Original subtitles

Downloaded from YTS.MX

[cheerful seasonal music]

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

♪ Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ Thy leaves are so unchanging

♪ Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ Thy leaves are so unchanging

♪ Not only green when summer's here

♪ But also when it's cold and drear

♪ Oh Christmas Tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ Thy leaves are so unchanging

♪ Oh Christmas Tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ Such pleasure do you bring me

♪ Oh Christmas Tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ Such pleasure do you bring me

♪ For every year the Christmas tree

♪ Brings to us some joy and glee

♪ Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ Such pleasure do you bring me

♪ Oh Christmas tree, you'll ever be unchanging

♪ A symbol of good will and love

♪ You'll never be unchanging

♪ Each shining light, each silver bell

♪ No other lights spread cheer so well

♪ Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree

♪ You'll ever be unchanging

[knocking] -Hey.

-Hey, look, Dad, I'm sorry. -What are you sorry for?

It's my fault the conversation didn't go well.

-I just, I don't wanna go. I'd rather be here with you.

-Kara, this is the first time

your grandfather's called in years, all right?

It's important to him.

And your grandmother.

-But I don't know 'em, Dad.

-It'd be great to get to know 'em.

-Can you come with?

-I think it'll go a lot smoother if I didn't.

[Kara sighs]

-You know, every time I see a star like that,

I like to think she's watching over me,

like we're a family again.

-Well, she is.

She's always watchin' over ya.

-It's not fair, Ashley. I really don't wanna go.

-You'll be all right. It's only a week.

-But I don't know them at all.

-You're meeting your grandma, Jessie.

It might be kinda cool.

-I just wanna stay here with Aunt Jenny.

-Hey, I have to spend Thanksgiving with my mom

and Christmas with my dad every year. I learned to suck it up.

-[chuckles] What's that like?

-It stinks, but I get twice the Christmas presents.

[Jessie chuckles]

First star I see tonight.

Wanna make a wish?

-[Jessie] I wish I had a family, a real family of my own.

-[Gate Attendant] We welcome our first-class customers

and U.S. military personnel

to board American Airlines flight 2349

to Stillwater through gate seven.

-[Lady] Please help me. [breathes heavily]

It's my last chance to see him before he ships out.

-I'm so sorry, the flight is fully booked.

I don't have an open seat to give. -Please?

There must be something you can do. [breathes rapidly]

If I don't get on this flight,

I won't see him for 18 months.

-If there was something I could do, I would.

But it's the holidays, and every seat is booked.

-Hey.

She can have my ticket.

I really hope you get to see him before he ships out.

-Thank you, you're an angel.

You have no idea what this means to me.

-Hey, that was a really amazing thing you did for that woman.

-Oh, it was nothing. I wasn't in a rush to get there anyway.

-No, and it really was something.

Look around you, no one else stepped up the way you did.

So guess what?

We had a last-minute cancellation,

you have a ticket after all.

-Oh my God. -And I think you'll like it.

-Thank you.

-Mm-hm.

First class. -Right here?

-Yes, seat two A. -Thank you.

Oh, oh, gosh, sorry!

-[Kara] No, it's fine, don't sweat it.

-Jessie Wilkins.

-Kara Gentry, nice to meet you.

-Sweet bag. Is that Betsey Johnson?

-Oh yeah, it is, thanks.

I like your shoes, do you run? -Yeah, sometimes, you?

-Oh yeah, I've run cross-country for my school. -What school do you go to?

-Belvedere, it's this little private school.

Where do you go? -Burlington High.

-Oh, that's cool, what grade are you in?

-Oh, sophomore. -Dude, same, that's so funny!

[chuckles]

-What classes do you like? -Well, I really like music.

And I'm taking Driver's Ed pretty soon, so I'm kind of nervous.

But I'm also kind of [chuckles] excited. What do you take?

-I take music. And I like art.

-Oh yeah? What kind of music do you like to play?

-Oh I sing a little.

-Me too, that's so funny.

[laughs]

[upbeat music]

Sweet, we're on the same flight back.

-Maybe, mine's standby. -Oh.

-So who are you staying with in Stillwater?

-Actually, I'm staying in Guthrie.

-Wait, seriously, Guthrie? -Yeah.

-Me too! -You're kidding!

-[chuckles] No. -[laughs] Oh my...

Well, I'm staying with my grandparents, not my choice.

What about you?

-My grandma.

-What, is that a bad thing? -I've never met her before.

You know, I just really don't know what to expect. -[Kara] Right.

-I think they live in a trailer park

or something somewhere in Guthrie.

Not that I'm judging, I mean [sighs] I'm not much better off.

-Well, it can't be all that bad.

-Easy for you to say.

-[scoffs] Look, I'd rather be around real people

that love and care about each other than rich snobs

that just care about money and appearances.

My grandparents haven't called me in like, well, never.

[sighs] And just like you, I don't even know what they look like.

Never seen 'em.

-Thanks. -Thanks.

So, here's to a Southern Christmas.

-With people we don't know.

[chuckles]

-So did your mom make you come?

Are you okay?

-She died this year, cancer.

-Oh, I'm sorry.

My mom died when I was ten. -Did it get easier?

It's been pretty hard for me. I'm, you know, livin' with my aunt and cousins.

And they're nice, but it's still really hard.

I still miss her.

-Well, it didn't get a whole lot easier for me.

I mean I live with my dad, which is okay.

But I still miss her too.

-I never met my dad.

He was never around.

-[Kara] Oh, that's rough.

-Yeah, I don't really know the story behind that.

My mom never talked about it.

-Well, Christmas is gonna be rough this year.

-[chuckles] Yep.

-[Flight Attendant] Ladies and gentlemen,

we're beginning our descent into Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Please return to your seats and stow all personal belongings.

[Jessie exhales forcefully] -What?

-Just wondering what it would be like to be you, a princess for a day.

-Oh please, I'd love to be you for a day.

-[laughs] Wish I could trade my life.

-[scoffs] Same, wish I could skip the drama.

[energetic music]

[chuckles]

Dude, I'm so stoked.

That looks awesome on you.

-Yeah, I'm shoppin' and poppin' tags with your fam.

-I'm barbecuin' with your fam.

-I'm riding your grandpa's horses.

-Eatin' your grandma's home cookin'. [chuckles]

-[chuckles] Okay, so the plan is?

-In and out, one week, have fun, don't get caught.

-No one knows. -No one gets hurt.

[energetic music]

-Is that you, Jessie?

[laughs] I'm your Grandma Judy!

Get your butt over here! [inhales forcefully]

Oh, let me take a look at you.

Why, you look just like your daddy.

-Yeah? -Well, your momma, too.

But I see a lot of your daddy in you.

Whoa. Let's get inside the truck before we blow away.

-All right. [chuckles]

-So. [breathes heavily]

Well, how was your trip? I, you know, I always hated airplanes.

Not that I'm some big traveler.

-It was pretty uneventful.

Which is good for an airplane ride, I guess.

-That's good.

So Jessie, do you like surprises?

'Cause I've got a good one.

-Jessie? Oh, Jessie, right.

-Are you all right, darlin'?

-Yeah, just, what's the big surprise?

-Well, I can't tell you. I gotta show you, but you're gonna love it.

-Okay.

[slow peaceful music]

-Look at her, Elsa.

She's amazing.

-She's beautiful.

-Good Heavens,

I can't remember the last time I saw you cry, Elsa.

-I'm not crying, it's dusty in here. [sniffs]

June, show her in.

-Yes, ma'am.

Welcome, Miss Kara.

Please come in.

Kara, this is your grandmother Elsa,

and your grandfather Bob.

