[festive music]
Downloaded from YTS.MX
♪
Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX
- Whoops! - WOMAN: Hey!
- What are you doing? - Oh, um, sorry!
I was just... just trying to fix it.
You're that news lady.
Yes, ma'am!
Lori Marshall, Loop Line Media.
You are one persistent woman.
Yes!
What is your sudden interest in my studio?
You're on the list of arts organizations
that lost funding in the new city budget.
So?
I used to dance when I was young
and I was greatly enriched by the experience.
These are the stories we need to be sharing.
No.
Access to the arts is vital to our community
and our young people.
And I believe that your holiday recital
is the perfect example of that.
Come on...
A little bump in your profile can't hurt, can it?
[laughs]
[chuckles] Alright. Alright.
Great! Great, um...
Actually, can I just get a shot of you walking up
and coming in?
- [sighs] - Ooh, okay.
Alright!
♪
Phew!
- My turn today. - So Christmassy!
Love it! I am so ready for the holidays.
When are you leaving for your parents' house?
Susan's meeting me for lunch
so we can make a plan.
[Ken gasps]
Maxine is looking fierce today!
Did you put your résumé in for the new division?
- Of course I did. - Mm-hm?
Building a department from the ground up?
I know I can do that job.
And, I get to choose the stories!
Mm-hm!
You should bump into her on the elevator.
Ask her for a recommendation!
Be assertive.
LORI: Seriously, now?
She hasn't even had her coffee yet.
Yes, now! Be the early bird!
LORI: Ms. Graham?
LORI: Ms. Graham!
A moment, please?
[sighs]
KEN: Oh, nope, we don't know her!
Um, is there something you're forgetting to ask me?
Did the South Side muralist send those portfolio images?
No!
It was my pre-Christmas brunch with Darren yesterday!
Right! Of course.
How was it?
Oh, it was only the most gorgeous day, ever!
I made crepes with cranberry sauce.
Delicious!
And we got pedicures at that new place where Casey saw Oprah.
It was not Oprah!
And then we snuggled on the couch
and we watched that new action movie.
I was even still awake when the credits rolled.
He's a lucky guy.
You're just saying that so that I'll let you get back to work.
This is true!
I think you should try again with Maxine.
I want you to be management--
and I want Fridays to end at noon!
[laughs]
♪
And it totally was Oprah!
Lori Mitchell?
- It's Marshall. - Come in.
- I was just-- - Sit down.
I understand you submitted for the new division chief job.
Yes! Not that I'm not happy...
MAXINE: You know the application has to be accompanied
by a strong portfolio piece.
I do, and I have one.
It's about the challenges around arts education
and its value to the community.
I have a great interview with a dance studio owner
and I think the viewers will really respond to it.
Here's the deal.
Each existing division has been tasked with delivering a story
in line with the new division mandate.
If the new chief is going to be an internal hire,
I want it to be someone from my team.
I need to put forward someone who really understands
what's riding on this assignment.
Someone with skin in the game.
- Can you handle it? - Yes.
I want a tight 13 minutes on how people are feeling
about losing the Ice Palace
and the holiday traditions that go with it.
You're from Michigan, aren't you?
I'm sorry, is this the Ice Palace in Greenhill?
Yes.
I can't-- I can't do that.
I can't go there.
If you turn this down,
you aren't gonna get another shot.
I'm sorry...
I can't.
[Christmas music playing in food court]
But...
But why?
You worked so hard for this.
LORI: It's complicated.
I want the job, but I-I just...
I can't go back to that town.
- There's Susan-- ah! - Don't tell her.
Tell her what?
Come on, I'm your sister!
[Lori sighs]
Remember I told you about that new division,
the job?
Yeah?
Well, our boss has a story that she wants me to do
that would really help with my application.
Great!
What's the problem?
KEN: There isn't one!
She's lost her mind!
You turned it down?
It's about the Ice Palace.
- Oh... - KEN: "Oh"?
What do you mean, "Oh"? What is happening right now?
I told you I used to figure skate competitively
when I was a kid.
Yes, but you've denied me all the photograph evidence
I so deeply desire.
- Maybe Susan will... - I never told you why I stopped.
Well?
She fell.
And? Everybody falls.
Not at Olympic qualifiers.
Nobody falls at Olympic qualifiers.
And to add insult to injury, I had home ice advantage.
It was in front of my whole town.
On my own rink. It was horrifying.
Everything is horrifying when you're 16.
KEN: At the Ice Palace?
I never skated again.
SUSAN: So what's the angle? Why the Ice Palace?
They're tearing it down.
They're putting up a condo/shopping complex.
Old traditions versus innovation and progress.
Wow, I can't imagine Christmas in Greenhill
without the Ice Palace.
Honestly, I think it could be a moving story,
and who better to tell it than you?
It's a fair point.
Let's just change the subject! For Christmas, I was thinking--
KEN: Wait, I have another item on the agenda!
I'm extremely worried about you, Lori Marshall.
You haven't been on a date in 13 months.
It's like having a gap on your résumé:
people are going to have questions.
Has it really been that long since Steve?
No, it has not been 13 months!
And I'm just not ready to start dating again.
Thirteen and a half!
And Steve? Hmph!
You need to get back up on the horse.
- It's embarrassing. - Thanks.
When are you driving to Mom and Dad's?
We can convoy again with the walkie talkies.
The girls really loved that.
SUSAN: That's actually why I came to see you.
Chuck's company is rewarding him for all the extra work--
they're sending us to Mexico for Christmas!
Mexico?
For Christmas?
A family villa at a fancy resort, on the beach.
Five bedrooms, a private pool, and an actual butler,
- who buttles, or whatever. - Oh.
Mom and Dad fly on the 20th. When can you get away?
Wait, wait, wait, what about all the Christmas stuff
that we do?
The wrapping the gifts, the carolling, the baking,
all the family stuff?
We'll still do all the family stuff.
We'll just do them with the assistance
of an esteemed butler.
What about the snowball tournament?
Yeah, I won't miss that;
still had that shiner on Valentine's Day.
KEN: Mexico!
Sounds like the kind of reward
that comes after a big, difficult assignment!
And it can't be all bad memories, right?
Remember when Dad's bowling league had their banquet
at the Ice Palace and then crashed into the band
trying the dirty dancing lift?
And Principal Watson drove them home
and lectured them about being responsible.
Mom was so ashamed,
she wore sunglasses in the grocery store for weeks!
Oh, and there was that time that you dropped
my tenth birthday cake on the ice, you remember that?
Okay, look, the point is
there's a lot of good memories at the Ice Palace as well,
ones worth revisiting.
I think you should go and take a last look.
For both of us.
Thank you!
♪
Break time!
You have to stop doing that.
So if you're not into a Mexican Christmas,
you have to come and have Christmas with us.
We're doing a turkey and everything.
We'd love to have you.
That's so nice, but I don't want to impose.
It's your first real Christmas together.
And you are part of our family now!
We should start some new traditions.
♪
KEN: Aw, you should get me a butler for Christmas!
Then you won't have to help with dishes.
