Mistletoe Ranch (2022) Movie Script
1
["Christmas Day Dreaming"
by Tony Osbourne plays]
-[man] Alright, take that,
thank you, over there.
-[man] Come on, straight throug.
Let's go. Are you good?
-[Aime] Is he here yet?
No.
I'll give him a call
first thing. I'm so sorry.
It's alright. Thank you.
-[man] Make-up? Keep it moving.
Come on. Let's go.
Thank you so much.
Can someone give me a muffin?
I am so hungry right now.
But none of the carrot stuff.
I don't like carrots.
Give me something else.
I thought Gustav was going to be
the photographer for the shoot.
The great Gustav is indisposed.
[huffs]
-[Aime] Micha?
I don't think
he's going to show.
Uh-uh. No, not again.
I'm just his assistant.
You're Gustav's
talented assistant.
Please, Aime?
Fine.
I'm gonna pick up a lens and
could we get those lights up?
And just tone it down
in her lips. Thank you.
[Micah claps sharply]
People! We're a go.
[camera shutter clicks
and snaps]
Gorgeous. Yep.
There.
Nice.
OK. Picture you are on stage
at the Palais Garnier and you
are performing in front of the
crme de la crme of the city.
Simply just holding that moment
in between the curtain falling
and the applause.
Great. OK.
[shutter beeps]
Yeah.
-[Shutter clicks]
-Gorgeous.
Nice.
Just hold that one there.
Alright.
-Exquisite, Madeleine.
-[shutter clicks]
-You're a ballerina whisperer.
-[Aime chuckles]
Any other skills
you'd like to share with us?
Oui. I have been able to
ride a horse since I was five.
Ooh, cosmopolitan and practical.
[both chuckle]
Paris and New York
via Mistletoe Ranch.
-[snow crunches underfoot]
-[horses whinny]
[bolt rattles]
[door creaks]
[horse whinnies]
Belle, hey.
[Belle neighs]
-How are you?
-[Belle snorts]
It's OK. Ready to work?
[Belle whinnies]
-[woman] Aime? Great job today.
-You too. Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.
-[Micha] You know,
I heard a rumour...
Mmm?
...about extraordinary assistant
who stepped in during Gustav's
shoot in Moscow.
That was one time.
And it happened again
in Paris.
And Singapore. And Sydney.
You know Gustav will
take the credit for this too.
He always does.
I'm his personal assistant, OK?
I'm stuck here for life.
[chuckles]
But you, Aime,
you were supposed to do
a one year apprenticeship
but you're still here
doing his work for him.
Might be time
you escaped his shadow.
Well, the last few years have
certainly been an adventure.
I just wish Gustav shot on film
or at least tried medium format
like Irene Vore.
She's a recluse.
And the most in-demand
photographer of her generation.
[scoffs]
Yeah.
I mean, if you can find her.
You heading home
for the holidays?
Gustav wants me to fly
to Iceland after Christmas
so it's just easier to
stay in the city.
Well, you'll be pretty lonely
if you're staying around here.
Mmm.
Everyone's going home
for the holidays.
You too?
As soon as we are done I'm
heading straight to the airport.
I've got one photo shoot in Rome
and then I'm having
an Italian Christmas.
--Ooh!
-Yeah, cheese, pasta, wine.
-[woman] Hey, Aime?
-Hey.
-I have a delivery for you.
-Thank you.
I get them to hold my mail.
You can't find a mailbox
in the Himalayas.
-Aime, are you Santa?
-[Aime laughs]
-[Aime] It's from my hometown,
Snowy Oak.
-[Micha] Are they from everyone
in Snowy Oak?
Pretty much.
[edgy music]
What? He's cancelling
the Christmas party.
Why would he cancel it?
-Who?
-James. James Hunt.
[girl giggles]
Juniper?
[giggles]
[Belle neighs and snorts]
-[Juniper giggles]
-Junbug, is that you?
Huh. Thought I heard something.
-[Juniper giggles]
-That's because I did!
[Juniper giggles]
-[Juniper] Dad, I nearly dropped
my cookie.
-[James] Oh good, more sugar.
-Grandma made them.
-Yep.
Anyway, it's Christmas.
Nope, not yet it's not.
You should go get changed.
You've worn those wings like,
every day.
But Dad, Mum said
I'm a Christmas fairy.
Can I still be a Christmas fairy
if you you've
cancelled Christmas?
Am I just
a regular fairy now?
Juniper, I have not
cancelled Christmas.
I have cancelled
the Christmas party. OK?
What about Christmas tree?
You'll have one with your mum.
Mum is on tour.
She isn't back until
Christmas Day, remember?
Of course I remember.
But your grandma's sure to have
a big old Christmas tree
at church.
-[horse snorts]
-Rude.
[giggles]
So, what about the big house?
Junbug, how many times
have I told you?
The big house isn't ours,
it's Aime's.
But Aime's not even here.
I've never even met her.
Well, that's because Aime
is busy away working.
But when Aime was a little girl
like you,
she lived in the big house
with her mum, Molly.
And when Molly passed away
she left it to Aime.
Would Aime like
a Christmas tree, do you think?
Aime likes Christmas
even more than you do.
-No.
-Mm-hm.
-She does not.
-Yeah.
-I love Christmas more.
-[James chuckles]
I wish Aime was here then.
I bet she'd get
a Christmas tree.
That she would.
And then she'd kill me.
I'm going to kill him.
This is very dramatic.
I mean, I'm all for
other people's family drama,
don't get me wrong.
But didn't you say you haven't
been home for like--
Three years.
But James tends
to avoid me anyway
so I think the last time
I saw him was...
Ahh. No, I know that look.
That's the look I had
when I realised
my ex was going to be at the
same New Year's Eve party as me.
You and this James character
have history.
Don't you?
Sort of
but that is not the point.
The point is that
he cancelled Christmas.
Snowy Oak was
a tired ranching town
before my family created
the Christmas party.
And it's not just a party,
it's the one time of year
the whole town comes together.
It's really important.
And now I have a whole bag
of letters to prove it.
Sorry, Micha, I have to go.
-[Micha] Forgetting something?
-Huh?
Oh.
-Aime.
-[Aime chuckles]
-Good luck.
-Merry Christmas, Micha.
Merry Christmas, Aime.
[train horn sounds]
[gentle music with
sleigh bells ringing]
[train horn blasts]
[birds caw]
[gentle music]
[exhales]
[strains]
[keys jangle]
[door unlocks and creaks open]
Hello?
[boots thump on floorboards]
[keys jangle
and clatter onto table]
[birds chirp and caw outside]
[gentle music]
[discordant chord]
Hey, Mum.
[gentle music continues]
[horse whinnies outside]
[clattering from outside]
[approaching footsteps]
-[Aime] Excuse me.
Where can I find James?
Pardon me, miss,
but who are you?
-Oh, I'm--
-He's out at the stockyards.
Perfect. Thank you.
Hey! What do you think
you're doing?
You don't want to be
getting lost out there.
If that's who I think it is,
she'll be fine.
[Horse whinnies]
-[Aime] James Hunt, why did you
cancel the Christmas party?
-Oh, hi, Aime.
Been a long time.
How are you doing?
Oh, me? I'm doing fine.
Thanks for asking.
-Really?
-Yeah.
James, it's tradition.
Why did you cancel it?
I did not cancel Christmas.
I cancelled a Christmas party.
-My mother's Christmas party?
-Yep.
An annual event?
The highlight of the year
for Snowy Oak?
James, come on,
it's the most magical,
exciting, enchanting
Christmas celebration.
Which has been held
uninterrupted since 1929.
The one you haven't been to
in years.
That one.
Well, that's
completely irrelevant.
No, you're the one who came all
the way out here to yell at me.
I think it's entirely relevant.
Look, I don't have to attend
to know it's important, James.
Christmas is the one time of
year magic's allowed to happen.
-[bolt locks]
-Well, magic's expensive.
Then we can tone down
the glitter.
Look, James, I know the ranch
had its run of bad luck
but we could get a tree
or some carol singers.
There's no money, Aime.
It's more than just
a run of bad luck.
OK.
What about another bank loan?
Bank won't lend us any money
until we've made up
the already late payments.
Why didn't you tell me
any of this?
I did. I emailed you.
You should have called me.
Look, I am sorry, Aime.
I cancelled the Christmas party
because it
seemed like the right thing
to do.
This isn't over. OK?
I'm gonna take Holly
back to the stables and--
It's Belle.
Wait, what happened to Holly?
Holly was an old horse
when you left.
It's Belle. A lot's changed.
Come on.
[Belle whinnies]
[Belle whinnies]
[ retreating galloping hooves]
[birds caw]
[cows moo]
-[Aime] Sorry I called you
the wrong name, Belle.
[Belle snorts]
You just look
so much like Holly.
Same pretty face huh?
[Belle snuffles]
I used to know everything
about this place.
-[man] Best thing about horses,
they always forgive and forget
for a good heart.
And carrots.
[laughter]
-[Aime] Charlie.
I was beginning to think
I had the wrong ranch.
Well, things might change
but this will always be home.
You look like you need
a campout brew.
-I do.
-[laughter]
Hey, so when did
James Hunt become head rancher?
-[Charlie] I've been
training James
to take over
since he was a boy.
You know that.
James stepped up a few years ago
and now I play caretaker.
[Charlie groans]
-[Aime] Charlie, are you OK?
Is it your back?
Oh, my back, my knees,
my teeth.
Don't you worry about it.
What happened?
I was out the yard
when suddenly bang, it happened.
What?
-I was a cowboy for 40 years.
-Oh!
[laughter]
Why aren't you all
living in the main house?
It's more comfortable.
And that was always Mum's way.
James was worried about
the cost of heating the place
and I'm more than happy
at my own place.
And James and little Juniper
are in the rancher's cottage
out back.
-Juniper, that his little girl?
-Mmm.
Little darling. An angel.
That still doesn't explain why
everything has been packed up.
Well, when you didn't come home
for the Christmas party
the first year,
and then the year after that,
James packed everything away.
Said we needed to focus
on keeping the ranch afloat.
Are things really as bad
as what he says?
Sorry, darling. We did our best.
Why didn't anyone tell me?
And risk you abandoning
your career to come here?
I don't think so. Your mother
would never forgive me.
What's the bee in your bonnet?
I thought that while I was away
things here were gonna
stay the same.
But if everything was the same,
there wouldn't be any surprises.
Like an unexpected visit
from a dear friend.
-[mugs clank]
-[knock at the door]
I suspect that's for you.
-[woman] Aime
-[Aime squeals]
Sienna! Thanks for the letters.
I came right over
after choir practice.
I knew if I rallied the troops
those letters would
get to you eventually.
-Yes.
-God bless the post office.
[Aime chuckles]
-Are you off, Charlie?
-Yeah, I'd better
get back to it.
I don't know
what you two are up to
but I suspect I'm
gonna need an alibi.
[laughter]
-Bye.
-Bye now.
Now, I assume that son of mine
is off riding horses
and whatnot.
Mm-hm.
So we can talk about
how on earth we are going
to save Christmas.
Yes.
-[Sienna] You are staying
for Christmas, aren't you?
Oh but just for Christmas.
I have to go to Iceland after
the holidays for a photo shoot.
Of course you do.
Such a rolling stone
gathering no moss,
gaining a certain polish.
[both chuckle]
So much has changed here,
Sienna.
I mean, we used to eat dinner
at this table every night
and now it looks like
it's part of a museum.
I know. Here.
Oh, thank you.
The ranch has lost
a little of her...
-Magic?
-Exactly.
Yeah.
I don't like to see
the ranch this way.
Me neither.
I mean, maybe James is right
about cancelling the party.
Do you know why the party
started in the first place?
There was a bad season
and my great-grandmother
wanted to do something
to lift everyone's spirits.
Bad season?
My darling,
it was the Great Depression.
And from what my grandmother
said, great it was.
People left Snowy Oak in droves.
There was no work,
hardly any food to go around.
People were barely surviving.
Your great-grandmother decided
that Snowy Oak needed
to be reminded of the one thing
they still did have, each other.
I'm not saying losing the ranch
wouldn't be hard
but some things are bigger
than our own challenges.
I always thought of this place
as an anchor
and I like to think of the
Christmas party as giving people
that same feeling too, you know,
something that they can rely on.
What would your mother do?
She would have sent
all the invites already.
This is your ranch now, Aime.
You decide what happens next.
But if you do decide to go ahead
with it, you might need this.
Molly gave it to me
before she passed.
I used it to
pull off the Christmas party
these past few years.
Everything you need to know
is in there.
I haven't seen this in so long.
Thank you for keeping it safe.
Of course.
[gentle music]
How was it seeing James again?
You know, I always did wonder
if you too might find
your way back to each other.
You're going to be disappointed.
You've already yelled at him,
haven't you?
Well, then, I'll just have
to settle for
a welcome visit from Mistletoe
Ranch's favourite daughter.
[Aime chuckles]
-[Aime] Hey, Charlie.
Do you know where I could
pay my respects to Holly?
She's in the Pines where the
strawberries grow in summer.
Thanks.
[horses whinny softly]
[exhales]
[wind howls]
-[Aime] Hey, my girl.
Sorry I was gone for so long.
Time just flew by.
You were such a good girl.
So fast.
It was funny,
when things would get
a little stressful at work
I used to picture you
galloping down a New York street
or showing up at a photo shoot,
all saddled up.
And we'd gallop all the way back
to Mistletoe.
[branch cracks]
You scared me.
-Are you lost?
