The Christmas Dance (2021) Movie Script

(choir vocalizing)

(chatter)

Behold, the star
that they had seen,
when it rose, went before them
until it came to rest
over the place
where the child was.

When they saw the star,
they rejoiced,
exceedingly with great joy.
Thank you.
(crowd chuckles)
And going into the house,
they saw the child with Mary,
his mother,
and they fell down
and worshipped him.
Then, opening their treasures,
they offered him gifts of gold,
frankincense, and myrrh.
Now, when they departed,
behold, an angel
of the Lord appeared.
(crowd murmuring)
(clunking footsteps)
Silent night
Holy night
All is calm
All is bright
Round yon Virgin,
Mother and Child
(cord clattering)
(stand clattering)
(shriek, thud)
(crowd gasps)
(laughter)

(grunting softly)

(sighs)

(cell phone vibrating)

Morning, Sherman, Jr.
Hey, sis.
So, have you decided if you are
coming home for Christmas yet?
Why do you insist on calling me
first thing in the morning
when you know
I am getting ready for work?
Well, one,
because I know it bugs you.
And two, 'cause I know
it's the best time to reach you
since, you know,
you're so busy all the time.
I am very busy,
thank you very much.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
So, hey,
tell me you are coming home
so Mom and Dad will stop
bugging me about it
and start bugging me
about the moment
-you are gonna land.
-Not this again.
I am already under
enough pressure at work and--
Pressure? You are a star.
You have been nothing
but a blessing to that place.
I was, but we're under
new management now
with different expectations,
and I just--I don't
really know them that well.
You don't have to worry
about any of that.
You are the best columnist
I know.
I'm the only columnist
you know.
So? You're still the best.
And, hey, listen, I, uh,
really need your help with
the Christmas play this year,
-so I was--
-No, absolutely not.
You know I do not participate
in that stuff anymore.
Oh, come on.
It'll be fun.
Be just like old times.
Well, that's exactly
what I'm worried about.
I'm sorry Sherman, Jr.,
but that's a hard no from me.
Okay, okay, okay.
But you're still
coming home, right?
Look, I'm running late
and all of this Christmas talk
is giving me a stomachache.
I'm gonna have
to call you back.
Okay, okay.
Hey, I love you, sis.
Hey, but if you don't
call me back,
I'm gonna call you back
every five minutes.
(hangs up)
Hello?
Sarah?

Jingle bells,
jingle all the way
Oh, what fun

(phones ringing, chatter)
-Morning.
-Good morning.

Uh, Karen,
what is going on here?
I go on assignment
for two days
and come back
to Candy Cane Lane.
I know, it's a nightmare.
It's the new VP.
Apparently
he's all about Christmas
and wants us all
in the Christmas spirit.
Brett.
Why are you wearing
my favorite glasses?
I can't find mine.
Plus, I think I got
the wrong prescription
'cause I don't even
have a headache.
The audacity.
Anyway...
Why were you in a rush
this morning?
-What do you mean?
-Well, clearly,
you were in a rush.
You aren't wearing
any makeup.
I am wearing makeup.
Mm.
No, she isn't.
And what is wrong
with your hair?
I am a writer.
Nobody sees me--
-We see you.
-We see you.
And I see that you haven't
checked your email today either.
I have not had
a chance to yet. Why?
Mr. Davenport sent out a memo
saying that we're having
an emergency
ugly Christmas sweater party.
-Today at lunch.
-Yeah.
In order to write
about Christmas,
we need to feel
about Christmas.
Whatever that means.
Ugh.
-Who is this guy?
-I know, right?
But back to you.
What are we going to do
about this?
You are so lucky that I keep
an emergency hair and makeup kit
for times like these.
Oh, geez.
(chuckling)
Sarah.
Can you come in here
for a minute?
-I need to speak with you.
-Yeah.
Hey, you left your glasses
at my house last night.
Just roll back to your desk.
(chair creaks)
Come on in.
Please, have a seat.
(clears throat)
Sarah, I know we've never had
the chance to formally meet,
but I have read your work
and I'm a big fan.
Well, thank you very much,
Mr. Davenport.
Ah, you can call me Nick,
like good old St. Nick.
Better be good
or you're gonna get coal.
I'm kidding,
call me Mr. Davenport.
-Yes.
-Sarah.
I asked you in here because
I wanted to talk to you--
-(knocking)
-Yes?
Oh, great,
the new cover sample?
-Sure is.
-Great.
Thank you, perfect timing.
(sighs with satisfaction)

This is what I wanted
to talk to you about.
The future of Force Magazine.
We are heading
in a new direction
and I want you
to spearhead it.
-Family--
-Family Force.
Yes!

Okay, I admit,
it doesn't have flare yet,
but that's why I wanted you
to head the next two issues.
Christmas and New Year.
I don't--I don't quite know
what to say.
Um, well, for years
this magazine has been
about what's hot and, um,
setting new trends,
and not necessarily
family.
Sarah, the times are a-changing.
And we need to be at
the forefront of that change.
Families are in.
How many kids
do Kim and Kanye have?
I don't...
-Four!
-Wow.
Will and Jada.
They're killing it
on social media
with all their family vacations
and working together.
Heck, even Prince William
and Prince Harry,
they have their very own
royal families.
Let's face it,
a happy family
is the new designer bag
and shoes.
Mr. Davenport,
with all due respect,
I'm just not sure
that I am the right person
to spearhead this new vision.
-Maybe Karen?
-Your writing has gotten flat.
Flat?
It's lonely.
Nobody wants the proper
feng shui for your living room
this time of year.
You know what they want?
They want snow.
They want Christmas cookies.
They want carolers.
Most importantly,
they want family.
I really put my heart
into those articles.
And I'm sure you'll put
your heart in these next two.
Job depends on it, Sare-bear.
Sare-bear?
But I believe in you.
And as I said,
I'm a big fan of your work.
I think you just need
a little...
...inspiration.
You got seven days.
Make them count.
Go out there
and find your inspiration.
Okay.
Oh, and check your email.
You still have time
before lunch
to pick up your own sweater.
Right.
Great. Will do.
Great.
Okay.
Good talk.
Great talk.

Merry Christmas!
Can I help you
find something, ma'am?
I'm okay, thanks.