I knew you'd change your mind.
If that was some kind of tactic...
It wasn't.
I'm sorry.
It'll be fine.
I want the assignment.
Of course you do.
And maybe whatever history you have with the town
will give your story some flavour.
Well, I haven't been to Greenhill in years, so...
I hired a local camera operator.
If all goes well, you'll need to get used to managing staff.
The train leaves in two hours.
Drop by Accounting on the way out.
Great!
♪
LORI: Those are beautiful new skates.
Are they a Christmas present?
Yeah.
I only got a few days to break 'em in.
Hit them with the hair dryer.
The heat will mould them to your feet.
I've never tried that before.
Thanks!
What train are you waiting for?
The 1:15 to Greenhill.
Same! Do you live there, too?
I used to.
It's only my third time in Chicago.
Dad had a fancy meeting.
He got a new suit and I got new skates.
Sounds like a really good trip.
Are you coming to Greenhill for the skating tournament?
ANNOUNCER: [on speaker] Amtrak service to Milwaukee
is now departing on Track 6.
LORI: No, but maybe I'll check it out.
You should. It's gonna be epic.
DAD: Okay, here we go, sweetie.
I even got my first real manicure-- and panicure!
DAD: Uh, pedicure.
It's called a pedicure.
- Dad got one, too! - That-- that was our secret!
[laughs]
Well, that's a really nice colour.
We've met before.
You're Susan Marshall's sister, right? Lori?
Nope.
No, um, you probably have me mixed up with someone else.
ANNOUNCER: [on speaker] Amtrak service to Detroit,
stopping in Kalamazoo, Greenhill, and Ann Arbor,
is now boarding on Track 6.
- Come on, Dad, that's our train. - Okay.
DAD: After you.
Alright, just wait up, okay? Wait up!
- Whoa! - Oh, geez, I'm sorry.
Oh...
It's, uh...
It's for a fitness program I'm trying to get going.
Do you skate?
No.
But you're... headed for Greenhill?
It's a work trip. In and out.
Ah.
ANNOUNCER: [on speaker] Last call for Amtrak service
to Detroit, boarding on Track 6.
Well, that's too bad.
You're gonna miss the Christmas Ball.
It's the highlight of the Greenhill social calendar.
Sounds like fun.
Enjoy and, um, happy holidays!
Happy holidays!
♪
LORI: Hello!
Reservation for Lori Marshall.
I just saw that a moment ago.
Hang on. Give me a second.
♪
Where did you get these?
Oh! Uh, the Ice Palace.
The manager there loaned them to us for our display.
They're beautiful.
Your name sounds familiar.
Do I know you?
No. Um, actually, I've never stayed here before.
Oh. Well, um...
It's Room 4.
It's just up the stairs.
And we have you here for...
four nights.
You're not going to the ball?
No, I-I won't be here for that.
Well, the room's available if you change your mind.
The theme this year is Paris On Ice.
That sounds like fun, but I have other plans.
Do you mind if I leave my bag behind the desk?
I'm late for a meeting.
I could put it in the room for you.
Okay, great! Thanks.
♪
Lori? Lori Marshall.
- Yeah. - Jen, camera operator.
- Great to meet you. - Likewise.
Now, your, uh, boss lady's pretty intense.
Yeah, among other things.
Do you get a lot of freelance work around here?
Yeah, a lot of weddings, the occasional bar mitzvah,
stringers for the news, state and local.
Pretty steady documentary-type requests.
- Nice. - People are obsessed with bears.
Why don't we grab a coffee and we'll start chatting?
I'll take you for a hot toddy over at Gary's,
just up the street.
Best dive bar north of Lansing.
Actually, I have got a couple of free drinks coming to me,
thanks to a particularly bad pool player in town.
Ah-ha-ha! Speak of the devil!
And a howdy-do to you, too.
So are you scouting for your new corner office?
Hope the view makes you feel better about sellin' out!
Look, Jen, I am an architect in Greenhill, Michigan, alright?
I can't afford to stand on principle
when a huge development comes into town.
- Yeah, sure, sure. - Sorry.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Well, at least your principles are better than your pool game!
This is Lori. She's a reporter from Chicago.
- Good to meet you. - Likewise, I'm Tyler.
We were just heading over for some hot toddies.
- Nice. - And you're buying!
- Am I now? - Yeah.
- I guess I am. - [Lori laughs]
♪
Nothing beats fresh ice, you know?
It's like a painter's canvas, fresh out of the plastic.
Pleasure to make your acquaintance,
for the very first time, again.
Mark Johnson.
- Lori Marshall. - Mm-hm.
See, I knew I recognized you at the station!
You're a local legend around here.
You almost made it to the Olympics!
Zoe's gonna be so thrilled
that you're back for the tournament.
Yeah, I'm not gonna be here for that.
So I saw the Steak & Potato closed down.
Where do people go for a good meal these days?
Yeah, uh, Gary's got a pretty mean chicken wing game.
Or Chloe's Kitchen over on Main Street.
Yeah, I just came from Gary's.
The chicken wings are a little too...
greasy for my taste.
A lot, actually.
You know, if you're a food critic,
you have to tell me, right? It's the law.
I'm a journalist; not a critic, though.
I should go.
Sure, yeah.
Well, I hope to, uh, see you again.
You should come back for a skate.
You could show the kids how it's done.
Yeah, uh, no.
[laughs] Probably not.
Thanks.
[in a whisper] Yeah.
Hi!
KEN: [on phone] Have you run into any old friends?
Or any boyfriends?
LORI: No old boyfriends.
I did run into this guy, Mark...
He graduated with my sister.
Oh, a long-lost childhood crush!
Maybe it was your destiny to meet him again.
It's my destiny to be division chief.
Not as fun, but okay. Are you eating?
I'm walking up to the restaurant now, Mom!
Call me when you get back to your room!
I want to hear all the stories about the high school hottie.
Have a good night, Ken!
At least tell me he was wearing a flannel shirt!
Hanging up now!
[indistinct chatter and music playing]
- Hey there! - Hi!
I'm Chloe. Welcome to the Kitchen.
- Table for one? - Uh, to go, please.
Alright, I'll give you a minute.
Thanks.
[Lori chuckles]
Funny meeting you here.
Glad you took my recommendation.
It's not like I was flush with choices.
Ow...
I'm sorry, what was that?
I just said that there was a lot of good choices.
Ah, yeah.
What do you suggest?
Uh, well, Chloe's lasagna is incredible.
I just ordered two trays
for the volunteer board meeting tomorrow.
- Volunteers for the tournament? - Yeah.
And the Christmas Ball, and the tree-lighting,
which is tomorrow night.
There's a lot of great things happening at the Ice Palace.
You should come check it out.
We could always use more help.
Well, that's exactly why I'm here.
The story I'm working on is about the Ice Palace.
Oh, yeah?
Well, what's the angle?
The new development, actually.
How losing the Ice Palace will affect the community.
Yeah.
So how long have you worked at the Palace for?
I, um...
I actually own the Ice Palace.
- Really? - Yeah.
