Heaven Down Here (2023)

[bunniefuu]

Let us adore him

Lift up your voices

Sing it out loud

Sing it out clear

[Imani]

Don't forget the sprinkles.

[Roxy] Okay, Mommy.

Hey, Julian,

put a little bit of sugar

on those cookies, huh?

Yeah, perfect!

[laughing]

Great, babies.

[radio playing]

Oh, it's our song!

Come on, get your microphones.

Get your microphones!

Ready? Here we go. Here we go.

Dashing through the snow

On a one-horse open sleigh

Over the fields we go

Laughing all the way

Ha, ha, ha!

- [phone ringing]

- Oh, hold on, guys.

I'll be right back.

Keep... keep decorating.

[phone ringing]

[sighing]

Hi, Dan.

[Dan sighs]

Imani, hey, listen.

I'm gonna need you

to come in today, okay?

A singles group

booked off an entire section

for their annual

Christmas Eve mixer,

so I'm gonna need

the extra hands, all right?

Dan, I can't. I can't.

It's a lunch shift.

You'll be home by 6:00 p.m.

Dan, I promised the kids

that I would spend

the whole day with them.

I can't go back on that.

Imani, I'm not trying

to be a Grinch here,

I'm really not,

but may I remind you

what "at will" employment means?

Yeah, well,

I'll just have to risk it.

Mommy, come!

Let's finish the cookies.

[laughing] Of course!

Re...

[dial tone beeps]

[piano playing]



[children and Pastor Felix]

Go tell it on the mountain

Over the hills

and everywhere

Go tell it on the mountain

That Jesus Christ is born

That Jesus Christ is born

[playing a flourish]

[chuckling]

[child] Merry Christmas!

Oh!

I've been touched by an angel.

Thank you, children,

for that wonderful performance,

and thank you all

for coming today.

I know you have a lot to do

for Christmas,

but I want to put in

a personal appeal

for our annual Christmas

Mission dinner for...

w-well, for those

with nowhere else to go.

[speaking over noise]

This is an important cause.

Like the Bible says,

"Let us not love in word,

but in deed."

So if you can... if you can make

time in your busy schedules,

please talk to Gladys

on your way out.

Spread the word!



Thank you.

Merry Christmas.

[sighing]

[Clara]

That color washes you out.

You need to wear

more autumn colors.

Seriously? I-I love this color.

Mom, let's just eat.

Are you okay

with me leaving in January?

Of course.

I mean, I don't understand

why you need to go

cross-country for school.

Los Angeles

is no city of angels.

[chuckling] I actually

think you'd like it.

Lots of sunshine,

and it's the top film school

in the country.

You know,

how about we just, um...

focus on making Christmas great

tomorrow?

I'm making our special dishes,

and, of course,

grabbing your favorite

Black Forest cake.

[laughing]

My favorite when I was like 10.

I'm paleo these days.

What are you talking about?

You love Black Forest cake!

[sighing] Mm.

Never mind.

It sounds delicious.

You know...

I could go with you.

Mom?

I need to do this on my own.

Okay? But you can

visit me any time you like...

for a few days.

[chuckling]

Oh, I-it's just an idea.

I was trying to help you.

Oh, God.

God forbid that I be late

for Ms. Nancy.

You know, she's the one dying,

but... [chuckling]

she just might k*ll me

in the process.

[chuckling]

Okay, just be careful!

It's supposed to snow!

Love you.

Love you too.

[sighing]

[banker] I've already

given you two extensions.

There's no more I can do.

If we don't receive payment

by January 1st,

this account

is set to go to collections.

Listen... [sighing]

our family

has been through a lot

since I lost my husband.

We just need a little more time.

I'm truly sorry for your loss,

but unfortunately,

there's just nothing more

I can do.

Yeah. Yeah, you said that.

Um, I understand.

Well, if that's all,

then, Merry Christmas,

and please hold...



[dialing]

[call ringing]

Hey, Dan.

Imani!

[call ringing on speaker]

[ringing]

[man] Hello?

Max.

How are you, my friend?

Listen, I'm...

I'm just checking in.

How we doing

on your company's donation

for our annual

Christmas Mission dinner

for the homeless?

When is that again?

It... it's tomorrow.

Right. Uh, listen.

I'm sorry, man.

Word from the board is that

they wanna change up

the end-of-year giving.

Change... change it up?

They've donated

for the past five years.

I know. It's not my decision.

I'm sorry, man.

Yeah. Yeah, m... me too.

Okay.

Merry Christmas, Max.

Same to you.

[hanging up]



[chuckling sadly]

I'm sorry.

I couldn't help but overhear.

Should...

Should we cancel the dinner?

No! No, no, no, no.

No, we will... we will

figure something out.

I will...

[drawer opening]

go to the grocery store

and see what's on sale.

Are you sure that's enough?

Loaves and fishes, Gladys.

[bills crinkle]

Loaves and fishes.

[Roxy and Julian] We wish you

a merry Christmas

We wish you

a merry Christmas

And a happy New Year

Roxy, Julian, I gotta go.

Have a great time

with Auntie Ellie.

Mommy?

When are you gonna come back?

Oh, I will be home in time

to tuck you in.

These are for you,

in case you get hungry.

Oh! This will be a great snack,

sweetie. Thank you.

[Roxy] No problem.

Come to me, love. Mm!

[car starting]

Bye, babies!

I love you.

I'll be back soon.

[car honking]

[laughter]

[radio] Ooh, this nor'easter's

blowing into Philadelphia

faster than Santa

and his reindeer,

so it's a perfect reason

to spend Christmas Eve

inside with your loved ones.

I'm leaving you

with this beautiful tune.

This is "Heaven Down Here"

by Mickey Guyton.

Hey, God, it's me

I hate to be a bother

But I could use

a minute or two

Yeah, I'm just so...

Heartbroken

Disappointed

In the way this world

is coming unglued

And I can't help but wonder

Are you?

If you got a little love

left in your back pocket

[radio playing]

Rain it down like pennies

All righty. Here you go.

Well, that took long enough.

Is it even still hot?

It should be a good temperature.

You tell me.

It's fine.

Turn that music off.

- O-kay.

- [clicks radio off]

I'm gonna get you your blanket.

I don't want a blanket.

Well, it started

snowing outside.

You don't want to catch a cold...

I don't want you babying me.