-Do I look lost?
No. No, you look like
you'd be friends with a bear.
Not in these woods,
not for years.
-[Aime] What are you doing
out here so late?
What are you doing out here
so late?
I used to live here.
Sometimes I'd come up
for a walk. It's peaceful.
-[woman] Yeah, it is peaceful,
usually.
-[Aime] You live out here?
-Yes, I do.
Right, then,
you'd know Mistletoe Ranch.
That's my place.
You Molly's girl?
Yes, you are.
[chuckles]
There she is.
You knew my mother?
-[woman] I did.
[laughs]
Her Christmas parties were wild.
I guess that's your job now.
Oh, I could never
replace my mother.
You don't have to rebuild
the fire,
you've just gotta keep it lit.
[owl hoots]
Oh! It's so...
Hello?
"Molly's famous Christmas cake."
[little chuckle]
"Where to find the mistletoe."
[car engine starts]
-[engine idles]
-[tail gate bangs shut]
[birds chirp]
[Juniper hums]
Have you ever been inside
the big house before?
-[Aime] Hello.
-What's the big house?
-This is the big house.
I used to think there were
ghosts inside here
but it's just empty.
[little chuckle]
Will you take my photo?
Sure.
Here you go.
Alright.
Are you ready? Big smile.
[shutter beeps and clicks]
Perfect. Come and have a look.
[both chuckle]
-You're Aime.
-I am.
-I knew you would come.
-Oh, did you?
Dad and I were talking
about Christmas
and how much I wanted
a Christmas tree,
and he said,
"If Aime were here,
she'd get a Christmas tree."
Well, your dad
is absolutely right.
[sighs]
I didn't mean it to be a wish
but I did really wish it.
And it is Christmas.
And magic happens at Christmas.
And here you are.
And here I am.
You must be Juniper.
I like your wings.
Thanks. My mum made them.
She's a singer.
Are you gonna get
a Christmas tree for us?
Yeah, I think so.
How about now?
[Aime laughs]
Maybe coffee first.
Cover at least part of this.
Not all of it but part of it.
[footsteps approach]
-Oh, good morning.
-[Aime] Good morning.
-[Charlie] I hope you don't mind
but with you being back and all,
I thought you might like
a little bit of company.
Oh, thank you, Charlie.
Trust you had a good sleep in.
I slept fine, thanks.
Aime took my photograph.
I see you've met Junbug.
I have.
[Juniper giggles]
So, I've been thinking about Mum
and what she would have done
in our financial predicament.
-[Juniper] We're asset rich
but we're income poor.
[all chuckle]
-[James] Young lady...
-What?
Do you remember that chat
that we had
about saying things
we don't really understand?
We have no funny money.
-[Charlie chuckles]
-[Aime] Precisely.
Look, I know things
have been tight
but the Christmas party
was never about fancy ornaments
or expensive gifts.
It's more about coming together.
And we're not the only ranch
in town facing hard times.
Christmas is a week away
so that gives us enough time
for the choir to rehearse,
and for us to light up
the house,
and get a tree.
-Yes!
-Aime...
-[Aime] James, look.
It's my mum's Christmas book.
She laid out everything
we need to do.
I mean, don't you want things
to be like
how they were
if only for a little bit?
What do we have to lose, huh?
I think the horses
need to be fed.
[sound of horses whinnying]
-[departing footsteps]
-[Aime sighs]
Well, I didn't hear a no.
[Juniper giggles]
[bright music]
[laughter]
[bright music continues]
[Juniper giggles]
[music ends]
[horses whinny]
Charlie, get down from there.
I can do that.
-[Charlie] Calm your britches,
James.
I'm not so old I can't replace
a light bulb.
That from the bank, I suppose.
Well, definitely not
a love letter.
I know it's tough
but that's what ranching is.
Tough times
followed by the tougher times.
And just when you think
things can't get any worse...
-They improve?
-Oh, no, things get terrible.
Yeah, it's not as encouraging
as it sounds.
Well, ranching isn't for just
anyone wahoo on a horse.
[horse snorts]
Did we do the wrong thing,
Charlie,
borrowing to the hilt
to keep the land?
Worse thing a rancher can do
is slowly sell off land.
Break it up bit by bit.
You wake up one day
and you've got no land to run.
You had faith that things
were gonna turn around
and it takes faith
to run a ranch.
That and a healthy dose
of ignorance.
Yeah, well, I've got that
in spades.
Ahh, Aime, she's got you
in a flap.
There's no flies on you.
-[Charlie] She always did
have that effect on you.
You might consider going easy
on Aime.
Easy?
She's barely been back here
and she swans in to
make Christmas angels.
She has no idea what it takes
to run a ranch.
Well, that may be
but you work close once
and that should count
for something.
It's Christmas, James.
She has no family
but the people in this house.
And she hasn't seen us in years.
Wouldn't you think she'd have
someplace to go
or some fancy party
or something rather?
Afternoon, Charlie.
-[James] Uh-huh.
Yeah and--
We just need a little more time.
Could you maybe give us
until March?
Yeah. I know.
We've already had an extension.
What?
Can I call you back?
Hi. So, what do you think?
-[Juniper laughs]
-[Aime] Juniper!
It looks like Christmas!
-[James] Did you do this?
-Ah, yeah. With Aime.
-With Aime.
-It's all so pretty.
I just want to stay up
and look at everything.
-[Sienna] When your father was
young boy, Juniper...
-Yeah?
-He used to love Christmas.
He used to sneak into the church
and just stare up
at the big Christmas tree
and the pillar candles.
And do you know who was always
there bundled up next to him?
- Who?
- This one here.
[Sienna laughs]
They were inseparable
and always up to something.
I was just
an innocent bystander.
-[Aime] That is not true.
Oh, goodness,
do you remember when you let
the cattle out into the valley?
[Aime laughs]
OK.
That was an accident
and if I remember correctly,
James had one job,
close the gate behind me.
I was on a horse.
What kind of cowboy can't
close the gate on horseback?
-[James] I was 12.
-[Aime] All that matters
was that the cattle were fine
and no-one got hurt.
What were you doing
in that pasture anyway?
[Aime chuckles]
Well, Aime found out that
her favourite cow, Delilah,
was about to be sold
so she made a plan to kidnap--
-To rescue.
-Rescue Delilah.
[Juniper giggles]
-[Aime] I thought I could just
hide her in my bedroom.
-[Sienna] A foolproof plan.
Almost. We nearly got trampled
in the process.
Well, we could run
pretty fast back then.
I spent three long days
rounding up cattle
but I'm glad you kids have
a sweet, cute, summer memory.
Lucky Molly was
a decent rancher
else we would have lost
that herd to the mountains.
Dad said Molly had
the best Christmas in town.
Did he?
I did. No offence, Mum.
None taken.
Molly knew how to throw a party.
That's why I'm so glad you came.
I'm so glad you wrote.
Ma, you're always taking
her side.
Hey, I'm
taking Christmas's side.
Ah-ha.
-Now Juniper...
-Mm-hm?
The choir's very excited to
perform at the Christmas party
so will you lend your beautiful
singing voice to the cause?
-Yes!
-And sing a Christmas solo?
Yes.
Wonderful.
Aime, this is gonna be
a great success.
And you know what else
is gonna be a great success?
The dishes.
[all chuckle]
You've raised
a beautiful daughter.
Yeah, she's pretty amazing.
What happened between you
and Juniper's mum?
Ahh, Sage and I get along fine.
We just couldn't make it work.
She's touring a lot
which means I get to spend
a lot of time with Junbug.
Well, Juniper is a lucky girl.
This is a great place
to grow up.
[Plate scrapes]
I thought I might run into you
the last time I was here
but I think you were
out of town.
-Horse auction.
-Right.
[water runs]
-I did try to call.
-I know.
I didn't mean to
be away for so long, James.
We've been busy. It's fine.
-Wait, what are you doing?
-Washing up.
No, it's my turn to wash.
Come here.
Are you kidding me?
You washed last time.
Who remembers?
I do.
It was just before Mum passed.
-Eight years ago?
-Yeah.
I remember because we had just
finished dinner and then Mum
went to go get the fruitcake but
we had already eaten fruitcake.
So you washed, i dried.
It's my turn.
How do you even remember that?
I remember because
it was unfair.
You ate most of it.
-I'm gonna check the tally.
-Go for it.
I know what it's gonna say.
Fine.
So, is there, I dunno,
some guy wearing turtlenecks
and talks about philosophy
while eating tapas?
Tapas?
Yeah, the little dishes
you get from Spain.
I know what tapas are.
No, I'm not dating a philosopher
who enjoys
small plates of Spanish food.
[James grunts]
Not much time for love when
you're constantly on the move.
It's really nice
to be home though.
Especially at Christmas.
Everyone loves Christmas.
Not everyone.
For some it's just another day.
Oh, please,
you love Christmas.
You used to love playing
that piano
and driving everyone crazy
with Christmas carols.
Yeah.
I can't believe
you let it get so out of tune.
[dish clatters]
You don't play anymore.
-[Charlie] James.
-Yeah?
Your mother's just leaving.
Thank you, Charlie.
I'll drive her home. Cheers.
When did James become so...
Serious?
Take it from me, running a ranch
is a stressful job.
Yeah, I know but he used to sing
and laugh all the time.
Even when he was working.
Who knows what runs through
a cowboy's mind.
But he certainly doesn't
sing anymore.
[light music]
[birds chirp]
[approaching footsteps]
[cow moos]
[scraping sounds]
I see you found your old boots.
[Aime chuckles]
-You didn't need to do this.
I wanted to help.
And apologise.
What for?
Coming here unannounced.
Yelling at you
in front of the horses.
But mostly for not being here,
leaving you to deal
with all this on your own.
I've wanted to be a rancher
since I was a kid.
Now I am and I'm this close
to buying my own place.
You went for your dream,
I went for mine.
OK.
-[James] What's on the docket
for today?
You gonna build Santa Claus's
sleigh in the back garden,
fly in some reindeers?
-[Aime] I thought I'd save
that for tomorrow.
OK.
No, I thought I'd help you here
with things.
-Really?
-Mmm.
What?
I am an assistant
for a crazy person, OK?
I work 14 hour days.
I am not so soft.
OK.
-OK.
-Get to work.
Yep.
Hey, James,
what's all that weird equipment
out in the shed for?
Soil testing.
-[Aime] Is there something
wrong with the soil?
Precision agriculture.
GPS receivers use soil samples
to map out the property,
help us figure out where the
land's thriving, where it's not.
-Kind of brilliant.
-Yeah, it's expensive.
Didn't really get started,
unfortunately.
That's a good day's work.
Not too exhausted, are you?
No more than hiking up
to the top of Mont Blanc
because the light was
just right.
I'm gonna show you something.
[Aime chuckles]
-Is that what I think it is?
-Maybe.
[Aime laughs]
What, you don't still play music
for the horses, do you?
It's been a minute.
Are those the old records?
You're gonna love this.
-May I?
-Yeah. They're all still here.
This one.
[gentle music plays]
-You got a little...something.
-Thanks.
The clock strikes one...
Something.
In this sleepy town...
Choir practice. I promised your
mum I would take Juniper.
-[James] OK.
Um... I had fun today.
And I wrote this song
to sing you off to sleep
But who could sleep
on Christmas...
-[Juniper] We're here!
-[Sienna] Ooh,
my little Christmas fairy.
[laughter]
-Hi.
-Hi.
So, I thought we'd go
old school.
Ooh.
A series of Christmas songs
with our lovely Juniper here
getting a chance to show off
her beautiful voice.
I love it.
Here you go, honey.
Go have fun.
The choir's excited.
I have missed this place
more than I realised.
I would have loved to have
had you as a daughter-in-law.
But I'm just so happy
you're back.
OK. Let's rehearse.
We'll pick it up with bar 33.
You good? Over here. Perfect.
-You got this.
-[Sienna] Two, three.
-[Charlie ] "'T'was the night
before Christmas
"when all through the house
"not a creature was stirring,
not even a mouse."
["The First Noel" plays
on a record]
"The stockings were hung
by the chimney with care
"in hopes that Saint Nicholas
soon would be there."
Thank you.
-[Charlie] "The children were
nestled all snug in their beds,
"While visions of sugar plums
danced in their heads..."
The years have softened him.
I don't remember either one
of us getting a bedtime story.
No.
More likely to get told off for
leaving your hat on your bed.
Well, there's more bad luck
than leaving a cowboy hat
on your bed.
Oh, yeah, Sheriff Charlie?
Give you a whooping.
[Charlie continues to read]
We've had some good times here.
And you're right
about Christmas.
I haven't seen Junbug
this happy in a long time.
Well, I was gonna do it
with or without you
but I'd rather do it with you.
Thank you.
-[Charlie, whispering] James!
-That's my cue.
-[Aime chuckles]
-[James, quietly]
Alright, come, Junbug.
-Come on.
-[Juniper grunts]
Good night, sweetheart.
Sleep well.
[quiet music]
-[Charlie] If we move
the current loan
to a bank with lower interest
we will still owe $50,000.
And when would we need
to pay that?
Before the year ends.
OK.
-[Aime] You don't happen
to have $50,000
in a cuss jar, do you?
[Charlie scoffs]
If I had of known,
I'd have kept up on cussing.
Ooh. What about if we sell off
some of the lands,
you know, the back block?
No. We did our best
to avoid that.
Once you start it's hard to sto,
next thing you know...
-It's death by a thousand cuts.
-Exactly.
Truth of the thing is
since Molly passed,
this place has been
a ship without a captain.
