All language subtitles for A Joyous Christmas (2017) 1080p HDTV.en SDH

[reporter] We are live

at the Fall Oaks Annual
Christmas Festival

where Fall Oaks native
Rachel Kennedy

has returned to not
only kick off the festivities

but will also be presenting
her live event,

Rachel Kennedy's Inspiration
Celebration

which coincides with
the upcoming release

of her newest
motivational book,

"Me First" her follow
up to last year's book,

"You Deserve It All".

With the best-selling
author in town

this is sure to be an exciting
and inspiring holiday for all.

Wow.

They're sure excited to have
you back home.

Wish the feeling was mutual.

Thank you, Bridget.

You sure being back home
isn't getting to you?

The publishers really wanna
push the successful

home-grown heroine returns
to her roots story.

I really need you
to sell this.

I know. And I will.

Alright, it's almost that time.

We'll see you on stage
doing what you do best.

I know.

[exhales]

Inspire.

[crowd cheering]

Now that we've
officially opened

the Fall Oaks Christmas
countdown,

it's sure to be our best
Christmas season so far!

And now, please join in
welcoming our hometown hero,

Rachel Kennedy!

[cheering]

Thank you, Mayor Hartley,
for this special honour.

[applause]

And I am so looking forward
to seeing

each and every one of you
at my live

"The Inspiration Celebration"
event.

[cheering]

I would like to take a moment
to speak from the heart.

I have some homework
for you.

When you go home tonight

I would like you to take
a look in the mirror.

Really look at the person
looking back at you.

That is the most important
person in your universe

and you need to take care
of that person first.

Thank you.

[applause]

And now, the people of
Fall Oaks and I

would like to present to you
the key to the city!

[cheering]

Well, that was a good day.

I think it was a really
good day.

Mmmhmm.

This is you right here.

Great.

So...

Bridget apparently has
a romantic Skype date with Josh

so wanna grab a bite to eat?

No can do.

I gotta go over the expenditures

and check in with
the family back home.

I hope the hotel
has good wifi.

Ok.

Hey.

Tonight is your chance
to unwind.

We got you in this great
townhouse.

Put your feet up, watch
an old Christmas movie.

Order some take-out.

They do have take-out
in this town, right?

No, you're right.

We have a long two weeks
ahead of us.

I... I should.

Well, I'm uh, I'm over here.

You have a good night.

Thank you.

Get some rest.

Good night.

[sighs]

Who found time to decorate?

The Mayor had it set up
for us when we arrived.

Alright, let's focus.

We need to knock this event
out of the park.

And we will.

We agree with the publishers
to market "Me First"

as much as we can and increase
your public visibility.

Remember your second book.

It didn't sell well, I know.

Now, about this event.

Who do are we flying in
to produce it?

Bridget?

Here are the local producers.
There's not many-

Wait, wait, wait.

Locals?

Yeah.

The publishers want us
to hire locally,

generate some opportunity
in the area.

Get you some human interest
press coverage.

Don't worry,
I'll take care of it.

I'll set the appointments.

Also, I know it's not
your favourite subject

but we should talk about this
year's Christmas gift list.

Right.

Christmas gifts.

For my brother David
and his family.

Let's get them really
high-end stuff.

A watch for Suzy, the latest
sneakers for the kids...

That's what you got them
last year.

And for David?

Um... I don't know.

I don't even know
what he likes anymore.

When was the last time
I saw him?

When mom died?

You know what?

I'll take care of it.

Just find me a reliable
producer.

I'm on it.

Your family and friends
sure are lucky.

I'm sorry?

Oh, it's just that these gifts
are really, really nice.

Yeah, well, if you can't
give time, give gifts, right?

Um, so do you want all of these
wrapped and delivered to you?

Yeah, that would be great.

Thank you.

We're really excited to have
you back in Fall Oaks.

Your books have truly
inspired me.

Yeah?

Your first book, by the way,
is my favourite.

"Spark the fire within."

Ever since I read it
I've been dying to go to

one of your big seminars.

That's great.

You should come to the one we're
having in a couple of weeks.

Oh, I'd love to but
it's so expensive.

Who knew inspiration
costs so much, huh?

Excuse me?

Hey.

Um... Santa or snowman?

I'm sorry?

Which one's better?

The uh, the big guy
or the other big guy?

It's for a festive Christmas
sweater party,

I thought I'd wear a tie.

You know, buck the system.

I'm thinking the snowman
kinda brings out my eyes

a little bit more, right?

But green golfing Santa
with the scuba reindeers

really snubs its nose
at convention, doesn't it?

I guess I would go with
the Snowman...

Snowman, right?

Yeah.

Right?

Yeah.

Ok, snowman it is, I think.

Thanks.

Sure.

I'm Jack.

Rachel.

Oh yeah.

Yeah.

Nice to meet you.

Hi.

Um, welcome home, right?

Yeah.

[phone vibrating]

Are you from Fall Oaks?

No, no, no. I'm-
I'm from Boston.

Snowman tie it is.

Uh, I have to get this.

It's a work thing.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Jack.

[phone ringing]

Hey.

Rachel, hey.

I think I found
the perfect producer

and the publishers are on board.

Good.

Wait, where are you?

No, I'm just leaving
the store now.

Please tell me you didn't
buy David socks.

Ok, goodbye.

[honking]

[thud]

Ohhh.

Oh, goodness.

Are you ok?

I'm ok.

Are you ok?

Yeah, I think I am.

You just saved my life.

Well, I just did what anyone
would do.

No, I'm serious.

You just saved my life.

Is there anything I can do
to thank you?

You just did.

You don't owe me anything.

No, please.

Is there anything I can do?

Seriously?

You can help someone else
who needs help.

Wha-what's your name?

Joy.

My name's Joy.

[knocking]

Why didn't you return
any of my calls last night?

What happened?

Oh, Bridget, can you grab me
an ice pack please?

Of course.

Thank you.

Ice pack?

I almost got hit by a car,
Stuart.

What?

Are you-what?

Wait. Why didn't you call me?

I'm fine.

But I wouldn't have been
if someone hadn't pushed me

out of the way in the nick
of time.