Just... go sit in the kitchen!

On second thought,

go to the attic.

The attic?

Yes. The attic.

There's a box up there

with some Christmas ornaments

I haven't seen in a while.

Bring 'em to me.

You don't even have a tree.

Oh, thank you

for stating the obvious.

[sighing]

I'm your nurse,

not your servant.

I would ask

that you be respectful.

Fine!

Bring me the box

from the attic...

please.

[sighing wearily]

[sighing]

[stairs creaking]

[wheezing] Hello.

Diane, this is Clara.

I can't do this assignment

any longer.

Nothing has improved.

Nothing!

[panting] No.

I will stay till the New Year...

[wheezing] ...but then

you must reassign me, okay?

[sighing]



Ding, dong, Christmas song

Sing, sing, sing along

Ding, dong, ding, dong

[struggling]

Okay. Oh...

Oh, oh, oh.

[Dan] More dishes, please.

[clearing throat]

You're late.

In case you haven't noticed,

there is a snowstorm coming.

Traffic was a nightmare.

[Dan] You ever hear

it's better to give no excuse

than a bad one?

[she scoffs]

Well, look at you!

Getting into the spirit?

Well, it's good for business.

Got one for you right there.

Oh, no. That's all you, Dan.

Tables two and 16!

[dings bell]

And that's all you, Imani.

Merry Christmas to you too, Dan.

- What's that?

- Nothing!

[wheezing]

[sighing]

Oh! [stumbling]

Oh. Oh...

Oh, you won't believe it.

I don't know how I'm supposed

to find anything in this mess!

I could be up here all night.

Oh... mercy.

[exhales] What?

[laughing]

[radio] Deck the halls

with boughs of holly

Fa-la-la-la-la

[engine dies]

No me digas!

[engine turns over]

'Tis the season to be jolly

Fa-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la

Fill the mead cup

Drain the barrel

[engine dies]

[Felix sighs]

Oh, I see!

We're in

an Old Testament mood today.

Very funny.

No puede ser.

[shivering]

[zipping coat]

[winds whooshing]

[grunting]

[snow crunching]



[doorbell jingles]

Aah!

Ooh. Imani, can you please

set up tables four and seven?

The singles group is gonna

be here in an hour, okay?

I set them up

when you first asked me

20 minutes ago, Dan.

Fine. Start on the drinks, then.

Man, this storm's

really kicking up, huh?

I hope we're out of here

before it gets too bad.

Fingers crossed.



- [Felix grunting]

- [snow crunching]

[sighing]

Oh...

Hey there!

You need some help?

Oh, I called a tow truck.

- Oh.

- It'll take some time.

Come on in while you wait.

We just put on

a fresh pot of coffee.

Thank you.

Could you tell me where's

the closest grocery store?

[Imani] They're all closed.

It's Christmas Eve.

[exhaling deeply]

You got any spiked eggnog?

That kind of day, huh?

[chuckling dryly]

Well...

[winded] ...there's, uh,

some really

beautiful artwork in here.

[opening clasps]





Ms. Swanson?

Shall I help you

put this stuff out?

Oh, for years, I haven't

decorated for the holidays.

What's the point?

There's nothing to celebrate

and no one to celebrate with.

I just needed

to see them once more.

This may be my last Christmas.

This stuff is beautiful.

Hmm.

This is my daughter's work...

Noelle.

We named her that

because she was born

on Christmas Day.

I didn't know

you had a daughter.

Will you and Noelle

be getting together

this Christmas?

No.

She was

a very talented artist...

the youngest person

to win a scholarship

at the Institute of Art

of Chicago.

No one had

her attention to detail.

Oh, you see here?

The Star of Bethlehem emblem

is carved into each piece.

- Yeah.

- Yes.

That's the signature

for a Noelle Swanson original.

[Clara] Oh, my!

Is this your daughter?

This is personal!

Of course. I-I just thought

that maybe you would want

to reach out...

Don't you have something to do?

Yes.

Can I get you some more tea?

I have everything I need.

Okay.

[recorded voice]

We're experiencing delays

due to unforeseen

weather conditions.

Please stay on hold

for an update on your request.

Your estimated wait time

is four hours.

[Felix] Four hours.

[Imani] That doesn't sound good.

Is there anyone

that can pick you up?

Family?

- [phone buzzing]

- Oh.

[buzzing]

Hey, Ellie. What's going on?

Hey, Imani.

I hate to bug you at work,

but Julian's upset.

I think he's having

a panic att*ck or something.

I don't know

if it's the storm or what.

I tried to calm him down,

but he only wanted you.

Could you talk to him?

Of course, of course.

Put him on.

[Ellie] Okay. I've got Mommy.

Hey, J!

How you doing, buddy?

I can't breathe.

[wheezing]

My chest hurts.

I wish you were here.

I know.

And I feel awful,

but we can do this, right?

[sniffling] Yeah.

Good.

Just sit on the floor,

like we do.

Yeah, now,

put your arms up, up...

and stretch to the sky!

Okay, I'm gonna count.

On one, breathe in,

and when I get to five,

breathe out.

Ready?

One...

[breathing deeply]

two... three...

four...

five.

[blowing out]

[exhaling]

How's that feel?

Better.

[chuckling] Awesome.

You are such a strong kid.

[Julian] Will you be home soon?

[Imani] Yes, sir! [chuckling]

Um, okay, sweetie, I gotta go.

I love you so much.

Love you too, Mommy.

Love you guys!

[smooching]

[blowing kisses]

[Dan] Table six!

Steak medium rare.

Um... I am so sorry

for sitting at your table

like this.

No, no worries.

[chuckling]

That seemed important.

I take it that was your son?

Julian.

Um...

my husband passed away

around this time last year,

and since then, he's been

having these panic att*cks.

Well, you...

you handled it very well.

[chuckling]

I enjoy bearing witness

to a mother's love in action.

"As a mother comforts her child,

I will comfort you."

Isaiah 66:13.

That's beautiful.

Thank you.

[clearing throat]

Imani, if you wanna sit,

you know, clock out,

take a break.

Thank you.

- Back to work.

- Of course.

Thank you.

[Dan] Here we go!

Number two special!

Hi.

Pastor Felix Montes.

Looks like you're the man

in charge around here?

That's right.

Dan Russo.

What can I do for you, Father?

It's Pastor.