We've all done our best to make
up for it but that's the truth.
You inherited this place, Aime,
but you don't have to inherit
its burdens.
You have a life outside
of the ranch
but it is your name
on the dotted line.
I can guide you but only
you can decide what to do.
-[James] So, what do you want,
Aime?
Do you see yourself
living here?
I mean, this will always
be home, of course,
and I don't want to see it go
but my life is
all over the place.
Well, ranching is all about
taking chances
but if that's not what you want,
a lot of people
have expressed interest
so I could make some calls.
Um... I need time to think.
I'll just be upstairs.
[retreating footsteps]
Have you told her
the other option?
She'd never go for it.
She might.
I don't want to hurt her,
Charlie.
This place has always
been Molly's and Aime's
and I don't wanna change that.
Better you than some stranger.
[edgy music]
[door creaks]
[poignant music]
[poignant music continues]
-[Aime] Come on, James,
keep up.
-[James] I'm catching you, Aime
[chuckles]
[horse snorts]
[exhales]
Good girl, Holly.
No-one can beat us
up the mountain, huh?
-[horse neighs]
-[James] Whoa.
Good boy.
You are impossible to catch,
you know that.
Nothing wrong with
coming in second, James.
-You need to talk to your horse.
-Oh?
Yeah. Just try and keep up
next time.
I'll keep that in mind.
[horse neighs]
Mistletoe's growing.
Oh, yeah.
[chuckles]
-[scratching sounds]
[snap]
Why do I feel like I'm always
chasing you, Aime Tremblay?
[laughs delightedly]
Really?
-[James] Yeah.
-What do you say?
-Yes.
Yeah?
-Yes.
Get over here.
-[Aime] James, it's beautiful.
[laughter]
[joyous music]
[knock at the door]
I was wondering when you'd
find your way back in here.
[Aime chuckles]
It's like walking back in time.
I've been to most
of these places now.
Rome, three times.
-[James] Is this Snowy Oak?
-[Aime] Yeah, it is.
This renowned photographer,
Irene Vore
came here in the '90s and did
this whole series on Snowy Oak.
She even came to Mistletoe Ranch
and met my mum.
She is the reason
I'm a photographer.
Irene has this really unique
ability to capture a person.
She hones in
on some small detail
like an expression
or a tiny gesture
that just really captures
a secret side of someone.
Something they might not even
know they're showing.
Look at this one here.
The lady is looking away so the
eye is drawn to her hands.
They're cracked and worn.
Hands that have known a life,
you know?
The one she wanted,
the one she didn't.
It just makes you
really consider her
and the life she's lived.
I wish I could be more invested
in my photography
but with all this running
around, and clients can be...
-[James grunts]
-..difficult.
What?
I would have gone with you,
you know.
You would have hated every
second away from this place.
I know. But I would have gone.
That's why I didn't ask.
-What's this?
-Your mum's old reels.
I moved them up here
after I was--
You condemned the place?
Something like that.
[chuckles]
[film clatters on reel]
-[James] Come on.
Is that Grampa?
[laughter]
-[Sienna] Ooh.
-[James] Hey, Junbug,
look at that.
-[Juniper] Oh, horsies.
-[Aime] Remember that one?
Oh, we still have that one.
-[Charlie] Oh, little Aime
and James.
Oh.
-[Aime, on film] Mum!
-[James] Wow.
-[Juniper] Dad!
-[James] Mmm?
- It's you!
-[James] Oh, yeah.
That is me.
[Aime sings]
I never knew
What I was missing
I didn't know you could play
the piano.
Yeah.
Ooh
-[James] Sounds good.
[Aime vocalises]
-[Aime] Maybe come in
with a harmony there?
"Warm."
-"Warm beside me."
-"Me"?
"Keeps me..."
That song you both wrote,
it was beautiful.
Mmm, yeah, that it was.
-[Aime plays a chord]
-Nice.
Christmas was all
but a feeling
Nice.
All of the light
shining so bright
Now it's singing
[harmony]
Ooh
-[James] Swap. Come here.
Why?
-[Aimee] Alright Mum,
let's wrap the treats.
-[Aimee] So, we put
this up yesterday.
Voila!
-[James] That is gorgeous.
That was our last Christmas
with Mum.
-[James] That's good.
Show me the ring.
-[Aime] I love it.
[a few notes played
on the piano downstairs]
-[woman] Here, let me see.
[lid clatters on floor]
-[James] Middle C's always been
a bit sticky.
-[woman] I'll see what I can do.
-[James] I haven't played
in years
but I want to get back into it.
-[woman] Yeah, you should.
Hey, James?
I wanted to test out
this camera.
Can I borrow you?
-[James] Why can't we
do this closer to the ranch?
-[Aime] Because the natural
light is way better out here.
Besides, I promised Juniper
I would scour the countryside
for some fresh mistletoe.
She drew me a map.
[Aime chuckles]
-How do you do that?
-Do what?
You make everything
an enchanted experience.
It's just playing.
You know, Juniper's going to go
mistletoe hunting
every Christmas
for the rest of her life?
What makes you say that?
I dunno,
that's how you do things.
You take something,
like mistletoe,
which is a parasitic plant
by the way,
and you make it magical.
And you made your life magical.
Yeah, I don't know about that.
I'm starting to feel
a little stuck.
Yeah, I know the feeling.
So, how did you know what to do?
I think about what I really want
and take the risk.
-James.
-What?
-It's her. Shh.
- Her who?
The woman from the woods
the other evening.
You know, the one I was
telling you about.
-[James] Yeah.
I've seen her around.
She lives up in the hills.
There's something so intriguing
about her.
She's wild but gentle.
She's so enigmatic
but kind of mean in like,
this cowboy way.
[Shutter clicks]
-Well, I found the mistletoe.
-Mmm?
[Aime gasps in delight]
I almost forgot.
-[woman] Nice to see some people
still appreciate film.
Would you like a knife to cut
down that mistletoe?
-[Aime] OK, no peeking,
alright?
[Juniper giggles]
Promise.
OK. Open your eyes.
[Aime laughs]
-You found the mistletoe!
-We did.
Well, we had some help
from this woman in the woods.
-Was she a Christmas angel?
-Maybe.
Yeah, angel with a hatchet.
Alright, Junbug,
close your eyes.
Your dad has
one more surprise for you.
-[Juniper] OK.
-Keep them closed.
-I will.
-[Aime] Keep them closed.
-[branches rustle]
-[Juniper] They are.
-[Juniper giggles]
OK, Junbug.
Surprise.
Wow! It's perfect!
-Yeah?
-[Juniper] It's amazing.
-Pretty hard to cut down too.
[camera shutter clicks]
-[Sienna] Oh, the sound
of that camera clicking
is driving me
right down memory lane.
-[Aime] You are just so
wonderful to photograph.
-[Sienna] I remember
your preference
for shooting my right side.
Sienna, you are graceful
from every angle.
Thank you.
What else do we have?
-[Juniper] Hey, it's a horse.
So, Junbug,
every year my mum and I
would add an ornament
to the tree,
something to remind
us of the year we had.
What a lovely tradition.
What about this one?
Ooh, that one was
my first cattle run.
And run you did.
[laughter]
Hey, what's this one?
Let's see.
-[Aime] Oh, no, that's--
-[Juniper] Aime and it's Dad.
-Let me see that.
-Maybe...
-[Juniper] Dad, this is you.
-[James] Yeah. That's me.
So, what's it for?
-[James] Well...
-It was when um...
I asked Aime to be
my best friend.
-[Juniper] OK, so,
where should it go?
I don't think there's room on
the tree for that one, Junbug.
Of course there's room.
This one can go right... here.
-[Juniper] It looks good.
-[Juniper giggles]
-[Sienna] Perfect.
-[Juniper] I want these too.
The reindeer galloping off.
[chirps]
-[James, singing]
Nowhere else I'd rather be
Than underneath
the Christmas tree
I can hear the sleigh bells
ring when I'm with you
See round, Charlie.
[Belle neighs]
[James's singing fades]
[Charlie chuckles]
[approaching footsteps]
What are scrawling away
over there?
Sending out the world's latest
party invitations.
Mal from the post office said
he'd do a last-minute delivery.
Hey, Charlie, do you know
who this woman is?
Oh, I sure do.
-That's Ivy.
-Ivy.
She owns the old cabin
up in the mountain.
Stern but friendly enough.
She likes to keep to herself
but your mother
was able to coax her down for
a hot cider or two
back in the day.
I think I'm gonna invite her
to the party.
Well, she doesn't often come
into town but it's worth a try.
Stranger things have happened.
What's with the photo?
I thought I'd add one of my
photographs for every invite.
You know, a little bit
of emotional manipulation
never hurt anyone.
Wiley as a fox you are, my girl.
You know what I heard
the other morning?
What was that?
-James singing.
-No.
[Aime laughs]
You know, in the time that he's
been running this ranch,
I'd say he's been offered
oh, four or five positions
running other ranches.
Really?
Some of them much bigger
than Mistletoe.
He always declines.
Truth be told, little darling,
I suspect we would have lost
this place years ago
if it weren't for James.
Of course. I mean, you'd have
to be a fool not to see
how talented he is.
I'm not surprised.
That's good.
OK, we'll sell the ranch.
He'll land on his feet
and I'll go to Iceland.
Aime, before
your mother passed
I promised I would look after
this ranch and look after you.
You have looked after the ranch
and you look after everyone.
Part of looking after someone,
a part of loving them,
is telling them things
they don't want to hear.
OK.
Up on the mountain there grows
this kind of weed
that makes the herd real unwell.
Problem is, they can't get
enough of it.
Now, no sooner had I cleared it
out from one side of the field,
the silly cows are into it
on the other side.
Mm-hm.
All of the expensive
good hay going to waste.
Sometimes we keep doing things
that are not good for us.
Charlie, am I the cow
in this metaphor?
Aime, why you so interested in
weeds that are no good for you?
When you have a whole barn
full of hay?
I... have to get these out
but thank you, Charlie.
Molly, I'm doing my best.
[door opens]
-[James] I brought
some mistletoe
to decorate the church.
Oh, thank you, hon.
-I do love this time of year.
-I know.
-Hi.
-Mwah.
-You wanted to see me?
-Yeah.
There's quite a bit going on,
from what I hear.
-And what do you hear?
-Oh, please, I hear everything.
What are you gonna do?
Sell. I think she'll sell.
Someone's coming over tomorrow
to check out the place.
But I think it's time that
I start looking for a ranch
of my own.
I'll be fine.
I was talking about Aime.
Yeah, I know.
Mum, this is the longest Aime
has been being in one place.
In a few days she won't even
have a home here,
she'll have no reason to stay.
I wouldn't be so sure
about that.
She made her mind up
a long time ago.
She left because I put too much
pressure on her.
I'm not doing that again.
She was a young girl
who had just lost her mother.
You never know.
Leaving might have been the best
thing she could have done,
for the both of you.
What do you mean?
Maybe she needed to get away
from here,
from everything that reminded
her of what she'd lost
so she could heal and rebuild.
Some things we need to do
on our own.
She still loves you, James.
[owl hoots]
[gentle music]
[piano lid creaks]
[James plays chords]
-[James] Do you remember this?
- Course I do.
-[Aime sings]
I never knew
What I was missing
I never knew until I found you
and then I could hear it
Christmas was all
but a feeling
[together]
All of the light
Shining so bright
[Aime sings]
Choirs are singing
[together in harmony]
Ooh
[Aime sings] Keeps me warm
with you beside me
[together in harmony]
Ooh
[Belle snorts]
Ooh
[Aime sings]
Making new memories
Nowhere else I'd rather be
Than underneath
the Christmas tree
I can hear
the sleigh bells ring
When I'm with you
Oh
Nowhere else I'd rather be
Than underneath
the Christmas tree
I can hear
the sleigh bells ring
When I'm with you
Falling into your arms
Finally I feel safe
Ooh
When you're holding me close
So won't you kiss me
under the mistletoe?
[phone rings]
Sorry. It's me.
[phone continues to ring]
[receding footsteps]
[phone continues to ring]
[phone continues to ring]
[piano top closes]
[phone continues to ring]
-[man] Hi!
-Micha, hey.
Aime, hi. Merry Christmas.
[upbeat music plays
in background]
-How's Italy?
-Oh, it's fine.
I'm still at this nightmare
of a shoot.
But hey, Gustav wanted me to
pass on a message.
-[Aime, hesitantly] OK.
He needs you to fly to Iceland.
Yeah, after Christmas to
photograph the Northern Lights.
Before.
[music blares through phone]
He needs you to fly out
Christmas Eve.
A reindeer herder
is moving through
and he wants to capture it.
No, Micha, I just got here.
There's not enough time.
I know but at least you can
parachute your way out of this
weird romantic situation,
you know the one
you won't tell me about.
I have to go because I don't
want to talk anymore.
But I booked you a ticket
and I'll text you, OK? Bye.
-Mwah!
-No. Micha!
[line disconnected]
[front door opens and closes]
[birds caw]
[train horn blares]
-[Aime] We'll send you the
contracts to look over tomorrow.
-[man] OK.
-[Aime] Nice meeting you.
-[James] Nice meeting you too.
-[man] Thanks for time.
-[James] We'll talk soon.
-[Aime] Wow. That was awful.
-[James] No, I thought it went
quite well.
Yeah, too well.
That's why it was awful.
No.
Hey, I wonder if the new owners
will let us
take the horses out
once in a while.
I'm sure they would.
