Original subtitles

(BELLS JINGLING)

(GIRLS LAUGHING)

RADIO ANNOUNCER: It's going to be a real scorcher today, Greendale.

BOY 1: Come on, pass it.

Wow, look at that!

BOY 2: Whoa!

Fran?

Fran?

Fran?

We got a crazy moving in.

Thanks for your help.

Especially that extra trip up to the roof.

Yeah.

And bring your children around anytime.

Santa's going to be here 365 days a year.

Yeah, great.

Oh.

Ho-ho-ho. (CHUCKLES)

Hi! BOYS: Whoa!

Welcome to Santa's Dream World.

Who are you?

He's Santa Claus, dummy.

Yeah.

He can't be Santa Claus, dummy.

Because there is no Santa Claus.

I'm sorry to hear you say that, Tommy Gates.

A boy like you, ten-years-old,

born April 14th, lives five blocks away.

You, of all people, should believe in me.

You talked to one of the neighbors.

Is he always this hard to sell?

Uh-huh.

Don't be stupid, he's Santa.

BOY: Yeah.

Let's see him prove it.

Yeah, Santa, show him.

Well, usually, when someone doesn't believe in Santa,

it doesn't make much difference what I do.

But in his case, I'll make an exception.

You used to believe in Santa Claus.

A long time ago, when I was a kid.

You think maybe you got a little bit left in you?

Enough to say, "I believe in Santa Claus"?

I believe in Santa Claus.

Louder.

I believe in Santa Claus.

Look!

BOY: Wow!

Even louder, from the gut.

I believe in Santa Claus!

(BELL DINGS)

BOYS: Woah! Wow!

Amazing what happens when you believe.

KIDS: Woah!

(BELL JINGLES) (REINDEER GRUNTS)

Wow! (BOYS CHATTERING EXCITEDLY)

Come on in, boys.

Take a look around.

(INDISTINCT CONVERSATION)

BOYS: Whoa!

Ho-ho-ho-ho!

Ho-ho-ho-ho! I don't like this.

Well, then, why are we encouraging him?

Come on.

ELIZABETH: The citizens of this city spent 20 years

restoring the old Town Section

with its charm and connection to our history.

But there's nothing charming or historical

about fast food, Your Honor.

I don't care how many billions they've sold.

They can have the rest of the state,

even other parts of the city, but for heaven's sake

let's keep them out of our shrine.

(APPLAUDING)

MAN: (WHISTLES) Yeah!

Your Honor, I don't know if you're a golfer or not,

but imagine playing for years on a beautiful course.

Manicured greens and rolling hills.

And then one day, somebody builds a freeway

right across your favorite fairway.

Suddenly that 400 yard dogleg to the right

is an eight-lane cart path.

That's the kind of violation we're talking about here.

Your Honor, I implore you.

Do not allow this intrusion

into the heart and soul of our city.

Please, stop them.

(SIGHS)

The court finds the city thoroughly justified

in denying permits to the plaintiffs.

The motion is denied.

(APPLAUSE)

JUDGE: This hearing is adjourned.

(APPLAUSE CONTINUES)

That was great, but what's a dogleg?

WOMAN: Congratulations, Ms. Gates. I have no idea.

I heard it from the judge's golf partner.

This will play beautifully.

Staunch defender of tradition

standing up against corporate bigwigs.

Does it matter at all that we're on the right side?

It's a nice win, don't get me wrong.

But frankly, I'm thinking bigger fish

than a salmon patty in old town.

Uh, I'll catch up.

Alan Schaefer's waiting for us.

It took me weeks to set this up.

Well, then he won't mind waiting a few more minutes.

Mayoral hopeful Elizabeth Gates helped her campaign today

by successfully defending the city's long-standing ban

against fast-food franchises in old town, blah blah blah.

Save three lines for a quote from Gates.

Three lines, that's all I get?

Four, if it's sincere.

Nah, just make it up, Mallory, like you usually do.

I'll read it tomorrow and find out what I said.

Come on, Counselor, I'm on a deadline here.

Frank, take your hands off me!

No, no, you can fantasize later.

Just give him a quote, come on.

It took a lot of guts for Judge Williams

to decide against some of this country's largest corporations.

This city is in his debt.

Very smart, give all the credit to the judge.

I meant every word.

