All language subtitles for The Santa Stakeout [2021]

I believe that there's a toy for every
little girl and boy. I believe it. I

believe it.

And when Griplet comes around, all the
children jump for joy. All because of

Santa.

Good morning, Mrs. Wilson.

Good morning, Detective.

Beautiful day.

It certainly is.

I hope you're not spending your first
Denver Christmas all on your own. Oh,

I'm celebrating it with my sister. She
lives here. In fact, I'm meeting her

You set a date for the wedding?

Yeah. Amy, that's great.

Less great is meeting Jeff's parents.

I'm a wreck. Take it from here, big sis.
They are going to love you.

So, relax.

The thing is...

Well, they invited Jeff and me to spend
Christmas with them in Aspen next week.

Oh, wow.

That's perfect.

It's going to be great.

But I don't want you all alone for the
holidays in a new town.

Please, come with us.

To meet your future in -laws?

I'm fine.

Besides, my new job has me busy anyways,
or at least I hope it will be.

Speaking of which, I've got to run.

Right here.

It says right here. I sent it in. It's a
denying petition. It's date of the

night. You got it.

Detective Anderson?

Detective Morris?

Denying petition.

Yeah, I promised this time.

Procedure. Procedure does help minimize
errors. What does procedure say about

decorating your desk like the North
Pole?

If I want a festive workplace, that is
my business.

If you want a scroogey one, that's
yours.

And that's my stapler you stole.

Remind me again what your job was back
in Wisconsin. Was it chief hall monitor?

Just a humble beat cop who's now a
detective.

A rookie detective.

As you keep reminding me. Well...

You

mind not, you know...

Coming to Carol's. Oh, was I?

Oh, I'm sorry.

I guess I could use a little Christmas
spirit today. My sister has to go out of

town for Christmas.

You got any special holiday plans? Oh,
yeah.

Yep. I'm spending Christmas as it was
intended.

Feet up watching football with the boys.

Don't you have any family to spend it
with? Don't you have enough mysteries to

solve over there?

You took our rookie detective chocolate.

It's not what it looks like.

I, uh... I ate them.

I had to work late. I got hungry. I
wanted fast food. It wasn't food, but it

fast.

Tell you what.

Peace offering?

Thanks anyway.

Ah, perfect.

What's that for?

Oh, I'm in charge of Detective
Fletcher's retirement gift.

Aw, that's surprisingly nice of you.
We're dedicating a bench in the holding

cell to him.

Morris,

Anderson, my office, now.

Talbot, please, out of my way.

Give me strength, give me strength.

Talbot, I said fly fishing, not ice
fishing.

I'm not retiring to Alaska. Sorry, sir.
Only fishing I do is for compliments.

I'm on it. Oh, hi.

Hot rod's coming through.

Have a seat.

Here's what we know.

First, a modern art museum.

Now, minus a dolly painting.

Then a Rodin sketch from the Davril
Gallery.

And now the Civic Center just lost its
Dega.

It's the third art high system.

I thought downtown was on that. Well,
the mayor is transferring it over to us.

need to clear this case before I retire.

Oh, after hours break -in, high -valued
artwork.

Sounds like the thieves did just what
they wanted.

Look, Rancic says they're pros.

He used a high -tech coring drill to get
into the museum through the skylight.

And each crime scene hosted a Christmas
party the night of the theft.

I don't know, maybe someone flipped in
while everyone was distracted.

Captain, you might want to check out
these from the security cameras.

It's the same Santa from all three crime
scenes.

Look at his watch.

So you have an eye for the future.

That's very impressive.

I got his name. What?

Francis Miller, a .k .a. Mr. Christmas.

That was fast.

That's just good detective work.

Yeah, I got a buddy who works at the
museum. Check the logbook.

And I've got Miller's address and his
record for grand theft.

That was fast.

That's just great detective work.

Well, since you two clearly work so well
together, you both can go check him

out.

How do you know?

The sign that says for rent?

Look, someone's coming.

That's him. He is.

Mr. Christmas himself.

Mm -hmm.

This guy's up to something, I'm sure of
it.

You're sure already?

All right, look, I know you're new to
this. Let me tell you something.

No one is ever who they seem.

Don't forget, Mr.

Christmas was convicted 15 years ago of
grand theft.

And he's been a model citizen since, not
as much as a parking ticket. I say

assume the best, then follow the
evidence. Well, if I assume the worst,

pleasantly surprised.

No one's off the naughty list.

Until proven otherwise, as far as I'm
concerned.

Yup. With you at the top of the list.

I wonder what that was about.

Why would Miller need locksmith tools?

suspicious enough for you yet hi talbot
it's me hey where's the captain at walk

with me my last christmas in colorado my
wife wants to go big keep up what do we

got i got nothing sir captain i'm
telling you miller's got delivery coming

going he's got mysterious characters
dropping by this guy is planning

we could get in there and search his
house i bet we could find stolen merch

maybe even the key to his next job i
feel it in my gut Too bad your guts

get us a search warrant.

Yeah, I agree.

I'm up here for a search warrant.

So why not bring him in for questioning?

Because, sir, if he's up to something,
that'll tip him off. We won't be able to

catch him. We're like a week out from
Christmas.

And our sneaky little Santa might have
another job in mind. Another job in

To establish cause, we need real
surveillance.

If we can document a pattern of
suspicious conduct, we can go to a judge

warrant. How about a stakeout?

There's a house for rent right next to
Miller's. It would be perfect.

Stake it out.

Okay, I'll authorize it. For seven days
until Christmas. Great.

Have fun. Oh, no.

No, you're going too, Detective.

From now on, your partner's on this
case.

I don't think that's a good idea.
Finally, something we agree on. You've

here for two months and shown great
promise, Detective.

You're always saying you want a high
-profile case. Well, here's your chance.

But... I'm trusting you.

Don't let me down.

I won't, sir.

She's not ready for a job this big.

Let me be the judge.

Besides, you need someone to keep you in
line.

You have tended to bend the rules.

Captain, I think we both know I work
better on my own.

Detectives, this case is the only thing
standing between me and a banana

daiquiri with an itty -bitty umbrella in
it. I want that daiquiri.

I deserve that daiquiri.

So don't disappoint me.

to help this job.

I got paper.

There's a good vantage point here of his
front door and his driveway.

