Ugly Sweater (2024) Movie Script
1
[audio logo]
[slow piano music]
[wind breezing]
[christmas music]
ALICE: Do you believe in ghosts?
Do I believe
individuals can have
a profound impact on the
world long after they're gone?
Yeah.
But do I think they're,
like, walking among us now?
Probably not.
[glass clinking]
[clears throat]
Then heed the words
I bring upon you this noon.
Objects can certainly be
enchanted with history.
Or rather, haunted.
Bravo.
Bravo.
She's a star.
And entirely improvised?
I'm impressed.
Ooh, not too out there
for you, Ms. Ivy League?
Don't call me that.
I haven't even
been accepted yet.
Oh, so you do believe
in superstition.
I just don't want to say,
do, or, think anything that
might jeopardize my chances.
[chuckles] That's--
Whoa.
Whoa there, tiger.
You are one of the most
intelligent and capable
people I've ever met.
And you have perfect grades.
You feel like a shoo-in.
Thanks.
Can we go look at sweaters now?
Like, where are they?
Yeah, this way.
This way.
[eerie sound]
[light piano keys playing]
[magical music]
(MUFFLED) What do
you think of this one?
Ruby?
Huh?
It's pretty.
Isn't it supposed to be ugly?
You really want to look
ugly at our first Jessica
Jacobs party?
It's an ugly
sweater party, right?
Right.
But I'm single, so
I want to look hot.
You always look hot, Alice.
What'd you find?
Cute.
[cash register chiming]
Happy belated birthday,
my lovely Sagittarius.
Thanks, Alice.
Thank your sister
for the invite.
Blake's going, too, right?
Yeah, he's still
working on his look.
[chuckles]
So, what's going to happen
after you two graduate?
I don't know.
I mean, I already told
him, in the beginning,
I just want something temporary.
Everything is temporary, dear.
[soft piano]
[pencil scribbling]
[clock ticking]
[table utensils clinking]
So, Ruby, you submit
your applications yet?
Yes, 12 total.
[chuckles]
You're gonna love college.
I think I will.
[chuckles]
(SINGING) Find happiness
like a handful--
[soft piano music]
[phone buzzing]
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Hey, cutie.
Watcha up to?
[phone keys clicking]
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Still studying.
Wanna do well tomorrow.
Well, OK.
[knock on door]
PAM: Ruby?
Yeah?
Blake's outside for you.
Oh.
[chuckles] OK.
Are you going
somewhere with him?
No, Mom.
PAM: Doesn't seem like
the best timing to me.
RUBY: It's fine.
I have been studying
all weekend.
[chuckles]
[soft piano music]
Hey.
Ruby.
To what do I
owe this surprise?
Oh, I just thought
that even mad
geniuses deserve a hot chocolate
break every now and then.
Helps fuel the, uh, star power.
Mm, my genius, huh?
Mm-hmm.
[soft chuckle]
Mm.
Thanks, Blake.
This is sweet.
Hello, Mr. Snowy.
[chuckles] Here
comes Mr. Snowy.
Don't stay out here too long.
It's cold tonight.
[soft chuckle]
So, what have you
been up to tonight?
Oh, you know, just
watching this new show
about the deep sea.
Oh, of course you were.
[chuckles]
Did you know that the ocean
water has diluted gold in it?
I didn't.
That's pretty incredible.
It's so diluted, though,
that humans haven't even
found a way to extract it yet.
I hope they never do.
Thanks for coming by tonight.
[light flicks and buzzes]
Your dad did a good job.
He has his moments,
his projects.
[chuckles]
Sounds like
someone else I know.
All right, time
to go and let you
get back to showing
those stars who's boss.
[chuckles] Blake, you
might be one of the most
dorkiest people I know.
[laughs]
That's a good thing, right?
Definitely.
[gentle music]
Sweet dreams, Ruby.
[huffing]
MARK (VOICEOVER): Don't
stay out here too long.
It's cold tonight.
[huffs]
PAM (VOICEOVER): You're
gonna love college.
Doesn't seem like the
best timing to me.
[soft piano music, eerie sound]
[continues huffing]
[wind blowing]
[christmas bell chiming]
[sighs amusingly]
[magical sound]
Wow.
[dark sound]
[gasps] What's happening?
[thunder rolling]
MAN: Ruby.
Hello?
I'm right here.
[thunder rumbling]
Where are you?
MAN: Ruby?
Help me.
Please!
MAN: Ruby?
[christmas bells eerie sound]
Blake.
Hey Jordan.
Where were you?
I was looking
everywhere for you.
Oh, my God.
[huffing]
Let me show you something.
[soft piano music]
[film rolling]
MAN (ON SCREEN) : Now, we go to
our meteorologist for the night,
Pamela Atwood.
Pam.
Thank you, Jeff.
We will continue to see
record-breaking heat
all throughout New
England this weekend.
Dad, we fixed it!
Good job, girls.
Here in Massachusetts, the
western side of the state
will be getting the worst of it.
But closer to the
coast, the wind
will be a welcome addition
to the weather forecast.
[film rolling]
What are you doing, Ruby?
YOUNG RUBY: Let's just pick one
orange and one pink in there.
Let's do a little
bit of next step.
Silver, silver, silver.
Where-- where did you come from?
I'm a famous dancer.
And I performed in the
Nutcracker in New York City!
Oh, I remember this game.
Oh, my gosh, Leah looks so free.
It's your turn, Ruby.
Who are you, and where
did you come from?
I'm the world's
finest astronaut.
I came all the way
from outer space.
Woo!
Next stop, Mars!
Woo!
[gasps] This must be the
new image from Curiosity.
Wow.
Oh, there's Crab Nebula
and the Saturn rings!
You're so adorable
when you nerd out.
Why do you like space
so much anyways?
Well, there's so
much to explore.
It's endless.
[magical sound]
[screen flickers out]
Blake?
[screen turned on, film rolling]
[blake sobbing]
Blake, what's wrong?
It's just really
hard for me, OK?
What is?
I think you should go.
[soft piano music]
I never meant to hurt you.
Coming through.
Got some Christmas
cheering to do.
How about some light for
our star of the season?
As if she couldn't get any
brighter already, huh, our girl.
That's right.
[christmas bells chiming]
Ooh.
Is there anything she can't do?
[crowd applause]
Don't ruin it for us.
[fire crackling]
[eerie sound]
[rumbling sound]
Mom?
Dad?
Leah!
[eerie sound]
Mom!
[huffing]
[clock ticking]
[children's noise in distance]
PAM (VOICEOVER):
Don't ruin it for us.
MARK (VOICEOVER): I thought
you studied for this.
PAM (VOICEOVER): All
that effort for nothing.
For nothing.
[voices whispering]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Ooh,
not too out there for you,
Ms. Ivy League?
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Does
it even matter that much.
[CLOCK TICKING, VOICES
WHISPERING]
CASHIER (VOICEOVER):
Everything is temporary, dear.
MARK (VOICEOVER): There
goes your Ivy League dreams.
PAM (VOICEOVER): Ruby,
this is not good.
[school bell ringing]
[sighs]
Does it even matter that much?
Of course, it matters.
But you've already applied.
Yeah, and I still have to
turn in my midterm grades.
OK.
I don't see any universe where
a single test defines you.
Yeah, maybe you're right.
Probably got, like,
an A on it anyways.
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): I
don't think I can do this.
Oh, no.
Damn, someone looks
good for their age.
We thought you could
use these a bit early.
Oh, what a lovely surprise.
Thanks, you guys.
Happy closing night.
Blake, I hate to
break it to you,
but they might kick
you out of here.
OK, heard and understood.
[girls chuckles]
All right, I'll meet you
in the back of the theater?
Sounds good.
All right.
BLAKE: Break all the legs.
In case it wasn't obvious,
you two are my favorite couple.
Yeah, he's pretty great.
[chuckles] How are you doing?
Are you OK?
[sighs] It's my dad.
He's here.
Oh, shit.
Yeah, he flew back from
LA yesterday to surprise me.
Aw, that's so sweet.
It's the last thing
I need the night
before my final performance.
OK.
I'm sorry, I'm just stressed.
It's OK, girl.
Me, too.
Well, I'm here for you.
And I'm here for you.
So, what can I do to help?
Oh, Ruby.
I'll be fine.
I probably just need
to stay distracted.
What's going on with you?
Well, I had this really
intense dream the other night.
Ooh, subconscious troubles.
Lay it on me.
Oh, it's blurry, but Blake
was sobbing at one point,
and it was really hard to watch.
And then I was opening
letters from college,
and they caught on fire.
Trippy.
What did the letters say?
They were rejection letters.
All of them.
OK, this is what we
call an anxiety dream.