- Well, can I get an interview? - Absolutely.
I would be more than happy to tell you
and the rest of the world that no matter what anyone says,
the Ice Palace isn't going anywhere.
Okay.
The Ice Palace is over a hundred years old.
It's the oldest arena in the Midwest.
It's a true historical landmark.
Has your family always owned it?
Yes.
My great-grandfather built it on land leased from the town,
and it was the most modern arena--
MAN: Mark, can we have a word?
Now?
If it's not, uh, too much trouble.
Is everything okay?
MARK: Lori, this is Chad Reynolds,
the man who wants to destroy this historical landmark.
Out with the old, in with the new.
But he needs the land lease. My land lease.
Yours for the next few days.
My apologies!
Chad Reynolds,
Reynolds & Reynolds Developments.
Who's the other Reynolds?
There isn't one. He just thinks it sounds better.
- LORI: Mm. - Yeah.
Are you the journalist from Chicago?
I heard someone was doing a story about my development.
I am, and I'd love to talk to you as well.
I'm sure that can be arranged.
Okay, Lori, will you excuse us for a moment? Thanks.
- You know that guy? - A little.
He's been in and out of town the last few months.
- And...? - Just another suit
with a haircut that costs more than my car.
If we're not careful, we might end up with a monorail.
- You got trouble? - Right here in River City!
The deadline's coming up quick.
Cinderella gets to have the ball,
but you turn into a pumpkin at midnight.
Okay, you know what?
It's not over yet.
If you lose the lease,
all the building code grandfathering goes with it.
The council will condemn; they won't have a choice.
I'm not giving up.
Look at it like everyone else does.
My development will bring new housing,
parking, more shops, more customers!
Parking...
Chad, this is the beating heart of our town, okay?
This is where everybody comes for Christmas.
I bought a piece of land off the highway where the town
can build a new arena. Everybody wins.
You've made a good go of it, okay?
Don't go down with the ship.
We done here?
For now.
MAYOR: I am so sorry to keep you all waiting.
We are so happy we get to welcome you home, Ms. Marshall.
I honestly couldn't believe it when I heard you were back.
Are you still skating?
No, I'm a journalist.
Are you ready?
- MAYOR: Yes, yes! - Rolling, rolling.
So, Madam Mayor, I understand that the new arena
will be on the outskirts of town.
How will that better serve the people of Greenhill?
Well, we anticipate that there will be challenges
to work through in the transitionary period,
but, you know, ultimately, we will adapt.
The owner of the Palace, Mark Johnson,
he insists that it's not going anywhere.
We certainly wish we could support him.
But unfortunately, the renewal of the land lease
is conditional on improvements,
and Mr. Johnson has not secured the funding
to make those upgrades.
If the original lease expires,
our hands will be tied.
The exemptions cease
and the building will be condemned.
And after that, it will be open to proposals
that incorporate demolishing the existing building.
Right now, we do have one proposal.
For the shopping/condo complex?
It's very attractive.
Why do you think Mark Johnson is having a hard time letting go?
The Ice Palace has been in the Johnson Family
for generations.
Of course Mark is attached; we all are.
But Mark is a very fine man.
You know, he actually adopted a baby in need
and is single-handedly raising her
to be a wonderful woman,
all the while running a small business.
He sounds like a very devoted father.
The best of the best.
- Hey. - Hey.
[Jen sighs]
So... sounds like you were quite the skater back in your time.
Yeah.
I should have told you that I was from Greenhill.
Mm-hm!
My sister left for college and my dad was offered a job
at a big hospital in Chicago,
so then we moved.
I started over.
- Wow. - Mm-hm.
- Hey, can I ask you a question? - Mm-hm.
Will losing the Ice Palace affect your family's Christmas?
Well, it'll certainly change where we go,
but I don't think it's gonna change who we are, you know?
Christmas, it's about gratitude and love
and old memories and new beginnings.
Christmas, it's in your heart, right?
It's like your family.
It's with us wherever we celebrate.
- That was deep, Jen. - Yeah, I'm pretty insightful.
I spend a lot of time alone in the woods...
waiting for bears.
[laughs]
So, you going to the ball?
I would but, you know, it's for couples.
I thought Christmas was about new beginnings.
- [chuckles] - What about Tyler?
Oh...
You two seem to be playing pool pretty regularly!
- Ooh, you noticed? - [both laugh]
Oh, he-- oh, he's a great guy,
but he is just completely oblivious
when it comes to this kind of thing.
Well, have you tried dropping hints?
- You know, flirting? - Uh, yes!
- All the time. - Okay!
Okay, okay. Our secret...
Sometimes I will even throw the game.
No... No!
Just so that we have to keep playing!
Oh, just, you know, best out of three.
[both laugh]
Oh, but like I said, he is completely oblivious!
Well, lucky for you, I'm an expert wing-woman.
You're looking at a six-time maid of honour.
- Get out! - I'm top gun, baby.
I'm the best of the best.
- So, then that makes me Goose? - Exactly!
You know that he dies?
Okay, spoiler!
[both laugh]
MARK: Alright. Welcome, everyone,
to the 127th Annual Ice Palace Tree Lighting.
Great to see some new faces joining in the fun.
Tonight we kick off the festivities.
Now, if you are able, any and all donations
are greatly appreciated to our fundraising efforts.
It is not too late to save the Ice Palace!
- Right? - [crowd cheering]
MARK: Alright. Well, without any further ado,
I think it's time to light the tree.
Madam Mayor, the honour is all yours.
Thank you.
Three...
two...
one...
[applause and cheering]
Merry Christmas, everyone!
MARK: Happy holidays, everyone!
Get yourself a hot chocolate and a pretzel,
fresh out of the oven!
♪
[garage door creaking]
[skates scraping]
♪ Close your eyes, wish what you wanna wish ♪
♪ Whatever you do, don't share it with anyone ♪
♪ I've made mine, but I won't be telling you ♪
♪ I'm gonna keep it a secret ♪
♪ Take my hand, kiss me under mistletoe ♪
♪ Stars all around, I'm so excited ♪
♪ One more sleep till I see if my wish will come true ♪
♪ Can't wait till it's Christmas ♪
♪ I won't ask for nothing else this year ♪
♪
♪ Whoa-oh-oh... ♪
♪ Santa, won't you come and help, please? ♪
♪ 'Cause you're the only one (You're the only one) ♪
♪ That can make it be (That can make it be) ♪
♪ I won't ask for nothing else this year ♪
♪ I'll make a promise, this is all I... ♪
♪ This is all I... ♪
♪ This is all I want ♪
[instrumental Jingle Bells playing in rink]
♪
So when my parents retied, I took over, and since then,
among other things, I have absolutely mastered
the Ice Palace pretzel.
- I have to say, it's excellent. - Mm-hm!
Now, I'm opposed to this redevelopment
because the Ice Palace is the heart and soul
of Christmas in Greenhill, okay?
Nobody lives in a small town because of its luxury condos.
It's places like this, where your grandparents met
or your grandchildren played hockey,
that keep our community so vibrant.
What if you lose?
Do you have a back-up plan?
