All language subtitles for A.Carol.For.Two.2024.WEBRip

Thank you.

What is this?

Dad, the show is
providing housing and food.

Ehh. It's a little
something extra.

Dad, we don't have
a little something extra.

I took an advance from the store

and everyone around
here chipped in, too.

Look, it's Christmas. You've
never missed a holiday at home.

Take yourself out
to a nice dinner.

I hate that you're going
to be all alone at Christmas.

Look around.

You think these people
are going to let me be alone?

Yeah. I guess I'm the one

that's going to be
all alone at Christmas.

You're going to
live your dreams, Vi.

I mean, my daughter
is going to Broadway!

Okay, okay.
Dad, don't overshoot it, okay?

They're rehearsing in New York,

and then the tour
leaves in January.

Well, they picked you,
that's all that matters to me.

And if you need
a friend in the city,

you go see Aunt Carol's
old friend, Hazel.

I'm sure Hazel Carter has more
important things to do

than deal with the likes of me.

I called her.

She promised to
look out for you.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.
Thank you. Thanks.

Hey, Alex, order up!

Gotta go.

I'm not paying you to flirt with
these pretty ladies, Charley.

Now, pick up that burger before
the ball drops in Times Square.

Oh, yeah, and can I have a
couple glasses of water

for table three? Yeah.

Oh, yeah. Cash only, sir.
Plastic ruins the vibe.

Yeah? You catch me?
Glad we had this talk.

Hey, hey, hey!
What do you think you're doing?

Pretend we're all
a family, okay?

Hello, Brad. You still owe me.

And I'm not adding
to your tab anymore.

Come on, Hazel. Hazel...

you know I'm good for it.

I don't know
what you're good for.

How much time do you have?

Alex, do not give
your cousin any food,

unless it's about to go
straight into the trash can.

Come on.

Well, uh...

She needs to relax.

You need to pay that tab.

She's going to
take it out on me,

and I'm not going to get
a song for Christmas Eve.

Well, what do you need
to sing for anyways?

You're a playwright.

It's hard to get any writing
done when my work desk

is doubling as your
underwear drawer.

That's why I keep telling you,
you need a bigger apartment.

Look, Marty Levin comes
Christmas Eve, scouting talent,

and I need a good slot
in that show, so pay her.

Money is a minor detail.
It flows naturally

when you start to focus
on your greater purpose.

Enough of the podcast.

Oh, you mean the number
one podcast in the world,

Man or Mouse?
It's really helping me.

Helping you realize
you're not a mouse?

Look, I'm starting to focus
on maximizing my potential.

A very commendable,
very vague goal.

Good for you.

Right.

And since I...
I've been listening,

I already have a big interview.

Pretty soon, I'll get
myself a nice apartment

with a doorman, like me and
Chanel had signed up for.

That'll show her.

Honestly, Brad, you dodged
a bullet with her, man.

Would have been nice to get that
security deposit back though.

Yeah.

Look, I promise, I'll pay
Hazel once I get this job.

Good.

Wait.

And who needs Chanel and her
constant disapproval anyways?

I'm doing things with my life.

That's great. Love where
you're going with this.

Thanks, man.

Oh. Can I have one of those?
Don't love it that much.

How you doing?

Dream on.

How you doing?

Good.

Hey, Dad.
I'm here safe and sound.

I'm just, um,
heading into rehearsal.

I'll call you tonight
once I'm settled.

Hey.

Oh, uh, excuse me.

I'm supposed to start rehearsals
for the musical Odyssey tour,

but there doesn't
seem to be anyone here.

That's because it's done.

Done?

Wait. Did I miss it?
They said two o'clock.

No, the show is not happening.
The investors pulled out.

Your agent should have
informed you yesterday.

I don't have an agent.
It was an open call.

Oh. You should
really get an agent.

Thanks, that's, um... helpful.

Well, Merry Christmas.

Is there any chance
you're mistaken

and the show's just
on some kind of hiatus?

There is not. But who knows?

Maybe you'll get yourself a
hometown Christmas miracle.

Okay.

I've never seen one,
but I've heard stories.

Do you have a place to stay?

We're supposed to get
a few more inches tonight.

There may be someone.

Well, well, well...

Look at you.

Hello?

I'm here to talk to Hazel.

Compliment, criticism, or
complaint, put it in the box.

Actually, she was best friends
with my aunt, Carol Wagner.

Have a seat, doll.
I'll go get her.

Well, that is quite a
"how do you do?"

you got from
show business, isn't it?

Yeah. It wasn't even on my list

of potential things
to worry about.

It never is.

You know, you've grown up
a lot since I last saw you.

I was 13 when
my parents brought me

to see you and
Aunt Carrol perform.

- Oh, I miss that lady so much.
- Me too.

She helped me a lot
when I got my first

"Welcome to show business."

Theater's not for
the faint of heart,

but we wouldn't
have it any other way.

Oh, I bet you have some stories.

Oh, I do, but I'm taking them
to the grave, like she did.

I know that you had to stay home
and take care of your dad

through the cancer. You know,
and Carol understood,

but she always
thought it was a shame

that a talent like yours
would go unrecognized.

It's what you do for family.

Clearly,
you never met my family.

What did your dad say when
you told him about the show?

I haven't told him yet.
They threw me a party, Hazel.

They always do.

He was so proud.

They always are.

He gave me money
he doesn't have.

Yeah, my family didn't do that,
but I did inherit this place

and turned it into a nice
stomping ground for new talent.

And then, there's me, a failure
before I've even begun.

This isn't your failure.
It's just the business.

Look, the way I see it,
you got two options.

- You go back to Muckalucka.
- Pocatello.

Yeah, right.
You sell insurance, teach math.

I'm terrible at math.

Of course you are,
you're an artist.

Or you thicken your
skin and figure it out,

like your aunt Carol
would want you to do.

- Or option three.
- Yeah?

I could stay in New York,
and I work here, for you.

Have you ever waited table?

I volunteered
in a soup kitchen once.

You have no idea what you're
getting yourself into.

- I think I can handle it.
- Probably not.

But I'm gonna give you a shot..,

on a trial basis.