It's like your worst fear is
manifesting in a performance
made just for you.
[chuckles]
Excellent.
I'm sorry you had
to experience that.
For starters, Mercury
is in retrograde,
so there's a lot of crazy
energy in the air right now.
[giggling] Seriously,
this can heighten
the different challenges
for the signs.
For example, Sagittariuses tend
not to like feeling stifled
or controlled, and they fear
they may not reach their goals
if something gets in their way.
Hmm.
OK.
So what does that
mean for Geminis?
Oh, look at you
showing interest.
Well, we might not be as
good at communicating,
but it's a good time to
rekindle relationships.
So Dad had good timing?
Maybe.
But your dream or
nightmare may be
an opportunity to address
what's bothering you
and deal with it accordingly.
Mm-mm.
Seriously, nightmares
can be a great way
to release emotion and
then feel a sense of relief
knowing it's over.
Well, I don't
feel relief at all.
Maybe try focusing on Blake?
I'm so happy you have a water
sign boyfriend to keep you calm.
He can probably help you
feel better if you let him.
Yeah, maybe.
[sighs]
Ruby, you will make
it through this year.
[bell chimes]
Oh, 15 minutes till show time.
Whew, my nerves disappeared
there for a sec.
Thank you for that.
I should be thanking you.
You are the best.
Mm.
You are the best!
Oh, my gosh, you are
going to steal the show,
and your dad is
going to be so proud.
Uh, you really do look old.
[laughs]
I know, it's scary, huh?
All right, grandma,
go make me some cookies.
ALICE: Oh, I'll let you crack
the eggs if you're lucky.
[laughter]
RUBY: Not crack eggs.
Can I lick the spoon?
ALICE: Yes.
Oh, wait, no.
(GRANDMA'S VOICE) Yes.
RUBY: [laughs] I
love you, Alice.
ALICE: I love you.
RUBY: You see that cluster
of stars over there?
Oh, and the bright
one right above it?
Yeah, I do.
It's Mars.
[chuckles] Wow.
It's so bright.
Right?
And we're about to learn
so much more about it.
[chuckles]
Yeah.
Because of the robot thing?
"Rover."
But, yeah.
BLAKE: Yeah.
RUBY: Thanks for coming tonight.
BLAKE: Of course.
I think Alice did a great job.
Yeah.
I just wish they would pick
plays with better female leads.
DISC JOCKEY (ON RADIO):
I'm Tommy, the Trustworthy.
You're listening
to 98.7 Tidal Wave.
This spot is so cool.
You come here a lot?
Yeah, I try to, especially
in the winter when it's
all, like, empty and stuff.
Usually, it's just me
and my thoughts and, um--
well, it's pretty
peaceful sometimes.
DISC JOCKEY (ON RADIO):
Here's Kishi Bashi
with "Wonder Woman, Wonder Me."
[gasps] I love this song.
[KISHI BASHI, "WONDER WOMAN,
WONDER ME"]
(SINGING) Kin kon
kan kon kaneganaru
Kin kon kan kon kaneganaru
(SINGING) When
Pluto was demoted
I felt the sigh of
relief, I never knew why
Knew why
(SINGING) Like all
things in The Quickening
We share the fallen
few and the one
No way.
Way.
[laughter]
(SINGING) The only one
(SPEAKING) Only one.
One.
(SINGING) Memories
overtaken by--
(SINGING) To throw them
away and into the sky This sky
[laughs]
BLAKE: Yuh.
And zoom.
[laughs] [humming]
(SINGING) Must always come down
Must always come down
(SINGING) Come down
[vocalizing]
[humming]
I love you.
What?
I-- I love you.
Um, you don't--
there's no pressure.
I-- I've almost said it in a far
more dumb and awkward moments.
And I was just holding
back because you
really mean a lot to me.
And I-- I was just like--
I love you, too.
[huffs]
You're shaking.
Are you OK?
Yeah, I'm--
I'm great.
I'm swell.
I was just-- I was just
thinking that, like, we--
[soft chuckle]
Is it OK if I like--
Yeah.
Yeah?
Can I?
The jacket?
Yeah, yeah.
[rattling]
Ow!
Shit.
Oh, my god.
Um, are you OK?
I just got excited there.
[chuckles]
Hey.
You're-- you're beautiful.
Hey, I love you.
[chuckles]
[chuckles] I love you, too.
Should we keep going?
Yeah, I think we
could figure it out.
[chuckles]
[sunroof whirring]
[soft piano music]
[school bell whirring]
[eerie music]
[clock ticking]
[piano music continues]
[clock ticking]
[birds chirping]
So I had an idea.
Do you want to help me pick out
my ugly sweater for the party?
Sure.
Awesome.
My dad has, like,
dozens lying around.
And, well, I know you got
a great eye, so I know
you'll choose the perfect one.
Or we could do it
another day this week?
No, no, no.
I'm game.
I just need a minute.
Yeah.
No, of course.
[birds chirping]
You're shaking.
Are you OK?
Did something happen?
Yeah, I'm fi-- yeah, I'm fine.
Um-- I'm--
I'm not.
I'm-- I'm not OK.
I-- I'm not OK.
[sobs] I'm not OK.
Shit.
Shh.
[sobbing]
Everything's wrong.
What-- what if I don't--
what if I don't make it?
I-- I love you, Ruby.
Um-- everything's going
to be OK, all right?
- [sniffles]
- Shh.
Just breathe.
Just breathe.
[grunts]
You're going to be OK.
Just breathe.
Just breathe.
Come on.
Take a deep breath.
Slowly, all right?
Shh.
There you go.
[puffs]
All right.
I'm sorry.
Hey.
I'm so sorry.
It's OK.
Um, do you feel better now?
[birds chirping]
I don't know.
Have you ever had a
panic attack before?
What?
Panic attack.
You just had a panic attack.
Um-- OK, um, do you
wanna talk about it?
OK.
Um, do you wanna go home?
[soft piano music]
[thunder rolling]
[rattling]
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): My dad is
taking me to NYC this weekend!
Eeh!
[phone keys clicking]
RUBY (VOICEOVER): Amazing!
Say hi to the Big Apple for me.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Yeah, I'm
pissed, though, because Aunt
Flo just showed up.
Ugh!
[thunder rolling]
RUBY: Oh.
[giggling]
Mm-mm, too plain.
[music playing on radio]
Uh, too weird.
[snorts] Uh, what
about this one?
Well, it's definitely ugly.
I think it's cute.
Winner, winner?
Sure.
Thanks, Dad.
[giggling]
OK, I better get going.
You pick me up tomorrow at 8:00?
You can count on me.
All right.
See you lovebirds later.
[soft chuckle]
ALICE: Bye.
[door closes]
BLAKE: You know, I
can't believe I haven't
taken you to the aquarium yet.
My dad and I used to
go, like, all the time.
And well, why I
book us some tickets
and we can, like,
make a day out of it?
That's nice.
[chuckles]
I promise you will never look
at penguins the same again.
[sighs painfully]
Hey, Blake.
Yeah?
My stomach still hurts.
Really?
It's been, like, three days.
I know.
There is something else
I need to tell you.
I'm, like, four days late,
which isn't a big deal.
But my cycle is
usually on point.
And my stomach hurts a lot.
Oh.
I-- I really don't think--
but it's possible, right?
What do you wanna do?
I think I should
take a test, so I know.
So we know.
Yeah.
Yeah, no, um--
[soft piano music]
[sniffles]
[huffing]
[sighs in relief] I
fucking read it wrong.
What?
It's negative.
I read it wrong.
Oh.
[huffs]
Wow.
You know, I'll never forget
that look on your face.
Like, ever.
That was, uh, quite the look.
Yeah, that was pretty intense.
It's crazy how
fast I fell in love
with whatever was inside of me.
My mind just moved so fast.
I fell in love, too.
You're going to be
a great mom one day.
Thanks.
[puffs] Not today.
Yeah.
Not today.
[piano music]
Hey, Mom.
Hey.
Can you wash this sweater?
Where'd you get this?
Alice got it for
me for my birthday.
It's for the Christmas thing
we're going to this weekend.
I think it's wool.
It looks familiar.
Well, it is vintage.
[chuckles]
Yes, I can take care of it.
Thanks, Mom.
(SINGING) Give me everything
Something Jesus
told you not to wait
[piano music]
[chuckles]
[magical sound]
Whoa.
[chuckles]
[party music buzzing]
[upbeat music]
[crowd noise]
[people cheering]
[party music beating]
[people cheering]
[burbling]
[coughs]
[burbling]
[coughs]
Yeah, that's
definitely cashed.
[burbling]
Cashed?
Yeah.
That's what you
say when it's out.
[chuckles]
Mm, you learn
something new every day.