Who was it?

Her name was, uh... Joy.

Joy?

Yeah.

She have a last name?

We didn't get that far.

Christmas Joy Saves
Rachel Kennedy.

I can see it.

We can use this.

Are you serious?

Of course I am.

This is real life, Stuart.

Some random person
came out of nowhere,

swooped in, and saved me.

And, you know, I just can't stop
thinking about the whole thing.

I just feel like saying
the words "thank you"

isn't enough.

I'm sure your "thank you"
was plenty.

Wanna know what
she said to me

when I asked what I could
do to thank her?

What?

She said "help someone else
who needs help".

Does she know who you are?

That's not my point.

You are helping people
every single day.

Every book release,
every seminar you give.

Am I? Am I really?

I mean, would I have done
the same?

So you wanna run around town
saving people

from oncoming traffic?

Thank you.

Look, I understand
that you're feeling

a little emotional
right now,

but we have our biggest
live event

in less than two weeks
and I have our new producer

waiting for us in
the conference room.

Wait, what?

Right now?

Yes, now.

[sighs]

So who am I meeting?

The top local event producer

who's also done some
major work out of town.

The publishers think he can
deliver exactly what we need.

Great. What's his name?

Rachel, I'd like you
to meet...

Jack.

So how did it work
out with the tie?

Oh, it was a big, big hit.

Wait a second, you two know
each other?

Oh, yeah, yeah, we go way
back, like yesterday.

Right.

Jack needed my professional
opinion at the store.

My, you were busy yesterday.

Jack, do you have
your resumé

and a sample of your work?

Creative producer
for live events,

tour events and even some
of my favourite music.

What're you doing
in this town?

I guess you never know
where life takes you.

And um, who is...
who is Paul Taylor?

He's my associate.

You know, right-hand man.

You'll meet him soon enough.

A portfolio like this means
you must be...

married to your job?

Work never complains
about my commitment issues.

[chuckles]

At least you're honest.

Why don't we, um...
why don't we sit down?

Great.

Now, um... let me be honest.

No one knows my brand
better than I do.

Right.

Can I tell you why
I took this job?

I see potential in your event.

That it can really make
a positive impact

on this town and beyond.

Potential?

I mean, we're already making
a positive impact.

Researching you
for the last 48 hours,

there are a few things that
I suggest doing differently.

I told you the red suit
on the cover made you look

a little standoff-ish.

The suit's the least
of your concerns.

Can I be completely candid
with you right now?

Oh, so that was you
not being candid?

I saw you on the news
the other night.

Even answering questions,
it just-

it felt a little too planned.
Too clever.

We do have a strategy when
it comes to selling Rachel's

new book that we don't wanna
deviate from,

which is why the Rachel
Kennedy's

Inspiration Celebration event
has to be the best ever.

I think the core message
for this event

should maybe reflect
who you are.

Helping others.

Giving to others.

Which means more involvement
in the community.

In order to inspire you have
to connect on a deeper level.

What better way to connect
and to celebrate

than by making this event
more about Christmas

than about some...
some image?

May I also suggest adding
"Christmas" to the title?

Maybe calling it "The Christmas
Inspiration Celebration"?

Right.

Well, see, Christmas is not
necessarily my forté.

Ok. Maybe I'm not the best
person for this job.

Maybe you're right.

Ok. Well, I wish you the best of
luck with everything.

Thank you.

I hope it all goes well.

Wait, no. Jack, just
one sec please.

Rachel, can I talk to you
for a moment?

Yes. Thank you.

We'll just be a minute.

Hey.

What're you doing?

I don't like his approach.

Look, he's the only person
in this town

with enough experience to make
this event successful.

Well, I'm sure we can hire
someone else.

You saw his resumé.

He ran his own company
in Boston.

He knows what he's doing.

Just for now,
for the publishers,

let's see where
he takes this, ok?

Ok, we can try to weave
a little bit of Christmas

into the event.

Ok, that's good news.

Good, good, good.

And see? Look at that.

You're already getting
into the Christmas spirit.

Nice. Ok, we should get started.

Started with what?

Oh, we wanna get you out there
among the people,

soaking in the holiday...

Have you ever been to the town
hot cocoa contest?

I bet even you can't resist
a nice good cup of hot cocoa.

Right, see, I've never really
understood that contest.

I mean, how many ways are
there really to make it?

I don't know.

I guess we're gonna find out
because we are going tonight.

And you're going with me
because this is all your idea.

By the way, the only way I
know how to produce an event

for someone is by getting
to know them

so from now on
you're stuck with me.

Fantastic.

The coffee is spectacular.

Every year they have
the best.

Yeah, but-can you just-

what brought you here
to Fall Oaks?

Because it seems like
you've got a pretty successful

career in Boston.

Oh, this is it.
Hot cocoa contest.

This is it?

Get in there.

Ok.

How long have you been
managing Rachel?

I've been with her
since her first book.

"Spark the Fire Within."

About five years now.

Five. Wow.

In our line of work
that's like a century.

Tell me about it.

It's been a little bit of
a roller coaster ride.

Her second book "You Deserve
it All" didn't do as well

as the publishers
would have liked,

which is why we're doing such
a huge push on "Me First."

And that's why you're here.

This event will guarantee
that we get

our publishing deal renewed.

This is the start of
Rachel Kennedy

becoming a household name
across the country.

Is that what she wants?

Isn't that what we all want?

♪

♪

Hi.

Excuse me?

How can I help you?

Hi, uh, my name is Rachel.

I am looking for Joy.

Well, nice to have you here,
Rachel.

I'm Dennis, and
she's right over there.

Follow me.

Thank you.

Wow, Joy, that
fruit looks great.

I got to the warehouse early.

They donated so much produce...

Hello.

Hi.

Well, if you'll excuse me
I got a lot of work to do.

I'm so sorry, I did follow
you but I just-

I really felt like I needed
to see you again.

Could I buy you
a cup of coffee?

Well, we have coffee
right here.

But first I have to unpack
the bakery goods for the kids.

The kids?

[kids laughing]

I missed you, Joy!

Oh, Natalie.

You saw me yesterday.