(groans)

(groans)

(sighs)

(cell phone vibrates)

Hey, how's it going?
I cannot believe this.
-Believe what?
-My boss.
He just--he just--he wants us
all in Christmas sweaters.
(Sherman, Jr. chuckles)
Um, okay, well,
I won't keep you.
Um, I just finished
building the last of the sets
for the Christmas plays.
Gonna take 'em
to the church.
But the thing is,
Mom and Dad are gonna be there
and I know they're gonna ask
when you're coming and, um--
Sherman, please,
no more of this.
Look, I'm under enough stress
as it is, okay?
I have way too much going on
at the magazine
to worry
about coming home
and coming
to your stupid Christmas play.
Well, that--I'm sorry,
Miss Independent.
Look, um, we just miss
having you around, that's all.
I know.
I'm sorry.
That rage
was not meant for you.
Why does she always text
like she's yelling at me?
Huh?
(phone hits floor)
Hold on, hold on,
one sec.
Look, look, I didn't mean
to call your play stupid, okay?
I'm just really stressed.
I'm really sorry
I said that.
I didn't mean it.
Hello?
Come on, Sherman,
I said I'm sorry.
(tires screeching)
Hello?
Sherman? Sherman?
Oh my God--Sher--
hello? Hello?

No!
No, no, no, no, no, no.
(phone ringing)
Come on, come on, come on,
Mom, Mom, Mom, answer.
(frustrated exclamation)

(phone ringing)
Come on, Dad, answer.
Answer the phone.
Answer.
I'm sorry.
Geez!

(whimpers)

What do I do, what do I do,
what do I do, what do I do?

Okay, all right.

(whimpers)
(panting)
Lord, please let him be okay.

(engine starts)

(exhales)

(cell phone vibrates)

(sighs)
What is it, Karen?
Sarah?
Mr. Davenport, I'm sorry.
No worries.
Hey, uh,
you missed our lunch party.
When you, uh, left my office,
I didn't realize
you were so eager
to get started
on your research.
(chuckles)
Is everything okay?
Uh, yes.
Um, well, no, not really.
I, um...
I--sorry, um, Mr. Davenport.
I don't--I don't really know.
You seem unsure.
If you want me to give
the two spreads
to someone else I can,
but I really wanted you on it.
No, no, I, um...
That's fine, I...
Look, I--I just--
I had a family emergency
and so I just panicked
and I got right on the road
-back to my hometown.
-That's great.
I mean not the emergency part.
Nothing is more important
than family.
And I hope everything is okay.
Maybe this is exactly
what you needed.
Everything happens
for a reason, Sarah.
Okay, um, well,
thank you for understanding.
No problem.
Just make sure you deliver.
Remember, seven days.
Blow us away.
-And have a merry Christmas.
-Okay.

(engine shuts off)

(radio chatter, phones ringing)
(running footsteps)
Hi, I'm looking for
Sherman Appleton, Jr.
He's on floor seven
in room 721.
But I need you
to sign in first.

(phone ringing)

Wait, please hold the elevator.
Hey.
You okay?
Yeah, thank you.
What floor?
Uh, seven.
Me too.
(elevator dings)

Excuse me.

(indistinct chatter)
Sarah.
-Hi.
-Hi!
-Ow! Ow!
-Ooh, I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
Oh, I just--oh my God,
I thought that you--
No, hey, hey, hey.
I'm fine.
I'm fine, I'm just--
I'm just glad that
my baby sister is finally here.
-Oh, honey, I'm so glad.
-Honey, I'm so glad you're here.
Oh, look,
she brought Jason too.
Hey, man.
-Hey, Jase.
-Jason.
Jason, uh-huh.
He's pretty hot, huh?
(laughs nervously)

Hey, I am so happy
you're here.
I'm just sorry
it's under these circumstances.

I'm just so happy
you're all right.
When I couldn't reach you
and I just heard
tires screeching
and I--I--
I just...
I'm so happy you're okay.

All right, I, uh,
I'm gonna get
Junior's truck towed,
or whatever's left of it.
I'm pretty sure
the whole thing is totaled.
-Totaled?
-Yeah.
Dad, I had all the materials
and parts
for the Christmas play sets
in the back of my truck.
-Oh no.
-Honey, I'm sorry.
I'm never gonna
get everything ready
in time for the performance.
And those kids were really
looking forward to it this year.
You know what they say
about kids.
They're resilient,
they bounce back.
-What?
-We need to find a way
not to disappoint
the children.
What we really need
is for somebody to help.
You know, that's exactly
what a best friend's for.
I'll rebuild the sets
and do my best
to put the production together.
-Don't worry about.
-I--I don't--I don't know.
I don't know, Jason.
I mean, I appreciate you
stepping up and everything,
but you can't do
all that work alone.
Hey, come on,
don't worry about it, Sherm.
I'll ask Kate Marshall to help.
She's great with kids.
You know what,
I have a great idea.
Sarah, why don't you help Jason?
Mom, that is a great idea.
That is a terrible idea.
-What?
-Because...

No, I can't.
I have a deadline to meet
and I'm only here
for a short time
to make sure
that you are okay,
which you will be.
Besides, he says
he's getting Kate, um,
Kate, uh,
what's-her-face to help him,
so it'll be fine.
Kate what's-her-face.
-(laughter)
-What?
Um, I do remember
a certain incident
with you
and Kate what's-her-face.
You mean the encounter
with the loose microphone cord.
Okay, I could have been
seriously hurt that night
and all you guys did
was just stand there and watch.
It just happened so fast.
I couldn't, you know...
I--I hit the ground
really hard, so...
-Oh, honey.
-It was really hard.
-You were fine.
-The impact was massive.
All right, okay, guys.
We've teased enough,
that's enough.
Hey, besides,
that was a long time ago
and you bounced back.
I mean, look at you,
you're a big time city girl now
with a big time magazine job.

What? I keep up.
I know what's happening
in the world.
You got
some really good articles.
Uh, you read?
I thought you were more
of a picture kind of guy.
Very funny.
Yes, I read
from time to time.
Most of your stuff
is out of my league,
but for the most part
it's pretty good.
I mean, Sarah, I think
you're a great writer.
Um, thank you.

Oh, honey, um,
make sure that you lock up
-at the church, okay?
-Mm.
And I'm gonna stay here
and make sure
that our baby's comfortable.
Yeah, all right,
that's a good idea.
Hey, listen, Jason,
can you meet me at Al's garage?
Maybe there's something
we can salvage
from the back
of the truck.
Yeah, and I'll bring everything
I have over to the church hall.
-Great, thank you.
-Oh, thank--thank you so much.
Ow, Dad!
I'm just joking.
I really appreciate it though.
Thanks, Dad, thank you.
All right, mama's boy,
I'm outta here too.
(chuckling)
Hey, honestly, thank you so much
for coming to see me
and thank you for agreeing
to help the kids.
They're gonna be so happy.
Don't worry about it.
Just rest up and get better.