Here. I've got something
to cheer you up.
-[Aime] What?
[Aime chuckles]
Really?
Yeah.
["The Devil Knows My Name"
plays]
[laughs]
Oh, we're doing this.
-Mm-hm.
-Mm-hm.
James!
[laughs]
Oh, tale full of pale skies
I live beneath the law
Empty now only to find
I cannot fill the hole
Deep within the winter winds
My soul begins to freeze
I used to feel
so scared inside
Now I'm dead
is where I'll be
Mmm
Now I'm dead
is where I'll be...
-[James] You know...
you don't
have to leave Snowy Oak.
-Oh, really?
-Mm-hm.
You said you wanted to work
from a studio.
Focus on your own projects.
You can do that from here.
Yeah, well, there might not be
a here for much longer.
Snowy Oak's not going anywhere.
-Yeah?
-Mmm.
But once the ranch is gone,
I won't have connection
to the town, will I?
-[James] Are you sure
about that?
-[Aime] Not like this one.
Do you know how hard it was
to forget about you?
Mm-hm.
You are literally in the DNA
of this place.
Every snowfall, autumn leaf,
spring day.
You were everywhere.
What was I supposed to do?
If I had stayed I would have
ended up resenting you
and if I had dragged you along
with me,
you would have ended up
resenting me and...
Mm-hm?
..I just couldn't
let that happen.
And how about now?
Ready now?
It doesn't work like that.
Then how does it work?
with you running away again
for a couple of years?
Aime, you're just gonna
disappear again after Christmas.
-Um...
-What?
Christmas Eve. It was
the call I had last night.
I have to leave Christmas Eve.
James, it's my job.
It's the only option I have.
Oh, it's not the only option.
[Music stops abruptly]
It's the safe one.
I guess you don't
want to take the risk with us.
Wait, why you doing this, James?
I have a life in New York.
I have a job,
I have to make money.
Why did you come back, Aime?
Why now?
'Cause I thought there was
still something between us.
-[Juniper] Dad!
It's the last rehearsal for
the Christmas performance.
-[James] Not now, Junbug.
Aime and Dad are talking.
Come on!
No, it's OK.
I'll take you, sweetheart.
I'm sorry, James.
-Alright, come here.
-[Juniper giggles]
[receding footsteps]
[choir singing]
The holly and the ivy
When they are both
full grown
[door opens]
Of all the trees
that are in the wood
The holly bears the crown
The rising of the sun
and the running of the deer
The playing
of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
The rising of the sun
and the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
sweet singing in the choir
Ahh.
-Sorry we're late.
-Better late than never. Come.
-[Juniper giggles]
-Go on up. Right there.
OK, everybody. One more time.
-[door opens]
-[approaching footsteps]
-[woman] Do you mind
an audience?
Mum!
-[Sage] Junbug!
[laughter]
I missed you.
You look so big. You got bigger.
-[Juniper] Yeah.
-[Sage] I wanna hear you sing.
-Really?
-Yeah. Go on.
-Mum's here.
-[Sienna] OK, squeeze in.
Here we go. From the top.
[cutlery scrapes]
-[Sage] The tour bus broke down
just outside of Boston.
I cancelled the last few shows,
I got on the last train
out of town, and here I am.
-A Christmas surprise.
-[laughter]
So, Aime, are we ready for
the Christmas party tomorrow?
Juniper is so excited.
She's been telling me
all about it.
Well, the invitations have
all come back.
The choir is sounding perfect.
And Charlie has been cooking up
a storm.
This cherry pie is delicious.
-[Charlie] I've been indulging
in Molly's old cookbooks.
Who would have thought I'd
turn my hand to baking?
[laughter]
[Sage] Well, an old cowboy needs
a new hobby
or he'll get up to mischief.
-[Charlie] Is this true?
-[Sienna] It's looking like
being a magical Christmas Eve.
-To Molly.
- [all] To Molly.
-[Juniper] To Molly.
-[Aime] To Molly.
-[James] Right, well, we've got
a big day tomorrow.
I think we should all
get some sleep.
Sage, can I give you
a lift back to your place?
-[Sage] That would be perfect,
thank you.
-[Sienna] Come on, hon.
-[Juniper] Do we have to go?
-[Sienna] Good night. Thank you.
Stay right there.
-'Night, Charlie.
-Good night now.
Aime I hope you don't mind
me staying
but your ranch has been a real
constant for my little girl.
-So, thank you.
-Of course.
That was always my
mother's way
and I've been happy to continue
it for as long as I could.
-Good night.
-Good night, Sage.
Good night, Charlie.
[front door creaks open]
Nothing is final until you've
signed on the dotted line.
[front door closes]
I don't know what to do, Holly.
With you gone and Mum gone.
Then there's this whole thing
with the ranch and James.
I used to be so happy here.
[sobs]
[sniffs]
[car engine idles]
-[Aime] Don't come in,
I'm processing.
Hey, I thought you'd
like to know
I spoke to a potential buyer.
We have to make a decision
on their offer.
Yeah. Yeah, OK.
I mean, it's inevitable,
isn't it?
Yep, seems that way.
Hey, James?
Yeah.
I know I hurt you when I left.
You had a lot going on.
And I learnt to accept that.
And I can't imagine how
difficult it would be
to lose a mother.
I'm sorry that I couldn't do
more.
[poignant music]
[gentle music]
-[James] Hey.
Looks like you've got enough to
keep the whole village warm.
Well, that's good because
tonight we
are keeping
the whole village warm.
This thing's a big deal
around here.
Charlie says Aime has melted
your cold, cold heart.
-OK. You can...
-[Sage giggles]
There's the door.
It's nice to see the place
like this.
It has a soul again.
[wood blocks clatter]
She is good for you.
Don't tell me haven't
told how you feel.
-It's complicated.
-[Sage scoffs]
"It's complicated."
You don't have to tell me that.
It's been a long time
and she's here now.
-[James, softly] I know.
We tried our best
but we are better as friends.
And as your friend,
I want what's best for you.
Don't let the one get away.
[jaunty Christmas music]
We'll be together
once again this Christmas
Our family home
so full of love and laughter
Time with the loved ones
hanging gifts on the tree
Or falling out with Grampa
about what's on TV
Christmas Eve cookies
And carrot as a treat
for Rudolph...
It's Christmas Eve.
[song continues]
-It's Christmas Eve!
-[Aime laughs]
It sure is. Come here. Ready?
Whoo!
-Are you excited?
-Yeah.
And...
look, Dad got you a present.
Ooh!
He never gets anyone presents.
Except for me, of course.
Of course.
Are you really leaving tonight?
I am.
I have to go to the North Pole
to take
pictures of Santa Claus
and his reindeer.
My dad is going to miss you.
I'm going to miss him too.
I'm going to miss everyone.
Oh!
[Gentle music]
-[Sage, calling] Juniper!
Where are you, baby?
You'd better go.
-[Juniper] Coming, Mum.
[tree rustles]
-[Sage] There you are.
Come on over here.
-[Sage] Are you ready to go?
-[Juniper] Yep.
-[James] Hey.
Green's looking nice.
Ooh, look at that.
Mwah!
Alright, I'm heading inside, OK?
-[Juniper] OK.
-[Sage] How you feeling
about tonight?
-[Sage] Are you ready to sing?
-[Juniper] Yeah.
-[Sage] Yeah?
[momentous music]
[lively chatter]
[Juniper giggles]
[music builds to a climax]
[Juniper gasps]
Aime, you look...
Beautiful.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
[Aime chuckles]
I suppose I should
probably greet everyone.
Well, you are
the lady of the house.
Go get 'em.
Good evening, everyone. Hi.
I am delighted to welcome you
here to Mistletoe Ranch
on this fine occasion.
My mother, Molly,
who many of you knew,
she loved Christmas.
And now I love it too.
Christmas reminds us that
magic isn't something that you
just stumble upon
or something that disappears
as we get older.
Magic is something you make.
I don't know what the future
holds for the ranch
but what I do know is that
there is a special place
in my heart
for everyone
I have loved in this house.
And tonight I welcome you all
to share in that.
So, Merry Christmas, everyone.
-[all] Merry Christmas.
-[Juniper sings]
Oh holy night
The stars
are brightly shining
It is the night
of the dear Saviour's birth
Long lay the world
in sin and error pining
Till he appeared
and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope
the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
a new and glorious morn
[harmony]
Fall on your knees
O hear the angels' voices
Oh night divine
O night when Christ was born
O night
O holy night
O night divine
[applause]
Whoo!
-Did you take this photo?
-I did.
Got any more?
-[Ivy] Mmm, interesting.
Did I offend you?
That wasn't my intention.
-[Ivy] Are you self-taught?
-[Aime] I studied in Paris.
-[Ivy] Mmm.
I should probably
get back to the party.
I've seen enough.
I don't know whether
to be offended or not.
I'd like to work with you.
I have a new contract coming up,
a series of portraits
of the best and brightest
of the New York art scene
but they want to shoot
on location.
Here, in Snowy Oak.
Well, clearly you're
the best person for the job.
What do you think?
I'm sorry, I don't understand.
Do I know your work?
I think it's 116,
no, 122 is my favourite.
[pages flip]
Ivy...
Ivy/IV
[Aime laughs delightedly]
You're Irene Vore!
You're my hero, the reason
I became a photographer!
What are you doing in Snowy Oak?
What are you doing holding
Christmas parties?
I'm already working as
an assistant photographer.
I don't want an assistant.
I want a partner.
And I'll be fully credited
for my work?
We can say Santa Claus
took them, if you want.
[Aime chuckles]
I don't mean to be rude and talk
figures off the bat but...
You have pressing expenses.
[chuckles]
It's more than enough
to pay off this place,
if that's what you're wondering.
-How did you know?
-Oh, it's a small town, Aime.
And this is an old ranch.
And it's
a very handsome commission.
Come to my place tomorrow.
-OK.
-I'll get something drawn up.
And you can look at my studio.
You can work from there.
Wait. I'm supposed to be hopping
on a plane tonight.
I'm going to Iceland.
-Suit yourself.
-But maybe...
What do you want, mmm?
Do what you want.
[receding footsteps]
[jaunty music]
[background chatter]
Ooh, there, Buttercup.
Hey, did you see that?
Ivy was here.
The last time she traipsed
up to the ranch
was when she
took your mother's photo.
I think it's a bit of a hobby.
Yeah. That's Irene Vore.
I think she prefers Ivy.
I have to find James.
It's nice to see a family
in the house again.
-[Charlie] You know, I always
thought he'd buy this place.
I told him to
talk to you about it
but he said he never wanted
to cause you any fuss.
He cares for you so much.
He said that this would
always be your family home.
It is a family home
but it's just not mine.
I'm gonna step out for a moment.
Can you say goodnight
to James for me?
Are you sure?
Yeah. It's time to move on.
[lively chatter]
["Jingle Bells" plays]
Excuse me.
-[man] Beautiful night.
-[Sienna] It was a huge success.
-[James] Hey.
Have you seen Aime?
-No, I haven't seen her.
-OK.
-[Juniper] Dad?
-[James] Yeah..
Aime got you a present.
She says you could open it.
OK.
Mmm.
She's giving me the ranch.
She knew you wanted to buy it
but held off
to spare our feelings.
-[James] She needs
a reason to stay.
-[Sienna] Honey, you need to
talk to her
before she leaves for Iceland.
-I need my coat.
-I'll get it.
-[Sage] Go! Quickly before you
lose her to a reindeer herder.
She's never gonna accept
the money from me.
-[Irene] She doesn't need
the money.
-[James] I'm sorry?
Some famous photographer's
just offered her a fortune.
It's not the money she needs.
-[Juniper] Dad!
Don't forget
to give her your gift.
Thank you. Of course.
You're amazing.
-[all] Go!
- Yeah.
The stables.
-[James] Stables.
-Mmm.
You're amazing.
-[Juniper] Go!
-[Aime] It's funny,
you think you think
you have all this time
and then one day
it's just too late.
[Belle snuffles]
-[James] It's not too late.
James, what are you doing here?
You should be with your family
celebrating Christmas Eve.
So, you're leaving?
It's the right thing to do.
Well, if that's how you feel
then...
you've got to open your present.
Go on, open it.
James.
I was hoping this would
convince you to stay.
I know you can afford the ranch.
You and your family belong here.
-[James] Aime,
you are my family.
This place...
it ain't home
without you in it.
-Really?
-Yeah.
Yeah.
I'm sorry it took me so long
to get back to you.
[gentle music]
My heart has never
belonged to anyone but you.
Then why...
does it feel like
I'm always chasing you...
Aime Tremblay?
You're not chasing me now.
[joyous music]
I've been looking for a sign
Just a light to cut
my way through the dark
Try to read
between the lines
But I'm a million miles away
just seeing sparks
Don't know
what happens after
None of it seems to matter
Only one place to go tonight
I'm gonna find my
find my way home
Taking the madness
and letting it go
I'm burning
it all to flames
A place where
I know my name
Find my way home
Finding my way home
Carrying me I hear the sound
In the shadows I've been
running from it all
Crashing waves
are all around
Can't remember who I was
before
Don't know
what happens after
None of it seems to matter
Only one place to go tonight
I'm gonna find my
find my way home
Taking the madness
letting it go
And burning it all to flames
A place where I know my name
Find my way home
Finding my way home
Don't know what
happens after
None of it seems to matter
Only one place to go tonight
Finding my way
I'm burning at all to flames
A place where I know my name
Find my way home
I've been looking for a sign
Just a light to
cut my way through the dark
["Christmas Day Dreaming"
by Tony Osbourne plays]
-[man] Alright, take that,
thank you, over there.
