must've
walked two miles last night,

going tree lot to tree lot,

but I finally
found the perfect one.

It's just the right height,
it has nice, full branches,

and I am babbling.

Sorry. I just really
love Christmas.

I'll admit.

It's winning me over.

You have plans tonight?

No. I am free.

Would you maybe
want to grab dinner?

I'd love to.

Great.

Thank you.

Andrew Goodwin's office.

Yeah, hi. I'd like to speak
to Andrew, please.

This is his son. Donovan.

Donovan!

It's so nice to finally
match a voice to the name.

Excuse me?

Sorry.

It's just I've heard so much
about you from Mr. Goodwin.

He talks about me?

Oh, non-stop.
I feel like I know you.

Mr. Goodwin is in a meeting
across town.

Would you like me
to tell him you called?

Yeah. Yeah, please.

Thank you.

Hi.

Hi.

Are those for me?

Oh. Right.

Right. Yes.

Thank you.
They're beautiful.

You're welcome.

Well, if we want to make
the reservation,

we should probably get going.

Lead the way.

Okay.

Maybe I just
misread the situation.

I mean,
they're just emails.

Maybe he was
just being friendly.

Well, that doesn't
sound like him at all,

Maybe if he knew
you were the one that sent them,

he'd feel
differently.

You know, you should've
seen them together, though.

He looked so happy.

I mean, you remember
what he was like

when he first came
to the agency.

"Frosty the Snowman."

And he's opened up so much.

Because of you.

But, you know what,
if-if he's happy with her,

then I don't want to spoil that.

It's his loss, Mel.

That's what
I keep saying,

and you can
do better.

The fireman
still has your number.

Well...

There's a fireman?

He is so handsome!

I think...
I have a picture.

Oh...

He is!

Okay, guys...

Come on. I think this
could be good for you.

When was the last time
you had a really great date?

I'm not looking
for a really great date.

I'm looking for a really great,
genuine connection.

Like the kind you had
with Donovan?

Well, I...

I just really like him...
you know?

And I thought, for a minute,

that maybe
he felt the same way about me.

I'm sorry, Melly.

It's okay.

You know what, guys?
It's fine.

It just...
It isn't meant to be.

I had a really
nice time tonight.

Me too.

I've actually been meaning
to do this for a while.

Really?

Yeah. I just never had
the nerve to ask you.

Well, it's a good thing

you drew me
as your Secret Santa.

Secret Santa?

Yeah. Yeah, I kind of
pieced it all together.

I'm not
your Secret Santa.

Well, you two really

knocked it out of
the park with this one.

We make
a great team.

Yes. We do.

To many more campaigns.

To more campaigns.

Good work, Melanie.

You too.

Oh, my gosh, that
was awesome! Congrats!

Thank you.

Sorry, Mel.

It's okay.

That was something
really special.

So full of heart.

Yeah...
that's all Melanie.

I was beginning
to wonder why

we never had
that second date.

Guess I got my answer.

Oh, no.
It's not like that, really.

Are you sure?

So, something
just occurred to me.

What if the reason

Donovan is suddenly
so cozy with Alicia

is because he thinks

she's the one
he's been talking to online.

What makes you think that?

I don't know.

You threw him
off the trail early

and sent him
on a wild-goose chase.

So, he found the wrong goose.

Maybe...

or maybe he just likes her.

Maybe.

Maybe, instead of
playing Secret Santa,

I just played Cupid.

Hey!

- Hey.
- There you are.

I was wondering if you maybe
wanted to grab dinner tonight,

before the party,
to celebrate?

You know what? I can't.
I'm meeting Jude.

Raincheck?

Sure.

You are going to the party,
though, tonight, right?

Yeah. Yeah.

I guess
I'll see you there.

Yep.

Do you have
the print mock-up?

I told Farnsworth
I'd give it to him

before we left tonight

Yes. It's-It's on my desk.

Okay. Thanks.

Sure.

This was
just delivered.

Oh, thank you.

It's from my son.

Okay, the cavalry
has arrived,

so let's get you ready.

Yeah.

You don't
sound excited.

This is one of
your favorite nights

of the year.

Yeah, but it's also
the Secret Santa reveal.

So, in a few hours,
Donovan's gonna know

that he's been
talking to me,

and that I've been
pretending

to be somebody else.

I am sure he'll understand.

I hope so.

It had to come out
eventually, Melly.

You can't hide behind
a screen forever.

You're right.

Yes. You're right.
Mm-hmm.

It'll be fine.
I promise.

'Kay.

Now, let's get you
looking fabulous, okay?

Okay.

Okay. Yeah.

Thank you.

Dad.

Hey.

I got you a coffee.

Cream, two sugars,
right?

Yeah,
you've got it.

Um... thank you

for meeting me here.

There's...

...something I've been
wanting to talk to you about.

What is it?

Um...

It bothers me when you say
I've missed my calling.

I know
you're disappointed

that I didn't
become a lawyer,

but I love what I do,

and I'm very good at it.

When I say you would have
been a brilliant lawyer,

I mean it as a compliment.