All right.

So, uh,
I know you are super busy,
but I sure hope you can stay
for Christmas this year.
It's been so many years
and, you know,
I--I really do miss you.

Um, I don't know, I--
I haven't really had a chance
to pack anything or...
Honey, I'm sure there's plenty
of clothes at the house.
And you can get
your own clothes later.
You still have the key,
don't you?
-Yes, I do.
-Well, good. Okay.
Okay, I--I don't know
about Christmas,
but I can stay a couple days.

Okay, but I should go now
'cause I really--
I need to start this article.
-Okay.
-All right.
-Okay.
-Love you, baby.
I'll see you soon, Shermanator.
Princess, thank you.
-All right. Bye, Mom.
-Nice sweater, by the way.
Shut up.
I love that sweater.
Yeah, I'm sure you do
love that sweater.
I'm sure you bought
that sweater too, yeah.
(footsteps)

Oh, you have got
to be kidding me.
Happy holidays, ma'am.
Can I help you with something?
Yeah, my car--my--my--my car
was just here.
It--it must have been stolen.

Now, hold on a second.
Did you park
your car right here?
Yes, I parked it right here.
-Hm.
-Hi, Sarah. What's going on?
Somebody stole my car.
-What? They did what?
-Yeah.
No one stole your car, ma'am.
How do you know?
It was right here.
I know because I had it towed.
You did what?
What? Calm down, ma'am.
Your car was
in a no parking zone.

Oh.
Um, I'm sorry.
(laughs nervously)
I'm a mess.
Uh, okay, you can call the guy
and have him bring it back now.
No can do, ma'am.
Unfortunately, once the vehicle
is off the premises,
-it's out of my control.
-What?
What you're gonna wanna do is
go down to the impound lot,
show 'em your driver's license,
proof of insurance,
oof, and pay a nice little fee.
And you can do all that
first thing Monday morning
when they open again.
(chuckles, wrapper crinkles)
Okay, give me the snack.
Give me the--
(indistinct speaking)
So, tell me, what were you going
to do if you did catch him?
I don't know,
but it was not gonna be pretty.
(both laugh)
Hey, just try to relax.
It's Christmas.
I'm relaxed.
Why would you say
I'm not relaxed?
Because you're doing that thing.
What thing?
The elbow tap.
You know, it's your "I'm gonna
tell everyone else that I'm fine
but really I'm anxious" thing.
I'm right, aren't I?
Just drive.
Get me to my parents' house
safely.
Whatever you say, ma'am.
(both laugh)

(types, clicks)

(sighs)
(inhales)
(hands thump keyboard)
(typing)
(groans)
(typing)
Make Christmas Great Again?
Come on, Sarah.
(typing)
(deletes typing)
(door opens)
(Mr. Sherman sighs)
Well, good morning, honey.
Morning.
You were quiet last night.
I didn't even hear you come in.
What's all this?
Breakfast.
Ya hungry?
Come on.
I seem to remember
you could put it away
better than your brother could.
Oh, ha-ha, you know I do not
eat like that anymore.
Yeah, I know.
So, what--what are you
working on?
Nothing, apparently.

I don't know,
I'm having a very hard time
figuring out
how to start this article.
Oh, well, what's it about?
Maybe I can help.
I don't know.
We're going in a new direction
with the magazine,
and basically I have to change
my entire writing style
-to fit the vision.
-Ah.
-I see.
-Yeah.
It's supposed to be
about Christmas and family
-and all that.
-Well, that's not so difficult.
I mean, just follow your mother
around for an hour,
you got everything
you want right there.
I know...
I know.
But, you know,
it's supposed to be deep
and, um, I don't know.
Honestly, this time of year
for me ever since I left
has been more
about meeting deadlines
and closing out the year
in the black than...
Family.
Yeah.

Well, no worries.
Why don't you tag along
with me?
I've got some errands to run
before I go back to the church
and maybe that'll get
those juices flowing, huh?
Besides, I'd like to spend
a little time
with my little pork chop.
It's a date.
Excellent.

(chatter)

This place has not changed.
(chuckling)
Hey.
Brother Moore, how are ya?
Yes, oh, Sarah,
I didn't know
you was coming home
for Christmas.
Spontaneous visit.

You know what,
I'm glad you guys are here.
They're starting to get
a little restless.
-Oh, okay.
-Well, all right,
looks like
we made our deadline.
Oh, well, those I understand.
Yeah.
Well, I mean,
this is our main priority,
making sure that we take care
of these people right here.
These are the people
that raised us, you know?
Took care of us
when we were their bottom line.
Yeah.
Hey, you guys
gonna just stand there
or you gonna
put those hands to work?
-Okay, all right.
-Okay.
(chuckling)
Yes, sir.
(indistinct chatter)

Enjoying everything? Good.
(chuckles)
Hey, Ms. Baxter, how are you?
Oh, good.
-How you doing?
-Oh, good.
You know, as a little girl,
this time of year
was the most precious.
We would sit around the fire,
my dad would tell us stories
and then give us piggyback rides
throughout the house.
Let me tell you something,
young lady,
this time of year's precious,
so make the most of it.
You know, I wasted
the best years of my life alone.
And you, ha,
you're much too pretty.
You are.
Thank you, Ms. Baxter.
It's true.
It's nice to see you.
It's nice to be back.
-Yeah.
-It is.

(indistinct chatter)
-Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.

This was great, Pastor.
And thanks again, Sarah,
for helping out.
The more the merrier.
I was happy to be here.
We're happy to have you.
I'm glad you're back home, man.
I almost forgot.
I have to get back
to the tree farm.
Business is probably
picking up now.
-Oh, sure.
-Go, go.
Yeah.
-Good to see you.
-Merry Christmas.
-Thank you, Brother Moore.
-Merry Christmas.
Okay, pork chop,
you ready for round two?
-Round two?
-Mm-hm.
I really need to get started
on this article.
I already lost a day
driving here.
It won't take that long.
I just have one more stop
before we have to get back
to the church
and then you can lock yourself
away in my office
for as long as you need
to do what you need to do.
Deal?

-Deal.
-All right.
That's my little girl.
(engine humming)

Hey, Dad, where are we going?
I almost feel like a kid again
saying that.
(chuckling)
Well, it feels pretty good
to hear that voice
calling me again.
Um, we're going over
to Sister Grace's.
The cat lady?
(Mr. Sherman laughs)
You know, I forgot you kids
used to call her that.
Yes, her.