And from upstairs, we have a good view
of his backyard and his kitchen.

Once we're set up, we'll know if he so
much as changes a bulb in his Christmas

lights.

Let me guess.

First takeout?

Yes. How'd you know?

Then a sleigh doesn't come with as much
baggage as you do.

It's just the essentials.

The essentials.

If I'm stuck in a snow globe with
Scrooge, at least I can make it.

Now, we should lay down some ground
rules. Oh, gee.

Imagine. You've got rules.

So, for starters... Can we agree to make
this place a little more organized in

our workspace?

You know, I was thinking the very same
thing.

Oh, I moved your suitcase from the
master suite to the room down the hall.

What?

That was me calling the master suite.
Don't you know the rules of I called it?

Which brings me to my last proposal.

I will watch from upstairs and you will
do your surveillance from down here.

Why do you get upstairs?

Every time you walk, it's like a herd of
buffalo going by.

Why does everyone always say that?

All right.

Fine.

You take the master suite. If it means
we see less of each other, it suits me

just fine.

Perfect.

Don't even think about it.

Bad news, detective.

This hotel does not offer maid service.

Here.

Check out his office upstairs.

You see the boxes?

Mm -hmm. And look on the wall.

See those charts?

They're more like blueprints that guide
up to something.

Blueprints? For what, I wonder?

I wish I could get a better look.

I can't see anything from this angle.

What's that?

Oh, I'm just keeping notes.

Oh, yeah?

7 .35, newspaper delivered. 8 .16,
postwoman drops off mail.

10 .10, tabby cat walks by.

Why are you logging this stuff? None of
it's even relevant.

You never know what will be relevant
unless you've already made up your mind

about the case, which you already have.

Whatever.

Hey, Talbot's going to drop off some
lunch in the alley. What do you want on

your burger? I prefer a salad, actually.

You know, something healthy and green.

I'll order extra pickles.

Talbot, Detective Ryan.

What do you mean, which Detective Ryan?

The only Detective Ryan you know.

Actually, you know what? Make it a
double.

No, not on the side.

On the burger. Tell them, why would I
want cheese on the side?

It's a cheeseburger.

A cheeseburger.

You've got to be kidding.

Ryan!

Ryan!

Ryan! Hey!

Locked out?

I can call someone.

It lives just down the street.

Not necessary.

Thank you anyway.

Just move in.

Nice day to work out.

I'd hate to slow down your pace.

Ryan!

Could you be any louder? Could you not
lock me out? Could you? Oh!

You must be the newlyweds.

The who now?

The real estate agent says the newlyweds
looked at the house but were still on

the fence.

That's you, right?

Well, yes.

That's us.

We took the plunge. Oh, we sure did.

I'm Stanley. And you are?

I'm Tasha.

And this is my husband, Rupert.

Good to meet you, Stanley.

You're right next door to the best
decorations around.

Mr. Miller runs our neighborhood
Christmas committee.

The Christmas committee?

Caroling, parties, potluck.

We're always looking for new volunteers.

I know everyone's going to want to meet
you.

I'll spread the word.

I hear that, Tasha.

He's going to spread the word.

Unbelievable. We're supposed to be
keeping a low profile. Now look what

done. What I've done?

You locked me out. That was an accident.
Saying we're married?

I had to think fast. You should try
sometime.

Well, this is terrific.

Now the entire neighborhood is going to
know we're here. So much for quiet

observation. We've got to pack up. It's
done. It's over.

Actually, maybe this can work in our
favor.

Did you bump your head on an icicle out
there? If...

We could join this Christmas committee.
We could meet Miller. Maybe even get

that look inside his house. So you admit
that he's up to something.

Miller just got a delivery from a
company that makes key cutting machines,

that is odd.

You're serious about this?

I'm serious about solving this case.

And since we're on the neighborhood
radar now anyway, we have to try to fit

or we're going to stand out. Then we're
married.

Hey, it's harder for me.

Why? It's obvious I can do so much
better than you.

That's pretty good.

That's good.

So, what do you say? Shall we give this
a shot?

Hubby?

A couple for Christmas.

Merry Christmas, dear.

You want to run that by me again?

If we want to infiltrate Miller's
Christmas Committee, we have to show our

Christmas spirit.

And that starts with a tree in our
window.

Yeah, you know that Talbot can only
watch Miller's house for like an hour,

need to pick one and get back.

This one's perfect. Get it. Sir?

Not so fast.

A little trick my grandmother taught me.

Crush the needle in your hand.

And sniff.

See?

It's beautiful. We'll take it. No fresh
scent.

This one's needles are going to drop any
day. Fine. This one.

The best procedure is to cage.

Each tree by its shape, its height, and
any distinguishing features.

You know this is a Christmas tree lot
and not a lineup, right? Are you

it? I'm taking this assignment
seriously.

A little too seriously.

Why are you so Christmas crazed, anyway?

Maybe I missed Christmas in Wisconsin.

They have detective jobs in Wisconsin.
Why didn't you apply for those?

I have my reasons.

Anyway, I loved Christmas ever since I
was little. The question is, why don't

you?

Oh, I used to do Christmas.

Until the ghosts of Christmas past,
present, and future paid me a little

And by ghosts, I mean... Jackson Johnson
and Abrams, my wife's divorce attorney.

You were married?

Yeah, hard to believe all this isn't
still taken, I know.

Anyway, nowadays, I have priorities
other than the holidays.

But it's Christmas.

My ex got the ornaments, I got the golf
club.

It's me just fine.

You know, if we're really going to sell
this thing, we're going to need a cover

story. We can't just be walking around
telling people we're undercover

detectives. Oh, way ahead of you.

Here are the rings the captain sent
over, and check your email.

I wrote backstories for us last night.

Of course you did.

So we moved from Tallahassee last month
for our job. Wait, why am I a

chiropractor? Because every cover story
needs a grain of truth, and you are a

small pain in the neck.

Wait, oh, there's more.

Where we met and all of that. Yeah, I
skimmed it. We met at the gym, married a

month ago, yada yada, I got it.

Yada yada?

The details tell the story, where we
went for our honeymoon and things like

that.

Mm -hmm.

Sir, we'll take this one, please.

Sweet, does that mean we're done?

Oh, we're just getting started.

On to the decorations.

