Best Christmas Party Ever (2014)

[bunniefuu]

Are you excited for
Tyrell's Christmas party?

Jennie, there's a world of magic
and wonder through that door.

You just have to
walk through it.

It's gonna take more
than that to make me blush.

I know you're probably
scratching your heads wondering

why I would be throwing
myself a Thanksgiving party

of all holidays, and the
answer to that is simple.

I am thankful for all of you--
clients who have become

lifelong friends, colleagues
who have become

family, and family
who are my heart.

Petra's Parties is New York's

premiere event planning service.

So, it is with a heavy heart

that I make my exit.

I shall be retiring after
this Christmas season.

It's time for the next
generation to take the stage.

And now let's get back to
enjoying this wonderful party.

And I'll see you all
around. Thank you.

I didn't see that coming.

The element of surprise is--

The key to any successful party.

Speaking of the next generation,

there's someone I
want you to meet.

Great speech, Aunt Petra.

So glad to see you.

I want to introduce you
to my right hand-man

or in this case, woman.

Jennie Stanton, this is
my nephew, Nicky Forbes.

It's a pleasure.

I've heard so much about you.

Smart, talented, but my Aunt
failed to mention beautiful.

Oh, well, thank you.

Be careful of Nicky,
he's a charmer.

And please just call me Nick.

Otherwise, I feel
like a ten year old

who's done something wrong.

Nice to meet you, Nick.

Nicky's going to be here helping
us for the holiday season,

so I want you to show
him the ropes

Teach him everything you know.

Sure, It'd be nice to have extra
hand during the busiest season.

Nick, do you have any
experience in event planning?

Um, no.

But I have been to several
film premieres as an actor.

Does that count?

A few premieres?

As if going to a party was
the same as planning a party.

In his defense, I saw
the Gatsby premiere

on Entertainment Tonight,

and I got a lot of decorating
ideas for my place.

Decorating, Nat.
Not the same.

Right.

Ooh! The Nutcracker. I
love the Nutcracker.

I used to play it as a kid.

So, is he cute?

Yeah I guess, but that's
beside the point.

No! Drummer boy
goes on last.

First lights, then
ornaments, then tinsel.

You're even uptight about
the Christmas tree?

This is supposed to be fun.

This is fun. We're
having fun. Last.

So this cute guy...

I never even should
have admitted that to you.

Her nephew, Nick.

She said teach him everything
you know, show him the ropes.

For the holidays...

I hope, but she's retiring
and she announced to

an entire banquet center
she said, and I quote--

it's time for the next
generation to take the stage.

She obviously meant you.

Or maybe not.

So... are
you into her?

Right, Kim.

You should have
seen the look on her face

when Aunt Petra told
her I was helping out

for the holidays.
So judgmental.

Like, it's party planning,
it's not rocket science.

I can throw a party.

Remember that fundraiser I
threw for the theater company?

I do remember.
You had a booth

where people could put on
undershirts and yell, "Stella."

That's right. That
was a great idea!

Five bucks a pop, because
who doesn't have

the deep-seeded urge to yell--

"Stella!"

Well, you'll only have to
work with her for the holidays.

That's why it's
called seasonal help.

Yeah, about that...

Hey.

Is all that stacking
really necessary?

People will devour
it in seconds.

Yes, it's really necessary.

You eat with your
eyes before your mouth.

Presentation is important.

Even on a passing tray?

Yes.

Okay, people! Thirty
minutes and counting!

Oh, hi, Nicky.

You know Jennie, when Nicky
was a child, he was always my

very special little Christmas
helper. Simply adorable.

I'm sure.

But he's all grown up.
Put him to work.

He needs to learn
the family business.

Let's find you some work.

Here you go, Nicky.

Take these to the
launching table

and then make sure all
the centerpieces are--

Centered?

I'm a fast learner.

What are these?

Saucisson en croute.

Oh, cause they look
like pigs in a blanket.

Yes, technically, they're pigs
in blankets, but you wanna

to make the guests
feel important,

and saying "Pigs In A Blanket"
doesn't sound very impressive.

But at least they'll
know what they're eating.

Unbelievable.

I love the honey accent.

Perfect.

Which one?

You choose.

Those are little Christmas
trees in the pattern.

You got it.

You know what I'm saying?

Cause otherwise you don't
know what you're eating.

I mean, what language
are we speaking here?

Jennie!

I was just testing your theory.

About what?

Tell me, sir. Fine young
man. Would you rather have

a saucisson en croute, or a
very sleepy pig in a blanket?

Um. Sleeping pig?

Good man.

On you go.
Thank you.

You know, ratatouille
was a simple dish

yet the fancy name got
its own movie. So there.

Look. People are
creatures of habit.

They like what they know, and
they know what they like.

Don't you have a
centerpiece to go center?

Check it out.

Great. You've delegated
your first job.

Second, technically. I'm
really good at delegation.

Just another of my many
leadership skills.

Even Batman had Robin right?

Go build a tray.

Another pig slumber
party coming up.

Batman had Robin?

Look at him. He's a
natural. People love him.

Yes, they do.

I knew it.

Knew what?

It's in is blood.

Take him with you to
the Tyrell meeting.

Really?

I want him to see you in action.

O-okay...

Nice to finally meet you, Todd.

Likewise.

Have you been here before?

No, but I know it's
the chef from the Dell.

Yes it is. You've
done your homework.

Knowing where the best
chefs are is part of my job.

And you're the best aren't you?

Come on, don't be bashful.
I've done my homework, too.

I read the Times' Weekend
piece on the company.

It was Petra's picture,
but you had all the quotes.

I'm more behind the scenes.

Well, that's a pity, someone
as beautiful as you.

So. Tyrell's Toys...

Yes. Right. Sorry, you'll
have to excuse me.

Tyrell's is somewhat of a new
acquisition for Piedmont,

and while portfolios
are big on numbers

they're woefully
short on traditions.

Please, tell me about
this Christmas party.

Well, the party and Arthur
Tyrell are actually

very near and dear to my heart.