ALICE: I think I'm
starting to feel it.
RUBY: Mm.
My brain's growing wings,
and it's ready to fly.
Go, Alice.
Go fly.
[chuckles] Thanks, you guys.
Yeah, no problem.
Hey, you're Ruby, right?
Yeah.
There's something
about her sweater.
Yeah, it's got
a nice aura to it.
RUBY: [chuckles]
[party music beating]
[crowd cheering]
Where's Alice?
[retching, coughing]
[knocking on door]
Hey, Alice.
[retching]
Hey, girl.
It's me.
How are you doing?
Mm.
[sniffles, coughs]
Here, have some water.
No, I don't want any.
That's not going
to work with me.
You will thank me
in the morning.
[slurps] Mm.
Why does this shit
always happen to me?
[sighs]
'Cause you're the
life of the party.
No, I'm just fucking dumb.
Hey, this happens to everyone.
Huh.
I'm a fucking mess.
But tonight, you're my mess.
No, I'm embarrassed.
I'm not.
If anything, I feel
like I'm pretty lucky.
You're just saying sweet
shit to make me feel better.
Mm, OK.
Yes, it's working.
[chuckles] OK, keep drinking.
[slurps] Mm.
Girl.
I love you.
[chuckles] I
love you too, babe.
She'll be OK here, right?
For sure.
She'll be fine.
I'll make sure she
stays on her side.
Thanks for letting
her crash here.
Of course.
You're a good friend.
I just feel bad for what
the poor girl is going
to have to endure tomorrow.
[gentle music]
[door closes]
[wind blows]
[birds chirping]
I love you, Ruby.
[birds chirping]
[gasps] Wow, they're
wonderful, Ruby.
She could be a gardener.
I'm still learning.
My rare Ruby Rose.
You're so beautiful, Alice.
Is it OK if I kiss you?
Blake?
Yeah, of course.
You wanna go away, don't you?
I don't know.
Maybe.
Well, check your wings
carefully before you go.
What if I crash?
Space princess,
you've always got us.
[chuckles]
That suits you.
I knew it would.
[gentle music]
But she could lose everything.
Just another reckless dreamer
flying too close to the sun.
What's happening?
I thought you guys
were excited for me.
Couldn't keep up, huh?
Stop it.
It will never be enough.
Why are you saying that?
I should go.
[eerie music]
Ruby, can I show
you something?
Yeah, sure.
Girls, it's time to go.
Leah, you look
like you're ready.
Ruby, where do you
think you're going?
[sighs annoyingly]
You're a fucking mess.
You're moving way too fast.
[overlapping critical voices]
You've got a lot to
learn, little girl.
Are you sure you're
ready for the real world?
WOMAN: You'll never
be good enough.
They will always make you pay.
[overlapping critical voices]
You've got to learn.
What on Earth are you
doing with your life?
They will always
choose me first.
You're moving way too fast.
Is this really--
[overlapping critical voices]
What are you going
to do without me?
WOMAN: Are you sure?
This nightmare is permanent.
[overlapping critical voices]
WOMAN: Do you think
you're good enough?
You've got a lot to learn.
Are you sure?
[overlapping taunts]
You've got a lot to learn.
Are you sure?
You're wrong!
College will be perfect.
[rocket whoosh]
[gentle music]
[ticking]
PAM (VOICEOVER): Ruby,
you have some mail.
MARK (VOICEOVER):
It's a big envelope.
That's a good sign.
PAM (VOICEOVER): Go
ahead, Ruby, open it.
[heartbeat beating]
[magical sound]
[phone ringing]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Hey, Ruby.
What's up?
RUBY (VOICEOVER): Alice?
ALICE (VOICEOVER): What?
What happened?
RUBY (VOICEOVER): I got in.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): To Pillars?
RUBY (VOICEOVER): Yes!
And three others.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Wow!
Congratulations!
When do we get to celebrate?
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Soon, I promise.
[ticking]
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Why
aren't you going to prom?
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Blake and I broke up.
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Oh, no.
[ticking]
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Happy birthday, Alice.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Thank you.
Can I see you this weekend?
[firecrackers popping]
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Hey, Ruby.
I hope it's OK to text you.
I was just wondering what
day you're leaving town.
[car engine starting]
RUBY (VOICEOVER): I'm
already on the road.
[car engine roars]
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Well, OK.
Safe travels.
I hope you have a great time.
[school bell ringing]
ALICE (VOICEOVER):
Hey, Ms. Ivy League.
How is it?
[background chatter]
[phone ringing and buzzing]
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Hey, it's Ruby.
Leave a message, and I'll give
you a call as soon as I can.
[beep]
ALICE (VOICEOVER):
Hey, Ruby, it's Alice.
I know you're probably super
busy with all your smart girl
stuff, but I'd love
to hear your voice.
How is everything?
How are the students,
classes, clubs, everything?
OK.
Don't be a stranger.
Love ya!
[christmas bell chiming]
PAM (VOICEOVER): Happy
birthday, sweetie.
ALICE (VOICEOVER):
Happy birthday, Ruby.
BLAKE (VOICEOVER):
Happy birthday, Ruby.
[phone ringing and buzzing]
RUBY: Hello?
PAM (ON PHONE): Hey, honey.
How are you?
RUBY: I'm good.
I'm just studying for finals.
PAM (ON PHONE): I never
heard how your birthday went.
RUBY: Oh, yeah, it was great.
Just hung out with some friends.
PAM (ON PHONE): Oh, yeah?
That's great.
What are their names?
RUBY: Oh, uh, Mom,
I'm kind of busy.
Can I tell you later?
PAM (ON PHONE): OK, no problem.
I won't keep you too long.
I just have some news for you.
What?
PAM (ON PHONE): OK, so your
dad and I are on speakerphone.
MARK (ON PHONE): Hi, Ruby.
Um, so we wanted to let you
know, with both you and Leah out
of the house most of the
year now, it's tough for us
to have so many empty rooms.
PAM (ON PHONE): We've been
looking at the market here,
and there's some really great
newer homes that are just
a bit smaller than this one.
Ruby?
When is this happening?
MARK (ON PHONE): Early in
the new year, probably.
What?
PAM (ON PHONE): We already
have three interested buyers
off the market.
So we have to pack up our
rooms during winter break?
PAM (ON PHONE): Yes,
that would be ideal.
MARK (ON PHONE): We
can help you, though.
And really, you don't have
to get rid of anything
if you don't want to.
Just-- just pack it up.
OK, sounds good.
Love you.
Bye.
[phone closes]
[cd player whirring]
[KISHI BASHI, "WONDER WOMAN,
WONDER ME"]
(SINGING) When
candy was a remedy
We'd make it up
We'd destroy
ourselves in the yard
The yard
I held you in a wooden place
I was hungry then
It was hours before it went down
When down
[vocalizing]
Oh, wonder woman, wonder me
You bewitched me with your
gold and blue from the start
The start
[vocalizing]
When Pluto was demoted
I felt a sigh of
relief, I never knew why
Knew why
[music stops]
[car door closes]
So great having us
all together again.
[chuckles]
So, are you guys gonna
see any of your friends
while you're in town?
Yeah, I'm going to Jessica's
ugly sweater party this weekend.
Oh, shoot, that's
gonna be fun.
Yeah.
[laughter]
What about you, Ruby?
Um.
What's Alice doing?
Oh, she's probably in,
like, rehearsal or something.
Um, why don't you come
with me to the party?
Mm.
Mm, I have to pack.
You said I have--
- Well, I can help you pack.
It'd be fun.
I think, um, I can drive you.
Phew.
It's settled.
OK.
Yeah.
Yeah.
[gentle piano music]
[puffs]
[magical sound]
[clock ticking]
[knocking on door]
LEAH: Hey.
You ready?
Yeah, come on in.
[door opens]
Mm.
And the sweater makes a return.
You look great.
Come on, let's go.
[chuckles]
[party music plays]
[music buzzing]
[chatter]
Hey, mind if I get by you?
Oh, my bad.
I didn't mean to startle you.
Is it the sweater?
Yeah, you definitely
didn't hold off on the party
scene, that's for sure.
I take pride in my affinity
for dressing stupid on purpose.
But, hey, at least you'll
be hard to forget, right?
[chuckles] Yeah, right.
Oh, by the way, those cookies
are definitely special cookies.
Good to know.
Hey, wait.
Do you go to school in
Boston, by any chance?
I thought I might
have seen you around.
I have to go talk to someone.
But have a good night.
Hey, Blake.
[coughs] Hey, Ruby.
Uh, I-- how are you?
I'm good.
It's good to see you.
I'm really happy to see you.
Yeah.
It's good to see you, too.
How was it?
How's what?