It felt like a month!

Sometimes when we
really miss someone

it can seem like forever.

I missed you, too.

I miss all my kids.

♪

♪ Dashing through
the snow, ♪

♪ In a one horse open sleigh, ♪

♪ Over the hills we go, ♪

♪ Laughing all the way, ♪

♪ Bells on bobtails ring, ♪

♪ Making spirits bright, ♪

♪ What fun it is to laugh
and sing ♪

♪ A sleighing song tonight ♪

How long have you known Joy for?

Actually, we just met.

She saved my life.

Joy has a... tendency
to do that.

Mmmhmm.

It's her gift.

She's been teaching
music to these

children for many
years now,

making sure they
all leave with a smile

on their face every day.

Yeah, I can see that.

♪... One-horse open sleigh. ♪

It breaks my heart to think
that this is all going away.

What do you mean,
"going away"?

We just don't have
the funding anymore.

So it looks like we'll be
closing the doors

at the end of the year.

What about these children?

I don't know.

[message alert]

Oh, excuse me.

I'm sorry.

♪ Jingle bells,
jingle bells ♪

♪ Jingle all the way... ♪

Um, I guess the reason
I wrote "Spark the Fire Within"

was to get a grasp
on my life.

When my dad passed away I...
I felt helpless.

I had to redefine myself,

not just as like a girl
with a successful blog,

but as a voice for those
who were hurting like me.

(Joy): Make yourself at home.

I'll just be a minute.

(Rachel): Ok, no problem.

Oh, that's so long ago.

As promised.

Fresh, hot cider.

Thank you.

Were you a classical pianist?

Yes, I was with the East
Massachusetts Philharmonic,

briefly, until uh...

Until what?

I moved to Fall Oaks.

It was not an easy time
for me.

But when I got here

the community centre
really helped me through it,

so now I help others
do the same.

Oh, I know what's missing.

Christmas cookies.

Oh, lovely.

This was my favourite book
when I was growing up.

My parents used to read it
to my brother and I, um,

all of the time.

Oh.

Does your brother
still live here?

In Fall Oaks?

Yes, he does, but,
you know, we-um,

I still haven't had the chance
to see him yet.

Really? Why not?

Um... uh, he um-I just,
you know, I've uh,

I've been busy with the event
and, you know, everything.

I'm sure you're very busy
but he's family.

We make time for what we
wanna make time for, right?

This may seem out
of the ordinary

but I could use your help.

With what?

The work that you do
is special and important.

It inspires me and it reminds me

of why I wanted to make a
difference in the first place.

I could just really use
your help.

I think maybe your idea of
helping people,

um, may be a little different
from my own.

Ok, I understand.

If you change your mind
or if you need anything,

you contact me.

Hmm.

Ok.

Ok.

Do you know how much we spent
on that composer?

Do you know how much music
can affect your audience?

So, what? You're saying
that I need new entrance

and exit music?

Yeah.

Why?

Because it's stale and aloof.

And you are neither of those
things, most of the time.

Excuse me?

Look at this.

[recording] I had
to redefine myself-

That's the girl.

As a voice for those
who were hurting like me.

That is the message
we have to get back to.

Where did that girl go?

Stuart and the publishers
wanted something different.

And if my publishers
are happy

that means that I'm happy.

R- really?

You'd rather make
your publishers happy

than actually help people
who need your help?

Ok, fine.

What do you-what do
you have in mind?

As I said, I think we should
focus on the Christmas spirit.

No. I have already told you,
Christmas is not my forté.

Why do you keep saying that?

Because Christmas is ha-

because it's hard when you've
lost people that you love.

And, you know, being home
doesn't help.

I'm sorry.

No, it's fine, let's just-
let's just focus on the event.

So what do you-
what do you suggest?

What do I suggest?

Something like...

♪

♪ God rest ye merry gentlemen, ♪

♪ Let nothing you dismay, ♪

♪ Rachel Kennedy has come
to save the day! ♪

[strumming]

Yeah, maybe no lyrics.

No lyrics.

[laughs]

Joy is waiting for you.

There she is.

Hi.

You must be Joy.

Yes.

I'm Jack.

Nice to meet you.

Hi, Jack.

Joy. You came.

Anyway, uh, Merry Christmas.

Well, Merry Christmas
to you.

I'll see you tomorrow with
equally impressive lyrics.

I can't wait.

He seems like a really
nice fella.

Yeah. He is.

Please.

Yes.

I've been thinking
about your offer.

Um, what is it exactly that
you would want me to do?

Keep me on track.

Keep me on message.

Like an advisor.

Ah.

An advisor.

Well, you reached out to me
asking me to help you

and I always try to be there
for people who need me,

so I'm in.

To help you.

Really?

Yes.

Fantastic.

I have one condition though.

Absolutely. Anything.

I want you to join me
at the community centre.

Well, I'm not sure
that I have the time

but I was going to tell you

that I would love to make
a sizable donation.

Time is more valuable
than money.

You're right.

What's your estimate, Paul?

Looks like they've upgraded
their lighting package in here.

Yep.

Good.

We'll start building
in the cues tomorrow.

[yawning]

Oh man, go home.

Spend some time
with your wife.

My wife and I thank you.

We're probably gonna
order some pizza.

You wanna come?

Thank you but no,

I got a couple more things
I wanna work on.

[laughs]

There's a reason you don't
have a girlfriend, boss.

Take it easy, buddy.

See you, man.

You really think
it's a good idea

to have the Christmas party
at the place I'm staying at?

It'll be perfect.

Get everyone
out of the office.

Don't worry, I'll keep
the guest list small.

Oh, and by the way,

make sure that Joy
is on the list.

Joy, the woman who saved
you the other day?

Yeah. Oh, and by the way,
she is now part of the team.

Woah. Wait, when
did that happen?

Earlier today.

Why didn't we discuss this?

We just did.

[message alert]

Alright.

Jack? He's taking this
"getting to know you" thing

a little seriously, huh?

[giggles]

Seriously?

You're giggling
and walking away?

Have a good night.

♪

Hey.

Hey.

I'm surprised you said yes.

Well, actually, you're kinda
saving me.