Hold on for a second.

You know, I liked that little ploy with the golf image.

Oh, most of the local lawyers know

that Williams is a golf nut.

Oh, yeah, but not everyone knows

that his favorite hole is the 16th at Lakewood Country Club,

a 400-yard dogleg to the right.

(CLICKS TONGUE)

Is that true?

No.

So when are we going to go out for dinner?

When you stop covering politics.

Uh-uh, priorities, Counselor.

Now, you know you're interested.

Quit your job and I'm all yours.

You sound like a husband.

Exactly.

What else you got for me?

What?

Oh, come on, Harry, I don't do heartwarming.

Besides, it's June.

(INDISTINCT CONVERSATION)

(PHONE RINGING)

MICHAEL: City Attorney's office.

Oh, hold, please.

Susan's in with the mall king now.

She said not to dally.

Hmm. Right, right.

Oh, Michael, don't let me forget

Tommy's little league sign-up this afternoon.

Mmm.

Elizabeth, this is Alan Schaefer.

Susan tells me great things about you.

Hmm, well, Susan's paid to say great things about me.

ALAN: She wouldn't lie to me.

She says you're the real thing.

Mmm-hmm.

Huh.

Is this your son?

ELIZABETH: Yes.

ALAN: He's a handsome boy.

Thank you.

So, what brings you to our little city?

Just taking in the sights.

Any sight in particular?

Well, actually, there is a property on south Raven.

The old Railroad Station?

Yes, I noticed it's abandoned.

And marked for historic designation, that's right.

I have visions of turning it into an asset for this city, Ms. Gates.

Jobs, businesses, more tax revenue.

Which means programs for children like your son.

We go before the City Council in two weeks

and I'd like your support.

And of course Alan will make sure

you get all the credit with the business community.

It's interesting, Mr. Schaefer, because I have a vision, too.

Of a community center with a women's shelter,

youth activities, meeting halls.

That's an expensive vision.

Yes, it is.

But if someone made sure that we got a community center,

I think we could have a meeting of the minds.

Elizabeth, hold on. ALAN: It's all right.

Let me talk to my people.

See what I can do.

I like a politician with backbone.

Thank you for your time.

You're welcome.

Always nice to see you, Susan.

Help yourself to the chocolate.

SUSAN: Goodbye, Alan.

Thank you.

MARGUERITE: Tonight, Marguerite will make her spaghetti, si?

ELIZABETH: Hi, everyone! Hello.

Guess who I met today?

Who? Well, guess.

He's really famous.

Tom Cruise.

Come on, Mom.

Okay, uh, Magic Johnson?

No.

Uh, Wayne Gretzky?

No.

This pan will be better.

Keep guessing. Mmm.

Thank you. Come on, Mom, guess.

Okay, uh... Let me think.

Um. Oh, darn, I wanted minced tomatoes.

Oh, forget it.

Well, I'm sorry, I'm trying to make dinner.

Fine, then make dinner.

Okay.

I'll stop.

I'm all yours.

I called you before.

Michael said you were in some meeting.

Now I'm trying to tell you and you won't even listen.

I'm sorry.

I know things have been crazy with work and the campaign.

Yeah, right, the campaign.

The campaign is very important.

It's a chance for me to do some good things.

Some very good things for a lot of people.

After the election, things will change.

I promise.

So tell me, who'd you meet today?

I have to finish my homework.

(SIGHS)

Hey, I signed you up for little league.

Great, thanks.

(DOOR SHUTS)

(DOORBELL RINGS)

(DOG BARKING)

(SHOUTS)

You're the man from the paper, right?

Yeah, Frank Mallory. I'm sorry I'm late.

No need to be sorry. I knew you'd get here.

Please, please.

Sorry about the mess.

Oh, no. That's... That's fine.

I, uh, understand that your real name is Robert George.

People called me that a long time ago. Now I'm just Santa.

Ha. Cookies and fudge?

No. Thank you. Maybe a glass of milk?

(CHUCKLES) No. Thank you.

So, Santa, is this just a hobby of yours,

or are you trying to promote something?

Oh, no, it's not a hobby, not at all. It's my life.

And, yes, I am promoting something.

The spirit of Christmas.

Oh. In the summer?

Love isn't needed just one day a year, Mr. Mallory.

Although some people act like it is.