-It's nice to meet you. -Ah.

-You have a lovely home. -[chuckles] Well, thank you so much,

and nice to finally meet you, Kara.

-We have to work on your etiquette.

-Oh, sorry, my bad.

-Oh, you're not ill-mannered.

You're just bein' a Yankee.

-Well, Elsa, she's from Vermont.

So I guess she actually is a Yankee.

-Not to worry.

I'll turn you into a lady.

-Don't mind her, honey.

We're gonna have a great Christmas.

-We don't have all your presents yet.

But now that I know your size, we can do the real shopping.

-You know what?

I think this one has your name all over it.

Why don't you go ahead and open it?

Go ahead, open it.

-[gasps] Wow.

-Oh! [chuckles]

[sighs]

-Why are we stopping here?

-Your big surprise.

He was workin' a gig in Shreveport.

And he cut it short to come home.

-Who?

-Your daddy, Jessie.

Your daddy.

Hey!

-[Jim] Hey, Momma. -How you doin'?

-All right, good. -Oh, welcome home, darlin'.

-Great to see you. -Good to see you!

[laughs] [Judy murmurs]

-I know.

Hi Jessie.

-Oh hi.

[chuckles nervously] What a big surprise.

-It's so good to meet you.

I've been lookin' forward to this.

And I have so much to say.

-It's okay.

We've got all day.

-I look forward to that.

Hey Jessie, how about you drive?

[Judy laughs]

-For real?

I don't have a license or anything.

-It's okay, this is Oklahoma.

I'll visit with your grandma.

-I haven't really learned yet.

I don't think I know how. [chuckles]

-I'll be keepin' an eye on you the whole time.

Just stay on the back roads.

So were they upset with you

when you left early in Shreveport?

-Well, a little bit. But nothin' they can do about it now. [sighs]

'Cause I quit.

-What? -It's not gonna be a problem anymore.

I'm gettin' off the road for good. [sighs]

-Why?

-To make a home, a real home for Jessie.

[upbeat music]

-Yee-haw!

-Yee-haw!

-Yee-haw!

-So that there is Casey.

Now come on, I want to introduce you to one of my favorite critters.

This man right here, this is Axel.

Hey, Axel.

You like him? -I love him.

He's beautiful. [chuckles]

-You know, your momma loved to ride.

It's how she met your dad.

-Really? -Yeah, she came in here one day

and she offered to groom all these horses

if I'd let her race 'em in barrel races.

I didn't need any more help, so I was about to say no.

And suddenly she leans against the stall right here

and she says, "Say, have you heard this one?

"So this three-legged dog walks into a bar.

"And the bartender says, 'Can I help you?'

"And the dog goes, 'Yeah, I'm lookin'

"for the man that shot my paw.'"

[laughs]

Well, I had to hire her on the spot.

Oh, then your dad met her and fell for her right away.

Hey, don't worry, you know, I'll get our trainer to teach you how

to ride your new horse.

-Mine? -Yeah.

-Mr. Gentry, you don't have to buy me things.

-Baby girl, you are just like your daddy.

Come on, better get you inside and cleaned up.

You know, your grandmother has big plans

for you this afternoon.

-[Jim] A spot right there for ya.

Perfect.

-[Judy] That's good.

-[Jim] Yup.

-[Judy] That's good.

-Very nice.

[sighs] Whew.

Hey, you need a little help with that?

-[chuckles] Is it that obvious?

-Lemme help you out now.

See, you just wanna lift up, and pull up.

-Ah, gotcha. [chuckles] -That's all.

-I put $20 down.

I got you your Red Bull.

-Thank you very much.

You know, I think I was about your age

when Momma let me drive for the first time.

You're doin' a heck of a lot better than I did,

that's for sure.

-Thanks. [chuckles nervously]

So, where are we going?

-Well, first off, we're gonna go downtown

to Grandma Judy's beauty salon.

Then we're gonna stop on over at your Uncle Roy's place.

That's where we'll be stayin'.

And a little later, we're gonna have a barbecue.

-Sounds good. [chuckles]

-So, what do you think?

-Oh my goodness.

Sweetie it's, uh, it's, um, mm.

Tell you the truth, if you leave this room,

your grandmother, she is gonna hit the floor.

But it's okay, don't you worry about it.

We have a makeup artist right here on staff,

and she can, she can fix that.

-We do? -Yeah.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Now listen, do you have a gown anywhere

in here to wear to the Christmas party?

-Party?

-Yes. Honey, your family is throwing a Christmas party for you.

-Well, this is all that she, I have.

-Oh, okay, well, we'll just,

I'll just call over to the dress shop.

And I'll just have 'em send us over a selection, okay?

All right, it's all right.

-I just have to grab a couple things.

-Oh, well, good, 'cause I need to change my shirt.

-Well, good, 'cause you stink.

-That what happens when you've been traveling all night.

-No, it's okay, I can do it myself.

-I'm a beautician., trust me.

Jessie.

-Yeah?

-I know it was hard for you with your momma toward the end.

-Yeah, thanks, but I don't wanna talk about it.

-Well, if you ever do wanna talk about it.

We've all been through a lot,

it helps to make us who we are.

So, you'll let me know

if you ever do need someone to listen, okay?

-Yeah, I'll let you know. -Okay.

-[Jim] Hey, Momma, can you come help me pick out a shirt?

-I'm comin'!

You never stop bein' a momma.

-[Cell Phone Ringtone] Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Chris...

-Hey. -Hey, how ya doin'?

-I'm gettin' it.

-Are you sure?

I'm livin' large and you're roughin' it.

-No, I'm livin' larger.

Got to drive the pick me up truck.

It was sick.

Man, your mom sure was beautiful.

Your grandma's got a picture of her here.

-Yeah, she was.

So everything's good then?

They're good people?

-Yeah, great.

One thing though.

-[Jessie] Hit me.

-They kinda want you to live with them.

Like, permanently.

-[Judy] Jessie?

-[Kara] Gotta go, Grandma's calling me.

-Later.

[Jessie sighs]

♪ I don't need a map to show me the way

♪ Back to Oklahoma

♪ I just need a fast train

♪ And one night and one day to get back

-[Judy] Oh, look. He musta cleaned out Wal-Mart for all those decorations.

-[Jim] Watch out for that dog!

-Oh, you are the worst parent ever, seriously.

-Just kiddin'. [laughs]

I like to have fun every now and then, you know that.

[laughs]

Hey Roy.

-[Roy] Whoo!

-Hey buddy. -How you doin'?

Good to see you.

-You, too.

-Hey, Jessie, this is my cousin-brother, your Uncle Roy.

-Welcome to paradise, Miss Jessie.

Nice to finally meet you.

-You too, Uncle Roy.

And who are these guys?

-Well, I'm Roger.

And this here is Donnie Ray.

He's shy at first, but once you get to know him, he won't leave you alone.

-Roger and Donnie Ray, this here is your Cousin Jessie.

-I hear you're from the big city.

-Yeah, kinda. [chuckles]

-Hey, why don't you guys go grab their luggage

and go ahead, take it on inside?

-We'll never see these again.

-Junior's around here somewheres.

I don't know where he is. -Yeah, where is Junior at?

[horn honks]

-Get outta the truck, Junior!

-Make me, butter-bean-head!

[horn honks] -You keep it up, I'ma tan your hide, boy!

[blows raspberry]

-[chuckles] Uncle Roy, where's the boys' mom?

-She's stationed in Afghanistan.

She calls from time to time.

Get to talk then.

But [sighs] sure wish she was home.

-Yeah, Roy, I gotta tell ya, you sure outdid yourself. -Yeah.