Your-- your Ivy League dream?
Is it, like, really awesome?
Oh, yeah.
It's great.
It's just surrounded by
a bunch of smart people.
[laughs awkwardly]
That's great.
Can I-- is it-- can I hug you?
Um, you know,
Ruby, uh, I don't
think that's such a great idea.
Oh.
OK, yeah, no problem.
I understand.
Hey, Ruby.
Um, listen.
I wanted to talk--
ALICE: Woo!
Oh, my god, I love those things.
Finally able to park the car.
It took me, like, three ti--
Ruby.
What's this?
We really didn't expect
to see you here, Ruby.
I didn't even
know you were home.
So you're-- both of you?
Ruby, hold on.
I--
Ruby, wait.
[chatter]
[sniffles]
Hey, Ruby.
Please talk to me.
I have nothing to
say to you, Alice.
OK.
I can talk.
I just need you to listen.
Please.
Don't try to make me have
sympathy for you, Alice.
That's not what I want.
I tried to tell you.
Tell me what?
It's kind of hard to
keep in touch with a ghost.
I gave you space because I
wanted to see you live out
your dreams, but I was
not expecting you to fall
off the face of the planet.
I had to do what was
best for my future.
You know that.
I admire your bravery, Ruby.
I really do.
But it hurt when you left.
So you're sleeping with
my ex to get back at me?
No.
We're not just
sleeping together.
We really care about each other.
We care about you, too.
You never gave me the
chance to talk to you.
[sobs] I wanted
to talk to you.
But I just kept
myself under this idea
that I had to be alone to
be able to make something
of myself, that I had
to focus to be something
or do something that mattered.
[sniffles]
But loving Blake
and you mattered.
And I knew I
couldn't have it all.
And it scared the
hell out of me.
[sobs]
ALICE: You should
have talked to me.
I would've been there for you.
I know.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry, too.
[sobbing]
I want you to be happy.
I want both of you to be happy.
I'm happy for you.
I am.
Can I hug you?
Is that OK?
[sobs]
[gentle piano music]
[phone buzzing]
LEAH (ON PHONE):
Hey, where'd you go?
Jessica said she
saw you go outside.
[sobs]
LEAH (ON PHONE): Are you OK?
[sobbing]
Ruby, you gotta take
better care of yourself.
What if I don't know how?
Ask for help.
You know you can leave
Pillars if you want to.
I've thought about quitting
the swim team at Fullington.
But you love swimming.
I love being a part of a team.
I mean, honestly, there's
so much more to life
than sleepless nights and
conditioning your body
until it breaks.
But you're indestructible.
Ruby, life is
hard for everyone.
And I'm definitely changing
my major to education.
What about your
engineering scholarship?
I'll lose it.
But maybe I'll be happier.
You've always seemed
so put together, right?
I had no idea you
were struggling.
[soft chuckle] Well, maybe
my next major should be acting.
And you're welcome.
By the way--
What?
--with my track record, you
could have joined the circus
for all our parents cared.
But you're a dreamer, and I
really admire that about you.
I don't think I
want to leave Pillars.
I love what I'm learning there.
I just-- I--
I don't know why I'm not happy.
It's all about balance.
You know, Mom has
anxiety, right?
Really?
Yeah.
You should probably talk
to her a little bit more.
I mean, now that we're all
adults, they're not as scary.
You can maybe do some of
those grounding techniques
that she does.
I know that they're
really helpful.
Yeah, I've missed you.
[soft chuckle]
I've missed you, too.
You know, we gotta look
out for each other.
[chuckles]
[laughs]
Who are you and where
did you come from?
I'm your sister, and I came
from college to help you.
Thanks.
Another piece of advice,
you should probably
get a plant for your dorm.
It's a powerful
source of energy,
and it feels really good
to take care of something.
What if it dies?
Just get another one.
[laughs] Why are you
so hard on yourself?
[gentle music]
[door closes]
[gentle music]
[wind blowing]
[gentle music]
[long sigh]
I'm ready.
[film rolling]
I'm worried about Ruby.
MARK: Pam.
She feels distant.
MARK: She's got a lot
going on right now.
She just needs some
time to settle.
She doesn't talk
about her friends.
She spends almost all of her
time cooped up in her room,
studying.
I don't want to see her throw
away a life outside the school,
repeat my mistakes.
Ambition shouldn't come at the
cost of peace or happiness.
You know what isolation
can do to these kids
in schools like Pillars.
You raised our daughters to be
able to be and do anything they
wanted to do with their lives.
That's an amazing feat.
PAM: I just feel like
I've made a big mistake,
and it's starting to scare me.
What you're
scared of is seeing
Ruby get hurt chasing after her
dreams the way that you did.
Maybe I'm dreaming, but
nothing took Pam away
from Pam in the end, right?
She's still here?
Nothing will take
Ruby away from Ruby.
She'll find her way,
just like her mother did.
In the meantime, we just need
to provide her encouragement
along the way.
[gentle music]
ALICE: "At Midnight"
by Sara Teasdale.
Now, at last, I have
come to see what life is.
Nothing is ever ended.
Everything only begun.
And the brave victories
that seemed so splendid
are never really won.
Even love that I built
my spirits house for
comes like a brooding
and a baffled guest.
And music and men's
praise and even laughter
are not so good as rest.
[music fades]
PAM: Mind if I come in?
Sure.
May I?
Of course.
[chuckles]
Oh, sunlight is
beautiful in this room.
I was just thinking
the same thing.
I never really
noticed it before.
You are doing a
great job, Ruby.
Thanks, Mom.
Hmm.
[clock ticking]
Hey, Dad.
What's up, Ruby?
Can we at least put
up Mr. Snowy this year?
[chuckles]
Now, that sounds
like a great idea.
Ha.
[laughs]
Ho.
Come back, come back.
There we go.
There's the face.
The face.
It's a face.
Yes, yes.
RUBY: I'm coming.
MARK: Woo hoo.
Wait, wait, wait, wait.
OK, OK.
[giggling]
Wow, you guys are amazing.
Yeah, you two.
PROFESSOR: Not all stars become
supernovas when they die.
Smaller ones elegantly expand
into gas without a possibility
of turning into a black hole.
OK, that's it for today.
I have your planetary
test grades here.
[gentle music]
[uplifting music]
Can I help you find something?
No, I'm just looking.
I'm Enzo.
Ruby.
Nice to see you again, Ruby.
This is a nice place to
come to when you need
a smack of color in the winter.
For sure.
So, do you go to school
around here or something?
Yeah, I go to Pillars.
Wow, very nice.
I'm at Roy's.
What's your major?
Astrophysics.
No way, I love space.
- Really?
- Yeah.
I mean, I'm probably
not as smart as you,
but I do keep up with stuff.
I'm so excited the Curiosity
mission was extended.
Can't wait to see what else
we find out about Mars.
Yeah, it's pretty exciting.
Yeah.
So, what's your major?
I'm in film, like old school
film with projectors and stuff.
- Interesting.
- Yeah.
I'd love to show
you some of my work.
But I don't really digitize it,
so you'd have to come on campus
to watch.
Yeah, that could be fun.
Yeah.
So why don't you digitize it?
Uh, I like the idea
of having my work
within a tangible object.
It gives it more
meaning, I suppose,
and makes every
screening special
because it's so temporary.
Mm.
[chuckles] So, are you wanting
to take a plant home with you?
Yeah, that was the plan.
All right, follow me.
If you look up, we've got
some plants you can hang.
Over here, we've
got a lot of color.
Oh.
These specifically are violet,
African violets, actually.
OK, nice.
I like that.
And over here,
these are some mums.
- Mum?
- Yeah.
- Like mummy?
- Yeah.
- I miss my mom.
- Aw.
[laughter]
Perfect.
And these are some low light
options over here as well.
- OK.
- Yeah, follow me.
I got some more
options, all right?
Cool.
More color, more sun.
[gentle music]
[lighthearted, "honey honey"]
(SINGING) I know
things have been hard
And these days, you
forget who you are
As you look up at the stars
You should know
you're not that far
My darling, you're not that far
Honey, honey, we're
flying to the moon
Honey, honey, don't
forget your moon boots
Mmm
Don't you know that
we'll get there
We'll get there soon
Don't you know that
we'll get there
We'll get there soon
My love, don't you know
that we'll get there
Get there soon
Soon
Honey, honey, we're
flying to the moon
Oh, yeah
Honey, honey, don't
forget your moon boots
Honey, honey, 'cause I
fall when I'm with you
Honey, honey, you'll
need your astro suit
Don't you know that we'll
get there, get there soon
Don't you know that we'll
get there, get there soon
Don't you know that we'll
get there, get there soon
[audio logo]
[slow piano music]
[wind breezing]
[christmas music]
ALICE: Do you believe in ghosts?