Thank you. Thank you, Hazel.

Thank you, thank you.

That's Rae.

Her roommate
just moved back to Tempe.

She ran out of money?

Nope. Courage.

Violette:
Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I'm so grateful you
were able to make this work.

Of course.

I didn't know where
I was going to stay.

Wait till you see this place.

I totally lucked out.
It's such a gem.

Ta-da.

This is a two-bedroom?

This is a no-bedroom,
but the futon pulls out.

It's perfect.

I'm sending these
gifts home today,

so if you have anything to send
to your mom, get it to me

before I go
back for the night shift.

Are you headed to a funeral?

Court?

I got the job.

As an undertaker?

Sales. Surgical supplies.

What do you know
about surgical supplies?

Oh...

Nothing.
They're going to teach me.

They loved my hustle.
And you know what's crazy?

People are already
starting to look at me

with much more respect.

I think it's the suit.
Man or Mouse says

you need to dress
like the man you want to be.

- It's all about perception.
- You don't need to pretend.

Who's pretending? This is me.

I mean, I already own the suit.

I'm happy for you.

- You look good.
- Thanks.

30 cents each.
I printed a hundred.

$3000.

Hey, everyone.
This is Violet,

a legend in her own town,

just like you all used to be.

She is a friend of the family

and she's going
to be working here.

So, have mercy on her poor,
inexperienced soul.

Hi.

- Hi.
- Oof.

You're going to have
to work your way up.

I got a costume.

Alex here is going
to show you the ropes.

And, oh, talk to the
band about a number.

You get a shot.

Your first shot at
a song tomorrow night.

She gets to sing that soon?

You got a problem with that?
Take it up with management.

That's what I'm trying to do.

Yeah, and management
says zip it.

Nepotism. It's a heck of a drug.

Don't just stand there. Come on.

You know how to do this?

No.

Brilliant.

Fiore's has a special way of
dealing with customers.

Watch and learn.

Do you have any specials?

You want to go
fancy pants, buddy?

Head down to the Plaza, get
yourself some caviar and bubbly.

Tonight we got burgers,
steaks and chops.

Are they plant-based?

Absolutely.

Nothing sweeter than the
desserts at Fiore's.

Well, maybe my singing.

Here you go, stinkers.
Dirty garbage and slop,

just like you,
you filthy animals.

Now, go back to
where you came from, huh?

Uh...

She used to work at
a junkyard in Jersey,

but we're trying to
knock that out of her.

Sorry, that was real bad.

Just don't be gross.
It's not that hard.

I'm sorry. Enjoy your meal.

Hey, how's it going
with Violette?

I hope she can sing.

Be patient with her.

I wouldn't be where I am
without her Aunt. I owe her.

Plus... Violette is special.

They're all special
in their hometowns,

and most of them don't make it
a year before heading back.

Show her the ropes.

Be a friend. Be a confidant.

What about Rae?

Yes, but you're the
best we've got.

Plus, I promised her dad
I'd look after her.

Do me a solid and I'll give you
a prime slot on Christmas Eve.

Bribery will get you everywhere.

I know.
That's why I'm good at it.

You can do it.

Who is that?

New hire.
Family friend of Hazel's.

She gets to sing
on her second day.

- Intros now.
- You don't need

an entitled girl like that in
your life ever again.

- You don't even know her.
- I know the type.

Come on. Dude,
this is the first time

a chick has sparked
my interest since the break-up.

She's probably not even
going to be around long enough

for you to get to know her.

Look, what do you even
say to an actress?

Come on, if you help me,

it could get me out
of your place faster.

Not happening.

Oh, my gosh, that was fabulous.
Oh, my gosh.

That was fabulous.
That was fabulous.

Oh, my gosh, if you love that,

we have a party here
at Fiore's on Christmas Eve.

We have very limited seats,
so buy your tickets now

or forever hold your peace

because this little lady who
just knocked your socks off

is gonna be closing the show

with a special duet with your
other favorite server,

Alex.

Whoo! Yeah!

It's for Carol.
Don't let me down.

Come on.

Let's go talk to him.

- How about that?
- Yeah.

I mean, Hazel said she was
going to give me a good slot,

but I just figured it would be
somewhere around the corner.

No, man. This could make
our plan a lot easier.

We're going to be spending
so much time with her now.

Dude, what do you say?

- You in?
- Have you met our new talent?

Don't make me beg. Okay.
I'm begging now.

I'm more of a mouse
than I am a man.

- Okay. Okay. Okay.
- Help me, please.

Stop. Stop. Stop.
Enough. Enough. Enough.

So, you're saying,

if I help you with Violette,

it'll help you
move on with your life

and move out of my apartment?

Exactly. Win-win.

Come on.

- Thank you so much.
- Wow, that looks delicious.

Fine.

Maybe I could go
ask a few questions,

get a little scoop,
help you get your groove back.

Yeah! There you go.

Operation Chick Magnet
is a... go.

Don't ever call it that.

Got it.

Gimme some.

Yeah.

Okay.

- Oh, nice.
- You're such a great singer.

Thanks. You, too.

How long have you been at this?

- Uh, four years.
- Oh.

With one job to show for it,
about a year ago.

Yeah, well, I've gone close
a bunch of other times,

but, I mean, you're either
in it for the long haul

or it's never gonna happen.

Well, hopefully, Hazel doesn't
cut me loose before then.

Come on.

I'm gonna...

Dad, hi.

Morning, Bear.

I was just calling to see
how rehearsals are going.

It's, um...

- going great.
- Listen,

everyone in Pokey is talking
about driving out to Ogden

to see the show.
I mean, it's only two hours.

We just need the date.
Do you have the schedule yet?

They...

haven't given it to us.

I'm sorry, Dad.
I've got to rush out.

I, uh, need to get new, uh...

tights for a rehearsal.

Okay, all right.

Use that money I gave you, okay?

That's great.
Thanks, Dad. Love you. Bye.

I love you.

I'm going to
tell him eventually.

Hey, I don't judge.

Look, I got this for our door.

We have to decorate
the apartment

for the holiday staff
dinner on the 23rd.