Do I need one? What have you heard?
MARK: Did you know that the initial proposal
for a new and improved Ice Palace?
I mean, it was the best of both worlds.
But that proposal just quietly disappeared and this new design
with fancy shops and condo units took its place.
But don't worry, they are gonna build a new rink...
out on the highway, between the truck stop
and an abandoned storage lot.
LORI: The mayor says they don't really know
when the arena will be ready.
MARK: Exactly, or even if it will get built at all.
So until I get the official boot,
it just needs to be full steam ahead.
I'm actually waiting to hear about funding
for an on-ice exercise program I've called SkateFit.
If it goes through,
it'll push our fundraising efforts over the top.
You really are passionate about this place.
Well...
I mean, I'm passionate about community,
and the people that are in it,
and the institutions that serve it.
A lot of very passionate people have passed through here.
♪
Ohh...
LORI: You know what? I'll catch up with you later.
Yeah, okay.
Remember, though, we got the interview with Chad
- in the morning. - Mm-hm.
Lori!
That was close, right?
It was.
Try picking up some speed
and focus on putting your weight on your back foot.
- That still counts. - It totally does.
You should come and skate with me.
- Where's your coach? - She left a month ago.
But I'm still gonna do great in the tournament.
Of course you are.
- I'm gonna try again. - Okay!
Go ahead!
♪
MARK: Okay, three hot chocolates.
Make sure they get some.
Hey, you're still here!
You must like it.
I got sidetracked.
Zoe's quite the skater.
She works really hard.
Yeah!
Yeah, she was actually looking to improve on a good finish
in last year's tournament.
She's got real potential.
Do you mind if I give her a few pointers?
Yeah, I mean, it's not every day
she gets tips from am Olympic skater.
I didn't go to the Olympics.
Well, you should have.
That's very kind of you.
I'll come by tomorrow. Same time?
Yeah, yeah, we'll be here.
We'll actually be setting up for the ball and the tournament,
so you can meet all the volunteers
who actually make this possible.
Sounds good.
Thanks.
Enjoy.
MARK: [on video] And if we do lose the Palace,
at least I'll know I tried.
[text message notification]
[line ringing]
Tell me everything you remember.
CHLOE: Hey, uh, you need new string lights.
Like half of these are dead.
Uh, thank you for getting all that stuff ready.
I will pick some up on the way home.
Uh-oh...
What's up?
Something isn't sitting right with me, okay?
Everyone was on board with the new and improved Ice Palace,
and then along comes Chad Reynolds
with these condos and a new arena
on a parcel of land that he conveniently already owns.
I don't know, I just need more time for fundraising.
Hey, you know I love the Palace almost as much as you do,
but you're fighting a losing battle here.
You should focus on reframing this as an opportunity.
I'll see you tomorrow, okay?
And I will think about what you said.
[garage door creaking]
♪
- Well, don't stop on my account. - [laughs]
What gave me away?
Uh, I've been meaning to grease that old door
- for about five years. - [laughs]
Love your retro skates.
Yeah, I got them from Ronald, sort of.
They look a little small.
Yeah, they're a bit tight!
Maybe these will be a bit better.
I just sharpened them. Size 7, right?
Wow.
Thank you. Good guess!
Yeah.
Look, if you are still trying to pretend that you are not
Lori Marshall, Greenhill skating legend,
then I would probably stay... [clicks tongue]
...off the ice!
Yeah, I don't know.
Ever since I've come back, I just want to skate.
What took you so long?
I don't know.
But I'd rather skate about it than talk about it.
Fair enough.
Well, you are welcome to process your feelings on skating
on my rink any time, but I am gonna lock the garage door.
This key gets you in the side door.
- [keys rattling] - Don't forget to lock up.
I won't.
Thank you.
Yeah.
LORI: Looks pretty tall for a small town.
CHAD: It's certainly going to have a view.
And there's, uh, underground parking.
And why weren't you able to incorporate a new Ice Palace
into this development?
TYLER: Uh, I can answer that for you.
Lori, this is Tyler Douglas,
Chief Architect and, uh, Greenhill local.
Please don't do that. Uh...
Hello again.
I'm gonna want to talk to you as well.
- Yeah, Jen said-- - And to answer your question,
Lori, this isn't some single-use sport facility,
it's a community hub, servicing a wide array of businesses,
activities, and lifestyles.
And what about Christmas?
Well, we can put up a tree and throw some tinsel around.
Why not?
So no Christmas Ball or skating tournament?
Well, people can skate at the new arena.
On the outskirts of town,
which makes it harder for people to access.
When Mr. Reynolds hired me to design this development,
his analysis showed that, uh, condo and retail units
would bring far more people into the downtown area.
The numbers on the revamped Ice Palace,
it just didn't compare.
This development is gonna be great for business,
but it's also super healthy for the community as a whole.
And again, there will be a new arena!
I purchased land specifically for it.
The focus of this development is really bringing more life
to the downtown core.
You know, perhaps you and I need to sit down over coffee
so I can really explain it to you properly.
There's a lot of nuance you've probably missed.
I'm good. Um...
I think-- I think we got it.
CHAD: That's it? The interview's over?
That's just half my vision.
I have what I need.
It was really nice talking to you, Mr. Reynolds.
Chad. Call me Chad.
- Yeah... - Please.
That went well!
♪
LORI: Okay, try it without looking at your feet.
You just gotta trust in them.
Feel it.
♪
That was it! That was perfect!
Okay, do it again so I can film you so you can watch it after.
♪
Now will you show me the double axel?
Okay, easy there, tiger.
Let's just focus on the single first
and then we can talk about some different challenges.
Hey.
This looks amazing.
I like the little Eiffel Towers.
Yeah, yeah, the Paris On Ice theme
is a throwback to the very first Christmas Ball, actually.
My great-great-grandmother
was inspired by this little picture book
from the 1889 World's Fair.
Just like that.
Sounds like it's gonna be a fun night.
Always is.
I think you left before you were old enough for the ball, right?
Yeah, my sister got to go, though.
She said it was a blast. Well worth the wait.
Yeah, I mean, not only is it the biggest
and best party of the year...
and believe me, it's a real rager-- he knows!
But it's also an opportunity for the community
to come together and for us to celebrate
everything we've been able to achieve together.
And it's also a fundraising effort
for next year's skating tournament.
It's really all about the children.
But the adults get to have all the fun.
Well, you know, life isn't always fair.
And kids need to learn that, don't they?
Sounds nice.
I actually have to get back to the city.
I'm spending Christmas with my friends.
My family is in Mexico this year.
Wait, so you chose Chicago over Mexico?
I like a traditional Christmas.
With snow, not sand.
You look pretty invested in that centrepiece...
You still sure about the new development?
Are you sure you're only here for work?
♪
MARK: Listen, can I get your opinion on something?
Uh, yeah. Of course.
Okay, so Zoe really wants new leg warmers
and I want to surprise her.
Which of these do you think she'd like best,
those... or those?
Honestly?
- Neither. - What?
- Really? - Is that SpongeBob?