How's it going with the tree? It's a
work of art. All it needs is a powdered

snow. How are you going to do that?

Fingerprint powder and powdered donuts.

Why do I even ask?

What in the world is all this?

Since you only get one chance to make a
festive first impression, now it's my

turn to show you how it's done.

You're lining them up like guard dogs.

Yeah, because they're guarding the
house.

A guy called Bike.

Maybe you should just handle the lights.
Yeah, great idea.

What are you doing?

Handling the lights.

This will give us a little peek into
Miller's garage. She is in and out of

so much.

You see something?

I need a closer look.

Aren't you crazy? What if he sees us?
Oh, please. He's not going to see us.

Can I help you?

My gosh.

Oh, hey.

Are you okay? Yeah.

Funny you should ask. I was just, uh...
Uh, honey?

We had noticed some of your Christmas
decorations had come loose. Coming

And I was just doing the neighborly
thing.

So, yeah, that...

That should do it. I'm Francis Miller.

You must be the new neighbors that
Stanley told me about.

I was just coming over to give you one
of my homemade fruitcakes.

Oh, how kind.

I'm Tasha, and this is my husband.

Rupert.

Rupert for short.

Rupert. Tasha.

Well, welcome to the neighborhood.

You know, Stanley mentioned that
Christmas committee of yours. We would

join up if you need help.

Absolutely. We can always use more
elves.

As a matter of fact, I'm having a
potluck tomorrow night. I'd love you to

7 p .m. We will be there with bells on.
Christmas bells on. Yeah, yeah.

I should probably get back to work. I
haven't even checked our Christmas

yet. Honey Bunny, since you're doing
that, why don't you check all?

The bulb's on Mr.

Miller's house, too.

No, I couldn't let you do that. It's our
pleasure, isn't it, dear?

You know what they say.

Happy wife.

Happy wife.

Well, thank you very much, and it's
really nice to meet you. See you

Okay.

What in the world?

Why did you volunteer me to fix his
Christmas light? He gave us fruitcake.

You know what that means? Yeah, we have
lunch. No, we had to respond with a

Christmas gift of our own.

What? That's not a thing.

Were you raised by wolves? Were you
raised by elves?

Actually, I think there are two magic
words you need to say to me. Um, stop

talking. Thank you.

Because of me, we're going to get that
look in his house.

Thank you.

Morning. I see you've been busy. Hey,
rule number 37 of stakeout games help

the mind sharp.

This might help too.

What is this?

Santa coffee.

The secret's adding cinnamon and cocoa.

My grandmother used to make them at
Christmas.

It is Christmassy.

Thank you.

Explain, please.

Oh, I was just shopping for a gift for
my 10 -year -old niece.

Pepper spray?

What? She's too young for a taser.
Besides, it's pink.

I'll keep my eyes open for something
better.

All right.

You've got to love something. Oh, do I?
I can feel it. Yeah.

Well...

My compliments to your grandma. She
knows how to make delicious, if slightly

messy, coffee.

She was amazing.

When I'd visit, we used to sit up in our
room together and look out the window

and make up stories about people
outside.

Ah, so you were a spy from early on.

Just curious about people.

I wanted to be a detective ever since I
was a kid.

I just hope I'm up for the job. What are
you talking about?

You seem so self -assured.

Do I?

I'm Asian.

The truth is, my dad is chief of police
back home.

And I was a B cop at his precinct on
track to be detective.

Most people assume I got the job because
of him, so...

I always had to work extra hard.
Explains the nitpicking.

Attention to detail.

But I wanted to see if I can make
Detective on my own.

So I applied to the job here in Denver
to prove to myself that I can really do

this.

Take the downstairs window today.

Give you a nice view of your new town.

Thanks, but actually, I'm headed out
this morning. Oh, yeah?

Where are you going?

I'm going to pay a visit to the agency
that hires out Santas, and I'll pick up

few essentials for the house and the
party tonight. Call me if anything

Okay. Okay? Keep that phone ready.

Great shoes.

Thanks. Everyone at the North Pole has
them this year.

Detective. Hi, I'm Lois Carmichael.

Nice to meet you. Please come in.

I'm so sorry to keep you waiting. I just
got back from our Chicago office.

I'm still catching up.

Wow, it certainly is festive around
here. Well, normally most of our work is

providing valets and waiters, but this
time of year we have a lot of Christmas

parties, so they just stay in character.

Actually, that is why I wanted to talk
to you about one of your Santas. Francis

Miller? Mr. Christmas.

He's one of my most popular acts.

All of our clients adore him.

So he's worked at the art museum, the
Dabrow Galleria, and the Civic Center

month? I believe so, but I can double
check.

Thanks. Could I also get a list of any
other places he's been booked?

Yeah, he books a lot of gigs on his own,
but I will make you up a list of all of

our events that he's worked at. But,
Detective, should I be concerned?

He is a person of interest in a case.

Well, can you keep me informed?

I founded this agency to help out -of
-work actors get jobs, and I really

want to jeopardize our reputation.

I understand.

Oh, I need more Christmas lights, and...

Socking for the fireplace.

And what's all this for?

The case of the secret Santa?

You are closer than you'd think.

Are you sure you don't want to come to
Aspen with us? I just don't like you

being all alone on Christmas.

No, I'm not alone. The other stocking is
for my partner.

Partner, huh?

That sounds interesting.

No.

Not my partner, partner.

Ryan's my partner on the case.

What's this Ryan like?

Think.

A Christmas gift you just can't return.

And how's the wrapping?

Is he good looking?

He's, um, symmetrical with sharp edges.

Uh -huh.

And that is just what Ryan needs for
Christmas.

You went Christmas shopping? Just a few
more decorations and supplies for our

mission tonight.

Ta -da!

Cute.

Ta -da!

No. No!

Matching Christmas feathers? What are
we, poodles?

We are a married couple going to a
Christmas party. We need to fit in. But

didn't have time to get anything to
bring to the party, so...

You can't choke the pot like empty
-handed. You said so yourself. What?

I just can't trust leaving the cooking
to a guy who thinks Funyuns is a food

group. Funyuns is a food group.

You made these?

Talbot stopped by the bakery, right? And
you just heated those up? No, I made

them from scratch.

Mom?

Where'd you get the ingredients?

It's an interrogation. I had Talbot pick
up a few things.