Or Felix is fine too.

Whatever you say, Fester.

- Felix.

- Hmm?

Never mind.

'Tis the season of giving,

and I was wondering

if you'd be willing

to donate some food

from the diner

to our church's holiday dinner

for the homeless tomorrow.

I-I-I don't think so.

I'm sorry.

It's fully tax-deductible.

Also, we could add

your business to our website,

send a ton of traffic your way.

Listen, this is a business,

so if you want food,

you'll have to pay for it.

All right.

How much will this pay for?

About two dozen hoagies.

You want 'em?

That's not nearly enough.

We have to feed 200 people,

at least.



You know, you might want

to cut your waitress some slack.

Seems like she's

the only one here

who actually understands

the meaning of Christmas.

[Dan chuckles wryly]

You know what? Uh...

actually, here.

This one's on me.

Merry Christmas!

God loves a cheerful giver.

- [doorbell jingles]

- [wind roars]

Okay, so...

Sylvie is here to relieve me,

so I'm gonna be on my way.

[distantly] Okay.

Is there anything I can do

for you before I leave?

No.

You know, I can, uh,

take this stuff back...

Just go home, Clara.

I'm perfectly fine,

and I don't want

to pay two nurses.

All right, ma'am.

Merry Christmas.

Mm-hmm.

Check the table on your way out.



Oh, Ms. Swanson, this...

[snoring lightly]

[quietly]

is so generous.



[file folder falls]



- [call ringing]

- Order up!

[man's voice] Leave a message

after the beep.

[beep]

Hi, Jack.

I-it's Pastor Felix.

Merry Christmas.

I know it's late, but I'm...

I'm in a bit of a bind.

I was hoping maybe

you could donate

some cheesesteaks

for tomorrow's event.

Give me a buzz.

Thank you.

[exhaling deeply]

[Dan] Yes, well, you know,

it really is a shame,

but we look forward

to you dining with us

in the future.

Okay, I understand.

Goodbye.

[exhaling]

I am out of here!

- What?

- Yeah. Single Seniors called,

you know, they canceled

because of the storm.

Dinner service

is gonna be light, I figure,

so why not get my party on?

I agree.

No need hanging out here

if no one's coming in.

No. I do need you to close.

I canceled Jessica's shift,

Jaime can go home after

the last customer is served,

and you... can lock up.

Uh, no.

My shift is almost over,

and I gotta get back to my kids.

Call Jess back.

Well, Imani,

I need a team player here.

Jess has already kinda been

angling for more day shifts.

I would probably have

to give her some of yours.

What? No, no, no.

No, I need...

I need my day shifts.

[Dan] Hey. Couple more hours.

What's the big deal?

No.

No, I'm not staying

past my shift.

Call Jess.

- You sure?

- [keys jingling]

Day shifts.

[Imani sighs]

Fine. I'll stay.

There you go. All right.

Have a good night.

Merry Christmas.

[sighing]

Hey, Mom.

[Clara] Hi, hi!

[chuckles]

I-I'm going to pick up the cake,

and then

I'm heading home to cook.

Cake? What...

Don't worry about the cake!

I just heard that

the buses stopped running.

I-I know!

That's why I'm walking.

[Clara chuckles]

But I need the exercise,

and I love the fresh air.

Okay, Mom,

just please be careful,

and call me when you get there.

Look at you,

worryin' about your mama!

Okay, love you. Bye-bye.

[sighing]



How's the tow coming?

- Oh...

- [phone hits table]

I've given up on that.

You're a man of faith.

You're not supposed to give up.

How are you holding up?

I couldn't help

but overhear your boss.

Yeah.

No one's ever accused Dan of

having too much holiday spirit.

[chuckles ruefully]

If you want to close up early,

I won't tell.

Mm. It's okay.

I just need to power through.

Oh, Merry Christmas!

Uh, h-hey.

Excuse me. Excuse me? Um...

Was there... was there something

wrong with your service?

It was fine.

Well, I'm just wondering why

you only left a dollar tip

on a $75 tab.

Is that how you show

your Christmas spirit?

Look, I don't

have time for this.

My wife and kid are at the car.

Yeah, well, well,

I have kids to feed too.

That's not my problem.

If you're so worried

about your kids,

maybe get a real job

with benefits.

How dare you?

Sad that you have

to tear other people down

to make yourself feel better.

I'm with the lady here.

I think you owe her an apology

and a real tip.

Respectfully...

I can handle myself.

[quietly] You know,

you didn't have to att*ck her

just to make yourself

feel better about being cheap.

If she can't hack it,

it's not my problem.

So... can it

with the goody-two-shoes.

Oh... Father, I...

You were rude to a good person,

doing an honest job,

for no good reason.

God has clearly

blessed you with much.

A pity you choose

to be ungenerous

with those gifts.

Merry Christmas.

All right, I'll admit it.

That was fun.

[Imani, to herself]

You're not gonna go out there

and wring his neck.

[deep breath, sigh]

[humming]

We could use

A little more Heaven

down here

[capping lipgloss]

We could use

A little more

Heaven down here

[exhaling]

[chuckling softly]

That customer had

an amazing change of heart

after I left.

Well, it is

the season of miracles.

Why do I have the feeling

you had something to do

with this particular miracle?

[chuckling]

Well, thank you.

I understand guys like that.

I used to be just like him,

actually.

I didn't always

wear this collar, you know.

[he chuckles]

Until eight years ago,

I worked for

a big venture-capital firm.

All I cared about

was chasing the deal,

climbing the ranks,

even at the expense

of the people that I love most.

When that guy was talking,

I heard myself...

How I used to talk

to coworkers and friends...

family.

He's probably deeply unhappy.

I certainly was.

So how did you end up

in the ministry?

Oh... uh...

I had a really bad year.

I lost my marriage...

my business.

I was forced to take

a hard look at myself

and ask

"What is truly important?"

I always wanted to help people

and guide them,

so...

I left it all behind,

and I enrolled in the seminary.

I bet your past

makes you more relatable

to your congregation.

[chuckling ruefully]

You'd think so, right?

I... I don't know.

The church used to be

so filled with energy and hope.

We had the best choir

in the whole city.

[chuckling]

And now?

Attendance is down,

and our choir director

joined a church across town.

Ouch.

Yeah.

[Imani laughs]

Well, have faith!

I mean, you got that guy

to give me a tip

on Christmas Eve.