Without getting
into the particulars,

let's just say as a child
it changed my life

and is the reason I got
into event planning.

Wow, that's some endorsement.

Now we'll have to do it.

Was there a question as
to whether you would?

It's money, Nick.

Everything's a
question with money,

But, Jennie, I think
it's your lucky day,

because I want to give you
the answer you want to hear.

Thanks, I was--

Now, tell me, do you
like Christmas lights?

Um, yes, but--

Are you off Monday night?

We're like the theater.
We're dark Monday and Tuesdays.

And I always have a
lot of work to do--

I'm not gonna take
no for an answer.

You're having dinner
with me Monday night.

How can you be so sure?

Because I'm going to show
you the most amazing

Christmas light display
you've ever seen.

Well, how can I say no to that?

You can't.

Okay, then.
Sure.

That guy didn't hear
two words about the

party, because he's
too busy hitting on you.

I mean, he asked you on a date,
how unprofessional is that?

Thanks for the insight, Nick,

but my personal life is
none of your concern.

Look, I'm just saying.

I know guys like
that. I was one.

Totally smooth-- I'm pretty
sure he's got veneers, too.

Just be careful.

You're seriously
talking about his teeth?

Well yeah, teeth bite, okay!

We don't have time for this,
Nick. We have a party tonight.

Hey, Nick, where's Petra?

Just me tonight.

Why? What
happened?

Aunt Petra's feeling
under the weather.

Is she okay?

Yeah, it's just a cold.
She'll be fine.

But she filled me in,

and I'm up to the challenge.

No offense, but
you have no experience.

Maybe not, but The Party
with Peter Sellers

is my favourite movie.

Okay, now you're just
trying to push my buttons.

I kinda am.

Do you like the lights?

I like them.

They remind me of--

Tyrell's, right?

Aunt Petra used to take
me there as a kid.

Can you actually help
me with something?

Sure.

Climb on up here.

Just... hold
this... right...

Okay, that's great.

Do you remember the fake
snow at Tyrell's?

Are you kidding? That
was my favourite part.

We can't use it anymore.

It gets in the ducts and
it damages it over time.

You can't insure it. You can't
learn that from a film premiere.

Say what you want about L.A.,
but it is one big party.

All glitz and spectacle.

Parties are not just
all glitz and spectacle.

Parties can change lives, too.

Ashley Williams' thirteenth
birthday party changed my life.

First kiss slow dancing to
Can You Feel The Love Tonight.

Who knew The Lion
King could be so romantic?

You're a child.

I am not having this
conversation with you.

Hi Petra.

Yeah, I heard.

Nick's... my
man. Okay...

Yeah, feel better.

Told you-- I'm your man.

You're bartending.

Got it.

Heeey!

So ladies what do you
get when you cross

a vampire with a snowman?

Frostbite.

Jennie! The
lady in charge.

More wine please.

You serving now?

I help out when help's needed.

It's part of my
leadership skills.

Hey while I getting some wine,
why don't you tell us a joke?

Oh I'm not funny.

Sure you are. Come
on, one joke.

There's a wonderful audience,
they laugh at everything.

My heavy pour helps, of course.

I just remembered there's
wine in the kitchen.

Jennie Stanton,
ladies and gentlemen.

Hey, cover me, okay?

Jennie, I'm sorry about
that. I was just having fun.

I produce the party. I don't
need to be the opening act.

I honestly didn't mean
to embarrass you out there.

I apologize.

Apology accepted.

Thank you.

Go!

Yes, of course! Great
job, everyone!

Put that on on my
desk. I appreciate it.

...I just don't know how I'd
look in a grass skirt.

Jennie, where did you find him?

Hi, Bridget. I see
you've met Nick.

He's going to be helping
out for the holidays.

Bridget just finished sailing
around the Hawaiian Islands

for-- two weeks was it?

Yes, and I'm ready to go back!

Sounds fabulous.

Are you ready to discuss
the Senior Arts Center?

I'm ready.

Would you mind if I sat in?

I don't mind.

Sure, why not...

Great!

So, Bridget, picture a formal
sit down candlelight dinner,

with nice, crisp
linens, fine china,

a cellist, an ice sculpture
celebrating the arts.

Well, it sounds nice, and I know
if anyone can make it special,

it's you, Jennie--

But...?

You see, when I
was on that cruise,

I felt young again, and all
because I got a chance

to wear a sundress
and go dancing.

Pool party, I like it.

That's an insurance issue.

Okay! So we will scrap
the cellist and hire

a really great cover band!
It could be sort of a

time machine into the
hits of the past.

Seniors are nostalgic enough.

I don't want to remind
them of glory days,

I want to make them feel like
these are their glory days.

You felt that way on
your cruise didn't you?

Like Columbus must have felt

when he discovered
the free world.

Anything is possible, and
nothing can top this moment,

right here, right now.

Exactly. I felt young,
alive, and full of hope.

Okay, we'll design a theme that
embodies all of those things.

I don't know why I
didn't see it before.

Bridget, you're a genius,
you had this idea all along.

I did?

You did.

Mele Kalikimaka.

Hawaiian
Christmas? Really?

Yeah! Why not?

It's not very traditional.

Bridget, from my experience

the Senior Arts Center
values tradition.

Bing Crosby sang the song.

It doesn't get more traditional.

Picture this. A laid
back, tropical theme.

Everybody's wearing Hawaiian
shirts, we'll serve mai tais.

We'll even have a
high-def projector

with the islands
on a background.

Where's the Christmas?

Surfing Santa?

I love it.

We can give everyone a
flowered lei when they arrive.

Hula dancers and a ukulele band.

Yes!

It's genius.

All you, Bridget.
We just listened.

Alright. Hawaiian
Christmas it is.

Talk soon, Bridget.

Aloha!

You hijacked my pitch.

You were dying in there.
I was just helping you out.

You can't make a pitch without
any sense of cost or timeline.

You're just mad she liked
my idea better than yours.

I'm mad, because you've chosen
a theme that's hard to elevate.

Bridget may think she wants
this, but she's not going to

when it looks like a frat
party as opposed to a

classy event the
way it should be!