But you're a cold pizza guy.

Well, there's not much point cooking
when it's just me.

Ooh, looks like Super Detective doesn't
know everything.

We'll get to the bottom of this later.

Now we've got a potluck to go to.

Now, remember the plan. I keep looking
at you.

And I'll get a look in the studio. Oh,
I'm so happy you could join us. Wouldn't

miss it for the world.

Homemade gingerbread. Oh, it's my
favorite.

You should know.

Oh, she didn't.

Come meet Alicia.

She teaches at our local high school,
Rupert and Tasha.

Must be rewarding teaching kids.

Emotionally, yes. For my wallet, not so
much.

Oh. Twinsies.

It's like looking in a mirror.

You've already met Stanley. Yep.

But did you know that he is a walking
encyclopedia on everything

Christmas?

Guilty as charged.

You know, in Russia they call Santa
Grandpa Frost.

But in Norway, the Christmas gnome
brings gifts to kids.

You sure know your stuff.

Yes. Family's better half, Rupert,
Tasha.

Hey, have you been to their shop on
Broadway, Denver Art and Antique?

I don't believe we have.

Excuse me.

Do you get most of your art from
dealers?

All sorts of places.

So, what brought you two to the
neighborhood?

Our jobs, actually.

I'm in human resources, and Rupert is a
chiropractor.

Really? Yeah.

My lumbar's been giving me grief.

I don't suppose I could get a quick
chiropractic adjustment.

Yeah, why not?

Honey. Honey. What?

Shouldn't we do that sort of thing in
your office?

Oh, yeah, you're probably right.

I'll tell you what.

You make an appointment with me, we'll
get you fixed up in the new year.

Wow,

you are very strong.

Maybe you should help me move my
Christmas tree tomorrow.

Hey, guys, Rupert.

Come.

This is Eric.

And Christopher.

So nice to meet you guys. Sorry we're
late. The contractor hit a snag with the

marble. Oh, yeah, that's right. The boys
are just opening a new restaurant down

by the Civic Center. Civic Center?

That's a great area. Yes, but the rent
is a fortune.

No, thank you. I'm going to go get some
water.

Hi. Huh?

Christmas cheese doodle? The green ones
are pesto and the red are sun -dried

tomato. How delicious.

I'm Tasha.

Martha.

Not that I'd look at things, Tasha.
You're a Blitzen.

A Blitzen?

Yeah.

Everyone's a reindeer at heart.

Blitzen comes from the German word
meaning lightning, and you strike me as

with some sparkle.

Now, your husband over there, I'd say
he's a comet.

Playful, energetic.

Well, he is truly one of a kind.

That's what he said.

A Christmas committee. How'd you come up
with such a fun idea?

Well, my wife Kathy started it.

Bless her. She loved Christmas so much.

Kathy believed in two things.

That you should appreciate every day.

And that you could add a Christmas bow
to anything to make it more festive.

Truth is, Kathy, she put a bow in life.

It sounds really special.

She was. She was. She was.

We actually met on a Christmas tree lot,
if you can believe that.

Hey, how did you two meet?

Uh, at the gym.

Details, please.

I love a good meet -cute story. Oh,
honey, you know what? Why don't you tell

Don't you remember it? Yeah, but you
tell it so well.

It was at the gym in a spin class.

We reached for the same spin bike right
up front. I let her have it. Took the

one to the side. It's a good thing I
did, too, because she's one of those

shouters. I can barely hear the music.

Rock it, climb it, pedal off, feel the
power.

He apologized later.

I mean, basically, he dropped her off
her feet.

It was all the poetry.

He wrote that really won me over, I
think.

Oh, I don't think anyone wants to hear
about that. We do. He'd send me sweet

little sonnets he composed all by
himself.

Sharp observations.

About butterflies.

Then I proposed we got married at the
end.

Well, you two are just so cute.

Oh, what can I say? We finish each
other's.

Changes. Francis, which way is the
restroom?

Up the stairs to the right.

Tasha, what are you doing here?

I made a wrong turn.

I'm so sorry.

Well, let me walk you out.

Wouldn't want you to get lost again.

Hey, honey, come on. You're just in time
for Deck the Halls.

Come on. Two. Come on. Two, three, four.

Deck the halls with a thousand holly. Fa
-la -la -la -la -la -la -la.

There's reason to be jolly. Fa -la -la
-la -la -la -la. We're going to say

goodnight. Goodnight, guys. Goodnight.

Yeah, we're going to go to... Whoa,
whoa, whoa, whoa.

We should get a picture.

Oh. Get that picture.

All right, get in there. I want to see
everybody's faces nice and clear.

Everybody say frosty.

Frosty.

Thank you.

Let's do this.

Okay, okay, okay. Good?

Yeah. Cheesy peasy.

Cheesy peasy.

Great.

Oh, yeah,

me too. Thank you so much. Good night.
Good night.

Thank you for such a nice evening.

Rupert, I had no idea of what a talented
musician you are.

He is just full of surprises. Well, you
have to join us tomorrow night for

Christmas caroling. Well, can't wait.

So nice to meet you, too. I'm the house
with the ivy, if you ever need anything.

Cup of sugar.

Good night.

I think I'll go grab our coat.

I got this.

So, Rupert.

I know how difficult it can be being the
new guy on the block.

When I moved into this neighborhood a
thousand years ago, I felt

like I didn't fit in.

And then one day you open up your front
door and it's your neighborhood.

Just got to give it time.

Ah, well, thank you.

You two are under the mistletoe.

Oh, it's okay. No. I had the onion dip.
Oof. Come on. Come on. Come on.

Oh,

no.

Oh, cute.

Love it.

See you tomorrow, guys.

All right, everybody.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Not if I see you first.

Don't let that kiss go to your head.
Already forgotten about it.

Hey, what did you find back there?

Power tools and some kind of industrial
drill.

Yeah? Because Forensics said the museum
intruders came through the skylight with

something like that. I got a shot of his
laptop with a pic of some country

estate. Maybe his next score.

Well, despite everything, I'd say our
mission was a success.

You did surprisingly well under
pressure.

Surprising me, huh?

Because I'm just a rookie and not up to
the task? I don't talk like that. Yeah,

you do.

You do.

I may have thought something like that
before.

It's okay.

I may have assumed a thing or two about
you.