You moved his heart.

Yeah, more like I gave him

a guilty conscience.

Either way... it worked.

[chuckling]

I'd be happy to give you a lift

after work, if you like.

Oh!

T-that would be a blessing...

if it's not too much trouble.

No trouble at all.

[winds gusting]

[Clara struggling]



So, be careful

on the roads, okay?

Always am.

Merry Christmas.

- Let's go!

- Oh, hey! You guys...

- Hey!

- Watch where you're going!

Oh. Boy! Scram!

Okay, Boomer. I'll scram.

What are you, 80?

[doorbell jingles]

What's wrong with being 80?

Nothing.

- Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

- [doorbell jingles]

- [wind rushes in]

Aah! Oh. Okay.

Okay, okay.

You know what?

I am done! [laughs]

Everyone!

Everyone,

we are closing up early

because the snowstorm

is so bad, okay?

Thank you.

Bold move. I like it.

[she chuckles]

Uh, Jaime...

um, we're closing up...

Executive decision.

Copy that, boss.

Uh, I just need

about a half-hour or so,

and I will take you home.

Oh, yeah.

Take your time.

[doorbell jingles]

Oh, thank you! Thank you!

[shivering] Ooh!

[gasping]

I don't think I could've

walked one more step.

Your light

was divine intervention.

Ohh!

Unfortunately,

we're closing, um,

so if you were planning to eat...

[Clara] Nope!

Just one Black Forest cake.

Oh, I-I'm so sorry.

I can't ring up

any more transactions.

Oh, well, fortunately,

I prepaid.

Oh. Uh...

Of course!

Of course. You must be...

Clara?

I am. [chuckling]

[Imani] Yes! Oh...

Um, are you having

a big Christmas dinner?

No, just my daughter and I.

I am fixing

all of her favorites,

including a soup

that my mom used to make for me.

Well, cheers to both of us

making it home by Christmas.

[Clara chuckles] Yes.

Back of the house is closed up.

I packed a Christmas spread

for you and the kids.

Figured you could use

a pick-me-up.

Oh, Jaime... thank you.

Oh, oh, oh!

For you and the family.

I... love it.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas.

Mm!

- Okay. Get home safe.

- Yeah.

May I see you to your car?

Oh, well, thank you,

Reverend, but no.

[laughing]

I'm going to walk.

Uh, I don't think

that you can walk.

It's...

[electricity crackling]

[power failing]

[Imani sighs]

What now?

Let's stay calm.

I'll check the fuse box.

Hang tight.

Thank God

for battery-operated lights.

[dialing] Ugh.

Hey, Ellie.

Hey, Mani.

Um, is everybody all right?

The power went out here.

Oh, yeah, we're fine.

It must just be a local outage.

The kids are upstairs

watching a movie.

[exhaling with relief]

Good.

Well, there are batteries

and candles

in the table in the hallway,

then I'm gonna lock up

and head out.

Uh, have you listened

to the radio?

They're saying all

the major roads are closed

because of

the weather conditions.

What? They can't do that.

Yeah, they're calling it

"Snowmageddon,"

and they're saying

stay off the roads

unless absolutely necessary.

But this is necessary!

Look.

Their bedtime

is in a couple of hours anyway.

Just wait out the storm, okay?

As long as you're here

Christmas morning,

they'll understand.

We'll see.

Um, will you put them

on speaker, please?

Okay, hold on.

Kids! Mom's on the phone.

Here they come.

Say hi.

[both] Hi!

So, guys...

I hear you're having

a great time with Auntie Ellie.

[Roxy] Yes!

Are you coming home now?

Uh...

yeah, well,

the storm is pretty bad,

so I am going to stay here

at the restaurant

until it clears up,

and as soon as I can,

I am gonna come home,

and we are gonna open presents!

[Imani laughs]

Okay, well...

I don't want you guys

to miss any of your movie.

Okay. Go ahead.

I love you guys.

[Roxy] Love you too!

Mwah.

Mwah!

[electricity crackling]

[sighing]

[Clara chuckles]

"And God said,

let there be light."

It's a miracle!

[chuckling]

I say we get going

before anything else goes wrong.

[Clara] Yes.

Actually...

I just heard that the city

has closed all of the main roads

until the storm passes.

[Felix] How long

is that supposed to be?

The advisory says...

5:00 a.m.,

and then it'll take

a couple of hours

for the road crews to come in.

We plan, God laughs.



[footsteps approaching]

[Imani] Stay warm.

[Clara]

Oh, thank you, honey.

Who's the handsome guy?

Oh...

it's my son, Bobby.

Are you spending

Christmas together?

Uh... no. No, not this year.

Oh.

Okay, it's getting cold in here.

Um, I'll go get some blankets.

We have a stash

for cold summer nights.

Yeah, don't worry, Jade.

Yes, I'll keep

checking the news,

and if anything changes,

I'll come home.

All right, good night.

I love you.

[chuckling]

[sighing]

[exhaling]



Is that your daughter?

Oh... [chuckling]

No, it's my patient's daughter.

I stole this file

from her today.

Oh... a confession.

You know I'm not

that kind of preacher, right?

You know, I never

understood why Nancy...

Th-that's my patient...

Why she was so...

hostile and difficult,

and then I found

this file today,

and when I showed it to her,

I have never seen her so...

fragile.

I mean, for the first time,

I felt really sorry for her,

and I think

that this young lady

has something to do

with why she's so unhappy.

She must be estranged

from her daughter.

Clara...

what exactly are you planning

to do with that?

Uh...

I...

am going to find

Nancy's daughter.

Dan!

Oh!

What are you still doing here?

I thought you left hours ago!

I did, okay? I did.

I did. I left.

I...

You know what?

My whereabouts...

None of your business, okay?

I can come and go as I please.

It is my business,

because if it weren't for you,

I would've been long gone!

Imani...

Imani! [grunting]

Imani...

[Felix] Are you okay?

We heard screaming.

Oh, I am not even

a little bit okay.

Didn't we see you leave earlier?

Exactly!

[Clara] Who is this man?

This man

is the manager

of this fine establishment.

He forced me to cover a shift

on my kids' first Christmas

without their dad,

only to find out

he was here the entire time

playing video games!

Oh, I will never

buy another Black Forest cake

from you!

You can kick

somebody else around,

but you are not

ruining my Christmas.