Classy like the funeral
you were pitching?

They're seniors,
Nick. Conservative.

They're artists, Jennie.
They wanna cut loose.

Enough.

You two. My
office. Now.

You two need to
learn to work together.

Now, what do you have
to say to one another?

It was my account,
it was my mistake

for inviting you into
the meeting.

I may have overstepped
my boundaries,

I was just trying to
help you throw a party.

You throw a baseball.
You plan a party.

Whatever.

You should have asked
me to step outside

for a minute and talk. Never
talk in front of the client.

Okay. That
was my bad.

I'm sorry. It won't
happen again.

Fine.

We good?

Nicky, would you excuse
us for a moment, please?

Nick is family. It's important
you can work with him.

You said that.

Listen, it'll probably be good

to have an extra hand
for the season.

Not just the season.

He's going to take over
the mantle from me.

I see.

You're hurt.

No, I just thought-- never mind.

There will always have
a place for you here,

but I need to take
care of my family.

I hope you can understand that.

Sure.

I have a lot of work to do.

Can I buy you a hot dog?

A hot dog?

I'm trying here, Jennie,
a hotdog truce.

We gotta work together.

I don't know, Nick.
I have a lot to do.

Don't make me beg.

I played a pauper in
a A Christmas Carol,

and I was a terrible beggar.

Look at this:

Please, sir, alms for the
poor. Hot dog for the poor.

You played an old woman?

No.

Offer's going
once, going twice, thrice,

don't make me count to four,
because I don't know what it is.

Fource? Founce?

Okay! I
said okay.

Okay.

I'll go.

Good.

Your table is this way, madame.

Mademoiselle.

What's the difference?

Well, one has someone to
grow old with and watch their

grandchildren open
presents on Christmas morning.

I get it, the other is
empowered and independent.

And single.

Why do you think that is?

I don't know. Why do
you think that is?

You seem to have an
opinion on the matter.

Well, I think you
carry a lot of stress,

and just maybe you have
a hard time having fun.

Enough psychoanalysis,
Dr. Feel Good.

I know why I'm single.

Do tell, please.

It's because I compare
everyone to my father.

He had an imagination
like no one else I've ever met.

Had?

He passed away two
years ago this Christmas.

I'm sorry.

No, it's okay.

I bet he knew how to have fun.

Yeah, he definitely
knew how to have fun.

But he was
also very responsible.

You know, when I was a
kid, he got laid off,

he took three part time jobs
just to make ends meet.

He'd do anything to
support his family.

But he was also a proud man, and
he'd never ask for anything.

So, I did.

I don't follow.

Tyrell's Toys Christmas party.

I was seven years old, and
I asked Santa for a job for my

dad, and Arthur Tyrell
hired him a week later.

Talk about a Christmas miracle.

Wow... yeah,
no kidding.

that explains why you
love parties so much.

Yep.

My father.
Arthur Tyrell.

I guess most
guys just fall short.

So what about you?

You want my story, you're
gonna have to walk with me.

It's cold. Gotta
keep moving. Let's go!

Okay.

Thank you.

My dad, Petra's
brother, was in the military,

so we moved around quite a bit.

I was in one school
after the next,

and I got really good
at telling jokes.

If you're funny,
kids just accept you faster.

Acting's kind of the same
thing, you just play the part

and just hope that the
audience accepts you.

Makes sense.

The problem is
the part's not you.

So, I said forget it, and walked
out of my fourth call back

for a soap opera
and I came here.

The thing is-- I catch
myself still doing it--

like the other night at
the bar with those girls.

I get in a social situation,
and I become the entertainer.

It's like auto pilot or an
appliance that's always on.

I'm basically a clock radio.

You're not a clock radio.

I don't know... I
made you laugh.

You're not on now are you?

No. My charms don't
seem to work on you.

You know, before today, I
never would have said this--

What?

I'm not really a fan
of the entertainer.

I like the guy right
here, right now.

I don't know what to say to
that. But... thank you.

We better get going on Hawaii.

It's so peaceful up here.

I'm sensing a long day.

Yeah, work politics I
guess you could say.

Not fun.

You wanna talk about it?

Petra has just hired her
nephew and it's been really hard

trying to get someone up to
speed on the way we do things

while going through our
busiest season.

Family nepotism.
I know it well.

Really?

My father has a successful
manufacturing business,

and every summer, my brother
and I would work for him

when we were kids. When
I graduated from college

I just figured we'd both
get our chance, but--

He gave it all to your brother.

I could stand on my own
two feet, is what he said.

He meant it as a compliment,

but it didn't feel
like it at the time.

So what'd you do?

The only thing I could do.

I shook it off and stepped up.

Now, don't get me
wrong, it still hurt,

but I learned that
right and wrong...

it's not black and white,

and that one person's right
is another person's wrong.

Jennie, it's all gonna work out.

You know how I know that?

How?

Because everything
that happened to me

brought me right here
to this moment.

With you.

You're right.

So, where are the Christmas
lights you promised me?

Well, everyone knows the
Empire State Building gets lit

up for Christmas,
right? Well this year,

many more buildings
have signed on.

I read about this.

They want to turn on the lights
on 12 days before Christmas.

Wait, is that--

Tonight. Actually, uh,
any second in fact.

Wow...

Merry Christmas, Jennie.

Merry Christmas.

You're here early.

How was your date?

What?

Todd.

Business was good, and the
rest is none of your business.

I don't trust that guy. He
wears too much cologne.

It's too early for your
commentary, Nick.

Hawaiian Christmas. Go.

Okay. You
ready for this?

So I was thinking,
the buffet over here.

Bookended with
inflatable palm trees.

And then have the hula
dancers over there.

Inflatable palms run the
risk of sagging or popping.

I'd go for cut
outs that are sturdy.

I'd also use gossamer drapes
to create a waterfall.

Tiki candle holders.

And lots of colored
Christmas lights.

Oh, and can the buffet.

This is Hawaiian barbecue time.

I love it.

Do you see how much
fun we're having?

Is that what this is?