Do I believe
individuals can have
a profound impact on the
world long after they're gone?
Yeah.
But do I think they're,
like, walking among us now?
Probably not.
[glass clinking]
[clears throat]
Then heed the words
I bring upon you this noon.
Objects can certainly be
enchanted with history.
Or rather, haunted.
Bravo.
Bravo.
She's a star.
And entirely improvised?
I'm impressed.
Ooh, not too out there
for you, Ms. Ivy League?
Don't call me that.
I haven't even
been accepted yet.
Oh, so you do believe
in superstition.
I just don't want to say,
do, or, think anything that
might jeopardize my chances.
[chuckles] That's--
Whoa.
Whoa there, tiger.
You are one of the most
intelligent and capable
people I've ever met.
And you have perfect grades.
You feel like a shoo-in.
Thanks.
Can we go look at sweaters now?
Like, where are they?
Yeah, this way.
This way.
[eerie sound]
[light piano keys playing]
[magical music]
(MUFFLED) What do
you think of this one?
Ruby?
Huh?
It's pretty.
Isn't it supposed to be ugly?
You really want to look
ugly at our first Jessica
Jacobs party?
It's an ugly
sweater party, right?
Right.
But I'm single, so
I want to look hot.
You always look hot, Alice.
What'd you find?
Cute.
[cash register chiming]
Happy belated birthday,
my lovely Sagittarius.
Thanks, Alice.
Thank your sister
for the invite.
Blake's going, too, right?
Yeah, he's still
working on his look.
[chuckles]
So, what's going to happen
after you two graduate?
I don't know.
I mean, I already told
him, in the beginning,
I just want something temporary.
Everything is temporary, dear.
[soft piano]
[pencil scribbling]
[clock ticking]
[table utensils clinking]
So, Ruby, you submit
your applications yet?
Yes, 12 total.
[chuckles]
You're gonna love college.
I think I will.
[chuckles]
(SINGING) Find happiness
like a handful--
[soft piano music]
[phone buzzing]
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Hey, cutie.
Watcha up to?
[phone keys clicking]
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Still studying.
Wanna do well tomorrow.
Well, OK.
[knock on door]
PAM: Ruby?
Yeah?
Blake's outside for you.
Oh.
[chuckles] OK.
Are you going
somewhere with him?
No, Mom.
PAM: Doesn't seem like
the best timing to me.
RUBY: It's fine.
I have been studying
all weekend.
[chuckles]
[soft piano music]
Hey.
Ruby.
To what do I
owe this surprise?
Oh, I just thought
that even mad
geniuses deserve a hot chocolate
break every now and then.
Helps fuel the, uh, star power.
Mm, my genius, huh?
Mm-hmm.
[soft chuckle]
Mm.
Thanks, Blake.
This is sweet.
Hello, Mr. Snowy.
[chuckles] Here
comes Mr. Snowy.
Don't stay out here too long.
It's cold tonight.
[soft chuckle]
So, what have you
been up to tonight?
Oh, you know, just
watching this new show
about the deep sea.
Oh, of course you were.
[chuckles]
Did you know that the ocean
water has diluted gold in it?
I didn't.
That's pretty incredible.
It's so diluted, though,
that humans haven't even
found a way to extract it yet.
I hope they never do.
Thanks for coming by tonight.
[light flicks and buzzes]
Your dad did a good job.
He has his moments,
his projects.
[chuckles]
Sounds like
someone else I know.
All right, time
to go and let you
get back to showing
those stars who's boss.
[chuckles] Blake, you
might be one of the most
dorkiest people I know.
[laughs]
That's a good thing, right?
Definitely.
[gentle music]
Sweet dreams, Ruby.
[huffing]
MARK (VOICEOVER): Don't
stay out here too long.
It's cold tonight.
[huffs]
PAM (VOICEOVER): You're
gonna love college.
Doesn't seem like the
best timing to me.
[soft piano music, eerie sound]
[continues huffing]
[wind blowing]
[christmas bell chiming]
[sighs amusingly]
[magical sound]
Wow.
[dark sound]
[gasps] What's happening?
[thunder rolling]
MAN: Ruby.
Hello?
I'm right here.
[thunder rumbling]
Where are you?
MAN: Ruby?
Help me.
Please!
MAN: Ruby?
[christmas bells eerie sound]
Blake.
Hey Jordan.
Where were you?
I was looking
everywhere for you.
Oh, my God.
[huffing]
Let me show you something.
[soft piano music]
[film rolling]
MAN (ON SCREEN) : Now, we go to
our meteorologist for the night,
Pamela Atwood.
Pam.
Thank you, Jeff.
We will continue to see
record-breaking heat
all throughout New
England this weekend.
Dad, we fixed it!
Good job, girls.
Here in Massachusetts, the
western side of the state
will be getting the worst of it.
But closer to the
coast, the wind
will be a welcome addition
to the weather forecast.
[film rolling]
What are you doing, Ruby?
YOUNG RUBY: Let's just pick one
orange and one pink in there.
Let's do a little
bit of next step.
Silver, silver, silver.
Where-- where did you come from?
I'm a famous dancer.
And I performed in the
Nutcracker in New York City!
Oh, I remember this game.
Oh, my gosh, Leah looks so free.
It's your turn, Ruby.
Who are you, and where
did you come from?
I'm the world's
finest astronaut.
I came all the way
from outer space.
Woo!
Next stop, Mars!
Woo!
[gasps] This must be the
new image from Curiosity.
Wow.
Oh, there's Crab Nebula
and the Saturn rings!
You're so adorable
when you nerd out.
Why do you like space
so much anyways?
Well, there's so
much to explore.
It's endless.
[magical sound]
[screen flickers out]
Blake?
[screen turned on, film rolling]
[blake sobbing]
Blake, what's wrong?
It's just really
hard for me, OK?
What is?
I think you should go.
[soft piano music]
I never meant to hurt you.
Coming through.
Got some Christmas
cheering to do.
How about some light for
our star of the season?
As if she couldn't get any
brighter already, huh, our girl.
That's right.
[christmas bells chiming]
Ooh.
Is there anything she can't do?
[crowd applause]
Don't ruin it for us.
[fire crackling]
[eerie sound]
[rumbling sound]
Mom?
Dad?
Leah!
[eerie sound]
Mom!
[huffing]
[clock ticking]
[children's noise in distance]
PAM (VOICEOVER):
Don't ruin it for us.
MARK (VOICEOVER): I thought
you studied for this.
PAM (VOICEOVER): All
that effort for nothing.
For nothing.
[voices whispering]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Ooh,
not too out there for you,
Ms. Ivy League?
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Does
it even matter that much.
[CLOCK TICKING, VOICES
WHISPERING]
CASHIER (VOICEOVER):
Everything is temporary, dear.
MARK (VOICEOVER): There
goes your Ivy League dreams.
PAM (VOICEOVER): Ruby,
this is not good.
[school bell ringing]
[sighs]
Does it even matter that much?
Of course, it matters.
But you've already applied.
Yeah, and I still have to
turn in my midterm grades.
OK.
I don't see any universe where
a single test defines you.
Yeah, maybe you're right.
Probably got, like,
an A on it anyways.
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): I
don't think I can do this.
Oh, no.
Damn, someone looks
good for their age.
We thought you could
use these a bit early.
Oh, what a lovely surprise.
Thanks, you guys.
Happy closing night.
Blake, I hate to
break it to you,
but they might kick
you out of here.
OK, heard and understood.
[girls chuckles]
All right, I'll meet you
in the back of the theater?
Sounds good.
All right.
BLAKE: Break all the legs.
In case it wasn't obvious,
you two are my favorite couple.
Yeah, he's pretty great.
[chuckles] How are you doing?
Are you OK?
[sighs] It's my dad.
He's here.
Oh, shit.
Yeah, he flew back from
LA yesterday to surprise me.
Aw, that's so sweet.
It's the last thing
I need the night
before my final performance.
OK.
I'm sorry, I'm just stressed.
It's OK, girl.
Me, too.
Well, I'm here for you.
And I'm here for you.
So, what can I do to help?
Oh, Ruby.
I'll be fine.
I probably just need
to stay distracted.
What's going on with you?
Well, I had this really
intense dream the other night.
Ooh, subconscious troubles.
Lay it on me.
Oh, it's blurry, but Blake
was sobbing at one point,
and it was really hard to watch.
And then I was opening
letters from college,
and they caught on fire.
Trippy.
What did the letters say?
They were rejection letters.
All of them.
OK, this is what we
call an anxiety dream.
It's like your worst fear is
manifesting in a performance
made just for you.
[chuckles]
Excellent.