What?

What? Do I owe you

an explanation?

No, but you owe her one.

I'm just gonna take

back streets and side streets,

and it'll take twice as long,

but they can't have closed

every single road.

I am getting home to my babies.

In this storm,

that's a bad idea.

It's Christmas.

I have to try something.

You two seem like

good, trustworthy people,

so you can

stay here, if you want,

and Dan can take you home

and lock up...

[keys jangling]

but I have got to go.

Imani...



[struggling]

Okay, all right, all right.

I'm all right.

- I'm okay.

- [pole breaking]

- [crashing]

- [yelping]

[screaming]

- [gasping]

- [power fritzing]

[Felix] Are you hurt?

Anything broken?

No, no, I'm fine,

and I can still drive.

No! That's not happening.

- [storm raging]

- [electricity fritzing]



[sighing]

I'm sorry I ran off like that.

I guess

I just had tunnel vision.

[Felix] I get it.

We put everything on the line

for our children.

[sighing]

It's 7:00.

He'll be asleep in an hour.

I really wanted to tuck them in.

They have been through so much

in their short little lives.

I admire your spirit.



[Dan clears his throat]

Imani, look,

I'm-I'm sorry about tonight, I...

Dan, I really don't want

to hear your lame apologies

right now.

Okay.

Ah... Clara! Felix...

since we are going to be

stuck here

for the rest of the night,

we might as well enjoy

our Christmas Eve together.

A little festive

sparkling cider.

[chuckling]

Cheers...

to Christmas Eve

at Rocko's Diner.

[they chuckle]

Not an evening any of us

planned or imagined, but...

it doesn't mean

we can't make it special.

[bubbles pouring]

Salud.

- Cheers.

- Cheers.

[they chuckle]



[Clara] So, what would

you normally be doing

on Christmas Eve, Felix?

Mm... I'm usually busy

with the Christmas service,

but, back in the day...

[Latin guitar plays]

my whole family would

fly to my abuela's in Houston

forNochebuena.

We would play music...

and dance and eat...

and eat.

[all chuckling]

Just have a blast.



Whatever divisions

or arguments we'd had

over the year

just didn't seem important

in that moment.

I get what you're trying to do.

Reconciliation and forgiveness

is kind of your thing,

but I am not breaking bread

with that man after what he did.

Understood, but...

no one should be alone

on Christmas Eve.

Maybe you can extend

just a little grace?



[whispering] It's Christmas.

Look at him.

Dan?

If you would like to...

bring your plate and join us,

please do.

Yeah.

Thanks.

[whispering] Happy?

[hushed] Good girl.

Tread lightly, love.

Okay.

Look, uh, Imani...

I am sorry.

I didn't realize how important

this whole thing was.

I figured

it was a few more hours

and maybe you were just,

I don't know, being dramatic.

Maybe if you thought

about someone else's feelings

besides your own,

you'd realize the truth.

I get that,

but maybe I'm under a lot

of pressure with this job.

Oh, poor you.

Given a job

handed on a silver platter

by your uncle.

You mean the uncle

that barely respects me?

You really think

he wanted to give

the 28-year-old college dropout

this job?

No. He just did it

as a favor for my mom.

But look,

the bottom line of it is,

I didn't have some big

Christmas party to go to.

I just pretended like I did.

But why?

Oh, I don't know, Pastor.

Maybe I didn't want to admit

that I was a loser

that nobody wanted

to spend time with on Christmas.

Well...

that's just sad, isn't it?

Little bit.

Okay! Well, let's eat.

- Mm-hmm.

- Yeah.

[Felix] I...

[Clara] Yes?

I like to hold hands for grace.

Come on.

[cutlery clatters]

Heavenly Father,

thank you for this food

we are about to receive

that will nourish our minds,

bodies, and souls.

In your name, we pray.

Amen.

[others] Amen.

[Clara] All right!

[Felix] This looks wonderful.

Jaime is the best cook

in Philly, I swear.

I don't know how you got him.

[all chuckling]

Dessert is on me.

Oh, oh, wow.

Oh... my daughter and I

used to make these cookies

when she was a child.

Mm! She loved to bake with me.

[chuckling]

We would make candy and cakes,

and she'd get all sticky.

Black Forest cake,

that was her favorite.

I would buy one every Christmas,

and then I'd dress up

in bright colors

and wrap myself in tinsel.

"Just a little sparkle,"

I'd say.

[laughing]

And we'd sing songs

to the radio.



I miss that time.

This year, she tells me

that she doesn't

like Black Forest cake anymore,

but I know better.

That's why

it was so important for you

to pick one up...

even in a blizzard.

Sounds like a wonderful memory.

Next month,

Jade moves to Los Angeles.

Nothing'll be the same.

You can always visit.

- [crackling]

- Oh...

- Oh, come on.

- No.

All right. It'll be all right.

Ugh.

Okay...

- Oh, my goodness.

- Stay. Just stay.

Oh, you know what, you guys?

I've got an idea.

Hold on.

[Felix] What is she up to now?

I don't know.

[Dan] What, we're doin'

arts and crafts?

[Imani chuckles] I keep this

behind the counter

to keep the kids occupied

while their parents eat.

We are gonna

spruce this place up

so it doesn't look like

a 20-something bachelor

decorated it.

Me?

[giggling gleefully]

We always made

homemade decorations

when I was a kid,

so I'm kind of an expert at it.

[Felix] Thank you.

No reason we can't add

a little sparkle in here.

Thank you!

Yes, ma'am.

Whenever my parents came,

we'd recreate

all the silly traditions

from my childhood.

Oh...

This is all of us,

um, the last time

we were all together.

That's Martin,

before he was diagnosed,

and that's my mom and dad.

You are their spitting image.

Ha, ha. Yes.

When you are the child

of an interracial adoption,

everybody got jokes.

- [laughter]

- My bad.

At least...

they, um, they wanted me.

[Felix] Of course they did.

My parents were

of Scandinavian descent...



so we also celebrated

on Christmas Eve...

Lunch with family and friends

at the smrgsbord,

and then...



home for Christmas caroling.



Look at you!

[laughing]

I used to have the best

Christmases as a kid.

Video games...

snowball fights

in the backyard with my cousin.

Then my parents split up.

It's like everything's perfect,

and then all of a sudden...

[makes exploding sound]

falls apart, you know?