She'll never admit it,
but she's pretty lonely.
Your mother and I
usually go over there
for--for a few minutes
and visit and pray.
And, well, since your mother's
at the hospital,
I get to bring
the next best thing.
Oh.
And don't worry.
I never really see
those cats anymore.

(knocking)
Oh my goodness!
Oh, Sarah,
it's so good to see you.
It's good to see you.
Oh, baby girl,
you are just a twig.
I almost didn't recognize you.
Pastor, you need to feed her.
She's just gonna disintegrate.
I've been trying.
Come on in, y'all.
Oh, no Mary Chase today?
No, not today.
She's at the hospital.
(Grace gasps)
Oh, when I heard
what happened...
How's that baby doing?
Well, he's, uh,
he's pretty banged up,
but we believe
he's gonna be just fine.
So how are you?
Oh, I'm fine.
You don't need
to worry about me.
And, Sarah,
the moment I saw your face,
it took me
back to that time
that you, Junior, and Jason
decided to run away from home.
Oh my God.
Oh my gosh, I remember--
I remember that.
Oh, and you had your parents
scared to death.
-We were absolutely terrified.
-I'm sorry.
And Mary Chase, it didn't
take her but a minute,
well, it wasn't even a minute.
She had an entire search
and rescue team formed.
-Oh my God.
-She really did.
And had a name for it
and everything.
-Oh, what was the name?
-Well, it was, uh, um...
(laughs)
(both stammering)
The Children of the Lamb
Search and Rescue Victory Team.
Oh my God, what?
What kind of name is that?
I know, I know.
Oh, gosh, I think it just--
it made her feel better
at the time.
(laughs)
But your mother, I--
I gotta hand it
to your mother.
I mean, she--she got flyers made
and everything,
and in a matter
of a couple of hours.
And you guys were missing
for maybe three hours, tops.
Oh, it felt like
we were gone for three days.
Missing?
Shoot, they were right here
out back the whole time.
(laughter)
I know, you were there.
And we were all over the town
looking for you.
Oh, gosh.
(laughs)
What--well, what made you think
to come--to come over here?
Better yet,
why did you even run away?
Well, firstly,
we wanted to be grownups
really bad.
Thought we were gonna
make our own world,
make our own rules.
I don't know,
we walked here eight blocks,
which felt like 20 miles
at the time,
and we came here 'cause
Sister Grace had the lemon tree
and all the ju--stuff.
It was junk, baby,
you can say it.
But first things first,
Junior and Jason said,
we have to learn
how to build a car.
-A car?
-Yeah.
Really?
And my job was to make
as much lemonade as possible
because we were gonna try
and make money off of it.
Makes sense.
I was really just guilty
by association, you know.
I mean, I was tagging along,
I was always following
Junior around.
You kids were always gettin'
in so much trouble back then.
I remember.
Oh.
But you know
you were always good kids.
Man, thinking back
on those times,
they were--
they were really good times.
And you guys were good kids.
Still are.
(sighs)
Sister Grace, this--
this has been very lovely,
thank you.
Oh, it has been, Pastor.
Well, we have to make our way
back to the church,
but before we go,
why don't we pray?

So sorry to see you go.
Yeah.

Oh.
Oh, thank you, Pastor.
Have a joyous day.
I will.
You too.
Buh-bye.
(engine humming)
(radio playing)

What is it, sweetie?

Are you and Mom
paying Sister Grace's bills?

Not exactly.
The church is.

This town is our community.
Our village.

And we take care of each other
in times of need.

(Mr. Sherman chuckles softly)
It works both ways, you know.
Your mom and I were in need
that time you kids ran away.
I mean, we were frantic.
Angry, scared.
Sister Grace called us
the moment she knew
where you were.

And she urged us
not to come right over.
She knew how angry we were,
how--how hot-headed we were,
and, well, she gave us
some time to simmer down.

What'd she do for you?
She made us dinner
and explained to us
how our actions
made you feel.
Exactly.
She was there
for you guys
and your mom and I
at the same time.
Who knows how it would have
impacted our relationship
if we'd come in there
guns a-blazing, hot-headed.
I mean, I don't even wanna know,
but we don't have to because
Sister Grace was there for us.

Yeah.

Hey, Sarah.
I didn't know
you were in town.
Hey, Brother Thomas,
how are you?
-Good, how are you?
-Good.
Good. Have you seen
your dad around?
I was just with him,
I am headed to his office.
Will you do me a favor
and give this to him?
-Sure thing.
-Thanks.
-Have a good one.
-You too.

Hey, bud.
Hi.
You're so sweet.
What's your name?
This little guy's name is Trace.
-Ohh.
-Yeah.
Any chance you're here
to help me out?
Looks like you got all
the help you need in here.
No, no, no,
they're all just here to help
on Saturday mornings,
but, you know, Monday morning
they're all back at work
and then by Wednesday
no one's here to help
with the rehearsal.
I'm sorry,
that's too bad.
I do have a lot of work
to get to myself.
Well, if it isn't
Sarah Appleton.
Hi, Kate...

-Marshall, it's Kate Marshall.
-Marshall.
Yes, of course.
(laughs awkwardly)
-What?
-What?
What is it?
-What?
-Hm. Uh--
No, uh, oh,
we were just, um...
Uh, never mind.
It's good to see you again.
You've lost so much weight.
Yep, sure have.
Kate, I was, uh, actually
just trying to coerce Sarah
into helping us out
with the Christmas program.
You know, the more the merrier.
(laughs)
Oh, you're serious?
Really?
I mean, I'm sure
she has so many other things
to do while she's here.
I do actually.
I have that deadline.
So, I will just go
get started on that
and leave you guys to it.
All right.
Really?
What?
She has other things to do.
(sighs)

(sighs)

(sighs)

(sighs)

(tapping on desk)
(sighs)

(children giggling)

(sighs)

(typing)

(sighs)
(deletes typing)

(knocking)

What's going on?
(deleting continues)
Honey, you don't want
to break your computer.

(sighs)

Don't let it get to you.
You're a wonderful writer.
You'll get it.
It's not that, Mom.
What is it?
It's...
Um...

It's nothing.
I thought you were
gonna be at the hospital
with Junior all day.
I was, but I have
a small group meeting
later at the house.

I know it can feel
kind of strange
being back home after
not being here for a while,
but just give it some time.

This town has a funny way
of giving your heart
everything it needs.
Yeah.