Maybe we got off on the wrong foot.
Maybe we did.

And how is it you play piano like that?

Lessons. Since I was six, and a lot of
practice.

And like I told you, no one's ever with
a theme.

Well, just maybe, I'm starting to see
what you mean.

So, Miller's got power tools,
blueprints, and a drill like the one you

the museum heist.

Yeah, that's for suspicious characters.

Christopher and Eric, their restaurant
is right near the Civic Center.

Stanley and Edith have connections to
the art world. And Alicia, well, she's

just super into me.

And that's more suspicious than
anything.

Talbot's doing background checks on
everyone. In the meantime, is this an

evidence board or one of your Christmas
quads?

There's a chance we can...

Find that location. That looks like a
great place for the next hike. I checked

the list from the agency, and it doesn't
look like any of the places Miller's

been booked for.

And no information, no address.

It's possible, but it's going to take
time. So I guess we wait.

Wait.

Hey, Fee, anything good on TV?

No.

This neighborhood takes me back.

Oh, yeah? It reminds me of Christmas in
Wisconsin.

We had such great Christmases.

Tons of lights caroling together through
the neighborhood.

I miss that.

Your family do anything special?

Sure, yeah.

Every Christmas Eve, we'd have this big
snowball fight. My nickname was Frosty,

because my name was...

I bet.

You know, I gotta be honest.

I was actually just planning to work
through Christmas.

Truth is, most of my buddies are already
married.

So no other Christmas plans for you?
Nah, sometimes I drop in on my brother's

family in Albuquerque.

It's nice to see them, but it kind of
reminds me of what I'm missing.

So, usually I just try to stay busy
during the holiday.

Hardest working detective in the
precinct, huh?

Cost me my marriage.

You ever been married?

Close.

I was engaged to a guy I met at the
academy.

We wanted different things.

He got a job offer out of state on a
really small floor, and I wasn't about

give up my dream of being a detective.

Well, from what I've seen, you got a
real flair for it.

Really? You think so?

Absolutely.

You're a real talent.

You've got to believe in yourself.

Thanks.

Something's up.

The driver. I know that guy.

No, he's on the move.

One of my old partners busted him a
couple times for breaking and entering a

couple years ago. His name's Finley. I
remember seeing the file.

Wonder what's in that backpack.

Hide, hide, hide, hide.

They almost made us.

Let's wait until they're on the move
again. Okay.

Hey!

This reindeer plushie is adorable.

Might be a good gift for your niece.

What's your favorite color?

I don't know.

Rainbow?

Rainbow is not a color.

It's all the colors.

Do you always have to be right about
everything?

One of us has to be.

Great.

They're gone.

It's been almost two hours.

Still nothing.

Miller will come back.

Be patient.

Oh.

There they are.

Miller's going to the house with
Finley's bag.

I wish we knew where they'd been.

Well, here's some good news.

I figured out where the estate is.

1215 Crestmore.

Van Houten's estate.

How'd you figure that out?

See the distinctive columns?

Oh, yeah.

It's the signature of a local architect.

I tracked her down. She recognized the
building instantly.

Nice work, detective.

Good calls for a little celebrating.

I might have whipped out the little
something something.

Really? Mm -hmm.

Buckle up.

Your family had Santa's coffee.

My family had Dad's hard eggnog.

Gee.

Whoa.

That's got a kick to it. What can I say?
Dad liked to relax during the holidays.

Speaking of relaxation, we haven't
finished decorating our Christmas tree.

the tree, yes.

Hmm.

Well, in that case, I think we need a
little...

You don't throw tinsel. You place it.

Oh.

Yeah, I'm not in my family.

Hey! Mm -hmm. Oh, you do not want to
start a tinsel war with me.

Oh, you think?

Oh,

is that fun? You like tinsel?

Oh, hello!

Ah!

Calling and texting for you guys to let
me in.

Luckily, one of you left the back door
unlocked.

What? You look like a powdered donut. I
had to cut through the side yard to make

sure that no one saw me.

I tripped over an inflatable snowman. I
stepped in what I can only hope is just

sugar plums, and I tripped coming to the
gate.

Sorry, we couldn't hear you over the
Christmas music. Yeah, what brings you

here? The captain wants me to see how
the case is going.

Ah, okay. Well, like...

It's had its unusual twist.

So, I see.

What's this?

Um, our evidence board. Evidence board?

Got some evidence.

It's a Christmas scene here.

Yeah.

What's this?

Oh, that's a Christmas gift from my
niece. She's actually tough to shop for.

It's really cute.

Yeah. So, what are you doing here?

I have news.

There was another break -in, a gallery
on Santa Fe, about an hour ago.

I thought you had eyes on Miller 24 -7.
What happened?

We lost him.

It was my fault.

No, it wasn't, actually. It was my
fault. I was distracted, shopping for

The captain is breathing down my neck.

The mayor wants results. He said, no
more mistakes.

Or you two are off the case.

Sorry.

I'm supposed to work on my
assertiveness.

That's what Captain said.

That's pretty good. That's good,
actually.

Let me walk you out.

Thanks.

Do you have any hot coke or something?
No, we don't have any of that stuff.

That's cool.

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true
love gave to me.

Twelve drummers drumming, eleven pipers
piping, ten lords... Put a little jolly

into it, like less Scrooge and more
Santa.

I'm plenty jolly. Where's your voice?

Blending in quietly with the rest,
besides you're the musical one after

Three French hens, two turtledoves, and
a partridge in a pear tree.

Come on, everybody.

We still got a lot of houses to head.

How do we know we're not helping Miller
scope out his next job?

Think jolly thoughts or maybe he's just
having fun.

We wish you a Merry Christmas. We wish
you a Merry Christmas. We wish you a

Merry Christmas. Is that all you got?
Oh, you asked for it. We wish you a

Christmas. Merry Christmas. We wish you
a Merry Christmas. We wish you a Merry

Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Tidings to you, to you and your kin.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year.

Wow!

Tasha?

That was a beautiful, impromptu solo.

I loved it. I just got caught up in the
song.

That's the Christmas spirit.

Onward.

I could have sworn I saw you drop a
police badge back there.

I, uh... Rupert, you haven't worn that
jacket since Halloween, have

you?

No, I haven't. He just makes the cutest
Old West sheriff.