Yeah!

I'm an idea guy, and
you know the details.

Idea guy?

Yes, admit it-- Hawaiian
Christmas was right up there

with french fries stuffed
with ranch dressing.

Why haven't you
won the Nobel Prize?

Laugh it up, okay, but
seriously. I'm like

the architect and you're
the interior designer.

Don't flatter yourself.

Great job girls!
Keep smiling!

Wonderful, wonderful!

Keep it up, keep it
up! That's right!

Heyyy there, how are you?

Wow. That
was impressive.

How's it going?

Good. Dr. Feel Good has it
all under control.

Good. Anything
you need from me?

Have fun!

Mele kalikimaka!

Great job, team.

Maybe you'll even
limbo a bit later.

Limbo?

Yeah, it was a last
minute addition.

Petra!

Hey, Bridget!
How are you?

Hello, darling.

Jennie, Nick. You've
outdone yourselves.

Thanks, Bridget.

Thank you.

Who's your date, Bridget?

This is George. My
daughter and son-in-law

had to go out of town,
so duty calls...

Yes, well. How do
you do, George?

Hi there.

How ya doin', Buddy?

You excited for Santa to come?

Did you know that before he even
packs his sleigh, he sends

all his elves and reindeer
to scout every roof top.

They do?

Do you wanna go look for elf
and reindeer prints with me?

Can I?

You boys go have fun!

Alright, let's go man.

Let's do it man, you and me.

And you two are free to limbo!

Thank you.

Where's your friend?

Uh, he's asleep in a chair.
I think it was the punch.

Yeah, must have been.

You find any reindeer tracks?

No, but they might be
covered in snow.

We did think we saw some elf
prints by the elevator, though.

Oh, yeah.

How do you know they were elves?

Elves have small legs
and they hate stairs.

Everybody knows that.

Right. Right, obviously,
yeah.

Nick, you did a
really good job tonight.

This was a lot more fun
than a sit-down dinner.

Well, I couldn't have
done it without you.

You saved me with your
gossamer waterfall

and your palm
cut-outs. So, thank you.

I was just doing my job.

Listen, Nick, I'm sorry if
I've been a bit short with you.

It's okay. Aunt Petra
stuck you with me,

and you resent me, I get it.

I did, but it's not because
you're Petra's nephew.

It's because you're good.

I wish I could handle clients
the way you handled Bridget.

I didn't exactly handle her. I
was just making conversation.

I'm a good listener. It's the
key to being a good actor.

You're not acting now.

I don't act with
you. I don't have to.

There you are.

Hey, Kim, hi!

Kim, this is Jennie.
Jennie, Kim.

Hi.

Kim's an old friend, and Petra
said she could work the party.

How do you guys know each other?

We were in theater
company together in LA.

Nick was Stanley to my Stella.

How long ago was
that? Five years?

Six.

Wow.

Well, we kept in
touch on Facebook,

but it was amazing
to finally reconnect.

I'm sure.

Nick, you still up for
drinks after work?

Absolutely.

I would have invited
you, I just figured

you'd have plans with Todd.

Oh, no, I do, I have plans.

Y'know. But no thank you,
no thank you. All good.

We're gonna hit
this new club in Soho.

Alright, well I have to
go pay the fire eater.

It was very nice meeting you.

Bye-bye.

Yeah! So...

If we go with
the Nutcracker theme.

I was thinking we could
put the giant presents here,

and then we could put the
ballerinas over here,

and then line up toy soldiers
along this wall here.

Oh, and I was thinking we
could put colored foil

on all the tables and walls
to reflect off the lights,

creating that jewel box effect.

Beautiful.

Have you listened a word I said?

Am I gonna be tested?

No.

Then, of course.

Look, I know it's
going to be beautiful.

Really, I just have a few
details from this side--

which I could have emailed,

but I figured if I got you here,

I could twist your arm to
play hooky this afternoon.

It's a present from one
of our partner companies.

Todd, I'd love to, but I can't.

Christmas Eve is
just ten days away.

And I have so much work to do.

You're breaking my heart.

I'm going to have
to give these away.

I'm sorry. I hope
you understand.

I do. Completely. This
party means a lot to you.

It does.

Well, let me just give
you a few more details

that will make me look good to
Mr. Mitchell and the board.

sh**t.

Okay. Caviar
bar-- sturgeon.

VIP room with waitresses
dressed as Elves

or Mrs. Claus.
Whatever you want.

You can hire them
from the sports bar

around the corner
if you need to.

Oh, and Piedmont has a
small stake in Lamborghini,

so we could even get a red one,

test drive Santa's
sleigh kind of thing.

But that would only be if you
have Platinum level wrist band.

What's the matter?

This is just a very
different approach

than what the public
are expecting.

Public?

You didn't read the files
on the previous parties.

Traditionally, we do a toy drive

and provide a hot turkey
dinner for those in need.

Okay, well, we'll have
a section for them.

Like the kiddie pool
at the country club.

Jennie, you're the
best at what you do.

If anyone can figure out a way

to meet everyone's
needs, it's you.

But Tyrell's Toys party is
about inclusion and community

not about VIP
rooms and wrist bands.

I know but sometimes
to maintain the old,

you have to incorporate
a little new. Right?

Jennie, like you, I have a
boss I have to answer to,

but I trust you to make a party

that will make both
of our bosses proud.

Mr. Mitchell, this
is Jennie Stanton.

Nice to meet you, Sir.

John. Please.

I'm very much looking forward
to the Tyrell's Toys' party.

Piedmont represents
a very large family,

Ms. Stanton, and this
party allows us

an opportunity to
celebrate that family.

I'll do my best, sir.

I'm counting on it. I read
the Times Weekend article.

I'm counting on you, too, Todd.

I won't let you down, sir.

Good day,
Ms. Stanton.

Good day.

See what I'm up against...

You'll figure it out.

So. How's Tyrell's
coming, Jennie?

Good, I met with John
Mitchell today,

and I have a concept
approval meeting,

in the morning, at the
hall with Todd Perry.

What's the concept?