I... we are hosting.

Can I ask you
a question about Alex?

Mm-hmm.

What's his story?
He seems, um, prickly.

Oh. He's not so bad.

A couple of bad auditions,
some cattle calls,

and you'll be just
like the rest of us.

Oh, great.

We're out of conditioner!

Again!

Ahh! Oh, there's soap!
There's soap in my eye!

I can't see! Oww! Oww!

Where are you?! Oww!

Hey neighbor, hold up.

Oh, let me guess,
run out of coffee again.

Yes.

Brad forgot to tell me.

You know he uses
your deodorant too, right?

Okay, you should know
he's been really motivated

to get back out there.

He's even got a job.

Job? That is good news.
That mean he's moving out?

One step at a time.

He was really left with nothing
after Chanel dumped him

and backed out of the apartment.

She was a piece of work.

Yeah, she wrecked
him pretty good.

I have to help out.

Why aren't you
in Miami with Dean?

I couldn't afford it.
He offered to fly me down,

but I don't owe
my boyfriend money.

So, you'll spent Christmas
in New York City.

There's no better place, right?

Well, Miami.

Well, yeah.

I just don't know if there's
anything there for you.

No, no. There's definitely
something about this girl.

I-I can't put a finger on it.
It's an energy.

Maybe it's that she's a human

and not a demon,
like your last girlfriend.

That might be it, too. But hey,

what if I get Violette
a Christmas present?

You don't even know her yet.

That would be weird.

Why don't I get her number
and you can call her?

That feels like
a little stalker-y.

I'll make an introduction first.

No, no. I need to seem like more
of a prize, unattainable.

You know, Chanel always said

that I didn't
challenge her enough

I don't know if Chanel's
a reliable source.

Are you sure this is how
you want to go about it?

Pretending to be
someone you're not?

I'm sure.

- You're sure?
- 100%.

- 100%, okay.
- I'm sure.

All right.

And you should get
out there, too, have some fun.

You've been
so moody since Amy left.

That's got nothing
to do with it.

It's just, uh... it's not my
focus right now, you know?

Great.

Then, you can focus on
getting to know Violette.

Why don't I focus on
getting my couch back?

Hmm. Or...

Can you please hurry?

Our matinee starts
in 15 minutes.

I'm so sorry.
It's stuck or... rusted.

I want to see Simba!

Can't wait till the future,

when we get some
technology around here.

Gotta have
the magic touch, Idaho.

Oh, and I suppose you have it.

- Right here in my DNA.
- Okay.

Step aside.

That, ladies and gentlemen,
is how you do it.

I wanna see Simba!

Hey.

Thank you for your help
these last few days.

I know I didn't quite nail it.

Have a seat.

Why are you here,
anyway, in New York?

I'm sorry?

What's your story?

Not a whole lot.

I'm a dime-a-dozen
small-town girl

who came to New York
to make it in theater

and got the rug pulled out
from underneath me.

So, I've been pretending
I'm in a show when I'm not,

and I need to make
something happen soon

because I cannot let down my
father and the whole town

after the way
they've supported me.

Oh and I'm missing
Christmas with my dad

for the first time ever.

The end.

That's a heck of a story.

You've got a good voice.

Thank you.

And on that note...

We should probably
choose a song for our duet,

since we only have a week,

and I hear we need
to bring our A-game.

All I've got his A-game, Idaho.

So. I hope you're
ready to bring it.

Wouldn't be here if I wasn't.

Last year, Greta Mae
got plucked from that stage

on Christmas Eve and
put right on Broadway.

Marty Levin
is a God in this town.

So, I hope you're better at
performing under pressure

than you are at waiting tables.

Guess there's only
one way to find out.

- Fine. My place? Tonight.
- I'll be there.

Me, too.

I live there.

Cool.

See you tonight.

It needs to be more
special than that.

I get that Alex.

There's only so many
Christmas songs

and you've nixed every
single one I've suggested.

Because we need a showstopper
for the final number.

Mariah Carey, "All I Want
for Christmas Is You."

That's a terrible duet

and I don't think you
can hit that high C.

I can hit anything.

Hmm. Ooh!
Can you hit "White Christmas"?

It's a great song.

It's brilliant, but too
sleepy for a closing number.

"Frosty the Snowman".

Not even gonna dignify
that one with a response.

We've literally been through

every Christmas song
in existence.

"Santa Baby's" fun.

You want me to sing a song about

falling in love
with Santa Claus?

Yeah, why not?

I'm sure he's a very giving
and generous partner.

Chanel. Chanel. Chanel.

- Brad!
- Hey!

I thought that was you.

Look at you. You look nice.

Doing some medical sales.

Going real well,
big commissions.

Good for you.
You finally found something.

Oh, that's my, uh...

my fiancé.

Wow. Fiancé.

That was fast.

Yeah, well, when you know,
you know, right?

Yeah. Right. I know

because I knew...

with Violette...

my girlfriend.

I'm so happy you
were able to move on.

Oh, that building manager
finally called

and we get half
our deposit back,

but you can have all of it,
though, 'cause,

well, I don't really need it.

I don't really need it either.
I mean, I'll take it,

donate it to
charity or something.

Okay.

Cool. Cool.

- Uh...
- Well, I gotta go.

Sales calls.

He seems great.

Take care, Chanel.

You, too. Good to see you, Brad.

Yeah.

Hey.

You should have told me
we were having company.

We were just finishing up.
Violette, Brad. Brad, Violette.

- Hi.
- Hi.

I've heard you sing. Solid.

Thanks.
I've seen you at Fiore's.

You're the roommate?

- Cousin, actually.
- Ah.

Brad's just here temporarily.

He's moving to
the Upper West Side soon.

I was considering the
Upper East Side, but too snooty.

Yeah.

So, I hear you're new in town.

How are you finding
our fine city?

It's, uh...

different... busier,
louder, but I like it.

Well, if you need anything,
don't hesitate to call.

You can keep that.

I do a lot of
sales around the area.

I know this city,
the ins and outs,

shortcuts, potholes.

You should see this new
apartment he's getting.

It puts my hovel to shame.