I can imagine.

I hope you're ready for hot chocolate.

That was close.

Where were you hiding that boy?

Here you go.

Now, don't be shy.

This make -your -own cocoa stand is my
favorite.

I'm going to add chili flakes because I
like mine spicy.

Great. I'm going to add marshmallows
down there.

Toast to our newest elves.

I think they've clearly proven that the
more the merrier is true. Here, here.

Thanks. You guys are so welcoming.

Yeah, I honestly don't remember having
this much fun at Christmas in a long

time. Oh, that sounded strangely
convincing.

I'm going to grab some peppermint.

Well, nothing like Christmas traditions.

Especially here. I can see that Rupert's
getting into the holiday spirit.

Seems like I've learned something new
about him every day. Though you two

married quickly?

You have no idea.

Like that. So, uh, snowy Christmas.

Must be a big change from Tallahassee.

Oh, yeah.

You know, I actually went to college
there.

You don't say. Yeah.

What's your favorite spot in T -Town?

Oh, you know, boy, there's so many.

Yeah? Which one? Maybe I know it.

Excuse me for a moment.

Yeah.

Clay gardens are lovely. Oh, yeah. And
Adam Street can be fun. But

my favorite place in Tallahassee is the
Antique Car Museum. Museum.

Oh. Ever been? No. That sounds fun.

Eric, they have caramel.

Excuse me, they got caramel?

Got to answer you.

It's your homework.

The tasting flights they have here are
the best.

So why don't you kids have a seat and
try some?

I mean, I feel like we've got to take
him up on an offer.

Won't want to raise any eyebrows.

Duty call?

After you.

Mmm, okay.

The German chocolate's my favorite. It's
bitter, but it's got a little sweet

edge.

Just like you.

It's hard to believe that smiley guy is
guilty.

Maybe Finlay is the bad apple and Miller
is the innocent dupe.

Maybe a reindeer can fly.

Reindeer do fly. Oh, in your candy
-coated Christmas dreams.

Mmm.

Oh, that one's good. It's got a note of
caramel.

If I didn't know better, Detective, I'd
say you are rediscovering your holiday

spirit. Aw, come on. I got spirit.

Last year, I gave the entire canine unit
reindeer antlers.

Didn't you ever have any, like,
Christmas...

special traditions growing up besides
snowball wars yeah i

did um i never knew my dad but my mom
was from

new mexico and uh when i was little
every christmas eve we would make these

lanterns put a candle in a paper bag and
it would line the sidewalk i don't get

it what why do you keep your best
qualities hidden

Or maybe I haven't found the person I
want to show it with.

This is nice.

Yeah, it is.

Don't forget tomorrow for Christmas
Charades. Hey, wouldn't miss it. Good

Good night. Oh, and we have a little
Christmas gift for you. We'll be right

back.

Just so you know, I'm on to you, too.

You are? Are you guys professional
singers or what?

Natasha, your voice is so lovely.

Rupert, not bad at all.

Thank you.

From the photo we took of you, do you
like it?

Very nice of you.

You didn't have to do that. Well, of
course we did. We want you to feel

You're neighbors.

Neighbors.

See y 'all.

Good night, you guys.

Cookie?

These are amazing.

What's your secret for these? Simple.

Just brown the butter.

Gives them the caramelized undertone and
the chewiness. Really makes the best

cookie in the world. My mom taught me
that.

You did a good job. Mm -hmm.

With the cookies. Okay.

What you got there?

Oh, not much. Just, um, a breakthrough
in the cave. What?

The Van Houtens are throwing a big
Christmas party tomorrow night.

Check out the society page.

This year, the Van Hoden Christmas party
will feature the Romanov Christmas

ornament valued at over $2 million
online from the Denver Art Museum. That

sounds like a pretty tempting target.

Meanwhile, the background checks on the
neighbors all came back clear.

None of them have any priors.

That's good.

What's all that?

Oh, I was just doing some Christmas
cards for the neighbors.

Trying to keep up appearances.

Oh, really?

Because...

This one belongs to Officer Talbot. I
had extras.

Really? Mm -hmm.

Right.

Motion detector.

Going off next door.

Finley's here. She is.

And they're headed in the backyard.

Can you hear anything?

Not really.

I don't know.

I don't think we can pull it off. I told
you. We need to get close. I don't know

how much closer I can get.

We stick to the plan.

Christmas is going to come early this
year.

Oh, God.

Hey. Hey.

Are you guys okay? Yeah, I slipped on
the AC.

Well, be careful.

I'll see you later.

Got my eyes on you, too.

I'll see you for charades in half hour.

Okay.

Quiet, quiet in the house. People
singing.

Big time. Night, night. I want night!
Yes!

Time!

Okay, let's go, let's go. Three words.

A house. A tree.

Just take a word. Tree. Christmas.

A carol. A Christmas carol.

Big picture, big picture, big picture.
Rowan Dyke. Yes.

Throw your karate.

Yes. Massage. Chop, chop, chop.

Chop it down a Christmas tree.

It's a movie. It's a movie.

It's a movie. It's a movie. It's a
movie.

It's a movie. It's a movie. It's a
movie.

It's a movie. It's a movie.

It's a movie.

It's a movie.

No, no. I think I've eaten three bags.

You two have a good time?

Oh, yeah.

Absolutely. Thank you for including us
this week. It's been surprisingly fun.

Oh, I'm so glad you could join us.

If you don't mind my saying, you two
have such a fun chemistry.

Oh, yeah.

Like TNT in a match.

Well, the one thing my Kathy taught me
was the secret to a happy marriage is

always cutting each other a lot of
slack, especially around the holidays.

Well, I'll try to remember that the next
time Tasha's driving me crazy. Only

somebody you care about deeply can.

You can make it that crazy. Just
remember the best part of Christmas.

What's that?

The people we share it with.

The moments we share with the people we
love.

They're like snowflakes. They're
beautiful and perfect

and no two are alike.

Did you get anything from Miller?

Not about the case, but a couple other
surprises.

Your Tannenbaum was outstanding.

Hey, tomorrow, don't forget.

Okay, we'll see you then. Thank you.

Bye, kidlet.

See ya.

You're awfully quiet.

What is it?

I don't know if Miller's the kindest,
most intuitive guy in the world, or if

he's messing with us.