I think it's like a SpongeBob knock-off.
Well, what is she wearing to the tournament?
Well, last year's dress still fits.
A girl with an axel in her arsenal
should not be wearing last year's dress.
Okay. You win!
- [laughs] - But, I mean, where, oh where,
am I gonna find somebody with an eye for skating styles
that's gonna help me out?
Okay, okay, don't twist my arm.
[phone rings]
Hello?
MAXINE: Your story.
It's missing something.
This Mark guy is interesting.
Can you dig more into his back story?
What makes him tick?
Well, it's more about the mission than the man,
though, right?
You go where the story leads. Juicier, the better!
Juicy?
Right.
You're a journalist, Lori.
I need to know you've got the nose for it.
Uh, yeah, yeah, absolutely.
Okay.
LORI: This looks great.
Hey. Yeah.
- Yeah, you think so? - Yeah.
Thanks.
What have you got there?
I have a dress and two leg warmers
so she can switch it up.
- Oh, what? Thank you! - Of course.
Wow!
Very spiffy.
Would you like to, I don't know, come to dinner with me?
And Zoe. And, uh, the both of us.
I mean, you should really, you know, give these to her,
uh, yourself, so...
Uh, yeah, that sounds lovely.
It's just... I should really focus on my story tonight.
I have to get this one right.
Yeah. Totally.
- I mean, that's why you're here. - Mm-hm.
I will, uh, give these to her myself and let her know
that they're from you.
Can I at least walk you back to the inn,
your office away from the office?
Sure.
We can talk about how horrifying your taste
in leg warmers is.
Or, I don't know, your complete disdain
for quality chicken wings.
[Lori laughs]
MARK: You know, I've been watching you with Zoe.
You're a natural coach.
She's a natural.
That girl's got some real potential.
It's been nice having the ice to myself.
There's just something about
skating in front of people still.
But isn't that the best part?
I mean, feeling the excitement of everyone cheering you on.
Most of the time it's great, but I got sucked in.
As much as I fed off of the crowd's excitement,
I felt obligated to feed it.
I knew my routine. I had everything set.
Everyone I knew came to the rink expecting something incredible,
and that's when I added the jump.
I wasn't even ready for it.
And then I ruined everything.
I was supposed to medal in those games and...
that fall meant I didn't even get to go.
Yeah, it was heartbreaking.
We were still proud of you, even after the fall.
You're still a legend here.
I do still feel pretty connected to this place.
I guess I just gotta enjoy the ride.
There you go. Now you're talking.
You know, our figure skating club could use a new coach.
The last one got married and moved away.
Maybe you'd consider it.
Well, that's a sweet offer, but...
skating's behind me.
I, um, I have a lot of stories to chase
and a very serious editor to impress.
Well, I'm already impressed.
The kids, they would love you.
I mean, could you imagine a champion figure skater
coaching at the Ice Palace?
We'd paint your face on the wall, 15 feet tall.
Okay, that's not happening!
But I'll think about it.
♪
So, I'll see you later?
Yeah. Yeah, you will.
Goodnight, Lori Marshall.
Goodnight.
♪
[fire crackling]
Tonight on Country Lovin', city slicker Lori Marshall
may have found her flannel-clad country bumpkin--
but is she really ready to trade her Peloton
for a pickup truck, hm?
Okay, A, wearing flannel doesn't make you a bumpkin.
And B... wait, what are you still doing at the office?
Ugh, you've inspired me to be a better journalist.
I'm polishing a story about the new mailbox design proposals.
Are you there, Pulitzer?
It's me, Ken!
That's nice.
What's wrong?
I don't know. [sighs]
Maxine's really pushing for the drama,
but there's so much genuine joy and community here.
If I submit the story that she wants,
then I'm going to be hurting people.
Real people, and...
I don't know, I feel like I'm losing objectivity.
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, easy does it!
You moved to the big city and built a life, and a career.
You're living the dream.
Don't sabotage yourself now that you're tiptoeing
on the precipice of victory.
Put your head back in the game.
Finish the story, get the promotion,
and come home!
Plus, I've already made a vision board
for your new office. [laughs]
High back leather is so 2002.
You're right.
Yeah, I'm not gonna blow this opportunity.
I've worked too hard for this.
Excellent.
And what's wrong with high back leather?
Please, please, try to keep your eye on the ball.
♪
Okay...
♪
[keyboard clicking]
♪
LORI: [laughs] Show me what you got!
♪
LORI: Go ahead.
♪
MARK: Woo! Good job, honey!
Great job, honey!
♪
Did you see that?
- She really is gifted. - Yeah.
Looks like you almost made it this time, huh?
Well, it's weird.
Even though everyone's been so nice, I just...
I can't do it.
Yes, you can, okay? This whole town loves you.
What if I helped you?
- To skate? - Yeah!
Come on, I do alright.
Right? I mean...
I could distract you with my charming conversational skill.
Or, you know, better yet,
we could play some Christmas music.
Maybe that Mariah Carey thing.
You wouldn't even notice the other skaters.
I don't know.
For the kids?
LORI: I did ballet and I loved it,
but dance classes ran during the summer,
so my dad signed me up for the winter skating program.
Ballet?
Zoe's actually been bugging me about lessons.
Did it... help with your skating?
Like with the jumping?
Yeah. I mean, I was six,
so it's mostly just about twirling,
tutus, and wedgies.
Still, your jump game was legendary.
Especially that last one.
♪
MARK: Maybe you did push a little too far,
but you were just trying to challenge yourself to be better.
That's what made you an inspiration.
There's magic about this place.
Champions grow here, and I want every--
- Whoops! - [both laugh]
MARK: They're rusty champions,
but they're champions nonetheless.
Clearly my best days are behind me.
That's not true.
You're finding it again.
You still have plenty to give.
Oh--!
[Lori laughs]
- There's a bump, guys! - I don't see it.
No, that's a well-known bump.
A bump there.
Watch this.
♪
Um...
I need one more big favour from you.
It's Christmas cookies.
Going for that deconstructing fad?
Uh, well, I got a recipe online.
And...?
And I recognize most of the words but, um...
You assumed that I could help.
- It's not like that, alright? - Mm-hm?
It's a Christmas tradition,
and aren't you the master of Christmas traditions?
Well, I haven't gone pro or anything,
but aren't you the pretzel maestro or something?
That is totally different, okay?
That recipe is bulletproof,
and most people are just in it for the salt, anyway.
I haven't tried actual baking since I set fire
to our attic trying to make a cake for Zoe's 10th birthday.
Oh, no!
Just take pity on me! I mean, it's Christmas,
and I'm admitting a real weakness here.
And... I even got the hats!
♪
Do you have a whisk?
Yeah, yeah.
Uh... Hmm.
That's right, uh...
it's right... hmm, yep!
That, uh, that would have been my...
- sixth guess probably. - Okay. Yeah?
Actually, seventh. What is this thing?
Just whisk up the eggs.
Yes, chef.
My 10th birthday cake was a disaster, too.
Oh, yeah? What happened?
My sister dropped it.
Oh, no.