I guess, selfishly,

I had hoped that it would
be something we could share.

I'm... I'm sorry
if I made you believe

I didn't respect
your decision.

Do you?

Of course I do.

I'm very proud
of the man you've become.

I'm very proud of you.

Really?

Yes, son. I am.

I've also been thinking
a lot about Christmas.

I'd like to spend it together
as a family.

Well, after all these years,

I-I just didn't think
it was that important to you.

These last few weeks
have really showed me

what I've been missing.

Dad, I want us
to be closer.

You, me, Caitlin.

I would love that.

You have your own life
and Caitlin has hers.

I guess I just assumed

that you were okay
with the way things were.

No. No, not anymore.

You know, um,
when your mother died,

it was... it was easier to just
lock myself in the office,

focus on providing.

But as I've... I've grown older,

I've come to regret
the time I lost with you both.

Let's not waste
anymore time.

Come over for Christmas.

Okay.

I called Caitlin.

She's gonna fly in.

And just how did you manage
to pull her away from work?

I'm an ad man, Dad.
I can sell anything.

Who's this?

Oh...

This is Melanie.

And just who is Melanie to you?

She's my Secret Santa.

It's a nice venue.

Yeah.

Hi.

Moment of truth.
You ready?

Yes. Yes.
It's time to face the music.

Okay.

Worst-case scenario,
he's a little miffed,

and you two just go back
to being the way you were

before all this
started.

Like, back to when
we didn't talk at all, or...

when we were just coworkers

who made idle chit-chat
in the elevator?

I don't want
to go back to that,

and you know, I don't even
think that I could.

Well, lucky for you,

I'm betting on
the best-case scenario.

Which is?

You get everything you want.

Everything?

You deserve it.

Hi.

Hi.

Did you just get here?

No. I've been around.

Oh.

Did you come with Alicia?

Alicia?

Yeah, um,
I heard you two went out.

Oh...

Word travels fast.

Well, it was
a one-time thing.

We both decided we would
be better as friends.

Oh.

You look beautiful.

Thank you.

Welcome, everyone.
Welcome! Welcome.

So nice to see you all
here tonight.

I trust you're all
having a good time?

Yeah.

Folks, it has been
an absolutely wonderful year

for the agency,

one full of
many, many successes,

and we owe all of that
to you good folks

and all your hard work,

so thank you very much.

Thank you!

Before we go any further,

I have a little bit of business
to take care of.

As many of you already know,

James Porter will be
retiring this year.

Yes, I know...

and he leaves
some very large shoes to fill.

But after
some careful deliberation,

I feel that I have
found the perfect candidate

to fill those large shoes.

Ladies and gentlemen, put your
hands together please.

A round of applause

for Miss Melanie Welsh.

Thanks, guys.

All right, now, DJ,
let's get this party started!

Would you like
to dance?

Oh. Yes. Yeah.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

I know you wanted
the job, too.

I did.
But you deserved it.

I learned a lot
from you.

Well, thank you.

Oh, my goodness!

Okay, the next one is for...

Jacqueline!

Look.

It's a little reindeer.

It's wonderful.
It really brings out your eyes.

Who's
my Secret Santa?

It was me!

Oh, Betty!
Thank you.

Okay. Next, we have...

Donovan!

What is it?

A tie.

What's underneath?

Basketball tickets.

Wow, what a thoughtful gift.

Who does Donovan
have to thank?

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Next one is for...

- ...Alicia.
- Thank you!

He's leaving.
I blew it.

Maybe he's just
getting some air.

No. No, I should've
told him sooner.

Earrings!

Oh, they're so cute!

Thank you, Secret Santa.

Okay, everybody,
that's the last present.

Thank you very much, folks!

Wait! Melanie
didn't get a gift.

You didn't?

Oh! Uh, no. I didn't.

But you know what,
it's okay, it's fine.

That can't be right.

- It's gotta be here somewhere.
- It's totally fine.

I don't need a present.

Hey, guys!

You've got to come
check this out!

Everyone, let's go!

Everyone, come on.

What is this?

Melanie...
I'm your Secret Santa.

What a lovely gift.

- Are you in?
- Yeah.

Definitely over $50.

You get warm.

Thank you
for the tickets.

Oh...

And the tie.

That was
a really nice touch.

Well, it was
what you wanted.

That's true.

You don't
seem surprised

that it was me.

Yeah. I'm not.

I figured it out.

You did?

Yeah, I'll admit,
it was hard at first,

and then I saw
the photograph

of your mother
on your desk,

and everything
kind of fell into place.

Right.

But what
I don't understand

is why you never
told me,

because you knew
that I wanted to meet.

I guess I was...

nervous about
your reaction.

Were you worried
I'd be upset?

Well, we weren't
exactly

the best of friends
in the beginning,

Melanie...

I wanted it to be you.

You did?

Yep.

Now that
you know how I feel,

the question is,
how do...

Merry Christmas.

What happened
to "Bah, humbug"?

Ah, what can I say?

You won me over.