Wait. Just when you've convinced me he's
masterminding a crime ring you're

having down, you heard his whole
Christmas comes early speech?

Yeah, well, what if we're wrong?

I mean, it's happened before.

What do you mean?

You know, after my marriage fell apart,
I had a really hard time trusting my

instincts about people.

I worry maybe I jumped to conclusions
too soon.

About a couple of people.

I know what you mean.

All I can say is being fake married to
you has had its ups and downs.

Okay.

But I have no regrets.

As for jumping to conclusions about
Miller, we'll find out tomorrow.

The captain just approved us going
undercover at the cocktail party.

Miller so much as touches that ornament,
we've got him.

Okay.

It's snowing.

I have to admit, our little neighborhood
looks amazing.

Yeah, it sure does.

So, how's that been? Gorgeous.

And things with Jeff's parents are going
great.

But I just wanted to make sure you're
okay.

I'm better than okay, sis. I'm headed to
a Christmas party tonight.

If that's working, I want your job.
Funny enough, it is.

And your partner, Detective Scrooge?

Turns out he's surprisingly jolly.

To be honest, we've been having a lot of
fun together.

You should see him trying to buy a
Christmas gift for me.

And just like that, you're laughing.

Tanya, we got a little present.

We'll discuss this later.

I'm sure we will. Love ya.

Captain dropped off her outfits for the
party.

You might want to see this.

You've got to be kidding.

covers a bartender, a bouncer, and a
bellhop.

This is definitely a first.

Well, you look great.

Thank you.

This way, we fit in with the waiters.
Yeah, just don't tell the boys down at

precinct. So I shouldn't have texted
them that photo of you?

Just kidding.

All right.

Fair enough.

Some party.

Wow, so many guests.

It's going to be tricky to keep an eye
on everything.

If you tell Miller, she's going to grab
the ornament and run.

Maybe he's scoping it out for another
time.

The ornament is only here for the
evening, so if he's going for it,

his chance.

Why would the museum loan it out in the
first place?

Mrs. Van Houten has one of the best art
collections in the state. She also sits

on the museum board.

May I have everyone's attention, please?

Welcome all...

And Merry Christmas.

I am proud to present the Romanoff
Christmas ornament.

Made over a century ago by Fabergé
himself.

A Christmas gift for the Tsar's
daughter.

Just keep an eye on Miller. Let's not
get too close.

Copy.

Let's get the dance floor going.

That includes you two officers. All
seems well.

Maybe you can help me break the ice?

I mean, we would have a better view from
the dance floor.

Detective, are you asking me to dance?

I mean, in so many words.

You know, I'll miss this.

This what?

This assignment.

Our house.

Decorating. Our little neighborhood.

You know what I'm going to miss the
most?

Company.

That makes the two of us.

Yet another surprise.

You're a good dancer, too.

People aren't always what they appear.

Hey, after all this is said and done,
how would you feel? I'd love to. Good.

I was hoping he would say that.

Where's Miller?

He was just...

Talbot, where are you? We lost Miller.

Took my eyes off the guy for one minute.

Have you seen Santa?

Sorry? Have you seen Santa Claus?

Oh, here.

Talbot, check the breaker.

Anybody seen Santa Claus? Santa.

There's been a robbery.

No,

not the ornament, thank goodness.

But my two Van Goghs are gone.

Mrs. Van Houten, walk us through exactly
what happened.

Well, when the lights went out, I went
to get a flashlight from my desk.

And as I went into my study, I saw that
the paintings were gone.

Thank you, Mrs. Van Houten.

Please, find them.

This is a fiasco, huh?

We only lost track of Miller for a
moment.

Not enough time to steal any. Could he
have had help?

Look, the captain wants you guys to
search Miller's house.

With us letting the cat out of the bag.

He wants you there now.

He's already got a signed warrant.

Mr. Miller?

Tasha, Rupert, hi.

You going somewhere?

Yeah, I got a couple of things to take
care of. That'll have to wait, I'm

afraid.

Excuse me?

We're police detectives, Mr. Miller, and
we have a warrant to search your house

and your car.

Is this some kind of joke? I'm afraid
it's not. I don't understand.

That doesn't belong to me.

Where's the other painting?

Other painting? I don't know how that
one got there.

Captain, we wanted to handle this
quietly.

And I wanted to make sure it got done
now.

Do you have your orders, Detective?

Francis Miller, you're under arrest for
grand theft.

But I didn't steal anything.

And I have so much to take care of for
the holidays.

Beat him is right.

No, you're making a terrible mistake.

I only wish I was.

We have to take Finley in, too.

Review security footage, interview the
other guests from the party.

And we will.

But I'm bringing in extra help on this
case.

I think you two have done enough.

Chapman.

A can of coffee?

Or my best attempt.

Thanks, but I'm not sure I'm in the
right mood.

Any word on the missing painting?

Nope. Search Miller's whole house.

Nothing. Same with Finley and those
blueprints we saw.

Long gone as well.

Captain, how's Miller's questioning
going?

He's refusing a lawyer.

Says he hasn't done anything wrong.

And on top of that...

He insists he'll only speak with you
two.

I haven't done anything wrong.

And I have no idea how that painting got
there. If that's the case, tell us

about the climbing equipment you had.

Tell us about the locksmith tools, about
the glass cutting tools we found.

Tools used at the crime scene where you
worked as Santa. Well, wearing a...

fluffy red suit and making people happy
is a crime, then consider this my

confession. So you don't deny consorting
with former convicts like Finley?

Deny it? No, not at all. And given your
past, the grand theft conviction a few

years back?

And the blueprints I saw in your study?
You got to admit, it sounds more than a

little suspicious.

You have to believe me. That part of my
life, it's all in the past.

Tell us what happened.

What you've really been up to?

My wife, Kathy.

She believed in the power of
forgiveness.

And thanks to her, I got a second
chance.

Now, I try to give second chances to
folks like Finley.

I'll need them.

And he might be an ex -con.

But did you know that he's also an
excellent carpenter? I don't follow.

We've been renovating a house for a
family who can't afford it. It's right

next door to Fenley's. The building
equipment, the locksmith tool. The late

night delivery, the blueprint.

All... To get the house finished by
Christmas. And now, we'll

never complete it in time. What about
the photos of the Van Houten estate in

your laptop?