The Nutcracker Suite.

Really?

Yeah, really.

I loved the Nutcracker as a kid.

It's true. I took him
when he was four.

Front row seats.

I swear he tried to crawl
up on to the stage.

A born actor,
weren't you, Nicky?

I loved that world.

All the color and the music.

You could almost taste it--

That's not a bad idea--

Nutcracker Ice
Cream. Huh?

And what's happening about the
Mazzucca Children's Center?

At the moment, I have a team

transforming their place
into the Land of Sweets.

Ordered a bunch of gingerbread
houses for a decorating contest

and we have Santa
Claus as a judge.

You talked to them without me?

I asked Nicky to
take it off your hands.

The Land of Sweets.
That sounds wonderful.

The children will love it.

Yeah! And you remember Kim
from the other night--

well, she sometimes works
events at the expo.

She passes out flyers.

And meets a lot of people.
Kim is a people person,

and vendors like to chat
up pretty people persons.

Charming.

She got me a great deal
on the gingerbread houses.

Great work, team.
Keep me posted.

Hey, hey.

I'm just trying to
help out with Mazzucca.

I know. I know. I'm just
under a lot of pressure.

You were lying about Piedmont
going well, weren't you?

How could you tell?

I know bad acting.

And you are a bad actor.
You're terrible, actually.

Thanks a lot.

It's okay-- your
secret's safe with me.

Piedmont doesn't
want Tyrell's Toys,

he wants Soho
House meets Cabaret.

Okay.

Well, if you want to brainstorm.
You know that I'm--

--an idea
guy. I know.

I'm good.

Okay, fine.

Why do you look like that, Nick?

Like what?

Like you're disappointed in me.

Well for someone who
preaches community so much,

you seem to prefer to be a
party of one. Why don't you

send me an evite or something
if you change your mind.

Want a hot dog?

I'm meeting Kim for dinner--

Oh, I'm sorry--

No, no, no! Don't be. I am
not gonna pass this up.

Kim would sooner eat her
foot than one of these things.

Okay...

She probably could. She's
pretty good at yoga.

I'm sure.

Would you mind coming with me?

I'd like to ask your
opinion on something.

Absolutely.

So... any
thoughts?

This is amazing! This is
going to be so much fun!

But where's the mouse king?
You forgot about the mouse king!

He's like, a little
scary, isn't he?

Yeah, but every good story
has a villain to overcome.

The mouse king
destroys the Nutcracker,

but with a little magic the
Nutcracker's restored and

leads the toys in revolt against
the evil mouse king.

And everybody lives
happily ever after.

The mouse king is adversity.

And adversity defines us.

You know, I never
thought of it that way.

It's not just a
story. It's life.

And here I thought you
just liked the thought

of a mouse in a costume.

I do. Don't get me wrong.
That's totally cool.

What's so funny?

Oh, hey! Uh,
mice in uniform.

Is that another one
of your crazy ideas?

No. Actually, this
one's Jennie's.

She using the Nutcracker theme
for the Tyrell's Toys party.

Cool.

You ready to get your skate on?

You betcha!

You guys are going skating?

Yeah, Rockefeller.

This is outstanding,
Jennie. Really.

Great seeing you, Jennie.

You, too.

Call me if you need anything.

Thanks, Nick.

Hey, Nat. Are you
busy in an hour?

Todd's going to love
it. Don't worry.

Nick did.

Even though I've been a
total jerk to him lately.

Nick, the guy who's
taking your promotion?

I'd be mad at him
twenty-four-seven.

I know, but he's a good guy,
and he's got this amazing--

What?

Imagination.

So what-- he's
still taking your job.

No, that's what I always
say about my father.

Amazing imagination.

Are you crushing on this guy?!

No. No, not
at all.

You totally are!

No! He's not
even my type.

Besides, he's dating
some actress named Kim.

Eugh. Actresses. They're
always so cute. Is she cute?

As a button. You're
not helping, Nat.

Okay, just forget about the guy.

Give Piedmont their party

and get Petra to
reconsider her decision.

You're right. The party.
Eyes on the prize.

Then fall head over
heels in love with Todd

and live life
happily ever after.

That's what I'd do.

Of course you would.

Hi, Todd, thanks so
much for coming in.

No worries.

We're missing one
of the ballerinas,

but you'll get the idea.

Music please?

Nutcracker theme. Toy
soldiers as waiters.

Giant presents.
Even a mouse king.

A mouse king?

You know, like a mascot.
Cartoony and friendly.

Don't worry.

So the idea is to enter a child's
imagination while still

keeping the event classy
for your other clients.

We can have Santa over
here in this area for the kids.

That area should be able to
accommodate forty children

then I was thinking we could
have the hot turkey dinner

over here-- we may need
to add more chairs

depending upon the numbers
from the shelters.

Shelters?

It's the tradition.

Okay, stop the music.

Jennie, I thought we
talked about this.

A baby pool-- open to
the public, that's it.

This is an ocean.

It's not an ocean.

We'll still do the VIP room.

I was thinking in the
smaller ballroom.

But this is where you're putting
all the money. This room.

The 24th is less
than a week away.

I need to think, and we need to
get this sorted out now.

Of course, your office?

No, yours.

I don't want Mr.
Mitchell dropping in.

I'll be there in an hour.
Hopefully I can find some way

to salvage this before it
becomes a complete disaster.

I'm sorry, Jennie, I really am,

but this is not what Piedmont
or I was expecting.

Just through this way...

Over already?

Before it even started.

You can go.

I just got here.

Yeah, the party's over.

What happened?

I can't do it, Nick. I can't
give them what they want,

and deliver the people's party.

Come with me, I wanna
show you something, okay?

I'm not in the mood for elf
prints and reindeer tracks.

That's okay, 'cause
you're not getting any.

Come with me.

What do you see?

Look, I appreciate what
you're doing but--

Just have some vision, okay?

I'll tell you what I see.

Over here, I see kids who think
Santa's not coming this year,

because their family
has fallen on hard times.

And then I see those
kids' faces light up

when Santa gives them
exactly what they want.