Doorman, marble floors,
gym, sauna, wave pool.

- She gets it.
- Wow, that sounds amazing.

Mm-hmm.

Well, I'll let
you guys get back at it.

Oh, no, we're
pretty much done here.

We can, uh...

talk about this tomorrow.

It was really nice
meeting you, Brad.

Remember, if you need anything,

like those Muppets said,
"You've got a friend in me."

That was toys.

Still stands.

- Thanks.
- Yeah.

I... I really appreciate it.

Thanks for that, man.

I just ran into Chanel.

How is she?

Same. Beautiful. Deadly.

And don't even get me
started on her fiancé.

- Fiancé?
- Yeah.

Aww. I'm sorry, B.

You deserve
so much better than her.

Come on.

Yeah, yeah. Okay,
you're right, you're right.

Okay.

Leave it to the professionals.

$575.

Alex, we need to make
the gift baskets

for Broadway
Gives Back tomorrow.

Can you go to the
Holiday Market with Alex?

- Of course.
- I've got it.

Of course you do,
but many hands make light work.

Plus, you two can
work on your song.

Oh, you mean the song
we haven't picked yet?

Yeah, that's the one.
Table four.

The holiday baskets
are really appreciated.

Hazel's been doing this
for almost 20 years.

Wow.

These are the biggest hit.

If we left these out,
it would be anarchy.

Reminds me of the
food drive back home.

Mmm...
Can we get four dozen of these?

Worker: Yep. Coming right up.

So, you're a writer, and on top
of that, a killer voice.

I guess I want to do it all.

My Aunt Carol did.

I love her work by the way,

Trading Up... genius musical,
way ahead of its time.

Not many people would
pick that one. She'd love that.

I tend to identify with
lesser-known musicals.

Maybe because I tend to write
lesser-known musicals,

when I actually get
around to writing, that is.

When is that?

You know, there are only
so many hours in the day.

My Aunt Carol always said,

"A good idea deserves more than
just living inside your head."

Oh, I saw Hazel and my aunt

in the original cast of Skybird.

You are kidding.

Yeah, my parents brought me
for my 13th birthday.

I came to New York
and I felt like I was home.

I never made it back
until now, though.

So...

why didn't you make it back?

Um, my mom passed away
the next year.

And then, after high school,

I majored in musical
theater at Utah,

but in my second year,
my dad got sick,

so I went back home
to help take care of him.

Did he...

Oh, no. He's great, actually.

The only thing he suffers from
is the crippling guilt

of feeling like he held me
back for all those years.

I didn't see it
that way, though.

I'd do it all over again.

Gotta take care
of family, right?

Right. That's why you're
letting Brad stay with you.

Yeah, kind of. Oh.

Old Mrs. Fusari's cocoa jars.

- We've gotta get these.
- That's adorable!

So, June, you're a girl, right?
What do I say when I call her?

How about, "Hi. How are you?"

Talk about your interests,
but no politics or religion.

And when in doubt,
ask her about herself.

Right. I always forget that.

Got it. Okay.

I'm ready. Dial.

That was my first
New York City audition!

Yes, you did. Congratulations.

It's all downhill from here.

Hey, Alex.

I just forgot
everything you said.

Be yourself!

Actually, it's me, Brad,

Alex's cousin from sales.

We met yesterday.

What is that voice?

Brad!

Hi. How are you?

Very well,
thank you. How are you?

- Stop it.
- I'm good.

I'm just coming back from
an audition for Chicago.

Ah, Chicago!

I love Chicago.
It's my favorite city, actually.

It's...

dancing, singing, and...

Oh, repeating it
together, and...

rolling...

The musical, even. Correct?

Uh-huh.

So, um...

Okay, uh,
Alex needs to talk to you.

- No, I'm not gonna talk...
- Talk to her! Shh!

You want her...

Hello?

Did I lose you?

Hi. Sorry about that.

Brad fell and hit his head.

- Really?
- Just now?

He's fine.
He tripped...

over my stuff.
I guess... I need to clean more.

Oh, good. I'm glad he's okay.

Ask her if she wants to go out
with me tomorrow night.

- You ask.
- I can't. I just messed up.

He wants to know

if you'd like to go out
with him tomorrow night.

Uh... I'd love to,

as long as he's
gonna be alright.

You'd love to!

I'm fine.

Just a little
lump on the noggin.

Phew!

Uh, Alex...

and his... girlfriend... June
are gonna be joining us, too.

No, no, no, no, no, no!

I'll text you the details.
Okay, bye.

Okay, bye.

Girlfriend?

I'm sorry. I panicked. What?

Man or Mouse says
"Fake it till you make it."

So, I can't do
this without you guys... yet.

Please?
Just this one time. June?

Oh, I don't want to miss this.
I am so there.

I guess... this one time.

I could just...

That was a little weird

and I'm not entirely
sure what just happened,

but I have a date with
Brad tomorrow night,

and Alex and his
girlfriend are coming, too.

Brad? Why Brad?

Wait. What?
Alex has a girlfriend?

Apparently.

What?

I don't know.

I want to help him,
but I don't like to lie.

It's just one little harmless
white lie. No harm, no foul.

Come on.

It'll be fun... honey.

Hey, Alex,
we're out of deodorant...

again.

Hi, Dad!

Hey! Well, now that you're
a big celebrity, what?

You don't have time
for us little people?

No. Sorry. It's been, uh...

busy.

I can believe it.

I can just imagine you
strolling through Central Park,

past the Empire State Building,
looking up at Lady Liberty.

Wow!

It's like you're here.

Listen, you have to send me
the schedule for your show.

People won't stop asking me
how they can get tickets.

Well, the schedule
keeps shifting,

so I'll have to circle back
to you once we're locked.

Oh, showbiz talk.
Okay, all right.

Well, you have your people
call my people.

Okay, Dad. I have to go.
I'm late for rehearsal.

I love you. Bye.

Okay, love you, Bear.

It's my daughter.
She's on Broadway.

Welcome to the
Festival of Trees,

one of New York's most
prestigious events.

Yeah, whatever.

Remember, my tree is the one

with the hand-blown
glass ornaments.