I research all my parties.

Then why not say anything about this?

Why the coke and dagger if you're just
repairing a house?

A tribute to Kathy.

She always insisted on making the gifts
anonymous.

She taught me the most important part of
Christmas.

Was sharing that take credit for it

Hey,

I

got your message Why'd you leave the
station so fast?

I had to clear my mind and check out
Miller's story.

I stopped by the house they were fixing
up, and the neighbors confirmed Miller's

story word for word.

I mean, it doesn't prove he's innocent,
but I admit, something doesn't feel

right. I know.

I feel terrible, and it's Christmas Eve
in a few hours.

What do we do?

Captain put hedges on it.

Thanks so much for showing us around
again.

I just want to put the whole thing
behind me.

Such a shame.

It started out as such a lovely party.
Especially with the Romanov ornament.

And it took some finagling to get the
museum to allow that.

Imagine if the ornament had been stolen,
too.

I don't want to think about it.

Oh, there's one more thing I wanted to
ask.

How did you come to pick Miller to play
Santa at your party? My friend Lois

recommended him. Not Lois Carmichael.
Yeah?

She handles staffing for a lot of arts
events around town.

Thank you for your time.

Ryan, I think I might know what
happened.

Really? We need to look at the video
footage at that party again.

Take a look.

Something Carmichael mentioned to me
when I first met her. Something about

she opened up the agency. She said...

She helped out -of -work actors. Looks
like she was an actress back in the day

herself.

Detective,

I heard you got your thief.

Well done.

I'd be so happy to give you a statement,
but I'm in such a hurry. Holiday plans?

Yes, I am off to meet friends in Bali.

Hey, before you do, we were just
noticing this article.

I used to be an actor.

Can you believe how young I was?

Gave that up decades ago.

Really? Once an actor, always an actor,
I'd say.

I'm sorry?

I asked you for a list of events Miller
was working.

You left Mrs. Van Houten's party off
that list.

I'm sorry, that must have been an
oversight. I mean, it's just been crazy

here. Yeah, of course. And, you know,
being a friend, Mrs. Van Houten probably

didn't seem like a client.

All the events you co -chaired, the
visits to her house. You probably know

place like the back of your hand. Her
art collection, maybe even her security

system. Must have been real. tempting to
pull one final score before moving on.

That would be tempting.

Especially considering Bali doesn't have
an extradition treaty with the U .S.

Hold on a second. You are obviously
confused.

I don't think we are. It doesn't feel
like it. No, no.

I guess you blended in with the staff
just as we did.

And at the other parties too.

And with Miller's police records, if
anyone connected you to the crimes, you

ex -con Miller standing by. Yeah,
pretty.

Convenient fall, guys. I mean, if you
need one. This is crazy.

I was in Chicago during the theft.

Your alibi?

I double -checked.

You bought a round -trip flight, but you
didn't use your return ticket.

I say you drove back here. Maybe you
took a train? Could be. Well, whichever

is. I assure you, we will find out.

Everything that you've just said is
purely circumstantial.

You don't have any evidence.

Unfortunately,

the cameras at the party didn't catch
anything.

Well, there you go. Except for one
caterer's van with its own dash cam.

And we tracked down that footage.

Uh -oh.

I believe this is you.

I think this is her, isn't it? It does
look like you. Yeah.

putting one painting into Miller's trunk
to deflect suspicion while you put the

other one in your car. Oh, what a rush.

Yes. Which means, Lois Carmichael, you

know what?

You take it. You deserve it.

No, you take it.

You're under arrest.

Carmichael confessed to everything.

Turns out her business has been on shaky
ground for years.

She needed the money.

The missing painting's been recovered.

Miller's been cleared and released.

Finley, too.

That's a relief.

You two did great work.

Sandy, I'm glad you transferred to
Denver. You've been a great addition to

team. Thank you.

But it doesn't exactly feel like a
victory.

Yeah, I know what you mean.

Miller's reputation kind of got dragged
through the slush.

And he's been humiliated in front of all
his friends and neighbors.

You know, all he really wanted to do was
spread Christmas cheer.

Two things were taken that night, the
paintings and Miller's silver and gold

reputation. I'll admit, I wish things
had gone differently, too.

Then actually, Captain, there is one
thing you can help with.

So long.

Enjoy. Well, thank you. We would have
never been able to finish in time. This

a great thing you've done, making a
difference for this family. I'm really

for everything.

Don't be.

You're just doing your job.

So, what's next for you? It is Christmas
Eve after all. After all this, I

just want to go home.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

What is all this?

Surprise!

Merry Christmas.

Who's hungry? Our turkey's just about
finished.

my famous cranberry Christmas tart.
Three -layer Norfolk Bund cake coming

through. What is all this?

The Christmas committee.

We scheduled an impromptu meeting to
thank you. Thank me?

For what? For everything you've done for
the neighborhood and for all of us.

I'd like to propose a toast to our very
own Mr.

Christmas for bringing us all together.

And for showing us what Christmas can
be.

Bravo!

Merry Christmas, one and all.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Well, all's well that ends well, as they
say.

Hey, look.

Somebody rented her house.

Hmm. I guess that really means the case
is over.

Yeah.

At least everything turned out okay.

I'd say more than okay. Oh, yeah?

You would?

Sure. It doesn't take a detective to see
we work well together.

Hey, uh, question for you.

Sure.

What?

If I were to, I don't know, invite you
over sometime to make gingerbread, would

you say yes?

Absolutely.

Perfect.

Would you like to come over to make some
gingerbread?

What do you mean?

If it's detective, figure it out.

You rented this place?

What can I say?

I like our little neighborhood.

I think I'm going to stick around for a
while.

That is the greatest Christmas present
I've gotten in years.

Finally, we agree on something.

Glad to hear it.

Because you might have found partner for
kids.

Uh -oh.

Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let
earth receive her King.

Let every heart prepare Him room.

And heaven and nature sing.

My baby.

Friday. Your mother thought that you
could help with the holiday hallelujah.

haven't sung in years. What we need now,
a Christmas miracle. I'm talking

about... Style, color, magic.

Loretta Devine, Ashley Murray, Luke
James, and Michelle Williams. The all

holiday movie, Christmas in Harmony.
Friday night at 8. Part of Countdown to

Christmas. Only on Hallmark.