Could I borrow a finger?

Excuse me?

Oh!

Attaboy.

You wear that suit all year round?

No, I've got two others at the cleaners.

So what brought you here? Or do you just move around every year?

No, I've decided to stop moving around, that's the whole point.

I'm finally opening "Santa's Dream World."

"Santa's Dream World."

You see, everywhere I go children are thrilled to see Santa.

But wouldn't it be wonderful if they could see Santa any time they wanted?

Mmm-hmm, mmm-hmm.

You see, Mr. Mallory,

some children can't wait until December

to get a little Christmas.

You think I'm a goofy old man caught up in a legend, don't you?

It's all right, Mr. Mallory.

The children know.

And that's what matters.

What's that? For you.

Thank you.

(HORN HONKING)

(SANTA LAUGHING)

SANTA: Good morning!

I found it.

Okay. Bye.

See, there he is. I told you.

Yes, you did. Told her what?

That I met Santa yesterday.

Oh, how was the North Pole?

It's the real Santa Claus, Mom.

That's what I was trying to tell you last night.

He lives a few blocks away in this really neat house.

With reindeers and a sleigh.

How long were you with him?

A couple hours.

Let's go, Mom. Tommy.

Last day of school.

We have to talk about this.

(HORNS HONKING)

Stay right there, kids, stay right there.

Stay right there. Hold on, hold on.

Hold it!

Stay right there. Santa is coming.

Are you kids lost?

Yes. Where's your mommy?

Mom. Really?

Well, why don't we go look for her, okay?

Hold my hand, and away we go.

All right. (HORN HONKING)

Hold it! Don't, don't you dare. MAN: I'm coming through.

Oh, there she is. Hello, mommy.

Oh, thank you, Santa. You're very, very welcome.

(HORN HONKING) All right, hold it, hold it!

Stay right there.

All right, here we go, here we go. Here we go.

Santa, Santa can you sign this for my kids?

Well, they're getting kind of upset here.

Please, for the kids. I mean, they'll really get a kick out of it.

All right, all right, all right, okay.

MAN: It's the real Santa!

(HORNS HONKING) (PEOPLE YELLING )

Thanks a lot.

And what is your name?

SANTA: I can't sign too many of these.

Santa, I need you to clear the street here, all right?

Come on, folks, help me out.

Now the police are talking to him. What a mess.

Hey, it's cool having Santa in town.

Did Tommy tell you we spent the afternoon with him?

Yes, he did.

We told him what we wanted for Christmas.

It was okay, Mrs. Gates.

Nothing bad happened.

She doesn't believe, huh?

No.

That's not true. I believe in Santa Claus

and the Tooth Fairy and everything else.

I just don't like it when you go over to a strange man's house

for the afternoon.

He's not a strange man, Mom.

He's Santa. BOYS: Yeah.

He wears a Santa Claus outfit

in 80-degree weather in the middle of June.

He's a strange man.

(CELL PHONE RINGS)

Hello?

I know, it's a mess.

What about the voter lists? (WHISPERING INDISTINCTLY)

What about... I can't hear you, Susan.

What?

(CAR DOOR SHUTS) I... I'll call you back.

(CARS HONKING)

ELIZABETH: Stop!

Get back in the car right now.

But we want to see Santa.

You do not get out of the car in the middle of the street, ever.

Now, move.

You don't believe me that he's really Santa Claus, do you?

Tommy, I believe that if I'm any later for my council meeting,

your mom's never going to be Mayor.

I never wanted my mom to be Mayor.

I want her to be there when I get home from school.

That's what I asked Santa for yesterday.

Come on, we're late.

SANTA: You're going to have to wait a while.

Sorry, traffic was... (PHONE RINGS)

I need your approval on these.

Uh... MICHAEL: City Attorney's office.

(GROANS) Hold on.

Are you in for Santa?

Me?

He wants to talk to you, yes.

What do you think? Uh, no.

I don't have time for lunatics.

I'd hate to see what's waiting for you under the Christmas tree.

Mr. Claus?

SUSAN: Have you given any more thought to the railroad station?

ELIZABETH: I want to see what he says.

But I can't just let him tear it down.

I'm supposed to be defending the city.

Now I'm considering giving away one of its landmarks for nothing?

I wouldn't push him too hard,

or you're not gonna be in a position to defend much of anything.