I did each one personally.

It took three months.

Okay, no pressure,
but cast your votes accordingly.

Sure, whatever. Where is she?

Brad, this is for a great cause.

They're raising money
for lots of charities.

Got it.
Use that to my advantage.

Not at all what I meant.

Okay, do you have
any useful tips for me?

Let the spirit
of the event guide you.

I said usef... hey!

Oh, this is so beautiful.

Violette!
It's so good to see you here.

You invited me.

I did? I did... invite you.

You know Alex, and this is June.

I'm the girlfriend.

The very serious girlfriend.

The old ball and chain.
The old boot.

Oh, there's gonna
be a boot, all right.

Uh, you're on time,
that's awesome.

My ex was never on time.

Sometimes,
she wouldn't even show up.

Anyways,
let's go vote on some trees.

Yeah. Remember?

How are we supposed to pick one?
They're all so amazing.

You're a really great singer.

Oh, thanks.

It's been my dream to
perform since I was a kid.

Are you a Broadway fan?

Love it.

Al introduced me to all of it.

We grew up together, you know?

He and his mom lived with us and
he would play all the...

things. Love it.

What's your favorite musical?

That's a tough question.

Like the trees,
how can you choose just one?

Um, excuse me one second.
Just...

What are you doing?

- What's my favorite musical?
- You hate musicals.

Yeah because they're so boring.

But what is my
favorite musical and why?

You almost knocked
over June's tree.

- Hurry!
- Fine.

Uh, tell her you love Sondheim

and that Merrily We Roll Along

is one of the greatest
shows ever written.

From a narrative perspective,

it really broke the boundaries
of what we thought was possible.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah,
that sounds super smart.

Thanks.

Don't go too far.

Um... weren't
we talking about musicals

before Alex rudely
waved me over?

I'm partial to Sandheim.

You mean Sondheim?

Sondheim.

Excuse me. Frog in the throat.

And I think...

Merrily... um... Rolling...

Merrily We Roll Along!

That's one of my favorite
shows of all time.

Yes!

I mean, me too... from a
narrative perspective.

I know.
It's brilliant, isn't it?

The way the story
is told in reverse.

That's what I was going to say.

Completely brilliant.

Wow. We are so on the same page.

Which character
do you relate to the most?

Uh...

Probably the dude?

Which one?

One sec. Look at this.
This tree's beautiful.

It's... It's my favorite.

My tree!

Alex! What did you do?

Alex, don't beat yourself up.
Accidents happen.

Oh, do they?

So, June,
big plans for Christmas?

Well, I was supposed to be in
Miami with my... friend,

but I'm a starving artist.

Need running water
more than a plane ticket.

June's an incredible painter.

Only a matter of time
before she hits.

And I didn't want to miss
Christmas at Fiore's,

which is such a big night
for this gorgeous guy here.

Yeah, if we ever pick a song.

We will, once you
stop fighting me.

Why don't you stop fighting me?

Whatever you decide on,
it's going to be

a very special Christmas Eve.

I don't think
it would ever be easy

missing Christmas with my dad.

We see The Nutcracker
and we go caroling,

and, oh, he makes this
yule log that's to die for.

He crumbles
candy canes on top of it

and it doesn't ever
feel like Christmas

until I've had a slice.

That's what I'm going to
miss most, Christmas traditions.

Ow.

Yeah.

I really miss my mom's tacos.

Christmas tacos?

Yeah. We're, uh,
we're not a traditional family.

Oh, well, I think traditions
are what you make them.

And that's what you need,
new traditions to get your mind

off of home and sadness,
and I know just the thing.

- Really?
- Mm-hm.

Why don't you
enlighten us, Brad?

I will, June.

Let's hear it.

But...

it's a surprise.

Great, I love surprises.

Me, too.

Hm.

So thoughtful that way.

Man:
Woo!

Ooh. Alex, you made it.

Merry Christmas, everyone.
Happy Hanukah, Murray.

This is Violette. She's new.

Oh, how's the pipes?

For the cheap seats.

Oh. Happy to meet you then.

Likewise.

Murray, how's the sciatica?

Some days good, some days bad.

Today is the latter.
Stay in shape, kid.

When I was Mr. Mistoffelees
I could do a center split.

Now, Stan can beat me
at pickleball in his wheelchair!

How's the musical coming along?

Good. Really good.
It's just really hard to work

with all the distractions.

Oh, it's not about Amy, right?

No, Elsie. It's coming along.

I'll have something
to share soon.

Oh, great.

Violette. We're gonna
drop these off for ya.

Enjoy!
The cookies are really good.

They're all performers?

And technicians,
musicians, designers,

some of the best
Broadway's ever seen,

and pretty soon they're
gonna break out the champagne.

So, you're going
to get a show today.

Can't wait.

Why don't you two
sing something?

Yeah, I can never say
no to you, Elsie. Come on.

Such a cute couple.

- Her? Me?
- Oh, no.

We're not together.

No, not at all. Just, well...

Maybe you know this one.

I can't believe we
didn't think of this one.

Wanna make it a duet or what?

I think we found our duet.

So, I want to take Violette
somewhere Christmassy,

but I can't think
of anywhere good.

She suggested going
into the woods,

which I feel like is
a bad idea this time of year.

You mean she wanted to go
see the show Into the Woods.

See it, visit it, I don't know.

It's too cold
for that right now.

It's a musical,
but it's not Christmas.

You should take her
to see The Nutcracker.

She said she goes
with her father every year.

Did she?

Yes, she did,
and make sure you pay.

Yeah, I was totally going to.

For both tickets.

Right. It's cool.
I made a couple sales this week,

big commissions, fat stacks.

If Shanelle could
see me right now.

That's great, man, but...

Violette seems to like you,
so just...

Just what?

You're a good guy, Brad,
and she deserves to know you.

Well, she's getting to know me
with a little help from you.

You're not getting
cold feet I hope.

Dude, I need your help.

No, I just...

Of course I'll help you.

Oh, I knew I could
count on you, Cuz.

We're out of syrup.

What are you having?

I don't even have
any more songs to sing!