Yeah... I know.

Okay, um...

what do you got?

Well...

Oh, it's...

It's...

A disco ball!

[Felix chuckles]

[laughter]

Oh!

So, what do you got?

Oh, I, um...

[Imani] Dan...

This is...

This is beautiful.

I had no idea you could draw.

A year of art school.

Well...

I didn't... I didn't know

you went to art school.

Wow.

Okay!

- [chuckling]

- Well...

let's make this place Christmas!



Not too shabby, guys.

No.

- What?

- What's wrong?

My tips.

No, I-I put them in this pocket,

I'm sure of it,

and I can't find them.

Are you sure

you put 'em in that pocket?

Yeah, maybe you left them

in your apron?

No, no,

I put them in this pocket.

I-I checked right at closing,

and it...

Oh! That little...

[inhaling sharply]

That boy!

Ugh! I didn't even notice

when he was picking my pocket.

[Dan] Whoa, who are you

talking about?

The neighborhood kids?

They're always

in here causing trouble.

It's gone. It's all gone.

Oh...

I... I can't...

[crying] Oh!

This whole day...

was for nothing.

No, I needed those tips.

The money!

Thieves and pickpockets

are everywhere this season.

You have to find

a more reliable method

of storing your money.

You can't be so careless, honey.

Yes.

[chuckling]

Yes. Yes, thank you, Clara,

for making me feel like

even more of a failure

than I already did.

You sure have a way with words.

I was just trying to help.



Clara didn't mean anything.

Martin and I were always a team.

I don't know if I can

do all this by myself...

and I just keep screwing it up.

Because you're trying

to do the impossible.

Look.

They lost someone they loved.

That's... That's the reality.

All you need to do

is be their mother.

Your love will get them

through anything.

It just feels like...

we're barely holding on.

Bobby...

my son,

he's grown up now.

But when he was little,

I can't remember

how many birthdays

or special occasions

I missed

because I was out of town,

trying to close some big deal

that I thought

was so important...

and now,

my son has cut me

out of his life.

[he chuckles sadly]

When I'm lucky enough

to get through on the phone,

he makes it crystal clear

that he wants distance,

and I can't blame him,

but I also can't keep

b*ating myself up for this.

Look, none of us is perfect...

but you are clearly

an amazing mother.

Never doubt that.

It's Christmas.

Maybe you can call your son.

I already reached out, and...

[sighing]

maybe next year.

I'm sure

you're a wonderful father...

because you're a good man.

[power fails]

[sighing]

But not such

an amazing electrician.

[both chuckle]

[Clara] Imani?

I am so sorry.

I know. It's okay.

And I had no right

to speak to you the way I did.

[Clara sighs]

Jade says that I meddle,

and that I can be too harsh

with my words sometimes.

You've just got

a lot of love to give.

Jade's lucky to have you.

When we moved here,

she was a baby,

and not everyone was kind to us.

I was committed

to protecting her,

and now I fear

that I'm the one who's judging

and finding fault.

It all comes

from a place of love.

I know my parents loved me,

but they were ill-equipped

at protecting me

from the harsh realities

of this world.

But I imagine

they did their best.

You know, I really could've

used an Auntie Clara...

speaking up for me

when I was growing up.

Well...

I was a schoolteacher

back in the day,

so I-I guess it sort of

comes with the territory.

Well...

thank you, Auntie Clara.

[Clara chuckles]

Thank you, Imani.

Whew. Okay.

We need some serious

holiday cheer up in here.

Yes, I agree!

[laughing]

It's been a lot.

About that...

look what we found.

- Oh!

- It's Jaime's.

He's in a band.

I let him store it here.

[Felix] I have an idea

about how to get a little

Christmas spirit going.

Okay. Well, whatcha got,

Preacher?

- Yeah.

- Oh.

Hey!

- Well, there you go.

- Well...

- [laughter]

- That will help!

Mom, is Santa still coming?

I'm worried he won't show

since you're not here.

Yes, Santa is still coming,

but it's bedtime.

But we can't sleep

until you sing to us

like you always do!

I may have something

to help with that.

This is my Christmas Eve gift

to you two.

[she chuckles]



Away in a manger

No crib for a bed

The little Lord Jesus

Laid down

His sweet head

The stars in the sky

Looked down where

He lay

The little Lord Jesus

Asleep in the hay



Sweet dreams, babies.

I love you.

[chuckling softly]

[applauding]

- Oh, thanks, guys.

- That was amazing!

- Thank you.

- Wow.

Where have you been?

My choir needs you.

Mani always kills it

at karaoke nights.

[chuckling]

I always loved to sing.

I even studied it in college,

but...

I knew it was a pipe dream.

I don't think

it's a pipe dream at all.

[Clara] I don't think so.

[Felix] It's a gift.

Still looking at that file?

Oh, I'm trying to find

some contact info

for Nancy's daughter.

Clara, do you really think

it's a good idea

to involve yourself

in all of this?

Oh, no!

What is it?

An obituary.

Nancy's daughter,

Noelle Swanson,

d*ed 30 years ago.

Looks like it was cancer.

The family made a donation

to a cancer research center

in Noelle's name.

Oh! I so wanted to bring Nancy

some Christmas joy.

Clara, this birth certificate,

it's not for Noelle.

It's for a "Denise."

Oh, look at the year...

and the mother's name.

Noelle had a baby.

Oh, Felix...

I can track down

this granddaughter for Nancy.

Clara, you could be walking

into a minefield.

What if Nancy doesn't

appreciate your interference?

Okay.

I know that I can poke my nose

where it's not wanted

sometimes...

[he chuckles warmly]

but you, of all people,

should know

that this season

is about doing for others!

[sighing]

I mean, am I so wrong

for wanting to give

a precious gift

to a dying woman?

Of course not.

I'm just saying...

I just can't do anything right.

- Clara...

- [electricity groans]

Oh, no, not again.

[Imani] This is not good.

All of the food

in the freezer will thaw.

I have an idea.

Come with me!

Come.



Well, we can't do

anything about my problems,

but we can do something

about yours.

We were supposed to host

50 elderly romantics tonight,

but the storm put a wrench

in those plans, so...

do you think

this will work for your dinner?

[Dan] Wait, what?

I-I can't afford this food.

It's already paid for,

and it'll all go to waste,

and Dan wouldn't turn his back

on 200 people

down on their luck,

not on Christmas?