-[man] Come on, straight throug.
Let's go. Are you good?
-[Aime] Is he here yet?
No.
I'll give him a call
first thing. I'm so sorry.
It's alright. Thank you.
-[man] Make-up? Keep it moving.
Come on. Let's go.
Thank you so much.
Can someone give me a muffin?
I am so hungry right now.
But none of the carrot stuff.
I don't like carrots.
Give me something else.
I thought Gustav was going to be
the photographer for the shoot.
The great Gustav is indisposed.
[huffs]
-[Aime] Micha?
I don't think
he's going to show.
Uh-uh. No, not again.
I'm just his assistant.
You're Gustav's
talented assistant.
Please, Aime?
Fine.
I'm gonna pick up a lens and
could we get those lights up?
And just tone it down
in her lips. Thank you.
[Micah claps sharply]
People! We're a go.
[camera shutter clicks
and snaps]
Gorgeous. Yep.
There.
Nice.
OK. Picture you are on stage
at the Palais Garnier and you
are performing in front of the
crme de la crme of the city.
Simply just holding that moment
in between the curtain falling
and the applause.
Great. OK.
[shutter beeps]
Yeah.
-[Shutter clicks]
-Gorgeous.
Nice.
Just hold that one there.
Alright.
-Exquisite, Madeleine.
-[shutter clicks]
-You're a ballerina whisperer.
-[Aime chuckles]
Any other skills
you'd like to share with us?
Oui. I have been able to
ride a horse since I was five.
Ooh, cosmopolitan and practical.
[both chuckle]
Paris and New York
via Mistletoe Ranch.
-[snow crunches underfoot]
-[horses whinny]
[bolt rattles]
[door creaks]
[horse whinnies]
Belle, hey.
[Belle neighs]
-How are you?
-[Belle snorts]
It's OK. Ready to work?
[Belle whinnies]
-[woman] Aime? Great job today.
-You too. Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.
-[Micha] You know,
I heard a rumour...
Mmm?
...about extraordinary assistant
who stepped in during Gustav's
shoot in Moscow.
That was one time.
And it happened again
in Paris.
And Singapore. And Sydney.
You know Gustav will
take the credit for this too.
He always does.
I'm his personal assistant, OK?
I'm stuck here for life.
[chuckles]
But you, Aime,
you were supposed to do
a one year apprenticeship
but you're still here
doing his work for him.
Might be time
you escaped his shadow.
Well, the last few years have
certainly been an adventure.
I just wish Gustav shot on film
or at least tried medium format
like Irene Vore.
She's a recluse.
And the most in-demand
photographer of her generation.
[scoffs]
Yeah.
I mean, if you can find her.
You heading home
for the holidays?
Gustav wants me to fly
to Iceland after Christmas
so it's just easier to
stay in the city.
Well, you'll be pretty lonely
if you're staying around here.
Mmm.
Everyone's going home
for the holidays.
You too?
As soon as we are done I'm
heading straight to the airport.
I've got one photo shoot in Rome
and then I'm having
an Italian Christmas.
--Ooh!
-Yeah, cheese, pasta, wine.
-[woman] Hey, Aime?
-Hey.
-I have a delivery for you.
-Thank you.
I get them to hold my mail.
You can't find a mailbox
in the Himalayas.
-Aime, are you Santa?
-[Aime laughs]
-[Aime] It's from my hometown,
Snowy Oak.
-[Micha] Are they from everyone
in Snowy Oak?
Pretty much.
[edgy music]
What? He's cancelling
the Christmas party.
Why would he cancel it?
-Who?
-James. James Hunt.
[girl giggles]
Juniper?
[giggles]
[Belle neighs and snorts]
-[Juniper giggles]
-Junbug, is that you?
Huh. Thought I heard something.
-[Juniper giggles]
-That's because I did!
[Juniper giggles]
-[Juniper] Dad, I nearly dropped
my cookie.
-[James] Oh good, more sugar.
-Grandma made them.
-Yep.
Anyway, it's Christmas.
Nope, not yet it's not.
You should go get changed.
You've worn those wings like,
every day.
But Dad, Mum said
I'm a Christmas fairy.
Can I still be a Christmas fairy
if you you've
cancelled Christmas?
Am I just
a regular fairy now?
Juniper, I have not
cancelled Christmas.
I have cancelled
the Christmas party. OK?
What about Christmas tree?
You'll have one with your mum.
Mum is on tour.
She isn't back until
Christmas Day, remember?
Of course I remember.
But your grandma's sure to have
a big old Christmas tree
at church.
-[horse snorts]
-Rude.
[giggles]
So, what about the big house?
Junbug, how many times
have I told you?
The big house isn't ours,
it's Aime's.
But Aime's not even here.
I've never even met her.
Well, that's because Aime
is busy away working.
But when Aime was a little girl
like you,
she lived in the big house
with her mum, Molly.
And when Molly passed away
she left it to Aime.
Would Aime like
a Christmas tree, do you think?
Aime likes Christmas
even more than you do.
-No.
-Mm-hm.
-She does not.
-Yeah.
-I love Christmas more.
-[James chuckles]
I wish Aime was here then.
I bet she'd get
a Christmas tree.
That she would.
And then she'd kill me.
I'm going to kill him.
This is very dramatic.
I mean, I'm all for
other people's family drama,
don't get me wrong.
But didn't you say you haven't
been home for like--
Three years.
But James tends
to avoid me anyway
so I think the last time
I saw him was...
Ahh. No, I know that look.
That's the look I had
when I realised
my ex was going to be at the
same New Year's Eve party as me.
You and this James character
have history.
Don't you?
Sort of
but that is not the point.
The point is that
he cancelled Christmas.
Snowy Oak was
a tired ranching town
before my family created
the Christmas party.
And it's not just a party,
it's the one time of year
the whole town comes together.
It's really important.
And now I have a whole bag
of letters to prove it.
Sorry, Micha, I have to go.
-[Micha] Forgetting something?
-Huh?
Oh.
-Aime.
-[Aime chuckles]
-Good luck.
-Merry Christmas, Micha.
Merry Christmas, Aime.
[train horn sounds]
[gentle music with
sleigh bells ringing]
[train horn blasts]
[birds caw]
[gentle music]
[exhales]
[strains]
[keys jangle]
[door unlocks and creaks open]
Hello?
[boots thump on floorboards]
[keys jangle
and clatter onto table]
[birds chirp and caw outside]
[gentle music]
[discordant chord]
Hey, Mum.
[gentle music continues]
[horse whinnies outside]
[clattering from outside]
[approaching footsteps]
-[Aime] Excuse me.
Where can I find James?
Pardon me, miss,
but who are you?
-Oh, I'm--
-He's out at the stockyards.
Perfect. Thank you.
Hey! What do you think
you're doing?
You don't want to be
getting lost out there.
If that's who I think it is,
she'll be fine.
[Horse whinnies]
-[Aime] James Hunt, why did you
cancel the Christmas party?
-Oh, hi, Aime.
Been a long time.
How are you doing?
Oh, me? I'm doing fine.
Thanks for asking.
-Really?
-Yeah.
James, it's tradition.
Why did you cancel it?
I did not cancel Christmas.
I cancelled a Christmas party.
-My mother's Christmas party?
-Yep.
An annual event?
The highlight of the year
for Snowy Oak?
James, come on,
it's the most magical,
exciting, enchanting
Christmas celebration.
Which has been held
uninterrupted since 1929.
The one you haven't been to
in years.
That one.
Well, that's
completely irrelevant.
No, you're the one who came all
the way out here to yell at me.
I think it's entirely relevant.
Look, I don't have to attend
to know it's important, James.
Christmas is the one time of
year magic's allowed to happen.
-[bolt locks]
-Well, magic's expensive.
Then we can tone down
the glitter.
Look, James, I know the ranch
had its run of bad luck
but we could get a tree
or some carol singers.
There's no money, Aime.
It's more than just
a run of bad luck.
OK.
What about another bank loan?
Bank won't lend us any money
until we've made up
the already late payments.
Why didn't you tell me
any of this?
I did. I emailed you.
You should have called me.
Look, I am sorry, Aime.
I cancelled the Christmas party
because it
seemed like the right thing
to do.
This isn't over. OK?
I'm gonna take Holly
back to the stables and--
It's Belle.
Wait, what happened to Holly?
Holly was an old horse
when you left.
It's Belle. A lot's changed.
Come on.
[Belle whinnies]
[Belle whinnies]
[ retreating galloping hooves]
[birds caw]
[cows moo]
-[Aime] Sorry I called you
the wrong name, Belle.
[Belle snorts]
You just look
so much like Holly.
Same pretty face huh?
[Belle snuffles]
I used to know everything
about this place.
-[man] Best thing about horses,
they always forgive and forget
for a good heart.
And carrots.
[laughter]
-[Aime] Charlie.
I was beginning to think
I had the wrong ranch.
Well, things might change
but this will always be home.
You look like you need
a campout brew.
-I do.
-[laughter]
Hey, so when did
James Hunt become head rancher?
-[Charlie] I've been
training James
to take over
since he was a boy.
You know that.
James stepped up a few years ago
and now I play caretaker.
[Charlie groans]
-[Aime] Charlie, are you OK?
Is it your back?
Oh, my back, my knees,
my teeth.
Don't you worry about it.
What happened?
I was out the yard
when suddenly bang, it happened.
What?
-I was a cowboy for 40 years.
-Oh!
[laughter]
Why aren't you all
living in the main house?
It's more comfortable.
And that was always Mum's way.
James was worried about
the cost of heating the place
and I'm more than happy
at my own place.
And James and little Juniper
are in the rancher's cottage
out back.
-Juniper, that his little girl?
-Mmm.
Little darling. An angel.
That still doesn't explain why
everything has been packed up.
Well, when you didn't come home
for the Christmas party
the first year,
and then the year after that,
James packed everything away.
Said we needed to focus
on keeping the ranch afloat.
Are things really as bad
as what he says?
Sorry, darling. We did our best.
Why didn't anyone tell me?
And risk you abandoning
your career to come here?
I don't think so. Your mother
would never forgive me.
What's the bee in your bonnet?
I thought that while I was away
things here were gonna
stay the same.
But if everything was the same,
there wouldn't be any surprises.
Like an unexpected visit
from a dear friend.
-[mugs clank]
-[knock at the door]
I suspect that's for you.
-[woman] Aime
-[Aime squeals]
Sienna! Thanks for the letters.
I came right over
after choir practice.
I knew if I rallied the troops
those letters would
get to you eventually.
-Yes.
-God bless the post office.
[Aime chuckles]
-Are you off, Charlie?
-Yeah, I'd better
get back to it.
I don't know
what you two are up to
but I suspect I'm
gonna need an alibi.
[laughter]
-Bye.
-Bye now.
Now, I assume that son of mine
is off riding horses
and whatnot.
Mm-hm.
So we can talk about
how on earth we are going
to save Christmas.
Yes.
-[Sienna] You are staying
for Christmas, aren't you?
Oh but just for Christmas.
I have to go to Iceland after
the holidays for a photo shoot.
Of course you do.
Such a rolling stone
gathering no moss,
gaining a certain polish.
[both chuckle]
So much has changed here,
Sienna.
I mean, we used to eat dinner
at this table every night
and now it looks like
it's part of a museum.
I know. Here.
Oh, thank you.
The ranch has lost
a little of her...
-Magic?
-Exactly.
Yeah.
I don't like to see
the ranch this way.
Me neither.
I mean, maybe James is right
about cancelling the party.
Do you know why the party
started in the first place?
There was a bad season
and my great-grandmother
wanted to do something
to lift everyone's spirits.
Bad season?
My darling,
it was the Great Depression.
And from what my grandmother
said, great it was.
People left Snowy Oak in droves.
There was no work,
hardly any food to go around.
People were barely surviving.
Your great-grandmother decided
that Snowy Oak needed
to be reminded of the one thing
they still did have, each other.
I'm not saying losing the ranch
wouldn't be hard
but some things are bigger
than our own challenges.
I always thought of this place
as an anchor
and I like to think of the
Christmas party as giving people
that same feeling too, you know,
something that they can rely on.
What would your mother do?
She would have sent
all the invites already.
This is your ranch now, Aime.
You decide what happens next.
But if you do decide to go ahead
with it, you might need this.
Molly gave it to me
before she passed.
I used it to
pull off the Christmas party
these past few years.
Everything you need to know
is in there.
I haven't seen this in so long.
Thank you for keeping it safe.
Of course.
[gentle music]
How was it seeing James again?
You know, I always did wonder
if you too might find
your way back to each other.
You're going to be disappointed.
You've already yelled at him,
haven't you?
Well, then, I'll just have
to settle for
a welcome visit from Mistletoe
Ranch's favourite daughter.
[Aime chuckles]
-[Aime] Hey, Charlie.
Do you know where I could
pay my respects to Holly?
She's in the Pines where the
strawberries grow in summer.
Thanks.
[horses whinny softly]
[exhales]
[wind howls]
-[Aime] Hey, my girl.
Sorry I was gone for so long.
Time just flew by.
You were such a good girl.
So fast.
It was funny,
when things would get
a little stressful at work
I used to picture you
galloping down a New York street
or showing up at a photo shoot,
all saddled up.
And we'd gallop all the way back
to Mistletoe.
[branch cracks]
You scared me.
-Are you lost?
-Do I look lost?