It was right over there on the ice, actually.
Right, yeah.
I mean, I pretty much had to rebuild our roof,
but that counts.
[loud whisking]
Whoa, whoa, whoa, you're merenguing those eggs!
What?
You just gotta slow it down a little bit.
Like this.
♪
That's better.
♪
Okay! Yeah, that's great.
You can add in the dry ingredients now.
Good job.
Yeah.
Looking good out there.
- Thanks. - So, what's up?
I have something for you.
JEN: What am I supposed to do with these?
Grab the bull by the horns.
Tyler? Oh, no, no.
You could spend the rest of your life dropping hints.
It's time for the nuclear option.
Don't take no for an answer.
Okay, is that it?
Because it's karaoke night at Gary's.
Go put Tyler to shame.
That is not humanly possible.
Okay, moment of truth.
This is the batch that I made myself.
- Ready? - Okay, one...
two...
three...
Okay. What? No!
Gimme that.
No. Gimme.
Oh. Salt!
No, see, I measured the salt twice.
It's the exact right amount of salt.
And sugar?
- Sugar... - Mm-hm?
Why do salt and sugar both come in white bags?
That is a very clear design flaw.
Right...
Yeah, well, I have enough good ones.
Anyways, it's time to clear out.
I gotta flood before the over-70 league turns up.
- Hmm, rowdy bunch? - Oh, you wouldn't believe.
Mr. Cafferty, he straps a stick to his walker.
It's adorable.
Okay, I'll spread the word.
Oh, wait, wait, wait. Um...
I'll be done in 20 minutes.
And Zoe's wrapping presents with Grandma and Grandpa,
so, I don't know, maybe do you want to
try that dinner again, just me this time?
Oh!
I mean, only if you, uh--
I would love to.
Great.
[horn blows]
What...
- [horn blows] - ...is that?
It's Mr. Cafferty.
He needs help up the steps with his walker.
Uh, I'm-- I'm gonna go change!
- Okay, and I'll-- - [horn blows]
- We'll pick you up-- - [horn blows]
- Okay. - [laughs]
[phone rings]
Hi!
MAXINE: You're still in bed?
- It's almost 10. - Uh, no.
No, no, no, I just went for a run.
Seizing the day!
Your story's getting traction.
The suits upstairs are eager to talk to you.
Really?
First week of January. Very promising.
Wow. That soon?
They want to move up the new division launch,
providing they can get their team in place.
It just doesn't give me that much time to think.
Think about what?
Well, there's this-- this skating tournament thing.
I just feel like I found more than I was looking for here.
So, wait, the... the story is live?
It's online?
Went with the 6 am push.
Okay. Uh, so that means...
Right, I gotta go. I gotta go.
Mark...
I've come to shake hands.
You fought valiantly, but all's fair, right?
Yeah, aren't you jumping the gun a bit there, Chad?
I still have, uh... oh, 36 hours.
Plenty of time for a Christmas miracle.
Hmph!
But you... you can't be serious.
It's over, Mark.
The obituary's been published.
Okay, you know what, Chad?
I woke up in such a good mood today that even your nonsense
isn't gonna get under my skin,
so why don't you just go have a good day-- somewhere else?
You actually haven't seen it yet.
Seen what?
Lori Marshall's story about my development.
It's published? She didn't...
She didn't mention that.
You know what?
Let me show you a few highlights.
Come on.
LORI: [video] The majority of people in town are welcoming
the economic growth the development will bring.
New shopping and dining options, condo units,
and much-needed accessible parking will finally usher
Greenhill into the modern age.
There is certainly a vocal minority that is insisting
that the heritage building should be maintained,
but the mayor and her council are convinced that the town
will be better served by the new development.
Yeah.
That's gotta sting, huh?
Ouch.
But it's best you hear it from me, isn't it?
And I was actually thinking, I'm gonna need someone local
to, uh, liaise with the townsfolk,
just to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Maybe you'd be interested.
No?
Okay. I'll, uh... I'll leave you to it, then.
No hard feelings, big guy.
Also, um, that tree is crooked...
or maybe it's the floor.
[chuckles]
I love winning!
Ha-ha!
KEN: [on phone] There she is. Toast of the town!
Are you on your way to the train station?
- No. - Uh-oh, what's wrong?
I think I ruined everything.
What's wrong? What happened?
I didn't get the chance to warn him about the angle.
It reads pretty objectively.
It is, but it still hurts.
He's worked so hard trying to save the Ice Palace,
and I was just so blinded by ambition.
I just wanted the job so badly! And...
I don't know, he doesn't even want to see me probably.
I've been working with Mark's daughter on her skating,
and we had this truly amazing dinner last night and--
You went on a date?
Marky Mark has a kid?
Wait-- you're skating again?
- Yes. - I'm so proud of you!
The story's fine.
Just explain what happened, and if it's meant to be,
he'll understand.
And if not?
Then you'll come home to your friends.
And your promotion.
And we'll find you an even better guy.
You deserve to be happy, Lori,
but you have to decide what you want.
I want to skate.
I want to help kids like Zoe.
I want a job that makes me feel something.
I want to save the Ice Palace.
And Marky Mark?
Yeah!
Well, there you are, then.
Go get it.
I might have to stay a little longer.
You might have to stay forever.
That's fine. We'll visit.
[knock at door]
[door creaks open]
MARK: Thought you'd be on your way home by now.
Turns out you really do belong in Chicago.
I wanted to explain myself.
Just...
It's not necessary.
LORI: [video] The owner of the Ice Palace is a man out of time,
struggling against the inevitability of change.
His efforts, though valiant, are futile.
MARK: "Valiant but futile."
I thought you understood what I'm trying to save here.
I think that...
people are so afraid of...
of change and failure
that they put these walls up
to feel safer.
But really, it's just we're missing out on opportunities
to learn and grow and be better.
Look, everyone I talked to said the same thing,
that they'll miss the Ice Palace but...
but it's time to let it go.
To keep up with traditions and...
and keep moving forward with innovation.
It doesn't have to be one or the other.
Tell that to Chad's wrecking crew.
I mean, is this what you wanted all along?
Just some story about a crazy man
trying to deprive his community?
No! That's not what--
Is this why you were helping Zoe?
Just to get closer to the story?
I love Zoe.
And I love the Ice Palace. But...
it was important
that I delivered on this assignment.
I am planning a ball and a tournament tomorrow,
and those are the things that I think are important.
Maybe this is for the best, okay?
You're Chicago, I'm Greenhill,
and I'm busy.
Okay.
♪
Lori! You stayed!
Dad said you went back to Chicago.
And miss your big moment?
No way.
How are you feeling?
Great, thanks to all your lessons.
Uh, you taught me some really big lessons, too.
You reminded me what skating was all about.
- Winning? - No!
Just kidding.
Do you think I should go for the double on my first jump?
I think I've got it now.
Well, that's a decision you need to make yourself,
but you have a lot more skating ahead of you.
Maybe it's best to push your limits, you know,
not all at once.
I think I could probably do it,
but maybe I'll stick with the single for now.