And over here, I see
those kids' parents

who think life's
given up on them

being treated to a VIP dinner
and realizing that it hasn't.

And over here, I see a
little girl so mesmerized

by what your
imagination dreamed up

that she's inspired to do
the same thing some day.

Thank you Nick, but Todd
doesn't see it that way,

and just 'cause you can envision
it, doesn't make it real.

I'd need a Christmas
miracle to save all this.

They do happen, Jennie.

You said so yourself, remember?

The element of surprise is--

--key to any successful party.

I appreciate what
you're trying do, Nick,

but I need to go
talk to Todd now.

Todd, I've been
thinking a lot, and--

So have I.

We can use curtains to
create the VIP room

in the main space, and--

You're fired, Jennie.

What?

Believe me, it's
not what I want,

but there's no arguing
with John Mitchell.

Did you even try?

Look, I don't expect you
to understand this today

or tomorrow, but I hope at
some point you'll reconsider.

Reconsider what?

Us.

I was going to give
this to you at Christmas,

but I don't know if
I'll get that chance.

I found it in the
Tyrell archives.

Look, I'll give you a call
you in a few days.

I'm really sorry, Jennie.

Goodbye.

Bye.

Hello.

What?

You're kidding... Back
by Christmas Eve?

I don't know.

It's late here, I
gotta process this.

You've reached Nick Forbes.

You know what to do
and when to do it.

Todd fired me, Nick.
Tyrell's is done.

Talk to you later.

Yeah, okay. I'll give you
my answer tomorrow.

Okay.

Todd fired me, Nick.
Tyrell's is done.

Talk to you later.

Are you okay?

I got the part.

So, why aren't you happy?

Piedmont fired Jennie. That
party means everything to her.

Listen, can you cover me here?

I'm gonna go to Piedmont and try
to talk some sense into Todd.

Sure.

Thanks, I owe ya.

Todd, can I have a word?

No.

Jennie Stanton's the
best at what she does.

You're making a huge mistake.

Please give her another chance.

You don't think I want
to? I like Jennie,

and I think she's hugely
talented, but it's done.

Then undo it.

It doesn't work that way.

Why not? Come on
man, it's Christmas.

It's not Christmas,
Nick. It's my job.

Look, I like Jennie,
I do, but we're just

on different pages on this one.

Now if you'll excuse me.

Hey Petra. I'm just giving
Jennie an assist with Tyrell's

and need the past attendance
lists. Do you have those?

Sure, I think so.

That's it.

Perfect, thank you!

You're welcome.

Looking for someone?

Hi, Jennie.

Hi Mr. Tyrell!
How are you?

Well. I'm here!

I was hoping I'd find you
still putting on the suit.

I sold my store,
but not my heart.

So what's on your mind, Jennie?

It's Piedmont, Mr.
Tyrell. They fired me.

And if it was any other event,
I'd give them the most exclusive

party ever, but that's not
what Tyrell's Toys is about.

The party is about the people.

We even shook hands on it.

In my day that used
to mean something.

Petra's already looking at
her nephew as heir apparent.

When she finds out
I lost this party,

there's no telling what
she's gonna do.

She's not going to fire you.

What do I do?

Close your eyes and
tell me what you see.

Humor an old man.

I see your Christmas
party as a child,

I see my father coming
home from work with

the Christmas twinkling
lights behind him,

I see the look of joy on all the
kids' faces at your party.

That's what's in your heart.

Listen to it, and you'll
always find your way.

What's going on?

There's some people here who
have something to say to you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I-- I don't understand.

You touched each of these people

in past Tyrell's Toys' parties.

When we needed it most.

When we'd lost hope.

You made sure we had Christmas.

They're real, Jennie.
Not imagination.

Who needs a Christmas miracle
when we have each other, right?

You're right.

We're going to do Tyrell's
Toys without Piedmont.

Ha! There's the
Jennie Stanton

we know and love,
ladies and gentlemen!

Jennie, did you
hear Nick's big news?!

No, what?

Remember that soap opera
I was called back for?

Well, I got the part.

Oh, wow.

We're going to Dino's
tonight to celebrate.

No one deserves it like you do.

Thanks.

Since when did you
start eating hotdogs?

Don't ask. I got the
works on yours.

Okay, so. What's
so urgent?

Nick's leaving.

That's great news.

That means you'll be
taking over for Petra.

Yeah.

So what am I missing here?

He just did the most
incredible thing for me.

Nat, I don't want him to go.

So, tell him.

Go to him right now
and pour your heart out.

He's at Dino's with Kim.

You've got to tell
him how you feel.

Hey, Aunt Petra, you
have a minute?

For you? I've got a
whole watch full of 'em.

What's on your mind, Nicky?

I got a part.

Really?

On a soap opera.

I haven't said yes yet. I was
hoping to get some advice.

Is it in your heart?

It is, there's just
a lot going on in there.

Nick I've lived a lot
of dreams in my life--

studied in Paris at twenty,

camped in the Serengeti at
thirty, built this company

to be what it is today, but
I've learned if I try to hold on

to any of those dreams
too long, I wake up.

And I don't wanna wake up.

So, when I feel one
dream coming to an end,

you know what I do?

What?

I dream another dream.

Now for you, it
might be New York.

You're a natural
at this business.

Or perhaps it is L.A.
and that soap opera.

What if it's an
impossible dream?

And please don't ask me
to sing for you.

But you were so cute as
Sancho Panza in junior high.

I'm serious.

Well, you won't know
if it's impossible

until you dream it, will you?

That's a good point.

Thanks, Aunt Petra.

Okay.

Jennie Stanton?

I'll take
them. Thanks.

Thanks, Mr. Tyrell.

Arthur.

You seriously have
no idea how much

your involvement means to me.

Okay, See you soon.

I ran into the delivery
guy in the lobby.

They're from Todd.

Figures.

He feels bad.

They're beautiful.

There's thirteen of them.

A bakers dozen. I
counted on the way in.

Probably a baker who
was an idea guy himself.

Probably.