I'm sorry you had
to experience that.
For starters, Mercury
is in retrograde,
so there's a lot of crazy
energy in the air right now.
[giggling] Seriously,
this can heighten
the different challenges
for the signs.
For example, Sagittariuses tend
not to like feeling stifled
or controlled, and they fear
they may not reach their goals
if something gets in their way.
Hmm.
OK.
So what does that
mean for Geminis?
Oh, look at you
showing interest.
Well, we might not be as
good at communicating,
but it's a good time to
rekindle relationships.
So Dad had good timing?
Maybe.
But your dream or
nightmare may be
an opportunity to address
what's bothering you
and deal with it accordingly.
Mm-mm.
Seriously, nightmares
can be a great way
to release emotion and
then feel a sense of relief
knowing it's over.
Well, I don't
feel relief at all.
Maybe try focusing on Blake?
I'm so happy you have a water
sign boyfriend to keep you calm.
He can probably help you
feel better if you let him.
Yeah, maybe.
[sighs]
Ruby, you will make
it through this year.
[bell chimes]
Oh, 15 minutes till show time.
Whew, my nerves disappeared
there for a sec.
Thank you for that.
I should be thanking you.
You are the best.
Mm.
You are the best!
Oh, my gosh, you are
going to steal the show,
and your dad is
going to be so proud.
Uh, you really do look old.
[laughs]
I know, it's scary, huh?
All right, grandma,
go make me some cookies.
ALICE: Oh, I'll let you crack
the eggs if you're lucky.
[laughter]
RUBY: Not crack eggs.
Can I lick the spoon?
ALICE: Yes.
Oh, wait, no.
(GRANDMA'S VOICE) Yes.
RUBY: [laughs] I
love you, Alice.
ALICE: I love you.
RUBY: You see that cluster
of stars over there?
Oh, and the bright
one right above it?
Yeah, I do.
It's Mars.
[chuckles] Wow.
It's so bright.
Right?
And we're about to learn
so much more about it.
[chuckles]
Yeah.
Because of the robot thing?
"Rover."
But, yeah.
BLAKE: Yeah.
RUBY: Thanks for coming tonight.
BLAKE: Of course.
I think Alice did a great job.
Yeah.
I just wish they would pick
plays with better female leads.
DISC JOCKEY (ON RADIO):
I'm Tommy, the Trustworthy.
You're listening
to 98.7 Tidal Wave.
This spot is so cool.
You come here a lot?
Yeah, I try to, especially
in the winter when it's
all, like, empty and stuff.
Usually, it's just me
and my thoughts and, um--
well, it's pretty
peaceful sometimes.
DISC JOCKEY (ON RADIO):
Here's Kishi Bashi
with "Wonder Woman, Wonder Me."
[gasps] I love this song.
[KISHI BASHI, "WONDER WOMAN,
WONDER ME"]
(SINGING) Kin kon
kan kon kaneganaru
Kin kon kan kon kaneganaru
(SINGING) When
Pluto was demoted
I felt the sigh of
relief, I never knew why
Knew why
(SINGING) Like all
things in The Quickening
We share the fallen
few and the one
No way.
Way.
[laughter]
(SINGING) The only one
(SPEAKING) Only one.
One.
(SINGING) Memories
overtaken by--
(SINGING) To throw them
away and into the sky This sky
[laughs]
BLAKE: Yuh.
And zoom.
[laughs] [humming]
(SINGING) Must always come down
Must always come down
(SINGING) Come down
[vocalizing]
[humming]
I love you.
What?
I-- I love you.
Um, you don't--
there's no pressure.
I-- I've almost said it in a far
more dumb and awkward moments.
And I was just holding
back because you
really mean a lot to me.
And I-- I was just like--
I love you, too.
[huffs]
You're shaking.
Are you OK?
Yeah, I'm--
I'm great.
I'm swell.
I was just-- I was just
thinking that, like, we--
[soft chuckle]
Is it OK if I like--
Yeah.
Yeah?
Can I?
The jacket?
Yeah, yeah.
[rattling]
Ow!
Shit.
Oh, my god.
Um, are you OK?
I just got excited there.
[chuckles]
Hey.
You're-- you're beautiful.
Hey, I love you.
[chuckles]
[chuckles] I love you, too.
Should we keep going?
Yeah, I think we
could figure it out.
[chuckles]
[sunroof whirring]
[soft piano music]
[school bell whirring]
[eerie music]
[clock ticking]
[piano music continues]
[clock ticking]
[birds chirping]
So I had an idea.
Do you want to help me pick out
my ugly sweater for the party?
Sure.
Awesome.
My dad has, like,
dozens lying around.
And, well, I know you got
a great eye, so I know
you'll choose the perfect one.
Or we could do it
another day this week?
No, no, no.
I'm game.
I just need a minute.
Yeah.
No, of course.
[birds chirping]
You're shaking.
Are you OK?
Did something happen?
Yeah, I'm fi-- yeah, I'm fine.
Um-- I'm--
I'm not.
I'm-- I'm not OK.
I-- I'm not OK.
[sobs] I'm not OK.
Shit.
Shh.
[sobbing]
Everything's wrong.
What-- what if I don't--
what if I don't make it?
I-- I love you, Ruby.
Um-- everything's going
to be OK, all right?
- [sniffles]
- Shh.
Just breathe.
Just breathe.
[grunts]
You're going to be OK.
Just breathe.
Just breathe.
Come on.
Take a deep breath.
Slowly, all right?
Shh.
There you go.
[puffs]
All right.
I'm sorry.
Hey.
I'm so sorry.
It's OK.
Um, do you feel better now?
[birds chirping]
I don't know.
Have you ever had a
panic attack before?
What?
Panic attack.
You just had a panic attack.
Um-- OK, um, do you
wanna talk about it?
OK.
Um, do you wanna go home?
[soft piano music]
[thunder rolling]
[rattling]
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): My dad is
taking me to NYC this weekend!
Eeh!
[phone keys clicking]
RUBY (VOICEOVER): Amazing!
Say hi to the Big Apple for me.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Yeah, I'm
pissed, though, because Aunt
Flo just showed up.
Ugh!
[thunder rolling]
RUBY: Oh.
[giggling]
Mm-mm, too plain.
[music playing on radio]
Uh, too weird.
[snorts] Uh, what
about this one?
Well, it's definitely ugly.
I think it's cute.
Winner, winner?
Sure.
Thanks, Dad.
[giggling]
OK, I better get going.
You pick me up tomorrow at 8:00?
You can count on me.
All right.
See you lovebirds later.
[soft chuckle]
ALICE: Bye.
[door closes]
BLAKE: You know, I
can't believe I haven't
taken you to the aquarium yet.
My dad and I used to
go, like, all the time.
And well, why I
book us some tickets
and we can, like,
make a day out of it?
That's nice.
[chuckles]
I promise you will never look
at penguins the same again.
[sighs painfully]
Hey, Blake.
Yeah?
My stomach still hurts.
Really?
It's been, like, three days.
I know.
There is something else
I need to tell you.
I'm, like, four days late,
which isn't a big deal.
But my cycle is
usually on point.
And my stomach hurts a lot.
Oh.
I-- I really don't think--
but it's possible, right?
What do you wanna do?
I think I should
take a test, so I know.
So we know.
Yeah.
Yeah, no, um--
[soft piano music]
[sniffles]
[huffing]
[sighs in relief] I
fucking read it wrong.
What?
It's negative.
I read it wrong.
Oh.
[huffs]
Wow.
You know, I'll never forget
that look on your face.
Like, ever.
That was, uh, quite the look.
Yeah, that was pretty intense.
It's crazy how
fast I fell in love
with whatever was inside of me.
My mind just moved so fast.
I fell in love, too.
You're going to be
a great mom one day.
Thanks.
[puffs] Not today.
Yeah.
Not today.
[piano music]
Hey, Mom.
Hey.
Can you wash this sweater?
Where'd you get this?
Alice got it for
me for my birthday.
It's for the Christmas thing
we're going to this weekend.
I think it's wool.
It looks familiar.
Well, it is vintage.
[chuckles]
Yes, I can take care of it.
Thanks, Mom.
(SINGING) Give me everything
Something Jesus
told you not to wait
[piano music]
[chuckles]
[magical sound]
Whoa.
[chuckles]
[party music buzzing]
[upbeat music]
[crowd noise]
[people cheering]
[party music beating]
[people cheering]
[burbling]
[coughs]
[burbling]
[coughs]
Yeah, that's
definitely cashed.
[burbling]
Cashed?
Yeah.
That's what you
say when it's out.
[chuckles]
Mm, you learn
something new every day.
ALICE: I think I'm
starting to feel it.
RUBY: Mm.