No. No, you look like
you'd be friends with a bear.
Not in these woods,
not for years.
-[Aime] What are you doing
out here so late?
What are you doing out here
so late?
I used to live here.
Sometimes I'd come up
for a walk. It's peaceful.
-[woman] Yeah, it is peaceful,
usually.
-[Aime] You live out here?
-Yes, I do.
Right, then,
you'd know Mistletoe Ranch.
That's my place.
You Molly's girl?
Yes, you are.
[chuckles]
There she is.
You knew my mother?
-[woman] I did.
[laughs]
Her Christmas parties were wild.
I guess that's your job now.
Oh, I could never
replace my mother.
You don't have to rebuild
the fire,
you've just gotta keep it lit.
[owl hoots]
Oh! It's so...
Hello?
"Molly's famous Christmas cake."
[little chuckle]
"Where to find the mistletoe."
[car engine starts]
-[engine idles]
-[tail gate bangs shut]
[birds chirp]
[Juniper hums]
Have you ever been inside
the big house before?
-[Aime] Hello.
-What's the big house?
-This is the big house.
I used to think there were
ghosts inside here
but it's just empty.
[little chuckle]
Will you take my photo?
Sure.
Here you go.
Alright.
Are you ready? Big smile.
[shutter beeps and clicks]
Perfect. Come and have a look.
[both chuckle]
-You're Aime.
-I am.
-I knew you would come.
-Oh, did you?
Dad and I were talking
about Christmas
and how much I wanted
a Christmas tree,
and he said,
"If Aime were here,
she'd get a Christmas tree."
Well, your dad
is absolutely right.
[sighs]
I didn't mean it to be a wish
but I did really wish it.
And it is Christmas.
And magic happens at Christmas.
And here you are.
And here I am.
You must be Juniper.
I like your wings.
Thanks. My mum made them.
She's a singer.
Are you gonna get
a Christmas tree for us?
Yeah, I think so.
How about now?
[Aime laughs]
Maybe coffee first.
Cover at least part of this.
Not all of it but part of it.
[footsteps approach]
-Oh, good morning.
-[Aime] Good morning.
-[Charlie] I hope you don't mind
but with you being back and all,
I thought you might like
a little bit of company.
Oh, thank you, Charlie.
Trust you had a good sleep in.
I slept fine, thanks.
Aime took my photograph.
I see you've met Junbug.
I have.
[Juniper giggles]
So, I've been thinking about Mum
and what she would have done
in our financial predicament.
-[Juniper] We're asset rich
but we're income poor.
[all chuckle]
-[James] Young lady...
-What?
Do you remember that chat
that we had
about saying things
we don't really understand?
We have no funny money.
-[Charlie chuckles]
-[Aime] Precisely.
Look, I know things
have been tight
but the Christmas party
was never about fancy ornaments
or expensive gifts.
It's more about coming together.
And we're not the only ranch
in town facing hard times.
Christmas is a week away
so that gives us enough time
for the choir to rehearse,
and for us to light up
the house,
and get a tree.
-Yes!
-Aime...
-[Aime] James, look.
It's my mum's Christmas book.
She laid out everything
we need to do.
I mean, don't you want things
to be like
how they were
if only for a little bit?
What do we have to lose, huh?
I think the horses
need to be fed.
[sound of horses whinnying]
-[departing footsteps]
-[Aime sighs]
Well, I didn't hear a no.
[Juniper giggles]
[bright music]
[laughter]
[bright music continues]
[Juniper giggles]
[music ends]
[horses whinny]
Charlie, get down from there.
I can do that.
-[Charlie] Calm your britches,
James.
I'm not so old I can't replace
a light bulb.
That from the bank, I suppose.
Well, definitely not
a love letter.
I know it's tough
but that's what ranching is.
Tough times
followed by the tougher times.
And just when you think
things can't get any worse...
-They improve?
-Oh, no, things get terrible.
Yeah, it's not as encouraging
as it sounds.
Well, ranching isn't for just
anyone wahoo on a horse.
[horse snorts]
Did we do the wrong thing,
Charlie,
borrowing to the hilt
to keep the land?
Worse thing a rancher can do
is slowly sell off land.
Break it up bit by bit.
You wake up one day
and you've got no land to run.
You had faith that things
were gonna turn around
and it takes faith
to run a ranch.
That and a healthy dose
of ignorance.
Yeah, well, I've got that
in spades.
Ahh, Aime, she's got you
in a flap.
There's no flies on you.
-[Charlie] She always did
have that effect on you.
You might consider going easy
on Aime.
Easy?
She's barely been back here
and she swans in to
make Christmas angels.
She has no idea what it takes
to run a ranch.
Well, that may be
but you work close once
and that should count
for something.
It's Christmas, James.
She has no family
but the people in this house.
And she hasn't seen us in years.
Wouldn't you think she'd have
someplace to go
or some fancy party
or something rather?
Afternoon, Charlie.
-[James] Uh-huh.
Yeah and--
We just need a little more time.
Could you maybe give us
until March?
Yeah. I know.
We've already had an extension.
What?
Can I call you back?
Hi. So, what do you think?
-[Juniper laughs]
-[Aime] Juniper!
It looks like Christmas!
-[James] Did you do this?
-Ah, yeah. With Aime.
-With Aime.
-It's all so pretty.
I just want to stay up
and look at everything.
-[Sienna] When your father was
young boy, Juniper...
-Yeah?
-He used to love Christmas.
He used to sneak into the church
and just stare up
at the big Christmas tree
and the pillar candles.
And do you know who was always
there bundled up next to him?
- Who?
- This one here.
[Sienna laughs]
They were inseparable
and always up to something.
I was just
an innocent bystander.
-[Aime] That is not true.
Oh, goodness,
do you remember when you let
the cattle out into the valley?
[Aime laughs]
OK.
That was an accident
and if I remember correctly,
James had one job,
close the gate behind me.
I was on a horse.
What kind of cowboy can't
close the gate on horseback?
-[James] I was 12.
-[Aime] All that matters
was that the cattle were fine
and no-one got hurt.
What were you doing
in that pasture anyway?
[Aime chuckles]
Well, Aime found out that
her favourite cow, Delilah,
was about to be sold
so she made a plan to kidnap--
-To rescue.
-Rescue Delilah.
[Juniper giggles]
-[Aime] I thought I could just
hide her in my bedroom.
-[Sienna] A foolproof plan.
Almost. We nearly got trampled
in the process.
Well, we could run
pretty fast back then.
I spent three long days
rounding up cattle
but I'm glad you kids have
a sweet, cute, summer memory.
Lucky Molly was
a decent rancher
else we would have lost
that herd to the mountains.
Dad said Molly had
the best Christmas in town.
Did he?
I did. No offence, Mum.
None taken.
Molly knew how to throw a party.
That's why I'm so glad you came.
I'm so glad you wrote.
Ma, you're always taking
her side.
Hey, I'm
taking Christmas's side.
Ah-ha.
-Now Juniper...
-Mm-hm?
The choir's very excited to
perform at the Christmas party
so will you lend your beautiful
singing voice to the cause?
-Yes!
-And sing a Christmas solo?
Yes.
Wonderful.
Aime, this is gonna be
a great success.
And you know what else
is gonna be a great success?
The dishes.
[all chuckle]
You've raised
a beautiful daughter.
Yeah, she's pretty amazing.
What happened between you
and Juniper's mum?
Ahh, Sage and I get along fine.
We just couldn't make it work.
She's touring a lot
which means I get to spend
a lot of time with Junbug.
Well, Juniper is a lucky girl.
This is a great place
to grow up.
[Plate scrapes]
I thought I might run into you
the last time I was here
but I think you were
out of town.
-Horse auction.
-Right.
[water runs]
-I did try to call.
-I know.
I didn't mean to
be away for so long, James.
We've been busy. It's fine.
-Wait, what are you doing?
-Washing up.
No, it's my turn to wash.
Come here.
Are you kidding me?
You washed last time.
Who remembers?
I do.
It was just before Mum passed.
-Eight years ago?
-Yeah.
I remember because we had just
finished dinner and then Mum
went to go get the fruitcake but
we had already eaten fruitcake.
So you washed, i dried.
It's my turn.
How do you even remember that?
I remember because
it was unfair.
You ate most of it.
-I'm gonna check the tally.
-Go for it.
I know what it's gonna say.
Fine.
So, is there, I dunno,
some guy wearing turtlenecks
and talks about philosophy
while eating tapas?
Tapas?
Yeah, the little dishes
you get from Spain.
I know what tapas are.
No, I'm not dating a philosopher
who enjoys
small plates of Spanish food.
[James grunts]
Not much time for love when
you're constantly on the move.
It's really nice
to be home though.
Especially at Christmas.
Everyone loves Christmas.
Not everyone.
For some it's just another day.
Oh, please,
you love Christmas.
You used to love playing
that piano
and driving everyone crazy
with Christmas carols.
Yeah.
I can't believe
you let it get so out of tune.
[dish clatters]
You don't play anymore.
-[Charlie] James.
-Yeah?
Your mother's just leaving.
Thank you, Charlie.
I'll drive her home. Cheers.
When did James become so...
Serious?
Take it from me, running a ranch
is a stressful job.
Yeah, I know but he used to sing
and laugh all the time.
Even when he was working.
Who knows what runs through
a cowboy's mind.
But he certainly doesn't
sing anymore.
[light music]
[birds chirp]
[approaching footsteps]
[cow moos]
[scraping sounds]
I see you found your old boots.
[Aime chuckles]
-You didn't need to do this.
I wanted to help.
And apologise.
What for?
Coming here unannounced.
Yelling at you
in front of the horses.
But mostly for not being here,
leaving you to deal
with all this on your own.
I've wanted to be a rancher
since I was a kid.
Now I am and I'm this close
to buying my own place.
You went for your dream,
I went for mine.
OK.
-[James] What's on the docket
for today?
You gonna build Santa Claus's
sleigh in the back garden,
fly in some reindeers?
-[Aime] I thought I'd save
that for tomorrow.
OK.
No, I thought I'd help you here
with things.
-Really?
-Mmm.
What?
I am an assistant
for a crazy person, OK?
I work 14 hour days.
I am not so soft.
OK.
-OK.
-Get to work.
Yep.
Hey, James,
what's all that weird equipment
out in the shed for?
Soil testing.
-[Aime] Is there something
wrong with the soil?
Precision agriculture.
GPS receivers use soil samples
to map out the property,
help us figure out where the
land's thriving, where it's not.
-Kind of brilliant.
-Yeah, it's expensive.
Didn't really get started,
unfortunately.
That's a good day's work.
Not too exhausted, are you?
No more than hiking up
to the top of Mont Blanc
because the light was
just right.
I'm gonna show you something.
[Aime chuckles]
-Is that what I think it is?
-Maybe.
[Aime laughs]
What, you don't still play music
for the horses, do you?
It's been a minute.
Are those the old records?
You're gonna love this.
-May I?
-Yeah. They're all still here.
This one.
[gentle music plays]
-You got a little...something.
-Thanks.
The clock strikes one...
Something.
In this sleepy town...
Choir practice. I promised your
mum I would take Juniper.
-[James] OK.
Um... I had fun today.
And I wrote this song
to sing you off to sleep
But who could sleep
on Christmas...
-[Juniper] We're here!
-[Sienna] Ooh,
my little Christmas fairy.
[laughter]
-Hi.
-Hi.
So, I thought we'd go
old school.
Ooh.
A series of Christmas songs
with our lovely Juniper here
getting a chance to show off
her beautiful voice.
I love it.
Here you go, honey.
Go have fun.
The choir's excited.
I have missed this place
more than I realised.
I would have loved to have
had you as a daughter-in-law.
But I'm just so happy
you're back.
OK. Let's rehearse.
We'll pick it up with bar 33.
You good? Over here. Perfect.
-You got this.
-[Sienna] Two, three.
-[Charlie ] "'T'was the night
before Christmas
"when all through the house
"not a creature was stirring,
not even a mouse."
["The First Noel" plays
on a record]
"The stockings were hung
by the chimney with care
"in hopes that Saint Nicholas
soon would be there."
Thank you.
-[Charlie] "The children were
nestled all snug in their beds,
"While visions of sugar plums
danced in their heads..."
The years have softened him.
I don't remember either one
of us getting a bedtime story.
No.
More likely to get told off for
leaving your hat on your bed.
Well, there's more bad luck
than leaving a cowboy hat
on your bed.
Oh, yeah, Sheriff Charlie?
Give you a whooping.
[Charlie continues to read]
We've had some good times here.
And you're right
about Christmas.
I haven't seen Junbug
this happy in a long time.
Well, I was gonna do it
with or without you
but I'd rather do it with you.
Thank you.
-[Charlie, whispering] James!
-That's my cue.
-[Aime chuckles]
-[James, quietly]
Alright, come, Junbug.
-Come on.
-[Juniper grunts]
Good night, sweetheart.
Sleep well.
[quiet music]
-[Charlie] If we move
the current loan
to a bank with lower interest
we will still owe $50,000.
And when would we need
to pay that?
Before the year ends.
OK.
-[Aime] You don't happen
to have $50,000
in a cuss jar, do you?
[Charlie scoffs]
If I had of known,
I'd have kept up on cussing.
Ooh. What about if we sell off
some of the lands,
you know, the back block?
No. We did our best
to avoid that.
Once you start it's hard to sto,
next thing you know...
-It's death by a thousand cuts.
-Exactly.
Truth of the thing is
since Molly passed,
this place has been
a ship without a captain.