That's a new one. I've
never heard of

a company sending flowers to
someone they just fired.

They're not from the company.

I see.

Nick, Todd's a good guy.

He got me this for Christmas.

That's Tyrell's. I'm
Guessing the nineties.

Was he trying to rub it in?

Piedmont tied his hands.

Why are you trying to make
excuses for that guy?

I'm not, it's just
not that simple.

I think it is.

It's my agent.
Just two seconds.

Hi, Dean, yeah.

My answer?

Yeah, I'm in.

Just send me the flight details.

Thanks. Bye.

The soap opera?

Yeah. Yeah,
it's all done.

Look, at least this way
I'll be out of your hair,

and you and Petra can get
back to the way things were.

You're not in my hair.

No, this is for the best.

I gotta fly out on
Christmas Eve.

That soon?

Yeah, I gotta do a
wardrobe fitting,

they wanna make sure my stuff
is ready for the following week.

I see.

I can help you with
the Christmas party,

but I can't be there for it.

No, I understand.

Like I said last night, Nick,
I'm really happy for you.

Thanks.

Nick!

I wanted to tell you something.

Yeah?

Well, I just wanted
to thank you again.

For yesterday...

no one's ever done
anything like that for me.

You're welcome.

Promise me something...

What's that?

No matter what happens
or what anybody says--

you plan the greatest Christmas
party this city's ever seen.

Okay, so I know we can't call
it Tyrell's Toys, but there's

not any law against calling it
Arthur Tyrell's Annu--

Nutcracker Dream.

Arthur Tyrell's
Nutcracker Dream.

Love it.

You are an idea guy.

And I'm gonna need all your big
ideas. Any elements you think

will bring the theme to
life, bring 'em on.

We've only got a week
and that's not a lot of time.

You've got the soldiers
and the ballerinas.

I know a girl who does
costumes for theater,

I'll get in touch with her.

I'll get started on
the mouse king.

And oh! I've got
this friend

who does special effects
for Christmas movies.

We're talking an
indoor snow machine

that uses soap and water.

Awesome. And, Kim, can you
talk to your vendor contacts?

Tell them we'll run this
event through a charitable corp

and be able to provide
any receipts for taxes--

on anything we can get.

Decorations, alcohol, food.

You got it.

And Nat, you're the
best artist I know.

I need a quick
design for advertising,

and an assist on saturating

social networks with
news about the party.

Copy that.

And Arthur, we're gonna
need lots of toys.

I know you can't exactly
walk into Tyrell's--

I can do better.

I can go straight to
the manufacturers.

And I can tell them
about the tax write-off.

Awesome.

And Santa?

h* h* h*.

I was hoping you'd
say that. Thank you.

You know Piedmont is

going to find out
about this, right?

Yeah, well, the element
of surprise is--

The key to any successful party.

I know Arthur, and I'll
take full responsibility.

You know I've always said
parties change lives.

And this one is definitely
going to change mine.

Here we go, team!

Hey, you got a minute?

Sure. What's up?

He fought for you.

What?

He went to that Todd guy's
office and confronted him.

Told him he was
making a mistake.

Really?

Really.

Why are you telling me this?

Because it's romantic, and
if a guy did that for me,

believe me, I'd want to know.

And the truth is,
you're all he talks about...

But I thought you and he were...

We're better off as friends.

How can you so be sure?

Because I see the
way he looks at you.

I want him to be happy, Jennie.

You make him happy.

That is amazing!

I didn't want the mouse
king to look too scary.

He doesn't look
too scary, does he?

No! He's perfect.

I'm really proud of you, Jennie.

Thank you.

I couldn't have done any
of this without you, Nat.

Yes, you could, but I'm
very happy to be involved.

I love this.

You're gonna give these
kids a great Christmas.

Thanks again.

Do you remember when you made
a blizzard in the middle

of the summer for
Christmas in the Canyon?

Hey Jennie! You gotta
come take a look at this thing!

It was working a minute ago.

I just want you to see
it. I don't know how

they do it, but I swear it's
the real thing! It's awesome.

You're getting my hopes up.

Good.

h*, h*, h*.

I just hope it works
by tomorrow night.

Oh, it will.

Oh, it's Petra.

Hi, Petra.

I was going to tell you.

Wait, what?

Piedmont legal contacted you?

I'm coming to you now.

Cat's out of the bag?

She's furious.
Piedmont caught wind

and they're threatening
a lawsuit--

On what grounds?

Apparently Arthur signed a
non-compete clause.

But this is a party?

That was so he doesn't
open his own toy store.

I'm going to talk to her now.

Hey, Jennie?

Everything's gonna
be okay. Alright?

I'll talk to you later.

You should have told me.

I should have told you.

But I guess I thought, deep
in my heart, that you would

fire me if you knew that
I'd lost the account.

and I thought just maybe if
the party was a success

that it would change things
and mean something for me.

Say something, Petra.

Parties can change things.

But they're about
more than that.

I think you've forgotten
the definition of the word.

Here we go.

Party. A social event. A
gathering of people.

Jennie. You weren't alone
when Arthur gave that job

to your father all those years
ago, and you're not alone now.

We're in this together.

Come here.

You know you're just as much
family to me as Nicky is.

You're the daughter I never had.

And a heck of a lot like
I was at your age.

Oh Petra, if it were any other
party, I would have caved.

I would have done
anything they wanted.

but Tyrell's does so much for
the children and for those

who won't even have a
Christmas this year.

You're right. Proceed.

Really?

Really.

I'd have done exactly the same
thing if I'd been in your shoes.

So, you're not mad?

No, I'm mad that
you didn't tell me,

not that we lost Piedmont.

You're not worried
about their threats?

They're grasping at straws.
Besides, I have lawyers, too.

Now get back to work, you
have a party to throw.

Thank you, Petra.
Thank you!

More presents, Arthur?

Not all corporations
are run by Ebenezer.

No, just the one that
bought your toy store.

How'd it go with Petra?

She's amazing.

So are you.

Oh, thank you.

You know, this Piedmont thing
has really got me down a bit.

But you taught me something.