-Oh yeah. -You went all out. -[Judy] You sure did.

-Y'all like that? [laughs] -Looks great.

-It's beautiful. -Good.

Well, go ahead and have a seat on over here.

-Okay. -Oh man. Let's get to grillin'!

-Absolutely.

[Kara sighs]

-[Jim] Mm, mm, mm.

-Wow, you guys made all this?

-Oh, yeah, Grandma's recipe over there.

-You know, Grandma used to be a former Miss Rodeo.

-You were a beauty queen?

-No, no, no. I was a barrel racer, and a bull rider,

and I was just a tomboy. [chuckles]

-Hey, those need grillin'.

-Oh yeah, I'm on it. -Yep.

-Didn't you win Miss Panhandle Rodeo, Mama?

-Yeah, and I've seen her Miss Oil Derrick trophy. It's a doozy.

-That's right. And let's not forget about the Stillwater Pageant.

-That was 30 years and 30 pounds ago.

[Jim chuckles]

-What is this?

-Well, that's tater salad.

That goes with everything.

Really good.

-And, and this?

-Yeah, that's pork ribs.

You ever had pork ribs before?

-I don't know. -[chuckles] Well, how about you go cook

a little bit with Roy?

-Yeah. -That'll be great.

Awesome. -Roy, did you put the bacon with the beans?

There has to be bacon with the beans.

-Yeah, yeah, I did.

-He didn't put the bacon with the beans.

-Kara, I just wanted to tell you how grateful we are

that you're spending Christmas with us.

-Me too.

I want to know...

-Know about what?

-You.

You, too.

I want to know everything about you guys.

-[chuckles] Well, there's not that much to know about us.

Your grandmother is a former beauty queen,

a very, very stylish woman.

Pillar of society, and the matriarch of this family.

-[scoffs] Matriarch makes me sound old.

-Well, I'm sorry, dear. -Why do you insist on wearing that ridiculous bolo?

-Well, I'm just a crusty old oil man who happens

to love horses and wearing the occasional bolo tie.

Thank you, June, that's fine.

-[murmurs] Mr. Gentry.

-What about Mr., my dad?

-Your father Jeff is a very special man.

I'm terribly proud of him.

You know, he built that company of his

with his own two hands.

-He's on the Forbes list.

-I imagine what you really want

to know is why haven't we...

You know, the thing is, Kara, that sometimes,

sometimes families get, you know, a little sideways.

And, well, the point is,

we want your father back in our lives.

And we'd like for you to be in our lives, too.

[doorbell rings]

Well, guests are arriving.

I guess I better go greet them, if you'll excuse me.

-[sighs] You'll come down later.

-Mm, well, I'm itching to get my party on.

-You have to make a grand entrance.

-Sweet. Gives me more time to chow down on this delish dish.

-Ah, a moment on the lips, forever on the hips.

There you go, thanks.

-Thank you so much.

-A young lady needs her nutrition.

-Whoo. -Well, you do have the Wilkins appetite.

-[Kara] It was good, but boy, am I stuffed.

-Now, Roger, don't hurt your brother.

Oh. [Junior grunts]

-Hey! -Hey!

-That Roger's got an arm on him, man.

-Yeah, he does.

-[chuckles] Wow.

-I catch like a girl. [chuckles]

-Oh, it's all right if you catch like a girl,

as long as you don't catch like Roy here.

When you catch it, think about it like a gator jaw,

like clamping down on the ball.

-[Kara] Gator?

-Kinda like an alligator. -Alligator?

-[Jim] Yeah, an alligator, like a crocodile.

-Oh, okay. -Okay?

-[Kara] Yeah.

-Same thing.

That's it!

One more time, yeah.

Clamp down on that thing.

There you go. See, you got a knack for this.

-[Kara] Yeah, huh.

-Run out, Cuz.

-[Kara] Run out?

-[Roger] Run out!

-[Kara] Oh. [scoffs]

-[Jim] There we go. [Kara chuckles] Very good.

Nice, buddy.

-Oh, you must be kiddin'. -Oh, heck no.

It's a rib-off. [chuckles]

-Wow, you ready to see what's what?

-Yeah, ready Freddy.

[chuckles] Bring it. -Yeah, I'll bring it.

-[Roy] Yeah, I'll bring it.

-Grandma Judy?

-Oh, you called me Grandma.

Ooh, I love that.

-Oh. [chuckles]

-You know, you showed us your tomboy side.

I'd like to see your lady side.

-Lady side? [chuckles nervously]

-Well, I'm thinkin' of making you into a beauty queen.

-Oh, I don't know. [chuckles]

-Oh, darlin', my life has been smelly boys and sloppy men.

-Wanna bite?

-I've waited a long, long time for a pretty young lady.

-All right, let's do it.

[upbeat seasonal music]

-No, no, no, no, no. [sighs]

A lady doesn't stuff her face in front of her guests.

Ida Beth, I'd like you to meet my granddaughter, Kara.

-Well, Lord have mercy.

She is beautiful.

Pretty enough to compete?

-Thought never crossed my mind.

-You know, Sarah Whitlock is out

of the Miss Christmas Spirit pageant.

-Wasn't she the frontrunner?

-It's wide open.

-What?

-Do you have a talent, honey?

-I sing a little.

-I'll do it.

-Do what?

-Enter you in the pageant.

-Oh, no, I don't think that's a good idea.

-Come on, you're gonna sing for us.

-I need a few things.

[Kara sighs]

-So,

what happened?

Like, why weren't you and Mom ever together?

-Well, this is somethin' I've been wanting to explain.

You see, your mom and I were very young

when we were together.

And we both wanted a family.

We wanted to be together.

But we also had other dreams.

And my dream was to be a country music star.

And as far as I can tell,

when your mother got pregnant with you,

she didn't want to keep me from my dreams.

Now that's just the kind of wonderful person she was.

She pushed me away, and sent me out off on the road.

-Why didn't you come back for her?

-Oh, I did.

I couldn't find her.

It wasn't until your grandmother called me

to tell me about her passing

that I had any idea about you.

And you were livin' up in, up north in Vermont.

-That's terrible.

-Well, don't get down about your mom.

I mean she probably had no idea just how much I would

have wanted to be in your life.

Oh, shoot, we were just kids ourselves back then.

And she, uh...

[chuckles] She was an amazing woman.

-Yeah, I bet she was.

-What's that, honey? -Uh...

-[Roy] Hey, Jim, you wanna pick a little? -Oh, heck, I'd love to.

-Hey, could you teach me a couple things?

-Well, yeah, I'd love to teach you a couple things. -There you go.

-Yeah, I already know a few chords.

-You do? Well, show me what you know.

-That one? -D chord, okay.

-That one?

-You know a G chord.

-I know that one.

-You know, I mean, you know so much already.

You kiddin' me? -And.

[Kara laughs] -I guess you know E.

-There you go, yeah. -Yeah, take this on the road.

-We ought to put Jessie in that Christmas pageant.

-[Kara] Oh. [scoffs]

-Oh, I think that's a fine idea.

-Christmas pageant? -Yeah, you'd give those city girls a run for their money.

-Oh yeah. -Do you have a talent?

-Well, I like to sing some. -[Jim] Well, and you play guitar really well.

-I guess. [chuckles nervously]

-Okay, you stand up, pretend that you're at a pageant.

-[chuckles nervously] Okay.

-Can you sing Silent Night?

-Yeah, sure. -Oh wow.

-Everybody knows Silent Night.

They'll love it!

-Silent Night.

-Okay.

-Guitar, keyboard only, very soft.