We've all done our best to make
up for it but that's the truth.
You inherited this place, Aime,
but you don't have to inherit
its burdens.
You have a life outside
of the ranch
but it is your name
on the dotted line.
I can guide you but only
you can decide what to do.
-[James] So, what do you want,
Aime?
Do you see yourself
living here?
I mean, this will always
be home, of course,
and I don't want to see it go
but my life is
all over the place.
Well, ranching is all about
taking chances
but if that's not what you want,
a lot of people
have expressed interest
so I could make some calls.
Um... I need time to think.
I'll just be upstairs.
[retreating footsteps]
Have you told her
the other option?
She'd never go for it.
She might.
I don't want to hurt her,
Charlie.
This place has always
been Molly's and Aime's
and I don't wanna change that.
Better you than some stranger.
[edgy music]
[door creaks]
[poignant music]
[poignant music continues]
-[Aime] Come on, James,
keep up.
-[James] I'm catching you, Aime
[chuckles]
[horse snorts]
[exhales]
Good girl, Holly.
No-one can beat us
up the mountain, huh?
-[horse neighs]
-[James] Whoa.
Good boy.
You are impossible to catch,
you know that.
Nothing wrong with
coming in second, James.
-You need to talk to your horse.
-Oh?
Yeah. Just try and keep up
next time.
I'll keep that in mind.
[horse neighs]
Mistletoe's growing.
Oh, yeah.
[chuckles]
-[scratching sounds]
[snap]
Why do I feel like I'm always
chasing you, Aime Tremblay?
[laughs delightedly]
Really?
-[James] Yeah.
-What do you say?
-Yes.
Yeah?
-Yes.
Get over here.
-[Aime] James, it's beautiful.
[laughter]
[joyous music]
[knock at the door]
I was wondering when you'd
find your way back in here.
[Aime chuckles]
It's like walking back in time.
I've been to most
of these places now.
Rome, three times.
-[James] Is this Snowy Oak?
-[Aime] Yeah, it is.
This renowned photographer,
Irene Vore
came here in the '90s and did
this whole series on Snowy Oak.
She even came to Mistletoe Ranch
and met my mum.
She is the reason
I'm a photographer.
Irene has this really unique
ability to capture a person.
She hones in
on some small detail
like an expression
or a tiny gesture
that just really captures
a secret side of someone.
Something they might not even
know they're showing.
Look at this one here.
The lady is looking away so the
eye is drawn to her hands.
They're cracked and worn.
Hands that have known a life,
you know?
The one she wanted,
the one she didn't.
It just makes you
really consider her
and the life she's lived.
I wish I could be more invested
in my photography
but with all this running
around, and clients can be...
-[James grunts]
-..difficult.
What?
I would have gone with you,
you know.
You would have hated every
second away from this place.
I know. But I would have gone.
That's why I didn't ask.
-What's this?
-Your mum's old reels.
I moved them up here
after I was--
You condemned the place?
Something like that.
[chuckles]
[film clatters on reel]
-[James] Come on.
Is that Grampa?
[laughter]
-[Sienna] Ooh.
-[James] Hey, Junbug,
look at that.
-[Juniper] Oh, horsies.
-[Aime] Remember that one?
Oh, we still have that one.
-[Charlie] Oh, little Aime
and James.
Oh.
-[Aime, on film] Mum!
-[James] Wow.
-[Juniper] Dad!
-[James] Mmm?
- It's you!
-[James] Oh, yeah.
That is me.
[Aime sings]
I never knew
What I was missing
I didn't know you could play
the piano.
Yeah.
Ooh
-[James] Sounds good.
[Aime vocalises]
-[Aime] Maybe come in
with a harmony there?
"Warm."
-"Warm beside me."
-"Me"?
"Keeps me..."
That song you both wrote,
it was beautiful.
Mmm, yeah, that it was.
-[Aime plays a chord]
-Nice.
Christmas was all
but a feeling
Nice.
All of the light
shining so bright
Now it's singing
[harmony]
Ooh
-[James] Swap. Come here.
Why?
-[Aimee] Alright Mum,
let's wrap the treats.
-[Aimee] So, we put
this up yesterday.
Voila!
-[James] That is gorgeous.
That was our last Christmas
with Mum.
-[James] That's good.
Show me the ring.
-[Aime] I love it.
[a few notes played
on the piano downstairs]
-[woman] Here, let me see.
[lid clatters on floor]
-[James] Middle C's always been
a bit sticky.
-[woman] I'll see what I can do.
-[James] I haven't played
in years
but I want to get back into it.
-[woman] Yeah, you should.
Hey, James?
I wanted to test out
this camera.
Can I borrow you?
-[James] Why can't we
do this closer to the ranch?
-[Aime] Because the natural
light is way better out here.
Besides, I promised Juniper
I would scour the countryside
for some fresh mistletoe.
She drew me a map.
[Aime chuckles]
-How do you do that?
-Do what?
You make everything
an enchanted experience.
It's just playing.
You know, Juniper's going to go
mistletoe hunting
every Christmas
for the rest of her life?
What makes you say that?
I dunno,
that's how you do things.
You take something,
like mistletoe,
which is a parasitic plant
by the way,
and you make it magical.
And you made your life magical.
Yeah, I don't know about that.
I'm starting to feel
a little stuck.
Yeah, I know the feeling.
So, how did you know what to do?
I think about what I really want
and take the risk.
-James.
-What?
-It's her. Shh.
- Her who?
The woman from the woods
the other evening.
You know, the one I was
telling you about.
-[James] Yeah.
I've seen her around.
She lives up in the hills.
There's something so intriguing
about her.
She's wild but gentle.
She's so enigmatic
but kind of mean in like,
this cowboy way.
[Shutter clicks]
-Well, I found the mistletoe.
-Mmm?
[Aime gasps in delight]
I almost forgot.
-[woman] Nice to see some people
still appreciate film.
Would you like a knife to cut
down that mistletoe?
-[Aime] OK, no peeking,
alright?
[Juniper giggles]
Promise.
OK. Open your eyes.
[Aime laughs]
-You found the mistletoe!
-We did.
Well, we had some help
from this woman in the woods.
-Was she a Christmas angel?
-Maybe.
Yeah, angel with a hatchet.
Alright, Junbug,
close your eyes.
Your dad has
one more surprise for you.
-[Juniper] OK.
-Keep them closed.
-I will.
-[Aime] Keep them closed.
-[branches rustle]
-[Juniper] They are.
-[Juniper giggles]
OK, Junbug.
Surprise.
Wow! It's perfect!
-Yeah?
-[Juniper] It's amazing.
-Pretty hard to cut down too.
[camera shutter clicks]
-[Sienna] Oh, the sound
of that camera clicking
is driving me
right down memory lane.
-[Aime] You are just so
wonderful to photograph.
-[Sienna] I remember
your preference
for shooting my right side.
Sienna, you are graceful
from every angle.
Thank you.
What else do we have?
-[Juniper] Hey, it's a horse.
So, Junbug,
every year my mum and I
would add an ornament
to the tree,
something to remind
us of the year we had.
What a lovely tradition.
What about this one?
Ooh, that one was
my first cattle run.
And run you did.
[laughter]
Hey, what's this one?
Let's see.
-[Aime] Oh, no, that's--
-[Juniper] Aime and it's Dad.
-Let me see that.
-Maybe...
-[Juniper] Dad, this is you.
-[James] Yeah. That's me.
So, what's it for?
-[James] Well...
-It was when um...
I asked Aime to be
my best friend.
-[Juniper] OK, so,
where should it go?
I don't think there's room on
the tree for that one, Junbug.
Of course there's room.
This one can go right... here.
-[Juniper] It looks good.
-[Juniper giggles]
-[Sienna] Perfect.
-[Juniper] I want these too.
The reindeer galloping off.
[chirps]
-[James, singing]
Nowhere else I'd rather be
Than underneath
the Christmas tree
I can hear the sleigh bells
ring when I'm with you
See round, Charlie.
[Belle neighs]
[James's singing fades]
[Charlie chuckles]
[approaching footsteps]
What are scrawling away
over there?
Sending out the world's latest
party invitations.
Mal from the post office said
he'd do a last-minute delivery.
Hey, Charlie, do you know
who this woman is?
Oh, I sure do.
-That's Ivy.
-Ivy.
She owns the old cabin
up in the mountain.
Stern but friendly enough.
She likes to keep to herself
but your mother
was able to coax her down for
a hot cider or two
back in the day.
I think I'm gonna invite her
to the party.
Well, she doesn't often come
into town but it's worth a try.
Stranger things have happened.
What's with the photo?
I thought I'd add one of my
photographs for every invite.
You know, a little bit
of emotional manipulation
never hurt anyone.
Wiley as a fox you are, my girl.
You know what I heard
the other morning?
What was that?
-James singing.
-No.
[Aime laughs]
You know, in the time that he's
been running this ranch,
I'd say he's been offered
oh, four or five positions
running other ranches.
Really?
Some of them much bigger
than Mistletoe.
He always declines.
Truth be told, little darling,
I suspect we would have lost
this place years ago
if it weren't for James.
Of course. I mean, you'd have
to be a fool not to see
how talented he is.
I'm not surprised.
That's good.
OK, we'll sell the ranch.
He'll land on his feet
and I'll go to Iceland.
Aime, before
your mother passed
I promised I would look after
this ranch and look after you.
You have looked after the ranch
and you look after everyone.
Part of looking after someone,
a part of loving them,
is telling them things
they don't want to hear.
OK.
Up on the mountain there grows
this kind of weed
that makes the herd real unwell.
Problem is, they can't get
enough of it.
Now, no sooner had I cleared it
out from one side of the field,
the silly cows are into it
on the other side.
Mm-hm.
All of the expensive
good hay going to waste.
Sometimes we keep doing things
that are not good for us.
Charlie, am I the cow
in this metaphor?
Aime, why you so interested in
weeds that are no good for you?
When you have a whole barn
full of hay?
I... have to get these out
but thank you, Charlie.
Molly, I'm doing my best.
[door opens]
-[James] I brought
some mistletoe
to decorate the church.
Oh, thank you, hon.
-I do love this time of year.
-I know.
-Hi.
-Mwah.
-You wanted to see me?
-Yeah.
There's quite a bit going on,
from what I hear.
-And what do you hear?
-Oh, please, I hear everything.
What are you gonna do?
Sell. I think she'll sell.
Someone's coming over tomorrow
to check out the place.
But I think it's time that
I start looking for a ranch
of my own.
I'll be fine.
I was talking about Aime.
Yeah, I know.
Mum, this is the longest Aime
has been being in one place.
In a few days she won't even
have a home here,
she'll have no reason to stay.
I wouldn't be so sure
about that.
She made her mind up
a long time ago.
She left because I put too much
pressure on her.
I'm not doing that again.
She was a young girl
who had just lost her mother.
You never know.
Leaving might have been the best
thing she could have done,
for the both of you.
What do you mean?
Maybe she needed to get away
from here,
from everything that reminded
her of what she'd lost
so she could heal and rebuild.
Some things we need to do
on our own.
She still loves you, James.
[owl hoots]
[gentle music]
[piano lid creaks]
[James plays chords]
-[James] Do you remember this?
- Course I do.
-[Aime sings]
I never knew
What I was missing
I never knew until I found you
and then I could hear it
Christmas was all
but a feeling
[together]
All of the light
Shining so bright
[Aime sings]
Choirs are singing
[together in harmony]
Ooh
[Aime sings] Keeps me warm
with you beside me
[together in harmony]
Ooh
[Belle snorts]
Ooh
[Aime sings]
Making new memories
Nowhere else I'd rather be
Than underneath
the Christmas tree
I can hear
the sleigh bells ring
When I'm with you
Oh
Nowhere else I'd rather be
Than underneath
the Christmas tree
I can hear
the sleigh bells ring
When I'm with you
Falling into your arms
Finally I feel safe
Ooh
When you're holding me close
So won't you kiss me
under the mistletoe?
[phone rings]
Sorry. It's me.
[phone continues to ring]
[receding footsteps]
[phone continues to ring]
[phone continues to ring]
[piano top closes]
[phone continues to ring]
-[man] Hi!
-Micha, hey.
Aime, hi. Merry Christmas.
[upbeat music plays
in background]
-How's Italy?
-Oh, it's fine.
I'm still at this nightmare
of a shoot.
But hey, Gustav wanted me to
pass on a message.
-[Aime, hesitantly] OK.
He needs you to fly to Iceland.
Yeah, after Christmas to
photograph the Northern Lights.
Before.
[music blares through phone]
He needs you to fly out
Christmas Eve.
A reindeer herder
is moving through
and he wants to capture it.
No, Micha, I just got here.
There's not enough time.
I know but at least you can
parachute your way out of this
weird romantic situation,
you know the one
you won't tell me about.
I have to go because I don't
want to talk anymore.
But I booked you a ticket
and I'll text you, OK? Bye.
-Mwah!
-No. Micha!
[line disconnected]
[front door opens and closes]
[birds caw]
[train horn blares]
-[Aime] We'll send you the
contracts to look over tomorrow.
-[man] OK.
-[Aime] Nice meeting you.
-[James] Nice meeting you too.
-[man] Thanks for time.
-[James] We'll talk soon.
-[Aime] Wow. That was awful.
-[James] No, I thought it went
quite well.
Yeah, too well.
That's why it was awful.
No.
Hey, I wonder if the new owners
will let us
take the horses out
once in a while.
I'm sure they would.
Here. I've got something
to cheer you up.