You taught me that
people matter.

You taught me that I matter,
and that's really important.

I'm glad.

I can never repay you
for what you did for me.

You already have.

And if we don't stand up for
what's right, then who will?

You're right, Arthur.

Where you going?

To go and stand up
for what's right.

Jennie, what are you doing here?

I came to give this back.

I don't understand.

The Tyrell's Toys Christmas
Party is not in a photograph.

It's in here.

Try and shut our party
down all that you want,

by you'll never shut
down what it stands for.

Generosity, kindness, love.

That's Christmas, Todd.

No lawyer in the
world can shut that down.

Jennie, our legal team
saw your party on social media.

I can't control their response.

They're lawyers.
That's what they do.

I'm a party planner.
That's what I do.

Thanks anyway, Todd.

Wow, it's looking good!

How'd it go?

You have a pretty amazing Aunt.

She didn't care about
Piedmont, did she?

No. She cared
about me.

Come on, help me carry this guy.

Okay.

Just grab the legs.

Sure.

Oof! You got it.

Yup. Okay, set it
down. Perfect.

Looking good!

Who's more handsome?

Uhhh, the nutcracker.

Are you nervous?

Yeah, big time.

I've never worn an
eye-patch before.

You?

No. I should be,
but I'm not.

It's because you got this.

Jennie Stanton's Nutcracker
Dream, ladies and gentleman.

Oh, uh, you've just
got a little...

you've got some ketchup.

Here--

Did I get it?

A little trick I
learned in college.

Don't use your sleeve.

Too late, got it.

Oh, there's a little bit more.

Is it gone?

Yup.

Okay. Are
you sure?

You know, I saw Todd today.

Oh, yeah?

Yeah.

How's Todd?

I told him we were done.

Good riddance. I
never liked that guy.

Why?

Because he wasn't right for you.

He was a mouse king.

And you, Jennie,
are a nutcracker.

Heroically leading the
revolution for good--

one party at a time.

I'm not a hero.

You are to me.

Are you going to be at
the hall in the morning?

Yeah, the network is sending
a car to pick me up there.

Come here.

Don't squeeze me too hard, I
have to emote, remember.

I'll squeeze if I
want. I'm your aunt.

Yes, you are.

I'm so proud of you.

Those Hollywood types try and

push you around, they'll
have to answer to me.

I will give them your number.

You do that.

I love you, Nicky.

And remember you
always have a place here.

Thank you, Petra.

How do I follow that up?

Nobody can, that's why
she has two ex-husbands.

Thank you so much, Nick.

I couldn't have done any
of this without you.

Imagination, Stanton. You
saw it and you did it.

Just remember, okay,
have some fun.

It is a party after all.

I better go.

Yeah, you don't
wanna miss your plane.

Are you happy, Nick?

Well yeah, I mean,
why wouldn't I be?

you're looking at Dr.
Stone Hunter, after all.

No, I'm not.

I'm looking at Nick Forbes.

Don't make me cry, Stanton.

I almost
forgot. Wait.

Merry Christmas.

You didn't have to
get me anything.

I feel bad, I didn't
get you anything.

Yes, you did.

Now, go.

He's one of the good ones.

Yeah. Yeah,
he is.

Fourteen minutes and counting.

Hi, Arthur.

You okay?

Nick left.

I heard.

I let an amazing man get away

without even an attempt to
tell him how I feel.

You know, Jennie, when I
sold my store to Piedmont,

I lived in regret for
days and days.

Thinking, this is it. It's
over. But you know what?

What?

It's not over.

The party is just beginning.

I love you.

Thank you, Arthur.

Dear Nick,

You said you feel like a
clock radio that's always on.

This is a clock radio.
You are so much more.

Merry Christmas.
Love, Jenny.

Hi, everyone, I just
wanted to thank you all

for everything you've
done tonight--

donating services,
time, food, toys.

Words cannot
express my gratitude.

We did it.

We did it together.

Now let's start this party!

Merry Christmas!

Todd, there's something
you need to see.

The TV stations have
picked up Arthur's party.

I told you, sir, Jennie Stanton
refused to listen to our needs.

But people are going to
think that's our party.

Let the lawyers
figure it out, sir.

I want to go there.

Excuse me?

Look, Todd. They're
obviously generating

a lot of attention
for their party.

I want to see for myself.
Make it happen.

Piedmont just walked in.

Just tell them to leave.

Leave the party
that's open to everyone?

Ms. Stanton, this
is quite a party.

Jennie.

Welcome to the VIP room.

Petra, this is Todd Perry
and John Mitchell from--

Piedmont.

h* h* h*!

Arthur?

John! Merry
Christmas!

Petra, your employee has
co-opted a legally trademarked

brand and she's gone rogue.

She's--

The most amazing
woman I've ever met.

You're here.

The element of surprise is--

Key to any successful party.

But what about L.A.?

I don't want that.

I want you.

Care to join me for a toast?

Absolutely, Madame.

So you're responsible
for this, too?

Yes sir, he's the
other party planner.

I wanna shake your hands!

This is, this is just...

It's just wonderful.

I mean, did you see Arthur as
Santa? That's brilliant!

Todd, why on earth did you
ever let this tradition go?

Besides being a PR goldmine,
this is the right thing to do.

Sir, I just thought you wanted
to cater to our clients.

Another time!
Todd, this is...

Christmas?

Yes, it is. And a
merry one at that.

Come along, Todd!
Let's go help Santa.

Well played, my dear.

And what about you. Nicky?
Are you back for good?

If you'll have me.

Absolutely.

You two make a great team.

I can't think of two better
people to take the reins.

You know, in all my life, I've
never seen a better party.

You're not gonna
to make me choose

pigs in a blanket
again, are you?

No, I am not.
Thank you.

There you are.

Thank you.

So you think we can
make this work?

I think so.

Do you have plans for Christmas?

Well, I was I was
thinking we could

go down to the park and skate.

Now that is a plan.

Merry Christmas, Nick.

Merry Christmas, Jennie.

To the greatest
Christmas party ever!

Oh yeah!