♪ Silent night, holy night

♪ All is calm, all is bright

♪ Round yon virgin

♪ Mother and Child

♪ Holy infant so

♪ Tender and mild

♪ Sleep in Heavenly

♪ Peace

♪ Sleep in Heavenly

♪ Peace

♪ Silent night

♪ Holy night

♪ Shepherds quake at the sight

♪ Glories stream from Heaven afar

♪ Heavenly hosts sing Hallelujah

♪ Christ the Savior is born

♪ Christ the Savior is born

♪ Christ the Savior is

♪ Born

-That was beautiful.

-Wow, so good.

[Kara chuckles]

-I love you, Jessie.

-I love you, too.

-Well, [sighs] she is quite the talent, isn't she?

-[Ida Beth] That little lady has Miss Christmas Spirit all sewed up.

-You're not seriously thinking of?

-I most certainly am.

-Good Lord, Elsa.

You just can't help yourself, can you?

Johnny.

-Uh-oh, someone may have an issue on their hands.

-Not for long.

[sighs]

That girl is beautiful and talented,

and deserves to win that crown.

You're not gonna give me any trouble about this, Bob.

-Did you ask her?

-Did I ask her what? -Did you even ask her if she wanted to be

in that ridiculous pageant?

-Of course she does.

Why wouldn't she?

-See, this is what you do, Elsa.

You just assume that because you want something,

everybody else does, too.

And Heaven forbid if they don't,

because you will cut them out of our lives

in a Tennessee minute.

You've done it with our friends.

You did it with our son.

-Our son?

I did everything I could to protect

that boy the same way I protected you.

Without me, you would have made the biggest mistake

of your life with that girl.

Where would you be now, Bob?

I chose the right friends for us.

I chose the right clubs, this house, everything.

You're a man of respect, and it's all because of me.

So if I want that girl to win the same pageant I did,

then that's exactly what she'll do.

exhales sharply]

And God bless us every one.

[sighs]

-Feels good when people clap for you.

-Yes.

-Yes, what?

-Yes, ma'am.

-Good, you could win that pageant.

With the right training and discipline, I can get you there.

-Am I good enough? -Oh, singing, yes.

But the rest is gonna take a substantial amount of hard work.

-Is there time?

-Don't you fret about that.

You have a secret weapon.

-What?

-Me.

You do everything I tell you to do...

And I'll make you a star.

Okay, that's Wesley Cooper, and he comes from good stock.

Go talk to him, Kara.

-No, I... -Ah, don't be afraid of any man.

You're a Gentry woman.

Take charge, now!

That's my girl.

-I can't believe I let you talk me into this.

-It was easy, you miss Kara.

-I do miss Kara.

How long is this flight?

-I think about three and a half hours.

-Wait, Sherry.

Hang on a sec.

There you go, brother.

-Bless you, sir. [chuckles]

-[Jeff] Merry Christmas.

-May your Christmas wish come true.

-Thank you.

Oh.

-What is your Christmas wish?

-What?

No, I'm not tellin' you.

Then it won't come true.

-There's no law that says you're gonna lose your wish by telling it.

-You just can't stop bein' a lawyer, can ya?

-[chuckles] No, I can't.

So tell me.

-I wish we could be a family.

-You and Kara?

-And you.

-[Santa] And what would you like for Christmas, young man?

-Well, I have a list.

Okay, a night scope.

Oh, and a drum set, a real one this time.

And a helicopter, a jet, Lamborghini.

[laughs] New video game, a quad, a new bike, a video camera.

A real football, magic set, go-kart, tablet, stilts.

-I think Christmas is gonna be

a little expensive this year.

-Ah.[chuckles nervously]

-Crossbow, new shoes. -It'll all be all right.

Always has.

-Hey, that beauty pageant, it's a cash prize, right?

-Yessirree Bob. -A car, a truck.

-Enough cash to get some Christmas presents?

-I reckon so. -What's on your mind, honey? -A bat, baseball bat.

-Oh just, am I pretty enough to be in a pageant? -[Roy] Oh, of course you are!

-Of course you are. -You're pretty as the day is long.

-Yeah, but you have to have other skills, right?

Singing, dancing, somethin'?

-Why, you sing like a bird.

And I can teach you the rest. -Yeah.

-[Roger] Sunglasses, remote control helicopter.

-All right, and if I win,

the money goes towards gettin' the boys Christmas presents.

-Well, you are all Wilkins and more. [laughs]

Much more. [laughs]

-Group hug.

[cheerful music]

♪ In the moments just like these

♪ My heart starts to sing

♪ And anything we dream can happen

♪ If the limit is the sky

♪ Then come on, let's fly

♪ Past the moon and ride on up to Heaven

♪ Hold on tight to me

♪ Wherever we go

♪ I want to you know

♪ All of the things we see and do

♪ Life is the best because of you

♪ Wherever we go

♪ I want you to know

♪ Sure as the sun comes shining through

♪ I will always be right here for you

♪ You make me feel alive

♪ All my senses come to life with you

♪ Yes, they do

♪ Like ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh

♪ Wherever we go

♪ I want you to know

♪ All of the things we see and do

♪ Life is the best because of you

♪ Wherever we go

♪ I want to know

♪ Sure as the sun comes shining through

♪ I will always be right here for you

♪ Wherever we go

♪ I will always be right here for you

♪ I will always be right here for you

-[Jim] All right.

-What are we doin' here? -Today we're learning the true spirit of Christmas.

-It means you need to broaden your horizons. [laughs]

-Oh, Roy, there's a cake back there.

Will you get that for her?

-[Roy] Oh, absolutely.

-[Jim] Come on now, buddy.

-Can't forget the goodies.

[cheerful seasonal music]

-[Jessie] This place is awesome.

-[Elsa] This place is awesome.

It's for the most elite of the elite.

-Yes, and the snobbiest of the snobs.

-Oh hush up, Bob. You're going to stand out among all these people,

and we'll expand your horizons tonight.

-What do you mean stand out?

-[sighs] Look around you.

What do you see?

-I see a bunch of people.

-You see a bunch of our people, doctors, lawyers.

He's a senator.

But we are Gentrys, the elite among these people.

-Pride goeth before destruction,

and a haughty spirit before a fall.

That's Proverbs. And now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll go slum

with the regular folk.

-Ignore him, Kara.

Okay, a young woman of your stature must be above it all.

And you have to convey an attitude

that tells everyone you're not to be trifled with.

You are a Gentry.

Do you understand?

-I guess.

-Mm-mm, you know.

-Hey, hey!

You're supposed to be helping, not eating.

-I am helping by eatin' this here cake,

I'm helpin' somebody watch their figure, and be healthier.

I'm not even askin' for anything in return.

-[Sherry] Let's go in. -[Jeff] No, I'm not about to go down there

and ruin the most fun she's had in years.

-[Sherry] You can't put it off forever.

-I know, I'm thinking Christmas dinner.

-Why wait until then?

-I just think she needs more time.

-[laughs] You mean, you need some time.

-Maybe.

Sherry, I haven't spoken to the man in so long,

I have no idea how he's gonna react.

-They're your parents.

They wanted Kara here.

They obviously want you, too.

My guess is, they're gonna be just as nervous

about seeing you as you are about them.

They probably invited Kara hoping you'd come too.

-I don't know what I did to deserve you.

-I came across something juicy

while I was registering Miss Kara.

-Do tell. -A young lady by the name of Jessie Wilkins was registered.

-Did you say Wilkins?

-You don't suppose that's Judy Wilkins' kin, do you?

-It's a common name for common folk.

Could be anyone.

Ah, we're behind schedule.

-Sorry, Grandmother.