If I had to listen to Stuart
go over the party guest list

one more time...

I- I just thought a
little more festival...

What, would get me
in the Christmas spirit?

Yes.

You're trying to make Christmas
my forté, aren't you?

[laughs]

Come on.

Ok.

Don't be shy with it, really.

That's it.

I'm trying to but I think that
if you push it closer together

then it's gonna-

Well, no, I am.

I'm trying.

It's just-

Ok, I'm sorry but is he-
is he doing this right?

Get more in there.

I know, I have-

[snap]

That's what I was
worried about.

If you push it, it's gonna
break, and it's ok.

It's more fun to-

it's more fun to eat
than to build with.

I don't think this is baked.

It's not baked?

I don't think it's baked.

Is it even edible?

No. Let's go get something
to wash that down with.

[giggling]

Hi there, good evening.

Uh, two Christmas Tinsel
Teas, please.

Christmas Tinsel Tea?

I saw you both from
across the way.

We have a problem
and I need your help.

What?

One of the teams in
the candy cane relay

had to cancel last minute.

The candy cane-

The what?

The relay.

Would you two mind
jumping in?

I don't think-

Candy cane relay?

Yes sir.

Wonderful.

Yes.

Ok.

So what you're saying is
that I'm going to spin around

on this candy cane
five times and then

I'm gonna run down there to that
big candy cane

and go around that candy cane,
come back here,

I give you the candy cane
and then-

And then it's my turn.

Your turn.

It's called a relay.

It's like a relay bad idea.

Oh, ooh, impressive.

That was... wow.

[cheering]

Alright, ready?

Set!

Ho, ho, go!

Go, go, go, go, go, go!

Ok, slow down, not too fast,
not too fast.

You're gonna focus
on something stable

when you come up.

How many has it been?

That's it, that's five!

Go, go, go!

Easy, easy, easy, easy.

That's it, that's it.

Go, go, go!

Go, go, go!

That's five, that's five,
that's five!

No, no, no!

Go this way!
Go this way!

Go, Jack! Go!

[cheering]

Yes!

We have our winners!

[cheering]

Oh my goodness.

[laughing]

Oh... I think
I'm still spinning.

Me too.

[laughs]

There you go.

Oh, hmm.

Well, um, this is me.

Oh, no.

What?

No decorations?

You're that house?

You're that house.

Mmmhmm.

This won't do.

What won't do?

Fire it up.

Ok. Ready?

[gasps]

Bam.

Oh yeah, look at that.

We got lots to do. Come on.
Let's go!

It's a good looking tree.

Yeah.

I actually think that this
might be the best one

that I have ever had.

Actually, when I was young
I used to always choose the tree

that I thought that no one else
would ever want.

You know, so that they would
have a home for Christmas, too.

And my whole family would
always laugh at me

but those misfit trees
always came home with us.

I think that's awesome.

Yeah.

It's been a long time
since I've done this.

Since my dad passed away.

And he had a knack
for gaudy decorations.

He had one of those plastic
Santa Clauses that came up

from the chimney.

Oh yeah. I know the exact one
you're talking about.

Right?

Yep.

I swear that any plane
that passed by

could see that monstrosity.

Oh, and he was
so proud of it.

I haven't thought
about that in so long.

You know, losing my mom
and my dad and the memories

they created for my brother,
David, and me.

I miss that.

I miss that a lot.

But it's nice being able
to remember it

and actually smile about it,
you know?

What about you?

Was Christmas like a...
a big deal in your family?

Oh gosh, yeah.
It sure was.

Was? Past tense?

I lost both of my parents,
too.

I'm so sorry.

Thanks.

It was uh... it was hard
for a long time.

You know, not having...
not having any family anymore.

And I was an only child.

They were both older when
they adopted me, so...

You were adopted?

Yeah.

When I was a baby.

My parents were...
they were amazing.

They never made me feel like
I wasn't part of them.

Hmm. But I still wondered.

What do you wonder?

Just, you know,
where I came from.

My biological parents.

Who they were.

Why did they give me up?

Just... you never stop.

I didn't.

Do you ever think about
trying to find them?

Sure.

Yeah, a lot more now.

Since mom and dad passed

the idea of having
family out there...

you know, makes it
feel a little less-

a little less alone
in this big world.

Yeah.

So yeah, I do wanna find
them someday.

Rachel Kennedy,
I'm telling you,

if this event tanks

we can definitely fall back on
our interior decorating skills.

Or, you know, we could um,

also maybe go pro in
candy cane relay races.

[laughing]

You know, I um...
I have this rule

about getting involved with
people that I work with.

Yes.

It's absolutely fine.

I um... there's-we have
a lot to do.

Yeah.

You know, work always comes...
first.

[knocking]

I got it.

David, hi.

Hi.

I was wondering if you'd
ever come by.

Yeah, I was just waiting
for the right time.

Oh yeah?

How long you been in town?

Oh, right.

Well, I'd invite you in but
Suzie and I were about

to take the kids to school.

It's the last day
before Christmas break, so...

(Suzie): David, we gotta go,
we're late!

Right. Right, yeah.

Um, yeah. I'll let you go.

I'm-I shouldn't have come
by unannounced, anyway.

Well, it's good to have
you back,

and uh, good luck with the event
and everything.

Thanks.

Okay.

Um, and I'm uh, I'm having
a Christmas party, you know,

if you were around and you

and the family wanted
to stop by.

David! David, come on!

You know, it's a pretty busy
time for all of us right now.

Right. Of course.

Anyway, have a good morning.

Thanks, you too.

Merry Christmas, Rach.

And, it's like I said in chapter
four in "Me First."

The true path to success

is clearing away any
unnecessary distractions

and putting yourself first.

Why do you think airlines

tell you to put on your own
oxygen mask first?

Because if you don't
take care of you,

how can you take care of others?

You cannot make anyone happy
until you're happy.

When I finally did this for
myself my whole world changed.

I'm sorry, Joy, what is it?

I'm not sure this is the exact
kind of message

we wanna send
at Christmas time,

or at any time,
for that matter.

Right, I know, um, but
this is directly from my book.