Right, Dan?

- Uh, well...

- I can't just take it.

Okay, you know, you know,

I'll just pitch the whole

write-off thing to my uncle.

Can we just get out of here?

It's very cold.

[Imani] Great, great.

So we'll keep

all the food in the freezer,

and it'll stay cool there.

There you have it.

That is so generous of you.

Well, that's what

Christmas is all about, right?

Bringing a little hope and joy?

I am very grateful to you both.

Yeah, well, I'm sorry

I was a jerk earlier.

You found your way in the end.

- Yeah.

- [chuckling]

I think I can do it.

I can make my soup

with these ingredients

and donate it to your event.

Thank you, Clara.

Okay, let's get to work!

I'm not doing this on my own.

[chuckling warmly]

Yes, ma'am.



Hey, hey!

I told you a fine dice.

It has to blend in.

You should be more worried

about bumping into someone

with a Kn*fe in hand.

[laughter]



[Clara laughs]

No! No, I'm cooking!

Oh, come on.

Show us your moves!



Oh! Felix, you've got moves!

You should share these

with someone special.

Have you ever thought

about getting remarried?

Oh, I already bombed at that.

I've got my church

and my parishioners.

Oh, you should be open

to God's will.

[he laughs]

- Imani...

- Oh!

You take over.

Dan, you're with me.

[Dan] On it!



Woo!

[laughing] Oh!

[chuckling]

Oh.

All right, back to work.

Okay, back to chopping.



"Just a little sparkle."

[laughing]

Thank you!





Okay, enough.

Stop stalking your son

and call him.

You're not doing yourself

or Bobby any good.

Exactly.

It's getting late.

Call the boy. Fix it.

It's not that simple.

Go to him.

Talk to him face to face.

Maybe he'll be more open.

As someone with a complicated

relationship with his dad,

I agree.

[Felix chuckles]

Okay. Okay.

I promise

I will go to see him...

if we ever get out of here.

[Clara chuckles] Good!

Uh, hey. So, um...

I actually...

[paper tears]

drew something for your kids.

What?

I still feel terrible

about tonight,

and I wanted

to do something for them.

I know it's not much, but...

[Imani] Are you kidding?

This is beautiful.

Yeah?

Yes. They'll love it.

Cool.

Why'd you quit art school?

[Dan] You know,

the last Christmas I had

before I left school...

I actually had a blast.



Top of my class.



I had my girlfriend.

My friends and I,

we were inseparable.



A few months after that,

my girlfriend got offered a job

as a designer

at a huge clothing brand

in New York City.

She invited me to go with her.

I said no.

I was a jerk, I-I told her

that maybe we weren't right

for each other after all.

I was just gonna

hold her back, you know?

I missed my moment.

Dan...

your circumstances

may have changed,

but your talent, your value...

That hasn't gone anywhere.

I should cut you some slack.

Ah...

Yeah. I have been

so single-minded

since Martin passed.

It's hard to see what

other people are going through.

Let's be honest.

I was being a jerk to you too.

Mm.

I just wanted people

to respect me.

At least here, you know?

But...

obviously, I went about that

the wrong way.

You know I couldn't run

this place without you, right?

I know.

Okay, good.

[they laugh]

[Clara] Guys...

it's Christmas!

[laughing]

[Imani] Oh! Look at the moon!



[service trucks beeping]

[voices outside]

Hey, guys!

- [startled] Yeah?

- Guys, wake up.

[Felix] What time is it?

It's dawn. And come look. Look.

[grumbling]

[voices outside]

[hoisting]

A white Christmas

and their mom...

I know two little people who

will be very happy this morning.

[Imani chuckles]

[Clara] Well, how's that

for answered prayers?

[chuckles] Helps when

you got a direct line.

Really, I gotta

start going to church.

- [chuckling]

- [relieved sighs]

Oh!

You know, I have to say,

this has been

one of the greatest

Christmas Eves I've had in ages.

Mm.

As fulfilling

as pastoral life has been,

I've been feeling

a little bit uninspired

at church lately, and...

I didn't know what was missing.

But I know now.

It was family.

[chuckling]

And last night,

I felt this...

This sense of family

that I haven't felt

since Bobby was small.

You have all inspired me

to reconnect with my son,

so thank you.



Okay, well, let's not all act

like we're never going

to see each other again.

In fact...

I would like to volunteer

for Mission dinner today.

I'll bring the kids.

Yes! I would love to come,

and I'll bring Jade.

[Imani] Ahem?

Oh, me? You know

I got nothing else to do.

I'll be there.

[laughter]

I love this idea!

Well, then it's settled.

Oh, so sorry.

Clara?

Mm-hmm?

Why do you have

a picture of me as a baby?



You?

No, honey, that's, um...

[Dan] What? You're...

You're sure that's you?

I only have one baby picture

before I was adopted,

and if that wasn't

enough proof...

this puts any doubt to rest.



The Star of Bethlehem emblem

is carved into each piece.

Oh, it can't be.

What is going on?

What do you know about

your adoption, honey?

My parents never

gave me much information.

When I got older, I pushed,

but they weren't forthcoming.

I figured

it was something ugly, like...

like I was abandoned,

s-so I didn't press.

Why?

I think I know

who your mother was...

and who your grandmother is.

What do you mean, Clara?

[Clara] Okay.

My employer, Nancy,

she had a daughter, Noelle,

who was an incredible artist.

Noelle d*ed

and left a baby behind...

you.

And your grandmother has

been looking for you for years.

This... [paper rustling]

is a picture

of Nancy's granddaughter,

and I didn't realize it

until now,

and your... certificate...

Noelle had a baby girl,

"Denise Imani."

You are Nancy's granddaughter.

This is wild. I...

[chuckling in disbelief]

Your mother

put a Star of Bethlehem

on all of her artwork,

just like the one

underneath your collarbone.

No.

No. I...

This can't be, and I don't...

I don't believe you.

Imani, your name...

it means "faith and belief."

Are you really ready to look

past this wondrous miracle

on... on Christmas Day?

You weren't unwanted,

and you certainly

weren't abandoned.

You were given

to a loving family,

and your birth family

has never stopped

thinking of you.

You're loved.



[crying] I was loved.



Imani...

are you okay?

I don't know.