-Miss Kara. Miss Gentry, I am on my way to the donation center.

-What are you doing with my dress?

-I told her to give it to charity.

-Why, ma'am? -A true lady never wears the same gown twice.

-Please? I really like it.

I mean can't I just wear it for another time?

-Nope, that's my final word.

You need a new gown, a winning gown.

Something elegant with a touch of Christmas,

a designer original.

We'll get some ideas.

Emile Claudier will be here shortly.

-Emile Claudier?

-The designer. -I know who he is.

-Soon, people will know who you are.

-[chuckles] Oh my God, I love it!

It's kinda retro.

-Needs something more, though.

-Like what? -Rhinestones, it needs rhinestones.

-You mean bling?

-Bling, we're gonna bling

the living daylights outta that dress.

-Awesome.

-Okay, I'm goin' to the fabric store.

-Can I come with you?

-No darlin', I'll be right back.

I want you to watch the little kids.

-I've never really watched little kids before. [chuckles]

-Okay, you're gonna hear fightin',

and cussin', and screamin'.

Don't pay any attention to that.

-Ignore it? -Yes.

But when you hear bloodcurdling screams,

you better look into that.

-Okay. [sighs]

Bloodcurdling screams.

[Roger screams]

[loud arguing]

-Get outta the way!

-No, you get outta here!

-I don't hit girls so move!

-Well, you're about to get hit by one.

You play ball?

-That's a dumb question. -Then let's play for it.

-All right, what are we playin' for?

-We win, you never bother Roger again.

And I might not deck you.

-We win?

-And you get a pass on the no hittin' girls rule.

But I still might deck you.

-Call it.

-Heads.

-Tails, our ball.

-[sighs] Can I change first?

-Well, it's now or never.

-So which one should we go with?

-Oh, we're just getting ideas for now, and reminiscing.

You know who that is, don't you?

-That's my, um...

-Your father is so handsome.

-And that's Kara's, my mom?

-Yeah, that was your mom.

-Do you have any more photos of my mom?

-Yeah.

-So pretty.

-He's jealous of my throwin', so I know he'll pass.

Junior, Donnie Ray, keep him busy.

-What do I do?

-You cover one of his buddies.

I'll take the other one.

-What does cover mean?

-Make sure they don't catch no passes.

And try to get the ball if you can.

-[Kara] 'Kay.

-22, set, hike!

[yelling]

-[grunts] Oh.

-Junior, and Donnie Ray, y'all go out.

Blue 42, set, hike.

[yelling]

-Ooh!

-That's going to hurt! -Ouch.

-Hey, that was a really good try.

You know, you're not bad.

I think we should play again, maybe another time.

-All right, sounds good.

And hey, you're gonna leave Roger alone?

-Yeah, you know, he's really cool, too.

[Kara sighs]

[cheering]

-[Jim] [sighs] Goodness.

Hey, settle down out here a little bit.

-[Junior] Never, Old Man!

-[Jim] Hey, no runnin' on the porch, either!

-[Junior] Whoo-hoo!

-[Kara] I'm so sorry about the dress.

-Oh, don't you worry

your pretty little head about it.

-Hey, you were lookin' out for your cousin.

That's way more important than a dress.

-You did the right thing and we're proud of you.

-Guess I'll have to pull out of the pageant, though.

-That's nonsense, Jessie.

We'll put our thinking caps on and figure it out.

-You go finish getting cleaned up,

we'll go look for another dress.

-How much do we need?

-Decent dress nowadays costs about 800, maybe a $1000.

-Well, I think I spent about everything I got on presents.

-Well, I've got a couple hundred dollars, rainy day.

-Okay, any other ideas?

-Well, I've got some bonds.

Savin' 'em for the kids in case they wanted

to go to school somewhere someday.

-Yeah, well, I guess I could go back on the road,

maybe do a couple shows.

-No, don't even think about it.

-Well, now, do you wanna tell my daughter

her daddy ain't a good provider?

I mean we can't use Roy's kids' college money.

-[Roy] If you leave now and go do more of them shows, what is she gonna do?

Look, this is important, but there's gotta be another way.

-[Jim] I'll do anything to make her happy.

-And I love you for that.

And she's gonna love you for that.

But now, we have to come up with another idea.

-Well, I just got back home. And [sighs] don't have much, but heck, it's all I know.

-Your daddy left us high and dry, but we always manage.

-Yeah, well, Daddy was a jerk.

We all know that. -Cousin-brother.

-Well, a poor daddy is better than no daddy at all.

And if she doesn't get a beautiful dress,

and she doesn't win the pageant, at least she's got you.

-Thanks, Momma.

-[sighs] Got an idea.

Isn't downtown close to here?

-Well, yeah, there's all them shops down in town center.

-All right, Daddy, Roy, get your guitar cases, let's go.

-I have to go meet Grandmother

and Ida Beth at the jeweler's.

-Kara, [sighs] I wanna see you more.

-Yeah, me too.

You're invited to Christmas dinner.

-I'd like that.

I'll be there.

[children giggling]

Why do you smile at those people?

-Would you like me if I was one of those people?

-Yes, of course. -Do you like me for who I am or what I am?

-I like you 'cause,

'cause we're the same kinda people, you and me.

-I have to go.

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way

♪ Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh

♪ Hey

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way

♪ Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh

♪ Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh

[crowd applauds]

-[Kara] Hey!

[giggles]

-You're a celebrity.

-You're a debutante.

-Oh, no, I'm a celebutante.

[giggles]

So, which one's my dad?

-That's him, right there.

And that's your Grandma Judy.

-She's pretty. -I know.

And that there is your Daddy's cousin-brother Roy.

Which I guess makes him your cousin-Uncle.

-No way.

-Yes way. [sighs]

-So what are they like?

Are they nice? -Yeah, they're great, actually.

In fact, I feel kinda bad that we're doing this sometimes.

What's my family like?

-Well, your grandpa's nice.

And, uh, your grandmother is a little stiff.

But she means well, I think.

-Kara. -Yeah?

-Yes, Grandmother?

-Who is this?

-I'm Jessie Wilkins.

-Mrs. Gentry, small world.

-Judy Wilkins, it's been a long time.

-43 years, two months and 13 days.

-But who's counting?

-I am.

-I hear your granddaughter is entered

in the Miss Christmas Spirit pageant. -You hear right.

-She's going to be up against my granddaughter, Kara.

-May the best woman win.

-Oh, the best woman will win.

Come on, Kara.

-Bye. -Bye.

[sighs]

-Don't get to know her.

-Okay, good, we want the lights here.

Ah, Mrs. Gentry, so good to see you.

-Nice to see you, Jaret.

-I hear your granddaughter is a late entry.

-Oh, last is the new first.

-What do you think of our decor?

-It's beautiful, tasteful, better than last year.

You've outdone yourself again.

-Why, thank you, Mrs. Gentry.

Much appreciated.

-Can I talk to you about a confidential matter?

-Yes, Elsa.

-As usual, you're the deciding vote for the pageant, yes?

-That's right, I'm the tiebreaker.

-Do you remember a few years back

when you didn't make budget?

-I remember your generous donation bailing us out.

-Just keep that in mind in case it gets close.

-What exactly are you saying, ma'am?

[Elsa sighs]

-Remember who your friends are.

There may come a time in the future

when you don't make budget again.

-[Jim] Those are fives, Roy?

-We got over $700!

-Oh, ho!

Hoo hoo hoo! -Yee-haw!

-Well, let's hit up some dress stores. -[Roy] Yeah.

-We are goin' to the thrift store first.

-Oh, that's for folks who can't rub two nickels together.

-Well, now, this time of the year,

some people get generous. We might get lucky.