Oh, love is not
a big enough word for

how I feel about you.
I love, love, love you!

I love you, guys.
Thank you so much.

Consider it cast!

- Violette, hi!
- Hi, how'd it go?

Good. You are gonna
kill it in there.

They're so nice.

Oh, good. I'm really nervous.

Don't be. Break a leg.

Thank you.

- Hey.
- I'll see you back home.

Alright, number 417.

Oh, that's me.

You're up.

Okay, um, I'll wait
and walk back with you?

Hi, how are you?

Hi, I'm Violette Wagner,
and I'll be singing

"Go Tell it on the Mountain."

A Christmas hymn.

Tis the reason for the season.

Tis it?

Thank you.

I have another song
if you'd prefer...

We have more than enough.

Thank you.

Thank you for your time.

Merry Christmas.

I'm Jewish.

Missing Christmas for that?

One day it'll all be worth it.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.
Moving on.

Wanna meet up tonight
and rehearse?

I can't. Brad's taking me
to see The Nutcracker.

He surprised me with tickets.
Isn't that nice?

So nice.

Yeah, I mentioned it one time
and he remembered.

He's really so thoughtful, but...

But what?

I don't know, he comes up
with these great plans,

but then when we
go out and do them

it's like he's not there.

It's like he's
two different people.

I don't know how to explain it.

Brad's a bit of
a slow burn at the beginning.

Just give him some time.

- Morning.
- Merry Christmas.

Thank you.

As we give, so do we receive,

and I am due for
a little receiving.

I'd say,
after the sacrifices you made.

I didn't throw myself
on a volcano, Alex.

I took care of my dad.

I just... I hope I can make
something happen quickly,

because I hate pretending
like I have a show when I don't.

Just keep pounding
the pavement and never stop,

words to live by.

What else do you live by?

I feel like you talk more about
Brad than you do about yourself.

What about you?

What's to tell? Uh...

My dad left when I was seven.

I haven't seen
or heard from him since.

My mom and I moved in
with Brad's family,

and I'm just a guy
from Scranton who'd rather be

in Wicked than be
on the football field,

and football's like
breathing in Scranton.

There's nothing wrong with that.
You have a passion.

Is it your passion?

It's one of them.

At the retirement home,
I heard Elsie talking about

your musical.
Mind if ask who Amy is?

Old girlfriend before June?

No.

Oh.

Old writing partner.

We were working on a musical
called The Christmas Callback,

and it was coming along,
and then we go 46 rejections,

but who's counting?

Yikes.

Amy didn't want to keep going,

so she, uh, she moved
back home to Cleveland.

Nothing worthwhile is ever easy,

at least that's what
everyone keeps telling me!

If I'm being honest, I don't...

I don't know if I can
finish it on my own.

When my dad got better
and I was thinking about

giving this career a shot,
I was terrified.

I just felt like I was years
behind everyone else my age,

but by dad said something
that really stuck with me.

What did he say?

It's never too late to be
who you might have been,

and I didn't want to be
the person who didn't try.

I feel like I deserve a treat.
You know, a post-audition treat?

What is that thing?

A yule log for Violette.

Because of what
she said the other night.

Yeah, right.

What did she say?

Her dad makes these.

Christmas traditions.

No, nothing? Oh, Brad.
I can only do so much, buddy.

You gotta be a better listener.

I got Violette a surprise.

Please tell me
it's not a yule log.

Boom. Nutcracker.

- Yeah, I heard.
- What?

It's my agent.

I'm going to take this
in the bathroom.

Uh, sprinkle those crushed
candy canes on top for me.

Josh, what's up, buddy?

I listen. I'm a great listener.

Listener. I'm a great listener.

- Hello?
- Oh, come in!

- Hi.
- Sorry, hands are sticky.

You look amazing.

Thank you. You, too.

Are you excited?

You got me a yule log.

Mm-hm.

With crushed candy canes on top.

Christmas traditions.

This is the sweetest,
most thoughtful thing

anyone's ever done for me.

Guilty.

Thank you.

Oh, you're welcome.

Did you see what
Brad got for me?

Sure did. Very thoughtful.

I'm completely blown away.

I can't believe
you thought of this.

Me neither.

Mm. Sticky.

June: You have to tell
Violette how you feel.

Those two are so not right
for each other and you know it.

I promised to help him.

Okay, but if they're not a match
that's not on you.

She doesn't think of me
like that anyway.

We're just... We're...
We're... We're coworkers.

I mean, it was Brad
that bought her a yule log,

just like the kind
that her dad makes,

and he crushed candy canes on
top because he really listens.

Okay, you two need
to stop this, Al.

It's not fair to anyone.
Not to you, not to Brad,

and especially not to Violette.

I can't pull the rug
out from under him now.

He's doing so well.

How was the show?

So good. Except he fell asleep.

Yeah, that tracks.

How was the show?

So boring.

I fell asleep.

It's an expensive nap.

Maybe you should pay
your tab at Fiore's instead.

Give him a break, Hazel.
He's sweet.

I'll give him a break
when he pays off his tab.

I will pay it, man,
but those tickets set me back.

You need to talk to her
on your own, without me.

I can't do this anymore.

No, no, no. You can't bail now.

I don't want to see this thing
blow up in our faces.

Please. Please, please, please,
please, please, please, please.

Please, please, please, please...

Caroling! Caroling.

Violette said she
and her father go caroling

at Christmas every year.

How am I supposed
to work that in?

Whatever,
I'll think of something.

We're out of coffee.

Of course we are.

Hey, can I get a martini?

Hazel, how long were you
pounding the pavement?

Oh, I am not
going to answer that.

I mean, everyone has a story.

Look, you need to keep
your head on straight.

- 'Kay.
- Alright? I got you and Alex

the closing number
on Christmas Eve, right?

- Thank you.
- Do not let me down.

Okay.

Hazel asked.

Have a good night.

What are you playing?

Uh, something new from my show.

It's called "Who Knew It Would
Be You This Christmas?"

Can I hear a little?

Come on!

It's just bare bones
and melody, but...

I love it.

I'm so glad
you're writing again.

Yeah.

I guess I didn't want to
be the guy that didn't try.