I made some cookies
for Junior, his favorite.
Do you want
to take them to him?
I don't know,
I really have a long ways to go
on this article.
Yeah, I can see that.
(Sarah sighs)
You know what I think you need?
You need to get out
and get some fresh air.
Take a break.

(Sarah sighs)
Oh, honey, come here.

I love you so much.

It'll come to you.
Okay.

(Sarah sighs)
(cookie bag rustles)
Cookies.
-Fine.
-For Junior.
Okay.
For Junior.
Okay, all right.
See you later.
Bye, honey.

What's up, Sherm?
Hey, sis.
How are you feelin'?
Oh, can't complain, you know?

Oh.
(chuckles)
Finally.
I have been waiting
all year for these.
(cookie bag rustles)
-Uh, do you think--
-Uh, yes, I got it.
Yeah.
(Sherman, Jr. chuckles)
Can't really, you know...
I know, I know.
(Sherman, Jr. chuckles)
All right.
-Yes.
-There you go.
Okay.

Mm.
Oh.
Mm-hm...
Mm-hm.
Oh, you want one?
No, thank you.
I try to stay away
from as much sugar as I can.
Suit yourself.
So, how was your first day
back home?
It was pretty good.
I spent most of the day
hanging out with Dad.
Mm-hm.
So you saw Sister Grace then?
I did.
That woman has not changed.
She reminded me
about that time
we tried to run away
from home.
(laughs)
That was hilarious.
(laughing)
We--we actually thought
we would build a car.
I do not know
what we were thinking.

Hey, did you know
that the church
is helping pay
some of her bills?
Yeah, I did.
And not just hers, we're
helping some other members too.
Oh, especially around
this time of year.
I mean, isn't that
a little bit kind of odd?
Odd? To help?
That's what the church is for.
Among other things.
Yeah.

Okay.
You probably can't use this
in your article,
but it's something
that you can carry with you.
Mm-hm.

Jesus came to us
out of compassion.
That's the concern
for the well-beings of others.
Which means He didn't have to,
He wanted to.
(crunching)
And besides, what good is
that money just sitting there?
And better yet,
what good is using that money
to build a bigger,
more beautiful church
if members
like Sister Grace
can't even afford
to warm her house?
Or Brother Ron
can't afford new tires
to bring him and his family
back and forth safe?
I completely
understand that,
but what if they don't
really need help?
I mean, I understand
Sister Grace's condition,
but what if others
are just taking advantage?
Or, worse, what if the church
is enabling them
-not to even try--
-Who are we to say?
Who are we to say? Hm?
We're here to do our part.

Okay, you, uh,
you pay your taxes, right?
Yeah.
Okay.
And do you know
what the government does
with every dollar
that you pay back?
No.
I mean, like,
in a way I kind of do, but...
Okay, that's not the point.
The point is,
God trusts us to do our part.
It's not up to us
to decide what their part is
or if they're doing
everything they can.
And because of that,
we show compassion.
I follow.

Okay, I gotta go.
-Really?
-Yeah.
Mom's having group
so I gotta try
to get some work done
at the church.
Okay.

I love you, sis.
Love you, Sherm.
Hey, here, have a cookie.
They're good for you. Hm?
Okay, fine.
(cookie bag rustles)
-Compassion.
-Compassion.
-That's--
-I got it.
-You got it?
-I got it.

(children laughing)

(thudding)
(soft grunt)

-Um...
-Hi.
(Jason clears throat)
Sorry, I didn't, um,
I didn't know anybody else
was here.
Yeah, I was just
finishing up in the back.

Sarah, that was amazing.
What?
Me almost killing myself again?
I mean, everything
except for that last part.
Hey, I'm kidding.
But, you know, we really could
use your help with this program.
I mean,
these kids would love to--
Jason, I--

This Christmas stuff,
this, this holiday season,
it just really doesn't
sit well with me.
Okay? I mean...
Literally, it makes me sick.
So, I just--
Is it because of what
happened when we were kids?

Hey, I know the outcome
of that night was bad.
I mean, terrible even.
But, come on,
that was a long time ago,
and it was an accident.
You have to let it go.
I've tried,
but I just--
I mean, you just don't
know what it was like to--
I don't know what it was like?
Do you remember
what I used to look like?
Come on, I could
see through walls
with the big Coke bottle
glasses that I had to wear.
I didn't get my growth spurt
until freshman year...
of college.
And let's not even get
into all the nose bleeds
that I would have.
I was made fun of
constantly.

Hey, just think
about it, all right?
Don't focus on
how you would feel
'cause all of that
is gonna change
the second you see
how these kids will feel.
Okay, I'll think about it.
-Great.
-I said "think."

All right, thank you.
Yeah.

(crowd murmuring)
Good morning, church!
Good morning, Brother Ron.
Here at New Beginnings,
we like to take advantage
of every chance we get
to celebrate each other,
so we wanna take a moment
to greet each other
and let each other know that...
-You are loved and appreciated!
-Right.
And be sure to speak
to someone you may not know,
shake her hand, shake his hand.
Merry Christmas!

Knock 'em dead.
-All right.
-Yeah.

The God who sits
above the clouds
His love is faster
than speed of sound
Great God
What a great God
He hides the sun
to bring light to rain
He is all joy
endured no pain
Great God
What a great God
Infinite in wisdom
Formed the whole world
with His voice
Deserves to be
lifted up
But He still
gives us the choice
Oh, Creator
servant leader
He's the one true King
High and mighty in majesty
Controls the seasons
and limits the sea
(applause)

-Great job.
-Thank you, thank you.
-Good day.
-So good to see you.

(inaudible)

In Sunday school, we're
cheating, we have the answers.
It's really just finding more
information about the Bible,
so it's not really that bad.
Hey.

Well, look who's amazing.
I didn't know you
could sing like that!
Well, your brother
usually leads worship,
so your dad asked
if I could help out.
Hey, I wanna introduce
you to someone.
-Come with me.
-Okay.

That was so wonderful, Jason!
-Um.
-You were really letting
God use you.
Oh, okay, thank you.
Um, come on.

These are the wonderful children
that we've been working with
for the Christmas program.
-Everyone, this is Sarah.
-Hi, Sarah!
Sarah is Sherman Jr.'s sister,
and she is an amazing dancer.
Oh.
And maybe if we ask her nicely,
she would help us out
through the final
push of the show.
Please, help us, please?
That is not fair!
You know, I was
just telling Jason
that I would think about it,
and that was only last night.
-Ooh!
-No, no, not like that.
Hey, guys,
we said we were gonna be nice
to Sarah.
Speaking of, we have
another rehearsal on Wednesday.
Be great if you came out.
I will try to have
an answer by then.
It was very nice
to meet you all.
Bye, Sarah!