-We might get lucky. -Yeah, well, that's true.

[cheerful ringtone rings]

-[Automated Voice] Flight 330 departing from Stillwater

is currently full.

Your standby departure is delayed three days.

Your new information has been emailed.

Thank you for flying with American Airlines.

-[gasps] No!

-[Santa Ringtone] Ho, ho, ho, ho, merry Christmas!

Ho, ho, ho, ho, merry Christmas!

-What are you so happy about?

[gasps] Oh my gosh, it's beautiful!

-Have you ever seen anything like that?

-Uh, no! [laughs]

Must've cost a fortune.

-Nope, $80 at the thrift store.

-No way! -Oh yes way!

-[chuckles] So there's money left over? -Yes, oh yes.

You can go to the fancy salon, get yourself all dolled up. -Nah, I'm good. [chuckles]

-There's plenty of time before the pageant.

[shouting]

-Spend it on them.

-Oh, now you know we can afford for you to have a smidgen.

Give yourself a present.

-[scoffs] I don't need a present.

-Why not?

-'Cause I'm already having the best Christmas

of my entire life.

-And you are the best present of my entire life.

-Oh.

-[sighs] I wish this could last forever.

-Oh, sweetie, that's what your daddy

and I have been dreamin', that you would stay with us.

-Uh. -Oh, where's the darn phone?

I wanna call your Aunt Jenny, tell her the good news.

I'll talk first and then you can talk to her

and get caught up. [energetic music]

[phone rings]

[phone rings]

♪ My girl's going to win

-[sighs] Come on, come on.

[phone rings]

-Nope, no distractions for you.

[Kara sighs]

-Jessie, time to get ready.

[cheerful music]

-This is Gina Graystone reporting live

from the Miss Christmas Spirit Pageant

where we're down to four semifinalists,

Kara Gentry, Sandra Colby,

Brenda Penner, and Jessie Wilkins.

Good luck, ladies.

-Hey, hey, I thought... -Get your coat on.

-I don't understand, what?

-I'll explain in the car.

♪ In fields as they lay keeping their sheep

♪ On a cold winter's night

♪ That was so deep

♪ Noel, Noel

♪ Noel, Noel

♪ Born is the King of Israel

[audience applauds]

-Thank you Kara Gentry for helping make the season bright.

And now here is Jessie Wilkins bringing

some Joy to the World.

[audience cheers]

-[Jim] Whoo-hoo, get 'em, Jessie!

♪ Joy to the world

♪ The Lord has come

♪ Let Earth receive her King

-I knew she could sing.

♪ Let every heart

♪ Prepare Him room

-I didn't know she could sing like that.

♪ And Heaven and nature sing

♪ And Heaven and nature sing

♪ And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

♪ And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

[audience cheers]

-Whoo, good job, Jessie!

-Ladies, join us on the stage, please.

The envelope.

Now, without further ado,

the winner of the Miss Christmas Spirit Award

is Jessie Wilkins!

-Can I help you?

[audience cheers]

-Excuse me.

-She won!

-I need to talk to you.

-I'm in trouble.

-Yeah, me too.

You first.

-Well, my flight's delayed for three days.

-Oh, that's bad.

Mine's worse, though.

-What is it?

-Your dad and grandma really want you to stay with them.

So I might've told them that you would.

-What? -I'm sorry.

-No you didn't! That's... [sighs]

Okay, it's okay, maybe I can fix it when I get home.

-Right, and I can help you fix your flight.

We'll be fine.

Oh, no.

-What is it?

-[Kara] My dad.

-Oh, no.

That's bad.

-Yeah.

-Game over?

-Maybe.

Or maybe we can just head out?

Walk fast, say we're sick

and just straight shot to the door?

-[scoffs] Yeah what if he comes

by the house today, tomorrow?

-I don't know!

Do what we gotta do?

-Kara, you nailed that song. -Thanks.

-Shame they let anyone enter. I mean, I mean you outclassed that girl.

-I have to go.

I don't feel good, I'm just gonna go.

-[scoffs] See you at Christmas dinner, I guess.

-Hey, Sher...

-Kara, oh, I'm so proud of you.

-Oh my God, Sherry!

-Surprise!

We wanted to come see you.

-Listen, I've gotta run.

-Oh, okay.

-Yeah, I am so sorry, but I really, really have to go.

Tell Dad I said hi, and give him this.

Thanks.

-I will.

-Hey, where'd she go?

Is this her trophy?

-She wanted me to give it to you.

-I mean I... [chuckles]

-Excuse me, ma'am, you mind if I cut in?

Hello, son.

-Dad, I didn't know if you'd recognize me.

-Seriously? Even after 15 years,

you don't think I'd recognize my own boy?

And who is this?

-Sherry, this is my dad, Bob Gentry.

Dad, this is my fiancée, Sherry.

-Fiancée?

Well, congratulations, son.

You mind if I borrow my boy for a little bit?

-Sure. -Thank you.

-Can you hold that?

I'll see you at the hotel.

-And that one over there, too.

-That's, you own a big chunk of this town. [chuckles]

-Well, there was a time when I wanted

to own a piece of every building in this city.

But that was a younger man's dream.

You've done well for yourself.

I've been keepin' track.

-I got lucky, right place, right time.

-Don't sell yourself short, son.

You made it big.

I'm proud of you.

-Thank you.

-But you know what I admire most about you?

It's the decision you made 15 years ago to stand up

to your mother and go with Olivia.

-You don't have to, I mean, you don't need to.

-I do need to.

I've hated every day that we've spent apart,

but I've always respected your decision to leave.

I faced the same sort of situation long time ago,

but I made the wrong choice.

-What choice?

-When I was very young,

I fell in love with the most wonderful girl.

I thought we'd spend our lives together.

But, you know, she didn't fit in with.

and when she, uh. -What?

-Ah, you know, the important thing is,

is that you didn't care if Olivia fit in.

She was a good fit for you.

-Well, she was a perfect fit, Dad.

And I really loved her.

And it tore Kara up, and me apart when she died.

I wish we hadn't grown apart, Dad.

-Oh, me too, son.

Me too, I just hope it isn't too late to make amends.

I hate the way things played out,

but I want you and your family back in my life.

-I'd like that.

-I know Kara would love that.

-You know, I haven't,

with Kara, been all I could be as a father.

-Oh, well, you've obviously done somethin' right.

I mean, look at her, son. She's magnificent.

-You and I, we can grow money on trees, can't we?

But when it comes to family, we are really, really terrible.

[laughs]

-Maybe it's time we changed that.

-I want to.

-Me too.

-Jessie's gonna help me cook Christmas dinner. -Yep.

I heard Uncle Roy ravin' about that cornbread dressing.

-Mm, when you gonna share that recipe, Judy?

-When you dig me up from my grave

and pry it out of my cold fingers.

-[laughs] Well, maybe this sweet young 'un will let me have it.

-Not without a fight, ma'am.

-Hmm.

How's your hubby doing?

-Oh, Bubba's been on the road.

He's doin' the I-80 route to Oregon nowadays.

[scoffs] That dang truck is his home most of the year.

You know he only gets to come home once a month?

-You don't say?

That's terrible.

-Yeah, but you know what?

Those two days he's home, we more than make up for it. [laughs]

-[Judy] Now you be quiet, there's a young girl here.

-Jessie, you are a stunning young woman.

You're gonna break the boys' hearts over at the high school.

-We're enrolling her next week.

She has to get good grades to get into a nice college.

But she's gonna be the first Wilkins to go to a university.

-Oh, her daddy must be so proud.

Isn't he a country singer?