-[Aime] What?
[Aime chuckles]
Really?
Yeah.
["The Devil Knows My Name"
plays]
[laughs]
Oh, we're doing this.
-Mm-hm.
-Mm-hm.
James!
[laughs]
Oh, tale full of pale skies
I live beneath the law
Empty now only to find
I cannot fill the hole
Deep within the winter winds
My soul begins to freeze
I used to feel
so scared inside
Now I'm dead
is where I'll be
Mmm
Now I'm dead
is where I'll be...
-[James] You know...
you don't
have to leave Snowy Oak.
-Oh, really?
-Mm-hm.
You said you wanted to work
from a studio.
Focus on your own projects.
You can do that from here.
Yeah, well, there might not be
a here for much longer.
Snowy Oak's not going anywhere.
-Yeah?
-Mmm.
But once the ranch is gone,
I won't have connection
to the town, will I?
-[James] Are you sure
about that?
-[Aime] Not like this one.
Do you know how hard it was
to forget about you?
Mm-hm.
You are literally in the DNA
of this place.
Every snowfall, autumn leaf,
spring day.
You were everywhere.
What was I supposed to do?
If I had stayed I would have
ended up resenting you
and if I had dragged you along
with me,
you would have ended up
resenting me and...
Mm-hm?
..I just couldn't
let that happen.
And how about now?
Ready now?
It doesn't work like that.
Then how does it work?
with you running away again
for a couple of years?
Aime, you're just gonna
disappear again after Christmas.
-Um...
-What?
Christmas Eve. It was
the call I had last night.
I have to leave Christmas Eve.
James, it's my job.
It's the only option I have.
Oh, it's not the only option.
[Music stops abruptly]
It's the safe one.
I guess you don't
want to take the risk with us.
Wait, why you doing this, James?
I have a life in New York.
I have a job,
I have to make money.
Why did you come back, Aime?
Why now?
'Cause I thought there was
still something between us.
-[Juniper] Dad!
It's the last rehearsal for
the Christmas performance.
-[James] Not now, Junbug.
Aime and Dad are talking.
Come on!
No, it's OK.
I'll take you, sweetheart.
I'm sorry, James.
-Alright, come here.
-[Juniper giggles]
[receding footsteps]
[choir singing]
The holly and the ivy
When they are both
full grown
[door opens]
Of all the trees
that are in the wood
The holly bears the crown
The rising of the sun
and the running of the deer
The playing
of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
The rising of the sun
and the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
sweet singing in the choir
Ahh.
-Sorry we're late.
-Better late than never. Come.
-[Juniper giggles]
-Go on up. Right there.
OK, everybody. One more time.
-[door opens]
-[approaching footsteps]
-[woman] Do you mind
an audience?
Mum!
-[Sage] Junbug!
[laughter]
I missed you.
You look so big. You got bigger.
-[Juniper] Yeah.
-[Sage] I wanna hear you sing.
-Really?
-Yeah. Go on.
-Mum's here.
-[Sienna] OK, squeeze in.
Here we go. From the top.
[cutlery scrapes]
-[Sage] The tour bus broke down
just outside of Boston.
I cancelled the last few shows,
I got on the last train
out of town, and here I am.
-A Christmas surprise.
-[laughter]
So, Aime, are we ready for
the Christmas party tomorrow?
Juniper is so excited.
She's been telling me
all about it.
Well, the invitations have
all come back.
The choir is sounding perfect.
And Charlie has been cooking up
a storm.
This cherry pie is delicious.
-[Charlie] I've been indulging
in Molly's old cookbooks.
Who would have thought I'd
turn my hand to baking?
[laughter]
[Sage] Well, an old cowboy needs
a new hobby
or he'll get up to mischief.
-[Charlie] Is this true?
-[Sienna] It's looking like
being a magical Christmas Eve.
-To Molly.
- [all] To Molly.
-[Juniper] To Molly.
-[Aime] To Molly.
-[James] Right, well, we've got
a big day tomorrow.
I think we should all
get some sleep.
Sage, can I give you
a lift back to your place?
-[Sage] That would be perfect,
thank you.
-[Sienna] Come on, hon.
-[Juniper] Do we have to go?
-[Sienna] Good night. Thank you.
Stay right there.
-'Night, Charlie.
-Good night now.
Aime I hope you don't mind
me staying
but your ranch has been a real
constant for my little girl.
-So, thank you.
-Of course.
That was always my
mother's way
and I've been happy to continue
it for as long as I could.
-Good night.
-Good night, Sage.
Good night, Charlie.
[front door creaks open]
Nothing is final until you've
signed on the dotted line.
[front door closes]
I don't know what to do, Holly.
With you gone and Mum gone.
Then there's this whole thing
with the ranch and James.
I used to be so happy here.
[sobs]
[sniffs]
[car engine idles]
-[Aime] Don't come in,
I'm processing.
Hey, I thought you'd
like to know
I spoke to a potential buyer.
We have to make a decision
on their offer.
Yeah. Yeah, OK.
I mean, it's inevitable,
isn't it?
Yep, seems that way.
Hey, James?
Yeah.
I know I hurt you when I left.
You had a lot going on.
And I learnt to accept that.
And I can't imagine how
difficult it would be
to lose a mother.
I'm sorry that I couldn't do
more.
[poignant music]
[gentle music]
-[James] Hey.
Looks like you've got enough to
keep the whole village warm.
Well, that's good because
tonight we
are keeping
the whole village warm.
This thing's a big deal
around here.
Charlie says Aime has melted
your cold, cold heart.
-OK. You can...
-[Sage giggles]
There's the door.
It's nice to see the place
like this.
It has a soul again.
[wood blocks clatter]
She is good for you.
Don't tell me haven't
told how you feel.
-It's complicated.
-[Sage scoffs]
"It's complicated."
You don't have to tell me that.
It's been a long time
and she's here now.
-[James, softly] I know.
We tried our best
but we are better as friends.
And as your friend,
I want what's best for you.
Don't let the one get away.
[jaunty Christmas music]
We'll be together
once again this Christmas
Our family home
so full of love and laughter
Time with the loved ones
hanging gifts on the tree
Or falling out with Grampa
about what's on TV
Christmas Eve cookies
And carrot as a treat
for Rudolph...
It's Christmas Eve.
[song continues]
-It's Christmas Eve!
-[Aime laughs]
It sure is. Come here. Ready?
Whoo!
-Are you excited?
-Yeah.
And...
look, Dad got you a present.
Ooh!
He never gets anyone presents.
Except for me, of course.
Of course.
Are you really leaving tonight?
I am.
I have to go to the North Pole
to take
pictures of Santa Claus
and his reindeer.
My dad is going to miss you.
I'm going to miss him too.
I'm going to miss everyone.
Oh!
[Gentle music]
-[Sage, calling] Juniper!
Where are you, baby?
You'd better go.
-[Juniper] Coming, Mum.
[tree rustles]
-[Sage] There you are.
Come on over here.
-[Sage] Are you ready to go?
-[Juniper] Yep.
-[James] Hey.
Green's looking nice.
Ooh, look at that.
Mwah!
Alright, I'm heading inside, OK?
-[Juniper] OK.
-[Sage] How you feeling
about tonight?
-[Sage] Are you ready to sing?
-[Juniper] Yeah.
-[Sage] Yeah?
[momentous music]
[lively chatter]
[Juniper giggles]
[music builds to a climax]
[Juniper gasps]
Aime, you look...
Beautiful.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
[Aime chuckles]
I suppose I should
probably greet everyone.
Well, you are
the lady of the house.
Go get 'em.
Good evening, everyone. Hi.
I am delighted to welcome you
here to Mistletoe Ranch
on this fine occasion.
My mother, Molly,
who many of you knew,
she loved Christmas.
And now I love it too.
Christmas reminds us that
magic isn't something that you
just stumble upon
or something that disappears
as we get older.
Magic is something you make.
I don't know what the future
holds for the ranch
but what I do know is that
there is a special place
in my heart
for everyone
I have loved in this house.
And tonight I welcome you all
to share in that.
So, Merry Christmas, everyone.
-[all] Merry Christmas.
-[Juniper sings]
Oh holy night
The stars
are brightly shining
It is the night
of the dear Saviour's birth
Long lay the world
in sin and error pining
Till he appeared
and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope
the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
a new and glorious morn
[harmony]
Fall on your knees
O hear the angels' voices
Oh night divine
O night when Christ was born
O night
O holy night
O night divine
[applause]
Whoo!
-Did you take this photo?
-I did.
Got any more?
-[Ivy] Mmm, interesting.
Did I offend you?
That wasn't my intention.
-[Ivy] Are you self-taught?
-[Aime] I studied in Paris.
-[Ivy] Mmm.
I should probably
get back to the party.
I've seen enough.
I don't know whether
to be offended or not.
I'd like to work with you.
I have a new contract coming up,
a series of portraits
of the best and brightest
of the New York art scene
but they want to shoot
on location.
Here, in Snowy Oak.
Well, clearly you're
the best person for the job.
What do you think?
I'm sorry, I don't understand.
Do I know your work?
I think it's 116,
no, 122 is my favourite.
[pages flip]
Ivy...
Ivy/IV
[Aime laughs delightedly]
You're Irene Vore!
You're my hero, the reason
I became a photographer!
What are you doing in Snowy Oak?
What are you doing holding
Christmas parties?
I'm already working as
an assistant photographer.
I don't want an assistant.
I want a partner.
And I'll be fully credited
for my work?
We can say Santa Claus
took them, if you want.
[Aime chuckles]
I don't mean to be rude and talk
figures off the bat but...
You have pressing expenses.
[chuckles]
It's more than enough
to pay off this place,
if that's what you're wondering.
-How did you know?
-Oh, it's a small town, Aime.
And this is an old ranch.
And it's
a very handsome commission.
Come to my place tomorrow.
-OK.
-I'll get something drawn up.
And you can look at my studio.
You can work from there.
Wait. I'm supposed to be hopping
on a plane tonight.
I'm going to Iceland.
-Suit yourself.
-But maybe...
What do you want, mmm?
Do what you want.
[receding footsteps]
[jaunty music]
[background chatter]
Ooh, there, Buttercup.
Hey, did you see that?
Ivy was here.
The last time she traipsed
up to the ranch
was when she
took your mother's photo.
I think it's a bit of a hobby.
Yeah. That's Irene Vore.
I think she prefers Ivy.
I have to find James.
It's nice to see a family
in the house again.
-[Charlie] You know, I always
thought he'd buy this place.
I told him to
talk to you about it
but he said he never wanted
to cause you any fuss.
He cares for you so much.
He said that this would
always be your family home.
It is a family home
but it's just not mine.
I'm gonna step out for a moment.
Can you say goodnight
to James for me?
Are you sure?
Yeah. It's time to move on.
[lively chatter]
["Jingle Bells" plays]
Excuse me.
-[man] Beautiful night.
-[Sienna] It was a huge success.
-[James] Hey.
Have you seen Aime?
-No, I haven't seen her.
-OK.
-[Juniper] Dad?
-[James] Yeah..
Aime got you a present.
She says you could open it.
OK.
Mmm.
She's giving me the ranch.
She knew you wanted to buy it
but held off
to spare our feelings.
-[James] She needs
a reason to stay.
-[Sienna] Honey, you need to
talk to her
before she leaves for Iceland.
-I need my coat.
-I'll get it.
-[Sage] Go! Quickly before you
lose her to a reindeer herder.
She's never gonna accept
the money from me.
-[Irene] She doesn't need
the money.
-[James] I'm sorry?
Some famous photographer's
just offered her a fortune.
It's not the money she needs.
-[Juniper] Dad!
Don't forget
to give her your gift.
Thank you. Of course.
You're amazing.
-[all] Go!
- Yeah.
The stables.
-[James] Stables.
-Mmm.
You're amazing.
-[Juniper] Go!
-[Aime] It's funny,
you think you think
you have all this time
and then one day
it's just too late.
[Belle snuffles]
-[James] It's not too late.
James, what are you doing here?
You should be with your family
celebrating Christmas Eve.
So, you're leaving?
It's the right thing to do.
Well, if that's how you feel
then...
you've got to open your present.
Go on, open it.
James.
I was hoping this would
convince you to stay.
I know you can afford the ranch.
You and your family belong here.
-[James] Aime,
you are my family.
This place...
it ain't home
without you in it.
-Really?
-Yeah.
Yeah.
I'm sorry it took me so long
to get back to you.
[gentle music]
My heart has never
belonged to anyone but you.
Then why...
does it feel like
I'm always chasing you...
Aime Tremblay?
You're not chasing me now.
[joyous music]
I've been looking for a sign
Just a light to cut
my way through the dark
Try to read
between the lines
But I'm a million miles away
just seeing sparks
Don't know
what happens after
None of it seems to matter
Only one place to go tonight
I'm gonna find my
find my way home
Taking the madness
and letting it go
I'm burning
it all to flames
A place where
I know my name
Find my way home
Finding my way home
Carrying me I hear the sound
In the shadows I've been
running from it all
Crashing waves
are all around
Can't remember who I was
before
Don't know
what happens after
None of it seems to matter
Only one place to go tonight
I'm gonna find my
find my way home
Taking the madness
letting it go
And burning it all to flames
A place where I know my name
Find my way home
Finding my way home
Don't know what
happens after
None of it seems to matter
Only one place to go tonight
Finding my way
I'm burning at all to flames
A place where I know my name
Find my way home
I've been looking for a sign
Just a light to
cut my way through the dark