I think I'm processing

a lot of emotions...

fear, gratitude,

excitement.

It's a lot.

I try to just accept

God's gifts for what they are.

[he chuckles]

Oh!

Looks like Mr. and Mrs. Claus

had a rough night.

- Oh, ho!

- Ooh!

Hey, hey, hey!

I was wondering if I would

see these guys again!

[Dan] Are you all right?

Well, now

you're just showing off!

[chuckling to himself]

Speaking of gifts from God...

[gasping]

My tips?

You must have dropped them

when you tried to leave.

Well, I can't believe

they're still there.

Thank you!

[Clara] His wonders to perform.

[Clara] Okay, be careful.

Be careful.

[Imani] You good?

[Clara] You can hold

onto the banister.

[loud knocking at door]

If you're carolers,

I'll tell you

like I told the others.

Go away!

- [door opening]

- Clara?

What are you doing here?

I know that it's early,

but I have a special

Christmas gift for you.



Noelle?

No.

I'm Imani.

Oh, babies?

Babies, come.

And who are you?

I'm Roxy.

I'm Julian.

Nice to meet you.

Well, it's nice to meet you too.

Welcome.

She was so talented.

[chuckling]

Julian is a really great drawer,

so maybe he inherited

his talent from her?

I don't doubt it.

I have something for you.

Um, this was in Noelle's things,

addressed to you.

[Clara] Hey, guys.

Do you want

to go up in the attic

and find some really cool toys?

- Yeah!

- All right, come on.

[envelope rustles]

[exhaling softly]

"Dearest baby girl,

it has been

the privilege of my life

bringing you

into this world."

"I write this letter

to let you know a few things

that I wish

for your future."

"First, I wish that you grow up

in a family full of love."

I did.

[quietly] Good.

"I hope you embrace everything

this world has to offer

and that you get to experience

the miracle of motherhood."

"Even for

this brief moment of time,

it has transformed my life

in ways I never expected."

"I love you...

my sweet."

[exhaling softly]

When my parents passed,

I was wondering more and more

about my biological family.

Where I got my nose...

my voice, or...

my hatred of cucumbers.

Cucumbers?

That was from me.

[chuckling] Oh!

We didn't know

Noelle was pregnant,

or I would've come for you.

We always set

such high expectations for her.

Maybe too high.

Maybe she feared

we wouldn't accept you.

When I did find out about you,

I hired a private detective

who kept running into dead ends.

[sighing]

I wish I'd found you sooner.

Me too.

And Noelle...

I wish I'd had

the chance to meet her.

[quietly] Me too.

So many regrets.

[Imani] No.

No, this is a moment

to celebrate...

this wonderful gift.

We just have to make up

for lost time.

Yes.

Yes. Oh, I, um...

What?

[Nancy exhales uncertainly]

[sighing]

I would like it very much

if you and the children

would move in.

And I-I'll understand if you...

If you think me too forward.

It's just that I don't have

all the time in the world,

and whatever time there is,

I'd like to spend it with you.



[gate creaks]



[latch catches]

[exhaling tensely]

[knocking]

Merry Christmas, Bobby.

Dad.

You okay?

Well, better late

than never, I guess.

Listen...

I know we have

a lot to work out between us.

I let you down in a lot of ways,

and I regret

every single one of them.

But I love you, Bobby.

That is an undeniable truth.

So...

if you're ever open to it...

I want to build on that.

No strings.

[sighing]

[Bobby] It's about time.

I've been waiting

for you to show up.

I'm sorry it took so long.

Well...

you'd better...

come inside, I guess.

Really?

I missed you, Dad.

[sobbing] My son.

Oh.

You have no idea

how much I've missed you.

[both laughing]

Yeah. The kids

are gonna love living here,

and they're gonna love

having family.

[Clara chuckles]

- Oh!

- They are precious.

[Imani] Thank you.

Okay, so Jade's waiting.

I am gonna run.

Oh, Clara, Clara.

Thank you so much

for everything,

and I will see you

this afternoon.

Mm! With bells on!

[Nancy] Clara?

Clara?

I don't have the words

to thank you

for bringing my family to me.

I know that my behavior with you

these past few months

has been insufferable.

I do hope

you'll accept my apology.

No need.

Oh, yes, there is!

I put my hurt onto you,

everyone else...

that's not right.

And I understand that...

you'll be leaving

at the beginning of the year?

No. I'm not going anywhere.

I'll be here

as long as you need me.

Merry Christmas?

Merry Christmas.

[Clara giggles]

[door opens]

[many conversations]

[Felix] Last night,

it seemed like

Christmas was going

to be a disaster.

We lost our biggest donor.

We got pummeled with that storm.

I admit, I was... I was feeling

a little sorry for myself,

and a bit weary.

My faith was being tested,

but that's okay,

because that's when

God brings his blessings.

He puts people in your path

that enrich your life

in ways you can't imagine.

You may have seconds,

and thirds.

Okay, you better be careful.

I might just want to marry you.

[laughing]

- Merry Christmas!

- Merry Christmas.

Hey. Here you go, man.

That is good for one free meal

at Rocko's Diner,

and you are welcome any time.

I appreciate you.

Merry Christmas!

[quietly] Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Last night,

God put three strangers

in my path...

and because of these people,

miracles happened...

small ones,

like little drops from Heaven.

We helped each other

find our way home,

and because of them,

I feel connection

and togetherness...

a true reason for the season.

I was reminded

of something really important

about Heaven last night.

Heaven... is other people.

We are at our strongest

[voice cracking]

when we lift each other up.

[exhaling]

Let the church say, "Amen."

[congregation] Amen.



And now I would like

to invite one of my new friends

to take the stage

and sing a very special song.

[Imani] Okay.

[Felix begins to play]



Hey, God

It's me

I hate to be a bother

But I could use

a minute or two

Yeah, I'm just so

Heartbroken, disappointed

In the way this world

is coming unglued

And I can't help but wonder

Are you?

If you got a little love

Left in your back pocket

Rain it down like pennies

In this wishing well

of tears

I know that you're busy

But if you could

hear me talking

We could use a little

more Heaven down here

We could use

A little more Heaven

down here

[with choir]

We could use, we could use

We could use

A little more Heaven

We could use

some more Heaven, yeah

We could use we could use

We could use

a little more Heaven

Ohh...

We could use

A little more Heaven

down here

Merry Christmas.