-Yes, and he is just beside himself

with joy to have her here and in his life.

I've never seen his heart so full of joy.

He is taking a break from his country music dream to take care of her.

And he took a job at the plant to be home and provide.

-That's true love right there if I ever saw it.

[Kara sniffs]

-Oh, honey, don't get all emotional on me.

That's what family does.

We Wilkins take care of our own.

-I need to tell you something.

-Well, now you tell me.

-I'm so sorry.

We never meant for it to get this far.

We just wanted to have a little fun.

And we didn't want anyone to get hurt, but.

-What is it, Jessie?

-I'm not Jessie.

-Well, if you're not Jessie, who are you?

-I'm Kara, Kara Gentry.

-Do you know where Jessie is?

-She's with my family.

We swapped places at the airport on the way here.

-Why?

-I don't know.

To be someone else, have fun.

At the time, neither of us wanted to come here.

So, it made sense.

But now it doesn't.

I mean you guys are so amazing.

We never meant for this to happen.

-It's okay.

-I'm so sorry.

I never meant to hurt you.

-You know what?

You didn't.

You actually helped me.

-I did?

-Yes.

-How?

-I was a nervous wreck.

I mean, I can entertain for hundreds

of people up there on that stage.

But you get me one on one,

I'm more nervous than a nightcrawler at a fishin' derby.

Meetin' my daughter for the first time,

wonderin' what to say, what to do.

I was a mess.

-You were?

-Yes, I was.

[sighs] But I'm not worried now.

'Cause if she's anything like you,

I know we're gonna be just fine.

-Can I still come back and visit you guys?

-We wouldn't have it any other way.

You're family here now.

Grandma Judy would especially be devastated

if she couldn't see you again.

-I really do love her, Mr. Wilkins.

She's the greatest lady I've ever known.

-She loves you too, Kara.

-So what do we do now?

[cheerful music]

-Thank you, Roy. -You're welcome.

Now y'all go on in.

I'll watch the tater-heads. -All right.

-Uh, oh.

-We're family, kinda.

-Oh.

Oh, well, welcome.

What?

May I help you, sir?

-I'm just watchin' the young ones play.

Hey, go long, Roger! [grunts]

-Oh my God.

Who taught him how to catch like that?

That is all, that's all wrong.

Hey, listen, you gotta grab it and bring it in. -What?

-You see, don't let the defense have a chance

to take it from ya.

Grab it, bring it in.

Grab it, bring it in.

There you go, there you go. I'm tellin' you,

you gotta teach these boys right you want 'em to play ball.

[sighs]

-Yeah.

-[June] There you go!

-Hi! [giggles]

-[chuckles] I missed you. -I missed you.

How's it been? [laughs] -Good.

-Having fun? [laughs] -Yeah. -Oh my Lord.

-It's a lovely place you have here. -Thank you, thanks.

-What about you guys? -[Kara] We had lots of fun.

We had a great time. -Yeah?

-[Kara] Mm-hm.

-I gotcha.

-Wow, this is quite a house.

-Yeah, never really thought about it.

When I was younger, I just thought everybody lived like this.

It's different somehow.

-Jeff, don't be nervous.

She's gonna be fine.

-C'mere.

-Excuse me. June, June, June.

I want you to do me a favor. Would you call the store

and get a whole truck full of toys for them kids?

And also, whatever you think those girls might like.

-Oh, now you're talkin', Mr. Gentry.

I'm right on it, sir.

-Watch your step.

-Hey, Jeff! -Dad. [chuckles]

-No, get that outta here. C'mere.

-Oh. [laughs] -Oh, good to see you.

-Good to see you.

Oh, there she is. [Kara laughs]

Oh, Dad, you remember Sherry?

-Of course, nice to see you again.

-By the way, you're in trouble, young lady.

-June called, she told me everything.

I'm so sorry.

[Bob chuckles]

[sighs] Where's Mother?

-Oh, she's upstairs doin' her makeup,

or her gown, or her hair,

or whatever the heck it is she does when she's up there.

-You told her anything yet?

-Oh, what, and spoil the surprise?

Oh heck no, not yet.

No, I wanted wait until everyone was all together.

-Oh, hello.

-Hello, sir. -I know you guys, right?

You guys live in town?

-Why yes, we do.

Born and raised. -Okay.

-Yeah, you might wanna get yourself a drink.

Sit down, come on.

-Mr. Gentry was checkin' you out.

-[Jeff] Oh, well, you were probably about four years old then.

-I want to know which one of you crazy gals came up

with this maniac idea.

[footsteps thumping]

[exhales forcefully]

-Bob, who are all these people?

-Friends and family, Elsa.

-Jeff. [sighs]

-Oh. -Welcome home.

-Mother. [sighs]

-What is this, some sort of sick joke?

-Well, it's good to see you too, Mom.

-Not you, Jeff. I'm talking about her.

-It's your house, I'll go.

-No! -No, Judy.

-Don't kick her out!

-Who are you?

-Mom, this is Kara.

This is your granddaughter.

-No, this is Kara.

-No, this is Jenny Wilkins. -[Both] Jessie.

-Jessie Wilkins, They came up with some scheme

to switch places at the airport.

-Interesting.

-Why'd you drive my mom and dad away? -Kara.

-No, he's the sweetest man!

And my mother was a wonderful woman!

-You should be ashamed of yourself.

-Oh this is getting tiresome. Who are you?

-Mom, this is Sherry, my future wife.

You want to kick her out of the family, too? -Future wife?

-We were gonna tell ya. -Dad, it's fine.

I love Sherry.

-Hey, I love you.

You're still grounded.

[Kara giggles]

-And Kara, you're a great girl.

But y'all, I cannot wait to get to know my Jessie.

-This is all a lot.

Can we just talk?

-Yeah, yes, of course.

Excuse us.

[Jim sighs]

Jessie, are you okay?

-[sighs] I have so many questions.

Every night, I used to dream of,

of you, me, Mom, family.

And then when I woke up, you were never there.

-I didn't know, Jessie.

Not 'til two weeks ago.

I had no idea.

-What?

What makes you think that we can just be a family now?

-Because life without you

is not somethin' I could imagine now.

I want to make it up to you.

I want to make up for the last 15 years, Jessie.

Hey, the minute you're ready, I'll be there.

[Jessie sniffles]

-One chance.

-One chance is all I need.

-Sorry I'm late, Kara. [sighs]

-I'm not Kara.

My name is Jessie Wilkins.

And this is my dad.

-[scoffs] I don't understand.

What do you mean?

-We're poor, and proud of it.

None of this is ours.

And Wesley, you and I, we are not the same kind.

-[Wesley] What, what?

Wait, I don't get it.

-I'm Kara Gentry.

-[scoffs] You lied to me this whole time?

It is a pleasure to meet you, Kara.

-Mm, likewise, Wesley.

Why don't we have a more formal introduction?

Right this way, go outside, have a chat.

And don't ever let me catch ya back here again!

[laughs]

-Hoo, hoo!

Way to go, girl, yes!

That was great. [giggles]

-[Elsa] See what happens when you invite riffraff

and that trollop to dinner?

-Oh, that's enough, Elsa, Judy.

I'm done, I am done.

I have put up with you and your attitude for far too long.

-Don't you talk to me that way.

-Jeff, son, come over here.

It's time you knew the truth. -Don't you dare.

If you do this, there's no going back.

-I think I've listened to you about long enough.

-What? Truth about what?

-I am your father.

But your real mother, your real mother is Judy.

-You're serious? -I've wanted to tell you this your entire life.

-What, just?

I remember you, I remember seeing you in town.

You were so nice to me, and courteous.