You know, we really
can handle it.
I mean, we totally understand
you have a ton of
other things to get done.
Um, okay.
Besides, we've already
done a ton of hard work,
and we wouldn't want--
Oh, well, never mind.
We can handle it!
You know what?
I made up my mind.
I would love to help!
That's great,
and you know what?
This is actually perfect because
you already know
all the material.
-What do you mean?
-Well,
it's the same show
that we did in '93.

Yay!
-Eh!
-Eh!
(cheering)

Oh!
There he is!
-Hi, buddy!
-Hey, Chance!
Hi!
Oh, he's so cute!

-Hey!
-Hey.
Well, I was beginning
to worry about you guys.
Brother Moore,
so good to see you.
You guys never wait this late
to come get your tree.
I know, we've been so
busy this Christmas season.
But we're excited
to be here now!
Better late than pregnant.
(laughing)
Well, it looks like business is
doin' really well around here.
Man, Jason and I haven't
stopped loadin' up trucks
since we opened.
Good problem!
-Good problem.
-Thanks.
-Thank you.
-Have a merry Christmas.
(laughing)
-Yes.
-I can't believe that.
-Jason, boy, you're everywhere!
-Hey!
All right, boss, I just got
the Millers all set up.
Hey, Sarah, did you, uh,
get your car out yet?
Oh, my God!
I completely forgot.
What happened
to your car, honey?
Uh, it's a long story,
but I need to go get it
from the impound lot.
The impound lot?
We should get that out now
because they charge by the day.
I know, I'm sorry, Mom.
Do you mind if we run out?
Of course she does!
Hey, Jason,
why don't you take her?
Uh, yeah, okay, sure.
Are you sure?
Of course we're sure.
Just don't take too long.
We got a lot of work
to finish around here.
Okay.
-Thank you, Jason.
-I'll be back.
I got the perfect tree
-I wanna show you guys.
-Okay, well,
you did well last year.

(bell dinging)
(door opening)

Hey, we're here to
pick up that car for Sarah.

-Uh.
-Do--
-I guess we just go back, or?
-I guess.
-Okay.
-Okay, yeah.
There she is!
There she is.
Op!
Okay, well,
thank you so much
for your help.
Yeah, just, um.
(awkwardly laughing)

Hey, what's goin' on,
why'd you stop?
Yeah, I really thought I could
make it to a gas station.

Don't worry about it,
I got you.

So you literally just carry
extra gas in
the back of your truck?
Well, it's actually for
the church snow blower,
but, you know,
I think we can spare a little.
See if she'll start up.
(car starting)
Yes!
All right, so what
you're gonna wanna do,
just head down this road,
you're gonna run
straight into the freeway,
and just--

-Thank you.
-Yeah.
Thank you.
Uh, yeah, for, uh--
-I'll see you.
-All right.

(keyboard clacking)

(keyboard clacking)

(knocking)
Good morning!
I made you some breakfast.
Oh, thank you!
You seem a little
different this morning.
Yeah, I don't know,
I just kinda woke up
and the juices were flowin'.
Well, then I won't interrupt!
But I must say,
I think this town
is finding its way
back into your heart.
Oh, honey, um,
your dad and I are gonna
decorate
the Christmas tree later,
and we really would like it
if you would join us.
I'd like that, too, Mom.
I gotta work on this first.
Okay.
Okay.

(keyboard clacking)
(computer chiming)
(keyboard clacking)

(ornament falling)
Oh!
(laughing)

Oh, honey!
Aw!
What's this for?
I don't know.
Just because.
Mm.
I guess your article's
going pretty well, huh?
-It is!
-Ah!
Still got a long ways to go,
but it's comin' along.
Good!
Oh, those cookies
smell so good.
(chuckling)
It's 'cause you haven't eaten
-all day, missy!
-Yeah.
Do you want me to whip
somethin' up for you?
No, thanks.
I'm supposed to meet
Kate and Jason
at the Barnyard in an hour.

What?
He likes you, you know?
-No.
-Yeah!
He always has!

You know,
those glasses he wore
made his eyeballs
look so big.
They looked like two swimming
pools filled with water
the night you
fell off that stage.

-You like him too.
-Mom!
Honey, it's okay!
You're gonna get your work done.
Okay?
Maybe, maybe this is
the inspiration that you found.

You're not gonna
wear that, are you?
I'm gonna shower!
It's just the Barnyard, sheesh.
Okay.
(chuckling)
-You gonna wear that?
-No, I'm not gonna wear this.

I don't think she's been
to the Barnyard in a few years.
I know!

Reservation under Jason.

-Hey!
-Hey.
This is not how
I remember this place.
Um, I thought you knew.
Yeah, they made some
renovations a few years back.
Oh, oh.
Uh, where's Kate?
Is she running late?
Uh, Kate had to cancel.
Kate was never coming, huh?
No.
I mean, she was,
but she did have to cancel,
but that was before that I
told you that we were meeting,
and that meeting was
gonna be at the church.
So, what are we doing here?
Well, I did wanna
get you all caught up.
And I figured since you're
only in town for a few days,
that I would take you
somewhere that's
not the church or the hospital.

Ravishing.
-Hm? Hm?
-Hm? What?
Oh, I said I'm starving.
Oh, great, let's order.
(indistinct whispering)
(crowd murmuring)

Man, that was really good.
Yeah.
Thank you.

So, you are a handyman,
a tree farmer,
somewhat of a mechanic...
Because I had gas?
...singer,
musician,
you seem to like kids,
and at least from the outside,
you appear to love Jesus.
Oh, appear?
Yes, appear.
So, how are you still single?
Wait, are you single?
Depends on who's asking.
Oh, no, I, I was--
No, I, I was kidding.
Um, yes, I'm single.
Uh, why?
I don't know.
Guess I'm not in a hurry to be
with someone just because.
You know, I get that I'm
good-looking, whatever, now,
but I didn't always
used to look like this.
Wow, conceited.
No, no, no, that's,
that is not what I mean.
All right, what I'm
tryin' to say is that
I've had a lot of time
to see people's true nature.
Like all of a sudden
I'm some sort of catch,
but I'm the same person
that I always have been.
That's superficial.
I want, uh...

...I want something real.

Um, the gas.
-The, the gas?
-Yes, the gas
and the rides back and forth.
Let me repay you for,
you know, taking care of me.

All I ever wanted to do
is take care of you.