I think it sounds great.

Hey, there he is.

Joy, I'd like you to meet Austin
Holberg of Holberg Publishing,

our publishing house.

Hello.

Pleasure to meet you.

Joy, is it?

Yes.

I'm sorry, Joy, you were saying?

Oh, I think we've heard enough.

Go ahead. I'd like you to finish
your thought.

The thing you say about airplane
passengers and oxygen?

It's counter-intuitive
to help yourself

before you help someone else.

That's why they
instruct you to do so.

It's an exception to the way
people should behave.

And Christmas is a time
of giving.

We all know that.

And giving can cause
a ripple effect,

and I think it-

it should be the message
that we're sending.

That's interesting.

I like that.

I think I'm gonna-I'm gonna
think about that.

Rachel?

If you'll excuse me.

Alright. I'll call you.

Rachel, can I uh, have a moment
with you please?

Just a sec.

Austin is one of the most
important publishers around.

He's flown in in support
of your event.

We agreed to a plan
with him.

You need to stick to it.

You know, ever since
Joy has been around

you seem distracted.

You know what, Stuart?

For years I have been going
a mile a minute,

always focusing on work

so don't talk to me
about distraction.

Look, this could be
our biggest deal yet.

All you gotta do is play along
with what Austin

and the other publishers want
your message to be.

That's it.

Rachel.

I will be right there.

I will figure something out.

Ok.

I hope I didn't speak
out of line before.

No, no, no.

Not at all.

This is the reason
that I have you here.

They need me at
the community centre.

There's a little bit of
an emergency.

Oh no, what is it?

Our annual Christmas party
is about to be cancelled.

The money just isn't there.

The families and the children,
they really need this party.

You know what?

I think I have an idea.

Reggie, hey.

Good.

Listen, um, I need you to do
a background check for me.

Her first name is Joy.

♪

♪

♪ Dashing through the snow ♪

♪ In a one-horse opened sleigh ♪

Can you take this for me?
This is just delicious.

Thank you again so much.

♪ ...laughing all the way ♪

Hey.

Hey.

What're you doing here?

I talked to Bridget,
she told me what you guys

are doing out here so I just
came by to lend a hand.

Wow, that's-that's great.

Actually I just saw Paul
in the kitchen.

Oh, nice.

He said he was gonna come.

Good.

I uh, I brought some
reinforcements,

so put me to work, boss.

Well, actually, today I'm...
I'm not your boss.

Ok, what are you?

Um, do you have
any kitchen skills?

I'm a little bit better at this
than the bussing tables.

Yeah?

Well, then I think maybe
you should stick with that.

Great. I'm gonna
get to work then.

Ok.

Jack?

Yeah?

Nothing.

You ok?

Yeah, yeah.

I'm... never been better.

Good.

♪

♪ Jingle Bells, ♪

♪ Jingle Bells, ♪

♪ Jingle all the way, ♪

♪ Oh what fun it is to ride, ♪

♪ In a one-horse open sleigh ♪

[applause]

It's so nice of Jack to come by
and help out.

Yeah.

I didn't even ask him,
he just kind of...

showed up.

I've been trying to reach
you all day.

There's some things you need
to sign for for your party.

Ok. Well, once I'm done here
I'll get to it.

But you need to sign
for them now.

Like I said, as soon as I'm done
here I will take care of it.

[phone ringing]

Reggie, what have
you got for me?

[]
♪

What is that that
you're singing?

It's called
"Christmas Memories."

I don't think I know that one.

No?

♪ Christmas Memories ♪

♪ Of happy years gone- ♪

Nothing?

♪ Gone by. ♪

[laughs]

Nothing.

I'll sing the whole thing
for you.

Oh, really?

It's an obscure one.

I have this old cassette tape.

Um, some people

my parents knew recorded it
and every Christmas

they listened to it
over and over

and over again.

Yeah, I still have a tape deck
just to listen to that tape.

You do?

Yeah, I listen to it
all the time.

I love it.

It's uh, one of my favourite
Christmas songs

since I can remember.

Well, I like it.

It's nice.

Do you know what else
is nice?

What?

Today.

Today was nice.

Yeah. It was.

You know what?

I um... I think you may have
missed a spot there.

Really? Really?

Yeah. Just a little.

A tiny little spot.

That's weird.

I thought I got it all.

Oh, wait, no.

There's just a little
left on you.

Do I have something-

is there something there?

No. No, you're good now.

I got it.

[giggles]

Oh, I'm sorry.

I didn't know you all were-

I was standing here-

No, it's good.

Um, Paul said he's waiting
for you in the auditorium.

He said you all had cues
to go over?

Oh, cues for the event.

Yeah, no, it's good.

I'm fine.

You wanna-you go, I'll-

Are you sure?

Yeah, no, I'll finish up here.

Yeah, I gotta go.

Ok.

[laughs]

What?

Rachel?

Yeah?

Do you have any further plans
for the evening?

No.

I just-I have um, I'm just
gonna finish these pans

and I just have a little work
to do, that's it.

Would you want to help me
decorate some ornaments?

I made Russian
butterball cookies.

Russian butterball cookies
are my absolute favourite.

I would love to.

Excellent.

I used to decorate
Christmas ornaments

with my mom, my dad,
and David.

It's actually one of
my favourite memories.

Have you reached out
to David?

Yeah, I actually went by
his house.

How'd that go?

Not too well.

But, you know,
what did I expect?

What happened
between the two of you?

Um... when my dad passed
I just had to get away

from everything.

You know, everything
reminded me of him

and so I went away as far
as I could to Los Angeles

and David stayed with my mom.

I sent them money.

I thought that that was like
my way of helping out I guess.

I came back for my mom's funeral
and then I left again.

I think David still holds
that against me.

Well, you have to make
that right.

I think it's a little late
for that.

It's never too late
to make things right.

If you have even
the slightest chance

of having family
in your life,

you don't throw that away,
Rachel.

You know, sometimes I just...

I wish that I could just wake up

and have a second chance
with David.

Don't you know
what they say?

Every day is a second chance.

[Voicemail] Hi, you've reached
the Kennedys.