My brain's growing wings,
and it's ready to fly.
Go, Alice.
Go fly.
[chuckles] Thanks, you guys.
Yeah, no problem.
Hey, you're Ruby, right?
Yeah.
There's something
about her sweater.
Yeah, it's got
a nice aura to it.
RUBY: [chuckles]
[party music beating]
[crowd cheering]
Where's Alice?
[retching, coughing]
[knocking on door]
Hey, Alice.
[retching]
Hey, girl.
It's me.
How are you doing?
Mm.
[sniffles, coughs]
Here, have some water.
No, I don't want any.
That's not going
to work with me.
You will thank me
in the morning.
[slurps] Mm.
Why does this shit
always happen to me?
[sighs]
'Cause you're the
life of the party.
No, I'm just fucking dumb.
Hey, this happens to everyone.
Huh.
I'm a fucking mess.
But tonight, you're my mess.
No, I'm embarrassed.
I'm not.
If anything, I feel
like I'm pretty lucky.
You're just saying sweet
shit to make me feel better.
Mm, OK.
Yes, it's working.
[chuckles] OK, keep drinking.
[slurps] Mm.
Girl.
I love you.
[chuckles] I
love you too, babe.
She'll be OK here, right?
For sure.
She'll be fine.
I'll make sure she
stays on her side.
Thanks for letting
her crash here.
Of course.
You're a good friend.
I just feel bad for what
the poor girl is going
to have to endure tomorrow.
[gentle music]
[door closes]
[wind blows]
[birds chirping]
I love you, Ruby.
[birds chirping]
[gasps] Wow, they're
wonderful, Ruby.
She could be a gardener.
I'm still learning.
My rare Ruby Rose.
You're so beautiful, Alice.
Is it OK if I kiss you?
Blake?
Yeah, of course.
You wanna go away, don't you?
I don't know.
Maybe.
Well, check your wings
carefully before you go.
What if I crash?
Space princess,
you've always got us.
[chuckles]
That suits you.
I knew it would.
[gentle music]
But she could lose everything.
Just another reckless dreamer
flying too close to the sun.
What's happening?
I thought you guys
were excited for me.
Couldn't keep up, huh?
Stop it.
It will never be enough.
Why are you saying that?
I should go.
[eerie music]
Ruby, can I show
you something?
Yeah, sure.
Girls, it's time to go.
Leah, you look
like you're ready.
Ruby, where do you
think you're going?
[sighs annoyingly]
You're a fucking mess.
You're moving way too fast.
[overlapping critical voices]
You've got a lot to
learn, little girl.
Are you sure you're
ready for the real world?
WOMAN: You'll never
be good enough.
They will always make you pay.
[overlapping critical voices]
You've got to learn.
What on Earth are you
doing with your life?
They will always
choose me first.
You're moving way too fast.
Is this really--
[overlapping critical voices]
What are you going
to do without me?
WOMAN: Are you sure?
This nightmare is permanent.
[overlapping critical voices]
WOMAN: Do you think
you're good enough?
You've got a lot to learn.
Are you sure?
[overlapping taunts]
You've got a lot to learn.
Are you sure?
You're wrong!
College will be perfect.
[rocket whoosh]
[gentle music]
[ticking]
PAM (VOICEOVER): Ruby,
you have some mail.
MARK (VOICEOVER):
It's a big envelope.
That's a good sign.
PAM (VOICEOVER): Go
ahead, Ruby, open it.
[heartbeat beating]
[magical sound]
[phone ringing]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Hey, Ruby.
What's up?
RUBY (VOICEOVER): Alice?
ALICE (VOICEOVER): What?
What happened?
RUBY (VOICEOVER): I got in.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): To Pillars?
RUBY (VOICEOVER): Yes!
And three others.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Wow!
Congratulations!
When do we get to celebrate?
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Soon, I promise.
[ticking]
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Why
aren't you going to prom?
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Blake and I broke up.
[phone buzzes]
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Oh, no.
[ticking]
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Happy birthday, Alice.
ALICE (VOICEOVER): Thank you.
Can I see you this weekend?
[firecrackers popping]
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Hey, Ruby.
I hope it's OK to text you.
I was just wondering what
day you're leaving town.
[car engine starting]
RUBY (VOICEOVER): I'm
already on the road.
[car engine roars]
BLAKE (VOICEOVER): Well, OK.
Safe travels.
I hope you have a great time.
[school bell ringing]
ALICE (VOICEOVER):
Hey, Ms. Ivy League.
How is it?
[background chatter]
[phone ringing and buzzing]
RUBY (VOICEOVER):
Hey, it's Ruby.
Leave a message, and I'll give
you a call as soon as I can.
[beep]
ALICE (VOICEOVER):
Hey, Ruby, it's Alice.
I know you're probably super
busy with all your smart girl
stuff, but I'd love
to hear your voice.
How is everything?
How are the students,
classes, clubs, everything?
OK.
Don't be a stranger.
Love ya!
[christmas bell chiming]
PAM (VOICEOVER): Happy
birthday, sweetie.
ALICE (VOICEOVER):
Happy birthday, Ruby.
BLAKE (VOICEOVER):
Happy birthday, Ruby.
[phone ringing and buzzing]
RUBY: Hello?
PAM (ON PHONE): Hey, honey.
How are you?
RUBY: I'm good.
I'm just studying for finals.
PAM (ON PHONE): I never
heard how your birthday went.
RUBY: Oh, yeah, it was great.
Just hung out with some friends.
PAM (ON PHONE): Oh, yeah?
That's great.
What are their names?
RUBY: Oh, uh, Mom,
I'm kind of busy.
Can I tell you later?
PAM (ON PHONE): OK, no problem.
I won't keep you too long.
I just have some news for you.
What?
PAM (ON PHONE): OK, so your
dad and I are on speakerphone.
MARK (ON PHONE): Hi, Ruby.
Um, so we wanted to let you
know, with both you and Leah out
of the house most of the
year now, it's tough for us
to have so many empty rooms.
PAM (ON PHONE): We've been
looking at the market here,
and there's some really great
newer homes that are just
a bit smaller than this one.
Ruby?
When is this happening?
MARK (ON PHONE): Early in
the new year, probably.
What?
PAM (ON PHONE): We already
have three interested buyers
off the market.
So we have to pack up our
rooms during winter break?
PAM (ON PHONE): Yes,
that would be ideal.
MARK (ON PHONE): We
can help you, though.
And really, you don't have
to get rid of anything
if you don't want to.
Just-- just pack it up.
OK, sounds good.
Love you.
Bye.
[phone closes]
[cd player whirring]
[KISHI BASHI, "WONDER WOMAN,
WONDER ME"]
(SINGING) When
candy was a remedy
We'd make it up
We'd destroy
ourselves in the yard
The yard
I held you in a wooden place
I was hungry then
It was hours before it went down
When down
[vocalizing]
Oh, wonder woman, wonder me
You bewitched me with your
gold and blue from the start
The start
[vocalizing]
When Pluto was demoted
I felt a sigh of
relief, I never knew why
Knew why
[music stops]
[car door closes]
So great having us
all together again.
[chuckles]
So, are you guys gonna
see any of your friends
while you're in town?
Yeah, I'm going to Jessica's
ugly sweater party this weekend.
Oh, shoot, that's
gonna be fun.
Yeah.
[laughter]
What about you, Ruby?
Um.
What's Alice doing?
Oh, she's probably in,
like, rehearsal or something.
Um, why don't you come
with me to the party?
Mm.
Mm, I have to pack.
You said I have--
- Well, I can help you pack.
It'd be fun.
I think, um, I can drive you.
Phew.
It's settled.
OK.
Yeah.
Yeah.
[gentle piano music]
[puffs]
[magical sound]
[clock ticking]
[knocking on door]
LEAH: Hey.
You ready?
Yeah, come on in.
[door opens]
Mm.
And the sweater makes a return.
You look great.
Come on, let's go.
[chuckles]
[party music plays]
[music buzzing]
[chatter]
Hey, mind if I get by you?
Oh, my bad.
I didn't mean to startle you.
Is it the sweater?
Yeah, you definitely
didn't hold off on the party
scene, that's for sure.
I take pride in my affinity
for dressing stupid on purpose.
But, hey, at least you'll
be hard to forget, right?
[chuckles] Yeah, right.
Oh, by the way, those cookies
are definitely special cookies.
Good to know.
Hey, wait.
Do you go to school in
Boston, by any chance?
I thought I might
have seen you around.
I have to go talk to someone.
But have a good night.
Hey, Blake.
[coughs] Hey, Ruby.
Uh, I-- how are you?
I'm good.
It's good to see you.
I'm really happy to see you.
Yeah.
It's good to see you, too.