You know, I wish I was as smart as you when I was a kid.
You're gonna be a champion.
If you stay in Greenhill, you could be a champion's coach!
That's almost as good.
Morning, Lori.
How are you today?
Fine, thanks.
It's a really good turnout.
Yeah. Yeah, of course.
Everybody loves the Palace.
And the tournament.
ANNOUNCER: Tournament skaters, please check in with the judges.
Skaters to the judge box, please.
Okay, you got this.
The ice is all yours.
You're not competing against anybody but yourself.
Make it count, stay focused, and have fun.
That's the most important part.
See you after?
Yes, I'll be here.
Aww.
- Okay, you ready? - Yeah.
You show those judges what the Johnsons are made of, okay?
Okay.
You're gonna do great.
I wanted to return these.
Thank you for loaning them to me.
Look, why don't you keep them, okay?
Maybe you'll find somewhere to skate in Chicago.
I'll just have them sharpened and you can pick them up after.
Thanks.
I should probably find a seat.
All the die-hards got here over an hour ago.
♪
[ambient chatter]
[applause and cheering]
[Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" playing]
♪
[applause]
♪
[crowd gasps]
♪
[applause]
♪
[applause and cheering]
♪
Hmm...
♪
Okay, pack it up.
We're leaving.
What are you talking about?
Gary's isn't even open for hours.
I got tons of work to do.
Not today, you don't.
Tonight's the ball.
And I, uh, got a hair appointment I gotta get to,
and you gotta go home and get ready.
The ball?
What are you talking about? I'm not going to the ball.
Yes, you are.
With me.
I'm taking you.
You are my date.
Ha-ha!
♪
This is where you say, "Thanks, Jen!
"What a wonderful idea!"
♪
Thanks, Jen.
What a wonderful idea.
Ha! Great.
- Yeah. - Perfect.
Okay, alright. Okay, okay.
So, I'm-- this-- I'm gonna file this and then--
Easy!
And then, um, you just do what you gotta do,
and then we'll go!
Yeah, yeah, I just need a minute.
I just need a... I just need one minute!
Yes.
Ooh!
♪
Oh, this is weird.
Come look.
Look.
Yeah, this is just the--
you know, the first set of plans,
the original design, for the revamped Ice Palace.
And this is the deed for the land that Chad bought
out on the highway for the new arena.
Huh.
TYLER: Hang on a second.
Something looks fishy.
Can you grab me the other blueprint?
Okay, but make it quick.
CHAD: You trying to make an escape without me?
Just kidding.
Congratulations on your story.
I thought it was superb.
Uh, thanks. Some mixed reviews.
Eh, I knew you'd see things the right way.
If by "right way" you mean both sides, then sure.
I'm glad our interests have finally aligned.
So, uh, what time should I pick you up?
Pick me up?
For the ball.
You know, us city folk should stick together.
Uh, no, sorry, I'm not going.
But thanks for asking.
Really? Are you... are you sure?
Oh, you have other plans.
No, it's just not why I'm here.
ANNOUNCER: Our next skater is from right here
in Greenhill, Michigan.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Zoe Johnson!
Excuse me.
I need to see this one.
Aren't you judging?
[muttering] After the first dozen, they're all the same...
[applause and cheering]
MARK: Let's go, sweetie!
[upbeat pop song playing]
MARK: You got this!
♪
[applause]
♪ I've been knocked down over and over again ♪
[applause]
♪ And I could just pretend ♪
♪ And life is favouring[?], the world is on my side ♪
♪ If I believe it hard enough and try ♪
♪ I'm on top of the world ♪
♪ And nothing can stop me, nothing can stop me ♪
♪ I'm on top of the world ♪
♪ And nothing can, nothing can stop me ♪
♪ Oh, no, no not any day ♪
♪ No, not at the time ♪
♪ Come on and try to bring me down ♪
♪ Please get in line ♪
[applause and cheering]
Yeah!
[applause and cheering continues]
♪
- Yes! - [Zoe giggles]
I'm so proud of you! Yes!
- Hey! - Hey!
I made it on the podium, look!
I know! I'm so proud of you.
Congratulations.
I think it really comes down to the coaching.
[Lori laughs]
♪
Hey.
Look, um...
I'm sorry for how I reacted, okay?
It wasn't fair.
I just...
I mean, I was kind of shocked. I had no idea you felt that way.
I know. I'm so sorry.
I should have warned you before it went live.
I honestly wasn't sure until I got the story together.
I mean, you made some good points.
But I am gonna keep fighting for this community
and our traditions.
But on the other hand, I am going to work on being
open to new things as well.
Yeah, me too.
- You should go celebrate. - Yeah.
♪
- How did the tournament go? - Great.
Went off without a hitch.
Zoe got a medal.
Fantastic.
- So...? - So...?
Are you gonna stay for the ball?
No, I, uh... I think it's time for me to go home.
I booked the 2:30 train.
But I truly had a wonderful stay.
Well, hopefully we'll see you again real soon.
- [clock chimes] - Oh, you better get moving!
I know. It's a little late for me to walk.
Do you mind calling me a taxi?
- Sure thing! - [phone rings]
Greenhill Guest House, Ronald speaking.
Oh, okay. Thank you.
Hi!
What are you still doing here?
Shouldn't you be getting ready for the ball?
Well, actually, I think I'm just gonna
- stay in with Zoe tonight. - Just as well.
You always did have two left feet.
If you must know, I just can't stand the thought
that it might be the last one.
Well, if it really is the last ball at the Ice Palace,
why not enjoy it?
If that story was just work for Lori,
she wouldn't have still been here this morning.
Oh, please. She just showed up for Zoe.
Maybe.
But if you don't catch her now, you'll never know for sure...
Zoe?
How would you feel about staying over
at Grandma and Grandpa's tonight?
Does this mean you're going to the ball?
- With Lori?! - [sighs]
I don't know.
I mean, how would I even...
Like, it's been so long.
MAYOR: Yes, it's been such a long time.
Maybe you could think about it while you're running.
- What? - She's already packing.
I'll look after Zoe, you go.
- What, like right now? - Yes!
[sighs] Okay...
Uh, but--
BOTH: Run!
[knock on door]
JEN: We need to talk.
Aren't you going to the ball?
No, I'm going to Chicago.
Okay, we'll talk about that after.
- This is important. - You need to see this.
Look. Chad's original plan for the development.
This design incorporates a renovated Ice Palace
and more community space.
It's what Mark always wanted!
There's no shopping, there's no parking, no condos.
So why didn't the town go for it?
Well, Chad inflated the costs and made the renovation
look too expensive.
And then he pitched the alternative:
the more lucrative condo development
along with the arena out by the highway.
On land that Reynolds & Reynolds already purchased!
Except he didn't!
He didn't what?
- So this means-- - Exactly!
- So he can't-- - He never intended to.
But when the clock strikes 12--
BOTH: Yes!
We need to talk to the Mayor and to Mark.
To the Batmobile!
Sorry.
Seemed appropriate.
- Okay, let's go, let's go! - Just go, just go!
LORI: Woop!
Ronald!