Please leave a message after
the beep. Merry Christmas!!

[beep]

Hey, David, it's um...
it's Rachel.

I um... I'm just calling
to say that I love you

and I'm sorry
for everything.

Anyway, um...

Merry Christmas.

[carols playing]
♪

Did you try the chocolate cake?

Oh, I'm allergic to chocolate.

Oh, me too.

It's been a pleasure working
with you, Rachel.

Oh, you too.

Hi.

Would you like some cheesecake?

Uh, yeah. Maybe.

I love this suit,
by the way.

Oh, thanks. This old thing?

But I think I'm loving
the tie even more.

You look sensational.

Yeah?

So you gonna ask me
to dance, then?

Yes, I am.

Would you like to dance?

I thought you'd never ask.

So how does this party compare
to your fancy LA parties?

Not as gluten-free.

Um, actually I think I'm
starting to prefer this more.

So how does this compare
to your Boston parties?

Which, actually,

I don't think you ever did
tell me why you left.

Back in Boston I had
a bad falling out

with my producing partner there
and I was done with it.

I wanted out from the city,
the backstabbing,

the fast pace,
just all of it,

and so I got in my car
and started driving

and I stopped in Fall Oaks
to get some food

and everyone here was just...
they were just so nice.

Mmmhmm.

Right?

So nice.

And right at that moment that's
what I needed so I stayed.

Well, I'm happy that you did.

Me too.

Rachel?

Excuse me, sorry.

Uh, could I steal you away
for a sec?

Yeah. I'm sorry.

I totally get it.

Everyone has to talk
to the boss.

I'll be right back.

Thanks.

David.

Hey, Rach.

You came.

Oh, Rach.

You-you didn't have to.

Oh, no, it's-
it's my pleasure.

It's for you, Suzie,
and the kids.

Oh, before I forget,

the kids made you something.

Thank you.

Oh, it's perfect.

So it's been three years
since I've seen you, Rach.

Three years.

Why so long?

I... I've just been busy and,
you know,

wrapped up in all of this.

It's like...
Suzie and the kids

and I don't even exist
in your world.

Sometimes I feel like
I'm being punished.

Punished? For what?

Because I remind you
of mom and dad

and the pain of losing them.

And I know this town
makes you feel like that, too.

I'm-I'm sorry.

You're busy.

Um, you know, you've uh, you've
got a party to get back to

so thank you so much
for the gifts.

Um, and congratulations
on everything.

Thanks.

I think mom and dad
would be really proud of you.

Because I know I am.

Morning, Rachel.

Listen, I need to talk to you
about something.

It's-

Good morning.

Morning.

Good morning.

We can talk later.

I'll come find you, ok?

Ok, great. Thanks.

Everything is looking
just wonderful.

Yeah, I hope so.

I'm still working
on this opening speech

and I'm having a really
tough time with it.

Why don't you run it
by Jack?

He's the producer.

Hey, you didn't happen to see
him leave last night, did you?

No.

We were just having such
a great time

and then all of a sudden
he was gone.

I just-I don't know
what happened.

There he is. Why don't you
ask him?

All the way across.

I think that would be good.

Probably two right there.

Two right up there.

Hey guys.

Good morning.

Good morning.

You ok?

You left without saying goodbye
last night.

I'm gonna go get another
breakfast burrito.

All good.

I just thought I'd leave early.

Just keep things professional
between us.

Oh. Right.

Yeah. Right.

Professional.

Hey, uh, who was that guy
at your house?

Huh?

With the red hair.

Uh, is that what this is about?

No.

Maybe.

That was my brother, David.

[laughs]

That was your brother,
David.

Mmmhmm.

Oh yeah.

Were you jealous?

No. No.

Maybe.

I'm sorry.

[laughing]

Well, maybe we could finish
that dance sometime.

I'd like that.

Yeah.

Um, but first...

I might need your help
with something.

Sure. What is it?

You ok?

Yeah, it's just been a long
time since I've been in there.

Oh yeah, this is the house
you grew up in.

Yeah.

I don't know if I can
do this.

Well, I'm here to make sure
you can.

Thank you.

[doorbell rings]

Hey.

Hey.

Suzie said you might
be stopping by.

Yeah.

Oh, this is uh, my uh,
my producer.

Hi. Jack.

Hi.

Nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you.

Well, come on in.

Great.

Because we are making
the world famous

Kennedy Christmas popcorn balls.

Stop it.

You're still keeping up
with mom's tradition?

Every year.

Actually, it is a Kennedy
circus in there.

Rachel, it is so good
to see you.

So good to see you.

Hi. I'm Suzie.

Hi. Jack.

Nice to meet you.

Oh, I um... I wanted
to personally invite you

to the event.

It wouldn't be the same
without having

you and the kids there.

Thank you.

Yeah.

And also I'm sorry for not
stopping by earlier and um,

for not being there for you
and the kids.

I know that it doesn't fix
things but I would really like

to be a part of
the family again.

Yeah. Yeah.

Well, you guys wanna
hang out for a bit?

Yea-yeah.

Yes, we would love it
if you all could stay.

Absolutely.

Great. Putting you to work.

We can be put to work.

Ok, let's go.

Come on.

Ok.

I'll take your coat.

Ok, thanks.

Look who's here!

Auntie!

Hi!

[squealing]

Oh my god,
you're so big!

♪

♪

It was a great day.

They're good people.

Yeah.

By the way, I have thought
about your idea

and I think you're right.

We should call it the Christmas
Inspiration Celebration.

Really?

Yeah, really.

Wow. Ok.

So I should probably go.

Stuart's waiting for me.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Sure.

Ok.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Yeah.

Three days 'til the big show.

Don't stress,
it's in good shape.

Fingers crossed.

[knocking]

Hey.

Where were you?

I was with my family
and Jack.

You seem to be spending
a lot of time with Jack.

And with Joy.

I didn't know that was
a problem.

Well, we do have a problem.

I hate to be the bearer of bad
news but your friend Joy

has a background we should
be concerned about.

If that gets into
the wrong hands

it could be some very
bad press for us.

Joy has an arrest record?

Mmmhmm.

Where did you get this?

Does it matter?