Look, sugarplum, I hate to bring
bad news this close to Christmas

but we're out of mashed taters.
I can get you French fries.

If that's acceptable to you,
blink twice.

You got it.

Hi. What are you doing here?
You're not on today.

No, I'm actually here
to speak with Hazel.

I'm... I'm putting in my notice.

I booked the Chicago tour!

Rae! Oh, that's so great!

So, come February
the place is all yours,

unless you heard something, too?

I didn't,
but I'm so happy for you.

So, it begins for
one of my Broadway babies!

Ah! Congratulations!
You will be so missed.

Hey, get her picture
on that wall!

Oh, you'll always
have a place here, right?

Come sing for us
between shows, alright?

Thank you, Hazel,
for everything.

It's never personal.

Maybe the director
didn't like your shoes,

or you reminded
the casting guy of his ex-wife.

Or you're just too short
for the ensemble, right?

I know I'm new at this,
but I just didn't think

the rejection would
sting this much.

And I hate to
keep lying to my dad.

Then don't. There is no shame
in what happened to you, right?

You are in this career,
then be in it.

You got what it takes.
Just go for it.

Hello, that's you.

Right. Sorry.

I was thinking...

What if we go up
the octave at the end?

Huh?

Yeah, I like it.
Take it from the top.

Are you okay?

Yeah.

Are you okay?

Of course.

Uh, I heard Rae's news
hit you pretty hard today.

Losing your roommate already.

I'm happy for her, it's just...

How do you know
you've got what it takes?

That you can take the hits
and keep getting up again?

I guess when you can't imagine

doing anything else
with your life.

Is that how you feel?

I've seen a lot of talented
people come and go from Fiore's,

but I've never been more
sure of anyone's chances

than the day
I first saw you sing.

Thank you.

But I was talking about you.

Do you think
you have what it takes?

I think I might.

I know you do, on every level.

Okay, so let's keep reminding
each other of that, okay?

When we start to doubt,
can we be that for each other?

Yeah. Yeah, we can.

We should probably
get back to it.

Yeah. Totally.

No, I think the music's okay.

Yeah, I know.

It's pretty fun, right?

Yes!

Absolutely.

We have to check out
the neighbors?

Hey, sorry we're a little late.

He was working on some songs.

I was in the zone
and didn't want to stop,

and it's all thanks to you.

You really inspired him.
He finished his musical.

Finished? Alex, wow!
That's amazing.

But I had nothing
to do with that.

I just told him to
believe in himself.

Right back at ya.

Hey, cut the music,
cut the music!

Hoo-hoo! Hey, everyone.
So, I know that this lovely

lady here is missing home,
ah, and the one thing that

she is missing most is...

Caroling!

So, if anyone wants to join us,

I think we should take this show
on the road for a little while.

- Right now?
- Right now.

Yeah, but we're kind of
in the middle of a party here.

I didn't even get a chance
to take off my coat.

- I mean, we just got here.
- It'll be fun.

Yes! Woo! Caroling!

Okay, yeah. Let's go.

What am I supposed to do?
Pry them apart?

For starters.

She thinks I'm with you.

Then we should stage
a big breakup fight.

I'm happy to be the bad guy.
Just don't make me a cheater.

Yeah, I'm not going to
do any of that.

Then what are
you gonna do, Alex?

'Cause you can't deny
that you like her.

No, I can't,

but we can go back to Rae's

and drink eggnog until
I don't feel feelings anymore.

'Kay.

Eggnog it is.

Hey, come on, Alex.
Why don't you sing one?

I think this works great.

I'll start down here,
you can start up on the stage.

You sing the entire
first verse by yourself.

I'll meet you here at the base
of the stairs, help you down.

Thank you. What a gentleman.

Yes, ma'am. What do you think?

I like it.

Oh, I have a thought
for the end.

Guys, can we go from...
♪ Although it's been said ♪

Um, I thought
we could cut across,

spin in,
and finish together face-to...

Or maybe it would be better

if you stand there,

and I will be over here,

far away from each other...

and project.

Are you good?

I'm good, yeah. Too good.

June and I broke up.

- Oh.
- Yeah.

Oh.

We just... We decided
we were better as friends.

I'm so sorry, Alex.

I... I really liked her.

I'm sure she'll still be in
my life, being neighbors and...

And-and friends and all, but...

Yeah.

Just wasn't there for
either of us anymore.

Perfectly fine.
Totally amicable.

Do you need anything?

No, I'm good. Good.

Let's just rehearse.

Okay.

From the top, please.

Should I start here?

Okay.

I'm nervous. I'm shaking.

Don't be. It's just
another night at Fiore's.

It's not just another night,
Alex, it's the night.

I'm in it, okay? I'm here.
I'm not going anywhere.

That's the spirit. You got this.

Look what just arrived for you.

Oh, wow.

He can afford gorgeous flowers,

but still carrying a tab. Mm.

"I have a meeting in
a hospital in Philly,"

but I'll be there
in time for your big show.

"Break your legs. Brad."

legs.

Bless his heart.

That was sweet of him.

Very.

He's a good guy, Violette.

He's a great guy, Alex.

I just don't know
if he's my guy.

Wow.

Okay, uh...

Do you... Do you, uh...
Do you know who is

or was that, like,
a general statement?

I have a general idea, maybe.

Um, but I don't know
if he feels the same way.

I would imagine
he probably does.

I mean, it's you, after all.

But before I can pursue
this other situation,

I should be honest with Brad.

It's only fair.

Yeah.

Honesty would be best.

Oh, you got the flowers.

Yeah, they're really beautiful.
Thank you so much.

You're welcome.

We just stopped to have lunch,
but I'm catching the train back

into the city in a few hours.
I'll be there on time.

I think we need to talk, Brad.

Hilarious.

Well, I think everything
looks... Listen,

I can't wait to dive back into...

Excuse me.

Oh, can... Oh, my God!

It's so nice to see you.

Going to be great.

A night to remember.

Let's check out the crowd.

My dad is here.

What's he doing in New York?
How did he know I was here?

I can't talk to him right now.