I need to... [panting] talk to Lori!
Oh, you missed her.
Really?
[sighs]
Let her-- Oof!
Okay, um...
[squeals]
We're looking for Mark! Have you seen him?
Isn't he with you?
He just went to chase you down.
- Really? Why? - Focus, focus!
Okay, uh, there's a huge problem
with the development proposal
and we need to do something about it before midnight.
TYLER: And if the deadline passes,
then the Reynolds & Reynolds bid
is gonna be automatically certified.
But it's the only qualifying bid we have.
- But it's a fraud! - And there might be
something we can do to save the Ice Palace.
Okay, okay.
If there's really something that we can do,
then you have my attention.
Let's just all...
calm... down. Good.
First things first.
Jen, you need to keep your hair appointment.
Take my car.
Zoe's in it and she's got the keys.
Now, this town has waited long enough
for you two to get it together.
You will not be making your long-awaited debut
looking like...
ragamuffins.
- How did you-- - I know everything.
Just go.
Drop Zoe at the Johnsons'.
Marjorie is expecting her.
Scoot!
Now, just give me a minute to call Ron.
Ron?
As in Guest House Ron?
As in "my house" Ron.
He's my husband!
I hope you have a suit, young man, a nice one.
And iron your shirt.
It really only takes a couple of minutes
and it makes a world of difference.
Oh...
what about you?
What about me?
Diane's home from college. She's my daughter.
She'll find you something to wear!
- Oh, no, I'm not going-- - Shh!
Hi, it's me.
RONALD: Well, I'm glad that you changed your mind
about going to the ball.
It would be such a shame for you to miss it.
Well, I was gonna go.
When I thought I had a date.
You don't need a date to show up for your community,
to thank them for all the help and the support
that they've given you and Zoe
and the Ice Palace all these years.
You're right.
Of course you're right.
Will I see you there?
Oh, absolutely.
It's Christmas Eve!
Ha!
Well, that's taken care of.
Now, Tyler, we'll go in your car,
and you can take us to my house, and you can explain on the way.
To the Batmobile!
Oh, wait!
I have an idea.
Do you have Chad's number?
- Why? - Why?
Well, I'm going to the ball...
I'm gonna need a date!
[Christmas music playing at ball]
♪ Christmas is my favourite time of year ♪
♪ I'm keepin' outta trouble... ♪
Oh!
Look at this!
♪ Santa is my favourite kind of guy ♪
♪ [Inaudible] and I'm gonna tell her why ♪
♪ He brings all the presents to all the girls and boys ♪
♪ When he comes to town, he brings nothing but joy ♪
♪ Christmas is my favourite time of year ♪
CHAD: There you are.
I'm so glad you changed your mind.
I wouldn't say that...
Do you wanna mingle?
I invited some potential investors for my next project.
I'm getting into casinos.
You and I are gonna do good things for each other
back in Chicago.
Have you seen Mark?
No.
I thought you wanted to meet me here?
I did. I have, um...
Let's go find Mark.
♪
[Big Band music playing]
♪
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas... ♪
What are you doing here?!
Bonsoir, mon ami magnifique!
Bienvenue à gay Par-is!
But, but how?
Oh, I thought you needed some in-person support.
And we got a little cabin in the woods!
Very L.L. Bean...
Oh, we also got all the Christmas fixings for tomorrow.
Hmm? Maxine's here, too.
- Really? - Eh, no.
But she did mention you weren't so hot on the big job, hmm?
I'm thinking about going freelance.
You know, pick my own stories, work from wherever I want.
I have so much to tell you, but later.
I have to find someone right now.
Uh, is this, uh, Mark?
Where?
- I'm Chad Reynolds. - Oh, you're...
No. Obviously not.
KEN: [in a whisper] What?
[chuckles uncomfortably]
Here, take this.
This champagne's terrible.
Hmph!
♪ We won't go until we get some ♪
♪ So bring it out here ♪
I've been looking everywhere for you.
- Wow, you look-- - [laughs]
You're...
You look amazing.
You look pretty good yourself.
[both chuckle nervously]
[Chad clears throat]
MARK: What's he doing here?
MAYOR: Chad!
[chuckles] So glad you could make it!
MARK: Uh...?
You need to see this.
Okay...
This is Mr. Reynolds' original plan for the redevelopment
of the Ice Palace.
And this design includes a brand-new Ice Palace
right here where the current one stands.
That's not mine; I've never seen this before in my life!
This is none of your business.
Hang on, this is the one that I supported right from the start.
LORI: Mr. Reynolds realized he could make a lot more money
if he got rid of the rink completely.
JEN: He promised town council that he'd build
a brand-new arena on the outskirts of town
on land he bought for that purpose.
And lease it back to us at a reasonable rate.
TYLER: Then he hired me to do the new design,
with the shopping and the condo complex.
This right here is a deed of ownership
indicating that Reynolds & Reynolds
owns a huge parcel of land out by the highway.
But it's fake.
Counterfeit.
MAYOR: But by the time we would have realized that,
he would have destroyed the Ice Palace
and started his new construction.
You lied to me, Mr. Reynolds,
and you tried to pull a fast one on our community.
Your permissions are revoked and your proposal is cancelled.
TYLER: And I've already reported you and your company
to the state authorities.
MAYOR: You wasted our time and our money,
and you can expect a huge legal action.
CHAD: This is all your fault,
you and your stupid little story!
MAYOR: Oh!
You can't do this.
I'll sue. My lawyers will bury you alive.
Ha, I don't think so!
We've just signed a retainer with Michigan's finest
retired solicitor-general.
Pro bono!
[laughter]
CHAD: Outta my way.
Oh, I am so sorry about this, Mark.
Unfortunately, the lease still expires at midnight.
Without secured funding, I don't think there's anything
we can do to stop the building from being condemned.
But we've still got tonight, right?
Yeah, of course we do.
You still have all year to come up with a new plan
for next Christmas.
Well, actually, I've got some news, too.
I just got an email from the investors in Chicago.
They want to finance and franchise my SkateFit program.
So we can renew your lease!
MARK: So why don't we celebrate the best Christmas
- that Greenhill's ever had, huh? - Yes!
- [people cheering] - TYLER: That's amazing!
- Nice. - Woo-hoo!
[excited chatter]
[triumphant music]
[excited chatter]
Oh...
Ooh... Oh!
Hmm...!
♪
♪ There's so many [inaudible] 'cause love is everywhere ♪
♪ You can hear those carol sounds ♪
♪ Outside your front door ♪
♪ That's when you know it's almost Christmas ♪
♪ Chestnuts roast and shiny[?] toast ♪
♪ And frosty in the snow ♪
♪ Children wish and lovers kiss... ♪
So, does it live up to the hype?
This has been the best Christmas Ball
I've ever been to.
Hmm.
Isn't it the first?
Well, hopefully the first of many.
♪ It's almost Christmas ♪
♪
[rock version of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" playing]
♪
LORI: Woo!
♪
[people cheering]
♪
Yes! Yes!
Whoa!
I got you!
♪
I got you, too.
♪