Rachel, my first priority
is to protect you.

You do understand that,
don't you?

Good.

So what're we gonna
do about this?

Over the front of
the audience first

and then we can do it again
in the back.

I think that would be the best
if we could um,

kinda tease that out
a little bit.

What do you think?

Ok, and then we can have
Santa come over

and land on your head here.

We could bring some
reindeer in-

Wait. What?

What?

I'm just making sure
you're paying attention.

Are you ok?

[sighs]

Stuart showed me something
and it's just...

been upsetting me all morning.

What did he show you?

Um, something about Joy.

She did something.

What did she do?

I guess she stole some money.

It was a long time ago.

Do you know why she did it?

No.

I don't-I mean,

I just can't have the press get
a hold of this.

I mean, you know how they
can embellish everything

and we just can't afford to have
bad press with the event

and the book release
in a few days.

Who cares what
the press thinks?

Just think about Joy and
what she's done for you,

and who she is now.

I know.

I know. I-you're right,

I'm... just, with
all this pressure

I just haven't been
thinking clearly.

Listen to me.

Don't worry about this event.

It's gonna be spectacular.

You think?

If it comes from your heart
how can you go wrong?

[knocking]

Hi, Joy.

Come on in.

Thanks for coming by.

I brought you this.

I thought it might give you
a little inspiration

for your event.

The stories in here have always
been so precious to me

my whole life.

I do love the message
in that book.

I feel uncomfortable, um,
bringing this up, but...

Where'd you get that?

Stuart brought it
to my attention.

Stuart.

And look, I'm not trying
to point any fingers, but,

you know, if the press
gets a hold of this

they're always looking
for a good story,

especially when it comes to-

Your reputation.

I understand.

I understand, too, that we
all do things that we regret.

Yes, we do.

I had a son.

I met his father when he was
a conductor at the philharmonic.

I was very young.

I thought it was love.

When he found out I was pregnant

I found out it wasn't.

I was forced to leave
the orchestra.

I took a job at a department
store, part-time.

But when the baby came
it wasn't enough.

I couldn't get by.

I took some money
from the cash register.

I was caught and arrested.

I wanted so much more for my son
than I could ever provide.

There was this couple,

wealthy donors
to the symphony,

who were looking
to adopt at the time

and I knew they could give him
a so much better life

than I ever could.

I gave up the only family
I would ever have.

I've lived with that every day
of my life.

I wouldn't wish that loneliness
on anyone.

When I finally got back
on my feet

I made a promise that I would do
everything in my power

to help anyone
who ever needed help.

So here.

Life is messy, Rachel.

But sometimes, if we get
through the mess,

we find out who we really are.

I'm sorry, I have to go.

[sighs]

That one.

That one sounds a little low,
doesn't it?

I'm so sorry I'm late.

No worries.

We're just wrapping up
a few sound things here,

make sure we're all locked in
for tomorrow.

Ok, great.

Oh, that's one of my favourites.

Yeah?

Joy gave me this
for inspiration.

She gave you what
for inspiration?

The uh, The Apple Garden.

I love that book.

So good, right?

Oh, no, no, no.

That book has been traumatizing
kids for decades.

I beg to differ.

Do you?

Ok, Scrooge.

Did you have that chat
with Joy yet?

Yes, I did, and I hate myself
for even bringing it up.

I've now made a huge mess.

Oh, well, maybe go fix it.

No, no, no time for fixing.

We have the event
in less than 24 hours.

We have to do run-throughs.

Bridget?

Look, there's plenty of time.

We have all the time in
the world for run-throughs.

Some things are more important
than work.

Yeah, you're right.

Ok, I'm gonna do it.

She's at the community centre.
I'll be right back.

Ok.

Wow.

[playing piano]
♪

[clapping]

I'm so sorry for bringing up
your past like I did.

I should never have
done that.

You have been nothing
but kind and open to me.

The last thing I would want
would be to cause you trouble.

No.

No, you have never
caused me trouble.

I only see you as
who you are today.

Please, can we just
put this behind us?

Thank you.

Hey.

What is it?

How is this photo in the book
Joy gave you?

This is the exact same photo
that my parents

had on our mantle.

This is me.

What?

Is Joy...

is she my mother?

I- I don't know.

Did you know about any-
did she know-

No!

All I know is that I-I just
found out that she had a son

and she gave him up for adoption
a long time ago.

The photo that you're holding
in your hand must be of him.

Or, I don't know,
I guess of... you.

What do I say to her?

It's just like you told me.

If it's coming from
your heart then how

can you possibly go wrong?

Something hit me
when I first saw you.

I just didn't know
what it was.

I looked all over
for that picture.

I thought I had lost it.

Where was it?
Where'd you find it?

The Apple Garden.

It was in the copy
you gave to Rachel.

Right.

I cannot tell you how often
I looked at that picture.

Over and over and over.

It was all I had.

I was not allowed to have
any contact with you.

Do I have brothers
and sisters?

No.

I had only one child.

A beautiful baby boy.

I've held you, in here,
for 35 years.

I've made up all these-these
stories in my mind about...

about why you would
give me up for adoption.

Was I not good enough?

Was I not-

You were perfect.

You were perfect.

I was so young and so...

alone,

and so unable to give you
the kind of life that I...

I wanted you to have.

Did you have
a good life?

Have you had a good life?

Yeah.

It's been pretty good.

Pretty good.

I'm sorry, this is all-

it's just a little too much
for me to-

for me to soak in right now.

I just... I just need to take
a little time and-

and let it all sink in,
I think, if that's...

Of course.

If that's ok with you.

Of course.

Take-take all the time
you need.

Ten percent gain on-
that one there?

Yeah, I think so.

Hey.

Joy.

I was looking for the piano.

I need to clear my head.

Would it be ok if I play?

Perfect timing.

We're just about to sound
check it, anyways.

Please. Please.

Be my guest.

So are you still heading back
to LA right after the event?

I tried to get here
on time but...

Hey, that's not a problem.

You ok?

I think I'm in a much better
place now, yeah.

Thanks.

Thank you for...
for being there.

♪

That can't be.
Is that-

It's Joy on the piano.