How was it?
How's what?
Your-- your Ivy League dream?
Is it, like, really awesome?
Oh, yeah.
It's great.
It's just surrounded by
a bunch of smart people.
[laughs awkwardly]
That's great.
Can I-- is it-- can I hug you?
Um, you know,
Ruby, uh, I don't
think that's such a great idea.
Oh.
OK, yeah, no problem.
I understand.
Hey, Ruby.
Um, listen.
I wanted to talk--
ALICE: Woo!
Oh, my god, I love those things.
Finally able to park the car.
It took me, like, three ti--
Ruby.
What's this?
We really didn't expect
to see you here, Ruby.
I didn't even
know you were home.
So you're-- both of you?
Ruby, hold on.
I--
Ruby, wait.
[chatter]
[sniffles]
Hey, Ruby.
Please talk to me.
I have nothing to
say to you, Alice.
OK.
I can talk.
I just need you to listen.
Please.
Don't try to make me have
sympathy for you, Alice.
That's not what I want.
I tried to tell you.
Tell me what?
It's kind of hard to
keep in touch with a ghost.
I gave you space because I
wanted to see you live out
your dreams, but I was
not expecting you to fall
off the face of the planet.
I had to do what was
best for my future.
You know that.
I admire your bravery, Ruby.
I really do.
But it hurt when you left.
So you're sleeping with
my ex to get back at me?
No.
We're not just
sleeping together.
We really care about each other.
We care about you, too.
You never gave me the
chance to talk to you.
[sobs] I wanted
to talk to you.
But I just kept
myself under this idea
that I had to be alone to
be able to make something
of myself, that I had
to focus to be something
or do something that mattered.
[sniffles]
But loving Blake
and you mattered.
And I knew I
couldn't have it all.
And it scared the
hell out of me.
[sobs]
ALICE: You should
have talked to me.
I would've been there for you.
I know.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry, too.
[sobbing]
I want you to be happy.
I want both of you to be happy.
I'm happy for you.
I am.
Can I hug you?
Is that OK?
[sobs]
[gentle piano music]
[phone buzzing]
LEAH (ON PHONE):
Hey, where'd you go?
Jessica said she
saw you go outside.
[sobs]
LEAH (ON PHONE): Are you OK?
[sobbing]
Ruby, you gotta take
better care of yourself.
What if I don't know how?
Ask for help.
You know you can leave
Pillars if you want to.
I've thought about quitting
the swim team at Fullington.
But you love swimming.
I love being a part of a team.
I mean, honestly, there's
so much more to life
than sleepless nights and
conditioning your body
until it breaks.
But you're indestructible.
Ruby, life is
hard for everyone.
And I'm definitely changing
my major to education.
What about your
engineering scholarship?
I'll lose it.
But maybe I'll be happier.
You've always seemed
so put together, right?
I had no idea you
were struggling.
[soft chuckle] Well, maybe
my next major should be acting.
And you're welcome.
By the way--
What?
--with my track record, you
could have joined the circus
for all our parents cared.
But you're a dreamer, and I
really admire that about you.
I don't think I
want to leave Pillars.
I love what I'm learning there.
I just-- I--
I don't know why I'm not happy.
It's all about balance.
You know, Mom has
anxiety, right?
Really?
Yeah.
You should probably talk
to her a little bit more.
I mean, now that we're all
adults, they're not as scary.
You can maybe do some of
those grounding techniques
that she does.
I know that they're
really helpful.
Yeah, I've missed you.
[soft chuckle]
I've missed you, too.
You know, we gotta look
out for each other.
[chuckles]
[laughs]
Who are you and where
did you come from?
I'm your sister, and I came
from college to help you.
Thanks.
Another piece of advice,
you should probably
get a plant for your dorm.
It's a powerful
source of energy,
and it feels really good
to take care of something.
What if it dies?
Just get another one.
[laughs] Why are you
so hard on yourself?
[gentle music]
[door closes]
[gentle music]
[wind blowing]
[gentle music]
[long sigh]
I'm ready.
[film rolling]
I'm worried about Ruby.
MARK: Pam.
She feels distant.
MARK: She's got a lot
going on right now.
She just needs some
time to settle.
She doesn't talk
about her friends.
She spends almost all of her
time cooped up in her room,
studying.
I don't want to see her throw
away a life outside the school,
repeat my mistakes.
Ambition shouldn't come at the
cost of peace or happiness.
You know what isolation
can do to these kids
in schools like Pillars.
You raised our daughters to be
able to be and do anything they
wanted to do with their lives.
That's an amazing feat.
PAM: I just feel like
I've made a big mistake,
and it's starting to scare me.
What you're
scared of is seeing
Ruby get hurt chasing after her
dreams the way that you did.
Maybe I'm dreaming, but
nothing took Pam away
from Pam in the end, right?
She's still here?
Nothing will take
Ruby away from Ruby.
She'll find her way,
just like her mother did.
In the meantime, we just need
to provide her encouragement
along the way.
[gentle music]
ALICE: "At Midnight"
by Sara Teasdale.
Now, at last, I have
come to see what life is.
Nothing is ever ended.
Everything only begun.
And the brave victories
that seemed so splendid
are never really won.
Even love that I built
my spirits house for
comes like a brooding
and a baffled guest.
And music and men's
praise and even laughter
are not so good as rest.
[music fades]
PAM: Mind if I come in?
Sure.
May I?
Of course.
[chuckles]
Oh, sunlight is
beautiful in this room.
I was just thinking
the same thing.
I never really
noticed it before.
You are doing a
great job, Ruby.
Thanks, Mom.
Hmm.
[clock ticking]
Hey, Dad.
What's up, Ruby?
Can we at least put
up Mr. Snowy this year?
[chuckles]
Now, that sounds
like a great idea.
Ha.
[laughs]
Ho.
Come back, come back.
There we go.
There's the face.
The face.
It's a face.
Yes, yes.
RUBY: I'm coming.
MARK: Woo hoo.
Wait, wait, wait, wait.
OK, OK.
[giggling]
Wow, you guys are amazing.
Yeah, you two.
PROFESSOR: Not all stars become
supernovas when they die.
Smaller ones elegantly expand
into gas without a possibility
of turning into a black hole.
OK, that's it for today.
I have your planetary
test grades here.
[gentle music]
[uplifting music]
Can I help you find something?
No, I'm just looking.
I'm Enzo.
Ruby.
Nice to see you again, Ruby.
This is a nice place to
come to when you need
a smack of color in the winter.
For sure.
So, do you go to school
around here or something?
Yeah, I go to Pillars.
Wow, very nice.
I'm at Roy's.
What's your major?
Astrophysics.
No way, I love space.
- Really?
- Yeah.
I mean, I'm probably
not as smart as you,
but I do keep up with stuff.
I'm so excited the Curiosity
mission was extended.
Can't wait to see what else
we find out about Mars.
Yeah, it's pretty exciting.
Yeah.
So, what's your major?
I'm in film, like old school
film with projectors and stuff.
- Interesting.
- Yeah.
I'd love to show
you some of my work.
But I don't really digitize it,
so you'd have to come on campus
to watch.
Yeah, that could be fun.
Yeah.
So why don't you digitize it?
Uh, I like the idea
of having my work
within a tangible object.
It gives it more
meaning, I suppose,
and makes every
screening special
because it's so temporary.
Mm.
[chuckles] So, are you wanting
to take a plant home with you?
Yeah, that was the plan.
All right, follow me.
If you look up, we've got
some plants you can hang.
Over here, we've
got a lot of color.
Oh.
These specifically are violet,
African violets, actually.
OK, nice.
I like that.
And over here,
these are some mums.
- Mum?
- Yeah.
- Like mummy?
- Yeah.
- I miss my mom.
- Aw.
[laughter]
Perfect.
And these are some low light
options over here as well.
- OK.
- Yeah, follow me.
I got some more
options, all right?
Cool.
More color, more sun.
[gentle music]
[lighthearted, "honey honey"]
(SINGING) I know
things have been hard
And these days, you
forget who you are
As you look up at the stars
You should know
you're not that far
My darling, you're not that far
Honey, honey, we're
flying to the moon
Honey, honey, don't
forget your moon boots
Mmm
Don't you know that
we'll get there
We'll get there soon
Don't you know that
we'll get there
We'll get there soon
My love, don't you know
that we'll get there
Get there soon
Soon
Honey, honey, we're
flying to the moon
Oh, yeah
Honey, honey, don't
forget your moon boots
Honey, honey, 'cause I
fall when I'm with you
Honey, honey, you'll
need your astro suit
Don't you know that we'll
get there, get there soon
Don't you know that we'll
get there, get there soon
Don't you know that we'll
get there, get there soon