Jason?
Uh, don't worry about it.
You're repaying me
more than enough
by helping me out
with this program, so.
Come on.
There's gotta be something else.

Well, there is this one thing.

What is it?
Not now, no, you're gonna
have to wait for that.
-Really?
-Yup.
Let's just do this first.

Do you have any more
questions about the program?

No.
I think I'm all caught up.

-Hey.
-Hi.
-Okay.
-All right.
Well, hey, guys and girls!
We are down to our last
few rehearsals before the show,
so tonight I wanna see
a lot of energy,
focus,
and a lot of smiles,
a lot of big smiles.
Yes, let's make
tonight count, okay?
And, uh, let's also
try not to mess anything up.
Also, Friday is our dress
rehearsal and cast party!
-Woo-hoo!
-Woo!
Oh, and before I forget,
I wanna give
a warm welcome to Sarah
who's gonna help us
finish strong.
Hey, guys!
Kate, would you
lead us through a prayer
for today's rehearsal?
Sure.
Let's bow our heads.

Dear, God,
have Your way with us tonight,
both the children
and the leaders.
We may not always
understand Your plan
or why things happen,
and even though some of us
are underprepared
and unqualified,
we ask that Your will
be done and not our own.
In Jesus' name we pray,
amen.
-Amen.
-Amen.
Okay, let's get to work.
Yay, come on, come on,
come on, come on.
Here we go, all right,
all right, all right.

All right, good night!
Good job today!
(door closing)

What the? What are you doing?
I'm doing what I should have
done a long time ago!
No, no, no, that's unacceptable!
Have you lost your--
Sarah.
Oh, no, no.
Are you kidding me?

Sarah!
Sarah, come on, no!

What's going on?
-It's your brother.
-Is he okay?
-Uh, just, uh, get in the car.
-What?
-We'll tell you on the way.
-Hurry!

(car starting)
Dad, what is going on,
you're scaring me.
Something went wrong
with your brother's surgery.
They think he has a torn artery,
but they're not sure.
They may have to
amputate his leg.
They are not cutting
off my son's leg!

(phone vibrating)

Honey, honey!
Can you please just sit down
and relax?

Hey, you two.
Morning.
(groaning)
-Oh, thanks, babe.
-Here you go, here you go.
-Oh, thanks.
-You're welcome.
Is junior okay?
Uh, they're not sure yet.
He's still in surgery.
Oh, honey.
I know, I know,
we just have to
keep praying for him.
-Yeah.
-Yeah.
Okay? All right.

(phone vibrating)

I should take this.

(phone beeping)
Ho! Ho! Ho!
Merry Christmas!
I hope all is well.
So, uh, we went ahead
and hired some models
for the family photo shoot,
and we need you back here
for that on Friday.
But it's just for the day
to coordinate the shoot,
and then you'll be off
for the rest of the holidays.
So let me know when you
make it back in town.
Thanks.
(phone beeping)

Who was that, honey?
It's my boss.
He wants me to come back
for a photoshoot tomorrow.
So you're gonna miss Christmas?
I mean, it's just for one day,
but--I mean, no,
I'm not gonna go, no.
I'm, I'm not gonna go.
No, if it's only for one day,
I think you should go
handle your business.
We're okay here.
We'll take care of your brother,
but we support you, too, honey.
So, go,
-do what you need to do.
-Okay.
And get back here
as soon as you can.
I love you.
-Okay.
-Okay.

Hey, Sarah, you ran off
so quick last night.
I don't have time
for this right now.
-I'm not sure what you--
-I know what I saw.
Come on, look, it's not
what you think that it is.
Don't, don't go, please?

(camera shuttering)

Sarah?
Are you okay?
You don't seem like yourself.
Um,
yeah, my mind is
all over the place.
I just,
I just gotta get this done.

Sarah!
So good to see ya back!
Wow, look at this!
Man, I love it, family force!
(laughing)
Can't wait to get my
hands on that article.
You have it with ya?
Um--
-Is that it?
-No!
No, no, it's not, um.
Look, I've been meaning
to speak to you about that.
Um, my brother's condition
has gotten a lot worse,
and I just, I haven't had--
Sarah.
you've been giving me
nothing but excuses
since I gave you
this assignment.
No!
No, I--
Yeah, no, you're right, um.
No more excuses.
I just, I need one more day.

I'll give you one
more day.
Tomorrow, midnight.
Only because
it's too late to replace you.
Thank you, Mr. Davenport,
I won't let you down.
Miss this deadline,
don't come back.

All right, come on,
let's just get back to work.

(inaudible)

Ms. Kate, Ms. Kate,
I ripped it.
-Oh, wow!
-Hey, buddy,
just give it to us
and we're gonna take care of it,
-all right?
-Here.

Where is Sarah?
Is she always this late?
Oh, now you want her help?
She'll be here,
don't worry about it.
No! No, no, no, no, no!
Hey, April, no!
All right,
you guys are doin' great.
This is wonderful.
Um, when we do our
pirouettes, remember,
big arms, boom, yeah.
Really stretch it out.

(indistinct instructions)
and then a very
slow, gentle turn.
Yes, (indistinct).
Good job, girls,
I'm so proud of you.
And, go!
And...
Okay, we're all gonna sit quiet,
hands in our lap.
Just getting ready
for our special treat!
-Hey, guys, here we go!
-Pizza!
-Pizza!
-Pizza!
-Pass these out.
-Yes, absolutely.
All right.
(indistinct speaking)
Hey, Mr. Jason,
where's Sarah?
Yeah, where is Sarah?
Thought we could count on her?
Yeah, I wanted to show her
that I finally got the move
and that her
secret really worked.
Um, I don't know where she is,
but, you know, her brother
had some complications,
so maybe she's with him.
Whatever it is,
let's just hope that she's okay.

Hey, you guys did
a really great job today,
and that's all that matters.
Let's keep that momentum going
all the way into Sunday, okay?
All right, let's get this pizza.
Here we go,
here we go, hold still.