No, the... the song.
"Christmas Memories."

That... the piano,
that's the same exact one

from the tape I told you about
when I was younger.

[piano playing]
♪

[piano playing]
♪

[piano playing]
♪

[piano playing]
♪

[piano playing]
♪

[piano playing]
♪

[piano playing]
♪

♪ There's a blanket of snow, ♪

♪ Covering up the old road, ♪

♪ To the house where
I was raised, ♪

♪ Through the window
I see, ♪

♪ The lights on the tree, ♪

♪ And a glow from
the old fireplace, ♪

♪ Though it all looks
the same, ♪

♪ So much has changed, ♪

♪ From the way
it used to be, ♪

♪ Christmas memories, ♪

♪ Of happy years gone by, ♪

♪ They come back to me, ♪

♪ And keep me warm inside, ♪

♪ Still those
Christmas memories, ♪

♪ Oh they mean so much
to me, ♪

♪ Oh those Christmas
memories, ♪

♪ Make me cry ♪

♪

♪

That's a good one.

You think so?

We should-

that actually happened.

We can use that.

Oh no.

No, no, no.

Are you tired?

Uh, no.

Maybe just a little.

[laughs]

Oh. I'm gonna go score
some candy canes

to boost our blood sugar.

Yes. Ok.

Hey.

Um... thank you.

You know that I could
never have done

any of this without you.

I couldn't have made it through
the last 12 hours without you.

Ok.

(Austin): Are we all ready
for tomorrow?

(Stuart): Yes, and you won't
be disappointed.

(Austin): Good.

(Stuart): I just sent you a
video I took with my phone.

It's footage of Rachel
volunteering

at the Fall Oaks
community centre.

How's that for a home grown
Christmas story?

Of course, Rachel did this
to strengthen her brand,

for us, and for you,
the publishers.

Are you sure Rachel's
in line with this?

Of course she is. It's been
her plan all along.

Did you run this by
her events producer?

After tomorrow Jack
will no longer be needed.

Rachel will be back on the first
flight to Los Angeles.

She will have forgotten
all about him.

This is business, Austin.

Business always
comes first with Rachel.

Yes.

What's wrong?
Where are you going?

I trusted you with so much.

You know how hard
that is for me?

What're you-

what?

How much would you exploit
for a book sale, huh?

You were just using the people
of this, using me,

to get a better book deal?

What're you talking about?

Oh, you don't know?

How about you go ask Stuart?

I just heard him explaining
the whole thing to Austin.

I can't believe I let
my guard down with you.

Wait... Jack?

Now he wants nothing
to do with me.

Well, he's going through
a lot right now.

He's scared.

Just like you.

It means you care
about each other.

Every day is a second chance.

We have, what, 12 hours
'til the event?

What're you doing?

I am making things ok.

With a little Christmas magic.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

[laughs]

Hi, David.

Hi, Suzie.

I'm Bridget.

Let me show you
to your seats.

Great.

All the new changes are set.

I cannot thank you enough,
Paul.

Is Jack here?

Oh, not yet.

I gotta get back to the booth.

Have a good show.

Thanks.

Ok.

Rachel, what's going on?

I've been trying to call you.

What did you and Austin
talk about last night?

Um... I-I sent him
a promo package

showing how generous
you'd been in the community.

I never asked you
to do any of that.

Good to go?

Yeah. Your headphones
are right there, bud.

Is that what you were filming
from your phone, Stuart?

Oh, sorry, that's uh...
just checking on Rachel's-

No, no, no. Don't turn it off.

Leave it on, please.

Yeah, I wanted to make sure
that you got credit

for all the charitable works
you've been doing.

Isn't that what this has
been all about?

Is that what you think?

And what did you say
about Jack?

Nothing.

Look, I think you should
concentrate on what-

No, Stuart.

I want you to answer me.

What did you say about Jack?

I may have said that
after this event

we won't need him anymore.

Because he's been a distraction
and frankly so is Joy.

What does it say in chapter
13 in your book?

Distractions mean disaster.

I trusted you.

As my friend.

But I was wrong.

I was wrong
about a lot of things.

Rachel, I have always
had your back.

Yeah, only when
it benefits you.

I used to be the same way.

I think that it's best if we go
our separate ways for a while.

Have a safe flight back
to LA.

[crowd murmurs]

Okay, here we go, shh!

♪ Silent night, ♪

♪ Holy night, ♪

♪ All is calm, ♪

♪ All is bright ♪

Hello everyone.

I'm Rachel Kennedy!

[applause]

Two weeks ago
I asked you

to look at yourselves
in the mirror.

I said in order to be happy

you have to make yourself
happy first.

But tonight I would like you to
do something different for me.

Look around.

Look at the faces on your right
and on your left.

Those faces.

Maybe it's time we started
putting them first.

At Christmas, and throughout
the entire year,

we all need a little help.

We all need to be reminded
that we are not alone.

[applause]

It took a little Joy

and a Jack of all trades

to show me the true spirit
of Christmas.

But I think that we should
all be living

the true spirit of Christmas
all year 'round.

And Christmas spirit
is about giving.

Because someone once
reminded me

that inspiration should never
be expensive,

so all proceeds from
tonight's event,

and a portion of book sales
will go directly

to the Fall Oaks
Community Centre.

[cheering and applause]

But finally,
most important,

Christmas spirit is about love.

[applause]

♪

♪ Joy to the world, ♪

♪ The Lord is come, ♪

♪ Let earth receive her king, ♪

I like what I hear.

You got yourself
another book deal.

Thank you so much.

Congrats.

Thank you.

I heard everything
you said to Stuart.

I'm so sorry.

Hey. Christmas spirit
is about forgiveness.

Get back out there.

♪ ...Heaven and nature sing ♪

[applause]

Now who is ready to make this
the best Christmas ever?

[applause]

♪ Angels we have heard
on high, ♪

♪ Sweetly singing o'er
the plains, ♪

♪ And the mountains in reply, ♪

♪ Echoing their joyous
strains, ♪

♪ Gloria, ♪

♪ In excelsis Deo, ♪

♪ Gloria, ♪

♪