I know this community.

People love that old station.

They'll support me.

Elizabeth.

This is not just about this election.

It's about the next step, the assembly,

maybe the senate some day.

You've got everything it takes,

but you don't know the rough-and-tumble.

That's why you hired me.

And I'm telling you to go along with Alan Schaefer,

unless you want to stay a city attorney all of your life.

(SIGHS)

I know, politics.

(HORNS HONKING) (CHILDREN CLAMORING)

(EXPLOSION) Whoa!

That's right, it's definitely snow.

BOY: Come on.

Look over there.

BOY: Whoa! Come here, Mom!

Santa? Can I go show her your toy room?

Of course. You know where it is.

Thanks. Have fun.

Just look at this.

Someone changes a baby in the driveway

and tosses this on the grass.

It won't do any good to throw it in there.

The trash truck can't get through.

If it's like this now,

just imagine December.

(GROANS)

CHILDREN: Oh!

(HORN HONKING)

Mr. Mallory, people read your article, and look.

To think I've been squirreled away

on politics all these years.

(LAUGHING)

I'm supposed to do a follow-up story.

You have a few minutes? Of course.

Oh-oh-oh-oh.

Enjoy yourselves.

I will be right back.

I'll be right back.

(SNOW EXPLOSION)

(PEOPLE EXCLAIMING)

I found those scrapbooks I was looking for.

Well...

This is you.

With Ike.

And Kennedy.

SANTA: Oh, yes. Great guys, both of them.

And so was Mr. Nixon.

And that Mr. Carter.

He's still doing good things.

Elvis?

A nicer man you'll never met.

(CHUCKLES)

You were big.

I still am.

(LAUGHING)

How long have you been Santa, anyway?

Since you were a boy.

I had this longing, you know the kind,

to contribute to this world.

That's why you became a journalist, isn't it?

Well, that's how it started out, anyway.

That's how it always starts out, Mr. Mallory.

I was a barber in Nebraska.

A good barber.

But I couldn't see how a closer shave

was going to make much of a difference.

So I searched for an answer.

I talked to people.

I prayed.

Then one night, I had a vision.

I saw myself like this.

And I was bringing sunshine and joy to a little child.

And I was getting as big a kick out of it as he was.

And I knew my life was meant to give joy and hope to little children.

Next day, I sold the barber shop.

My wife made me a red suit

and I've been traveling around ever since.

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

I'll be right there.

You make yourself at home, Mr. Mallory.

Can I borrow these for a couple of days, Santa?

Be my guest.

MAN: There he is. SANTA: Ho-ho-ho.

SUSAN: Where you going?

Home.

We're having dinner with the head of the teachers' union.

Susan, I can't.

I need to spend time with Tommy.

Just put in an appearance.

Fifteen minutes. I'll cover the rest of the way for you.

In fact, tell them you're leaving to be with your kid.

It will impress them.

Elizabeth, it's important.

All right, 15 minutes.

More beige chicken.

Oh! Mrs. Gates.

Welcome home. Hi, Margaret. Any messages?

Si, ten. All from Santa.

He's calling here?

He sounds very nice.

Mmm.

Hi, Mom. Bye.

Where you going?

To see Santa.

I told you, I don't like you going over to a stranger's house.

You watch too much TV.

He's Santa. He's not going to hurt anyone.

You don't know that.

Why don't you and I go out for some ice cream?

Just you and me, kid.

I already had dinner and dessert.

Mmm. I'm sorry. I wanted to be home earlier.

Why don't you go over and meet him yourself?

He's great.

Not tonight.

Why?

(EXHALES) I don't know.

We'll... We'll see.

That means no.

Look, I'll think about it.

I really will. But in the meantime,

I don't want you over there, okay?

Just to put my mind at ease.

Okay.

Sometimes I wish I had two parents.

I know. So do I.

Elizabeth Gates, running for Mayor.

Nice to meet you. Love that tie.

(CROWD MURMURING)

MAN: We just want to be heard!

What's going on?

Santa's unhappy neighbors.

Excuse me. MAN: Hey, hey!

Excuse me!

(CROWD CLAMORING)

Quiet down!

(CLAMOR CONTINUES)

(YELLS) Quiet!

Thank you.

Now, what is the problem?