I missed it.
Yeah, you did.
How'd it go?
(scoffing)
Jason.
Jason.
Okay, I really don't
have time for this
-right now.
-Yeah, you've made that clear.
Seriously?
Yeah, I'm serious.
You bailed on us!
Bailed?
No.
No, see, I, I have a job
that I am barely
hanging onto right now.
And, in case
you don't remember,
my brother is in the hospital,
and his condition
is getting worse.
So, no, I'm sorry,
I don't have time
to play this game with you
where you get to have
your cake and eat it too.
What? Is this about that kiss?
-Ugh.
-Because she kissed me.
And I made it very clear to her
that what she did
-was unacceptable.
-Whatever!
But I'm talking about the kids!
And Sarah, they look up to you!
When they see you,
they see a future
that doesn't end
in this small town.
Okay, I get that you have
other responsibilities,
but you made a commitment
to these kids
and then you just didn't show up
because you think
I have a thing for Kate?
That is not why
I didn't show up.
Whatever the reason,
they were counting on you.
Gosh!
You know why we go
all out for Christmas?
Okay, I do not need
another lecture right now.
We go all out because His birth
means a new beginning.
His birth makes way
for our mistakes
to be forgiven,
we get another chance
if we want it.
Do right by these kids, Sarah.
Okay.
You're right, I'm sorry.
-I don't just--
-You know, the other day
when you asked me
what you could do for me?
Yeah.
The only thing that I've
ever wanted from you
was to be seen.
When we were little kids,
I made a promise to myself
that I would never
let you fall again.
So the other night,
that was serendipitous for me.
Hey, lock up when you leave.

(knocking)
So far,
everything is goin' well.
We're lettin'
the swelling go down a bit
before we have to go in
for one last time.
Now this surgery
determines everything.
Okay.
Thank you.
You're welcome.

Being home has been
so chaotic.

I mean, rushing home not
knowing what happened to you.

But you're gonna pull through.

You're a fighter.
You're the Shermanator.

I mean, you taught me
how to be strong.

You know, I didn't
come home expecting to,
to learn anything,
and I definitely
didn't expect to
fall in, I don't know,
like with Jason, but,
but I did.

And if I didn't know any better,
I'd think that you had
somethin' to do with all that.

You always had a clever way
of teaching me a lesson.

But, I want you to know
that I got it.
Okay, I'm good.
My mind is clear, and, uh,
and I finally feel
like I understand this,
I don't know, this dance.

(knocking)
It's time.

(crying)

(keyboard clacking)

Wow!
Hey, guys!
Anybody know how to work
the music in here?
'Cause I'm all thumbs
when it comes to this stuff.
(laughing)
Thanks, guys--Hey,
there is some hot chocolate
and breakfast back there.
Go grab it before
all the adults get it!

Wow!
You really outdid
yourself with this one.
I mean, I was not expecting
this.
Well, I know it doesn't make up
for not being here last night,
but I wanted to at least take
off some of today's pressures.
No, this is huge.
Thank you.
No, thank you.
You really helped me
see clearly
and see you clearly.
Is Kate coming?
She'll be here,
she has to pick up a robe first.
Darn.

It's easy to think
we've gotten so caught up
in lavish lifestyles,
social media posts,
and celebrity status
because, well, we have.
This year has been about
capturing the moment,
any moment,
and making it appear perfect
rather than
focusing in on the things
that truly hold value.
For many, the Christmas
season is nothing more
than meeting deadlines,
finishing the year out strong,
and finally making it
to that last store
before closing time.
But what are we left with
when all that passes?
Somehow, we've come to believe
that Christmas tradition
equates to cheesy,
dated memories
that no longer have meaning
in our current lives.
Behold!
We seem to have forgotten
what is wrapped up
in that tradition,
love and compassion,
not some forced deed that
requires an Instagram snapshot
to prove that it's real,
but genuine compassion,
real concern for others,
willing to give our last,
not because we had to,
but because we wanted to.
Our communities
have been our village
and family, and that's also
wrapped in that tradition.
(applause)
We took care of each other,
no questions asked
because we were, and still are,
each others' bottom line.
(applause)
-Hey, thanks for--
-Shh!
Okay, look, I don't know
what your problem is with me,
but it would be really nice if
you could just act like an adult
and talk to me about it.
Fine!
Ever since we were kids,
you have had everything, okay?
The perfect family,
the perfect upbringing,
now the perfect job,
and you got the guy.
And let's not forget
you can dance!
Yet, all you do is complain.
All I have is dance,
and the once chance I got
to showcase my talent,
you ruined it.
I have put in so much
work with those girls,
and you come back,
and they just
-plug you right in, and--
-Hey.
I've been looking
all over for you two.
-What's wrong?
-The twins, they,
-they can't go on.
-What? Why?
I don't know if
it's their nerves,
or the flu, but they've
been in the bathroom
puking up everything
that they've eaten
-all week.
-Oh, my goodness.
What are we going to do?
Um.
We could go on.
Uh, uh, okay,
okay, we can do it.
Do you still know the dance?
Yeah, of course she does.
I watched her do it
the other night.
Sarah?
Sarah!
Okay, fine, whatever,
I'll just do it myself.
Um.
Sarah, listen.
You can do this.
There's nothing
standing in your way.
(audience murmuring)
I'm here for you.
I'll never let you fall.
Mm-hmm.
Okay.
(audience murmuring)
(inaudible)
Silent night
Holy night
All is calm
All is bright
'Round yon Virgin
Mother and Child
Holy infant so
tender and mild
Sleep in
heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace
(applause)
Christmas tradition
may just seem like
fresh-baked cookies,
children singing,
and overly-decorated
Christmas sweaters,
but this tradition
means so much more.
It is one of love,
and compassion.
It causes us to create a legacy
that will not only spill out
into the new year,
but also for
generations to come.
(applause)

That tree looks amazing!
-We got it from--
-Hey!
There she is!
-Our shining star!
-You nailed it!
-The big star.
-You nailed it.
Oh, honey, I can't believe you
remembered that choreography.
-I don't know how I did it.
-Did you even have time
-to practice that?
-Amazing, it was perfect!
And the whole church
looked amazing.
Everything was set up
so beautifully.
-Yeah.
-Yeah, it was a big deal.
We were able to get a lot of
stuff done without you.
Oh, yeah, thanks, thanks--
-Well, come on, let's go.
-Oh, it's chilly!
-Unbelievable.
-Come on, sweetie.
-Sarah, you, you--
-Actually,
I am going to hang back
just a little bit.
I'll meet you guys at home?
-Okay.
-Okay.
-We'll see you there.
-Okay, all right.
All right.
See you at home, though, right?
Yes, absolutely,
I will see you at home.
-Bye, sis.
-Happy you're home.
I love you, you're amazing.
-I love you.
-Amazing.
-Okay.
-Our tiny dancer.
All right.
Father.
She was amazing,
and she didn't fall this time.
No.
(indistinct speaking)

(screaming)
I told you,
I would never let you fall.

Giving your heart
everything it needs
rather than rushing
through the season
capturing pseudo-moments
that will quickly fade away.

Bravo, Sarah Appleton.
Bravo.