-I've waited a long time for this. [inhales sharply]

-Well, it's nice to meet you, again.

Mom.

-Oh, she gave you to me.

I'm your mother.

-I was real young and poor, and afraid.

And Elsa said she'd give you everything your heart desired.

-Well, all I ever wanted was a mother who loved me.

-Oh, I didn't love you?

I just tried to stop you from throwing your life away

with a girl who was beneath you.

-Don't say that about my mother.

-Don't ever talk about her again.

-I haven't said anything that wasn't true.

-Elsa, stop it!

Stop tearing us apart!

-Oh, I'm not the one who tore this family apart.

-I'm talking about me and Judy.

-You made your choice.

I just saved you from a life with trailer trash.

-No, the only thing you saved me from

was a life of happiness with the woman I love.

-Well, she didn't fit in to our plan, or our friends.

-Please, I don't fit in with your plans,

or your kind of people.

I never have, I never will.

-Oh, you got used to it.

-Yes, I did.

But I never got over Judy.

I will never get over Judy.

-Are you finished now?

-Yes, I think I've said all I have to say to you, Elsa.

-June, my phone please.

Ida Beth, pack your bags.

We're going to Florida.

June, call my travel agent

and book two first class tickets to Palm Beach.

-[June] Yes, ma'am.

-Well, looks like my granddaughter won

the pageant after all.

-We're related.

-[Jessie] We're cousins.

-Hey, I guess that makes us brothers.

-Oh, yeah, well, I, well, I, yeah.

[laughs] -Wanna come in for the? [laughs]

-And that's Roy. -Hey. -Right.

-And he's my cousin-brother. -Cousin-brother. -[Judy] And here's your dad.

-[Jim] Come over here, Roy. [laughs]

-And, oh, welcome to the family.

Oh.

-Mrs. Gentry?

Your flight is all booked.

Tickets are at the airport. -Thank you, June.

You know, you've been so helpful all these years.

I think I'm actually going to miss you.

The rest of you deserve each other.

-I wish you well, Elsa.

-I'm taking the house in Palm Beach.

And you can have all of this.

-I'll take it.

Whoa.

-[All] Santa brought presents!

[laughing]

-[Bob] That's how you make a grown man run.

-See, you told me and your Christmas wish still came true.

-Yeah, yeah.

Well, I got Kara.

I got a new mom.

And I got you.

-Well, you also have a brother.

-Yeah. -A niece and nephews.

-Some sort of a cousin-brother thing.

-What, Jimmy?

-Well, just a few weeks ago,

I didn't even know I had a daughter.

And now I got a daughter, I got a niece, I got a brother.

Maybe even a new dad.

-Well, son, she hasn't even proposed to me yet.

-Well, now, you know that nothing can happen

with my mama while you're still married?

[Bob laughs]

Seriously.

-Yeah, thanks for the guidance.

But you know, I have waited 43 years.

I guess I can wait a couple more months.

Angel.

-One big family.

-One big, happy family.

-Whoa!

[doorbell rings]

-Roy, put down the football.

We have a surprise.

We made a few calls.

And there's someone here to see you.

-Roy!

Oh! [giggles]

[sighs] Hi.

-It's so good to see you! -I missed you, baby!

-I can't believe you're here.

-Oh my goodness.

-Mom! -Mom!

-Oh, oh my goodness!

Oh, oh, oh.

C'mere, boys.

I'm so happy to be with my family. [sniffles]

-Mr. Gentry, your bourbon.

-Oh, thank you.

I wondered where that got to.

June, I have a little something for you.

Merry Christmas.

-Mr. Gentry, this is for me?

-Yes, I hope you like it.

-[gasps] You know I get emotional with all these people.

-Oh, just open it.

-Oh, sir.

Mr. Gentry, this is beautiful.

Oh, just so beautiful!

-Oh, Merry Christmas to you, darlin'.

Thank you so much.

-Oh, thank you, thank you, sir.

-Oh, you bet it. I love it.

-[gasps] Guys, look, it's a Christmas star.

-Oh. -We should all go outside and make a wish.

-[Bob] Yeah, come on, let's go outside.

-Yeah. -Yeah.

[upbeat music]

♪ City girl

♪ Flying south

♪ First Christmas

♪ In a country town

♪ One simple wish

♪ For a fresh start

♪ Oklahoma

♪ What a trip

♪ A holiday

♪ I'll never forget

♪ Sweet memories

♪ Woven into my heart

♪ Silver lights shine bright

♪ As we share a smile

♪ Countin' our blessings

♪ While the snowflakes fall

♪ With our loved ones here

♪ Miss our loved ones gone

♪ What a beautiful gift

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Like that crooked little star

♪ Up on top of the tree

♪ We're all a little crazy but we're family

♪ What a beautiful mess

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Hoo hoo ooh ooh ooh

♪ Hoo hoo ooh ooh ooh

♪ Can't get no better than this

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ I left the stage

♪ Headed home

♪ A leap of faith back into the unknown

♪ Never dreamed an angel would save my life

♪ All those Decembers

♪ Came and went

♪ Sure a lot of water running under the bridge

♪ But I shake your hand, Daddy

♪ It's been a long while

♪ We took a walk and talked all night

♪ Yeah we laughed and we cried

♪ Countin' our blessings

♪ While the snowflakes fall

♪ With our loved ones here

♪ Miss our loved ones gone

♪ What a beautiful gift

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Like that crooked little star

♪ Up on top of the tree

♪ We're all a little crazy but we're family

♪ What a beautiful mess

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Hoo hoo ooh ooh ooh

♪ Hoo hoo ooh ooh ooh

♪ Can't get no better than this

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ North South East West

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Good as it gets

♪ You just gotta believe

♪ You just gotta believe

♪ Then it's in your soul

♪ Spread a little Southern Christmas

♪ Wherever you go

♪ Hoo hoo ooh ooh ooh

♪ Hoo hoo ooh ooh ooh

♪ Yeah what a wonderful gift

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Whoo hoo

♪ A Southern Christmas

♪ Don't get no better than this

♪ Don't get no better than this

♪ You got that right

♪ What a beautiful mess

♪ A Southern Christmas

[cheers]

-Whoo!

-[Director] Okay, pictures up.

Let's make a movie.

♪ You'll never forget the moment it appears

♪ The month, the hour, the time of the year

♪ When you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ You could search real high

♪ Far and wide

♪ But nine times out of ten, it's in plain sight

♪ When you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ It'll hit you like an old Christmas song

♪ The melody will make your heart wanna sing along

♪ It'll feel so right it can't be wrong

♪ When you find love, when you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ Well, all your whole life, it's followed you

♪ Someday you'll see, these words are true

♪ When you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ It ain't never gonna ever stop shining bright

♪ It's like a big elm tree strung up in lights

♪ When you find love, yeah

♪ When you find love

♪ It'll hit you like an old Christmas song

♪ The melody will make your heart wanna sing along

♪ It'll feel so right it can't be wrong

♪ When you find love, when you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ Come on, yeah

♪ It will turn your whole world around

♪ Pick you up when you're feeling down

♪ When you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ It's a front porch door, it's always open

♪ You know, when you were praying and a hoping

♪ To find love, oh, when you find love

♪ It'll hit you like an old Christmas song

♪ The melody will make your heart wanna sing along

♪ It'll feel so right it can't be wrong

♪ When you find love, when you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ It'll hit you like an old Christmas song

♪ The melody will make your heart wanna sing along

♪ It'll feel so right it can't be wrong

♪ When you find love, when you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ When you find love, when you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ When you find love

♪ Find you some love, y'all

[soft music]