Listen, it's going to be okay.
He wants what's best for you.

He must think
something's really wrong.

You and your dad
love each other.

Later you're going to
explain everything to him,

but right now you're
going to go out there

and show everyone
in that room what you got.

Okay. Yeah, I can do this.

You can.

Go take a few breaths.
Get yourself together.

Excuse me, sir.

I'm so sorry.

Hey, hey. Not here.

Why would she break up with me

unless you were
giving me bad information?

It's not like that, Brad.

Do you want her for yourself?

I would never do that to you.

You were supposed
to be helping me.

I did.

I told you about caroling
and the Nutcracker,

and I didn't tell her that
I bought the yule log for her.

I even pretended that
June was my girlfriend,

and I did all of that for you.

June was never your girlfriend?

You were feeding him
information about me?

It was his idea.

Violette,
it's not like it sounds.

No, I think it's actually
a lot worse than it sounds.

I'm sorry, but how...

There you are.
You two are up next.

Just put it aside for now.

Hate me later, hate me forever,

but we have to
get on that stage.

It's our time.

Really fabulous, Rae. Fabulous.

Wow! Hey, make sure you catch
her Chicago tour coming up. Yes!

Alright, for our last number,
we've got the amazing,

incredible, astounding,
Violette and Alex

singing a Christmas song.

Come up here you
two gorgeous people.

That's my daughter. Yeah.

Vi...

I can't do this.

Sorry about that. She, uh...

She had a...

I'm sorry.

Okay, people. Guess what?

It's your lucky day,
because yours truly is going to

be bringing this home
for you with, uh,

"Jingle Bells." Yeah.

Vi. Vi. Violette, please.

I just want to be alone, Alex.

Violette?

Excuse me.

I'll let you two talk.

How'd you find out?

Everyone kept
asking me for the dates.

You didn't have
the schedule yet,

so I called
the theatre in Ogden.

Why didn't you tell me, Bear?

I don't know.

If I put any unnecessary
pressure on you...

No. No, you didn't.

All you've ever
been is supportive.

But you still felt like
you couldn't tell me the truth.

Yeah, I guess...

I don't know, it all
happened so easily for me.

I went to that open call
and I booked the tour

and it felt so meant to be.

And then it all fell apart
and I had nothing,

and I needed to
make something of myself

so it wasn't such
a waste coming here.

You have to look
at the big picture.

That show brought
you to New York,

and no matter the outcome,

this is where
you're supposed to be.

There are no accidents.

No, but then
I crumbled out there.

You know, Hazel gave me a chance
and I let her down.

I... I let you down.

I let everybody down.

No.

Maybe it feels like that,
but, hey.

This too shall pass.

The best thing
you can do for you

is to finally
put yourself first.

You've never done that,
and I think it's about time.

You just...
You keep going at Fiore's

and you will find
your success in no time.

No, Hazel's definitely
going to fire me now.

I was only working here
on a trial basis.

No, she's not.

And I am sorry, Dad.

You have nothing,

nothing to be sorry for.

You just keep doing, Bear.

You keep going, you have
my unconditional support.

I'm glad we get to spend
Christmas together after all.

Oh, I wouldn't
have it any other way.

In fact, I kind of feel like
a dodo for not thinking of

coming to New York earlier.

Wait 'til you see
the Christmas pajamas I got us.

Are they matching?

They are so matching.

I love you.

I love you, Bear. Aw.

Merry Christmas.
I have a present for you.

What's that?

I'm moving out.

How?

I have some cash
saved from commissions.

Plus, I got the security
deposit back from Shanelle.

That's great, really.

I'm sorry about
everything with Violette.

It's okay.

Look, I liked her,
but I'll be okay.

Things are going
good for me now.

She really did help me
get back on track.

I mean, it wasn't
actually me she liked,

but it still felt nice.

I know.

She's incredible.

Well, you really
fell for this chick.

Don't say it.

I did, didn't you?

A little.
But if I'm being honest,

it was a stressful
trying to act like you.

I mean, it was you
she was falling for.

Thanks, Brad.

And hey.

Next time you go in.

Eh?

Can you give this to Hazel?

It's all there.

You don't have to count it.

Okay, here.

I'm going to miss you.

You're gonna miss me,
too, right?

Right?

And behold, the yule log.

How did you get this here?

In my carry-on.

Oh.

It's, uh, it's for you, Vi.

"Fiore's, 5:00pm."

This has Alex and-or Brad
written all over it.

I think you should go.

It's Christmas.

So, I had Christmas
dinner with Basil last year,

and they had a buffet...

Hazel? What's going on?

Alex fessed up,
so I called Marty.

Told him how those two
knuckleheads played their

little reindeer games with you
right before your big number.

It is my pleasure to
meet Carol Wagner's niece.

You know,
she started my first show.

Anyways, Hazel promised me
a black and white milkshake

if I came to hear you two sing.

That's so kind of you,
Mr. Levin.

Ah.

Ah, thank you.

Uh, could you give us
just a quick second?

Marty Levin.

Yes, we... we met last night.

- Did we?
- Yeah.

So, was it all a lie?

Our friendship? Everything?

No, and I'm so sorry
we did that to you.

I never wanted you to get hurt.

There's a part of me
that doesn't regret it.

What do you mean?

Brad's plan had disaster
written all over it,

but I helped because I wanted
him to have a great girl.

And I let you in,
and you opened a part of me

that's been shut
for a long time.

Please, give me another shot.

I want to keep being
the guy that lifts you up.

And I want to be that for you.

But right now we should go sing,

because no one should
keep Marty Levin waiting.

Especially not on Christmas.

What?

I have an idea.

Actually, we're going
to sing a different song.

It's from an original
musical written by Alex.

Me, too.

Yeah!

Thank you for that.

That song deserved more than
just living inside your head.

I loved it.
Let's talk about your show, kid.

Hazel has my number,
and you, we need to get you

up on a Broadway stage
sooner rather than later.

I gotta go. Kristin Chenoweth
is blowing up my phone.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Would you like to
see my third Tony?

I would love to
see your third Tony.

Let's go.

I'm gonna make this up to you.
I promise.

You already have.