(CROWD CLAMORING)

Quiet, quiet!

One at a time.

The problem is our new neighbor.

Now, I'm a tolerant man, Miss Gates.

I've lived there for 20 years

and I've seen all sorts of people come and go.

Hippies, yuppies, you name it.

But this Santa Claus fellow, he is destroying the neighborhood.

Yes, yes. Here.

See for yourself.

I've documented every day.

I know he's a little crazy.

Crazy?

Crazy I could live with.

But reindeer in my garbage?

That I can't live with.

WOMAN: Miss Gates?

I'm Madeline Perry, Lester's mom.

Oh, hi.

It's nice to finally meet you.

I don't know how you feel about Tommy seeing this man,

but it's getting dangerous out there.

A woman almost ran over the Nordstrom twins,

because she wasn't watching the road.

WOMAN: All that noise.

The motors grinding and the Christmas songs

keep playing over and over.

And that poofer thing

exploding snow all over.

You have every right to be upset.

And we want you to put a stop to it. ALL: Yes, yes.

Now, here's a petition with over 200 names on it.

Everybody agreeing that he's a menace to the neighborhood.

Have you tried talking to him?

Maybe a committee of neighbors could visit him

and work out an agreement?

(SCOFFS) Why should we?

That's what we pay taxes for, isn't it?

So that public officials will do something?

I'll take care of it.

You will? Yes.

You'll get your peace and quiet.

(PEOPLE MURMURING)

(SNOW EXPLOSION) KIDS: Whoa!

HENRY: Miss Gates?

I have another tape for you.

Wonderful, thank you.

And they're blocking my driveway again.

Let's get it towed.

Okay?

Let me guess. The Grinch who stole Christmas.

You know, this surprises me, Mallory.

I didn't actually think people read your newspaper.

Oh, he's a descent guy, Counselor.

He's not hurting anyone.

He's disturbing the neighborhood

and engaging in business in a residential area.

What business? He accepts donations for toys.

He gives it away to hospitals.

If he's taking money, he's running a business.

Bye, Santa. Goodbye, kids, and thanks for coming.

You came. I knew it.

Mr. George, I'm sorry, but you are disturbing your neighbors

and violating all kinds of safety and traffic codes.

I know you mean well. But I have to ask you

to stop your activities or move elsewhere.

This is a list of the violations.

The Marshals will be glad to go over them with you.

Don't go, please!

I met Tommy.

Miss Gates. Miss Gates.

Excuse me. Excuse me.

MAN: Are you trying to drum up community support, Miss Gates?

Any comment?

REPORTER 1: What do you say to the children?

REPORTER 2: Did this order come from the Mayor?

Miss Gates, would you like to comment on this?

I can't believe it.

My mother shut down Santa Claus.

REPORTER 3: Miss Gates, how will this affect you at the polls?

Ms. Gates... Ms. Gates...

(REPORTERS CLAMORING)

CROWD: (CHANTING) We love Santa! We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

We love Santa!

(PHONE RINGS)

Would you like to speak with CBS News?

No.

You shut down Santa Claus.

You didn't try to stop me.

I thought you would send somebody else out there.

I didn't think you would shut him down yourself on camera,

in front of kids and reindeer.

So, Madam Campaign Advisor, what now?

Give Alan Schaefer the railroad station free and clear.

No way, Susan.

I want that community center.

Face facts, Elizabeth.

Your negotiating position just weakened considerably.

(SIGHS)

I'll get on it.

(DOOR CLOSES)

Do you want to see Frank Mallory?

Of course not.

MALLORY: (ON INTERCOM) One question.

One question.

Dinner tonight, you and me?

No.

Thank you very much.

I'm offering you the chance to set the record straight.

No, you're not.

You're looking to feed the sharks.

(GASPS)

Is my reputation really that bad?

Yes, and that's two questions.

Well, with all due respect, Counselor,

you are a politician in the middle of a campaign

with egg on her face and I'm offering you the chance

to get it off.

Well now, you're a person of considerable charm.

Maybe you can win me over.

All right. 8:30, Giorgio's.

Thank you.

I can handle him.

You must be Marguerite, we spoke on the phone.

Yes, I recognize the voice.

Hey, it's Santa. Hi, Tommy.

I'm sorry about my mom.

I'm so ashamed of her.

Don't say that. She has a job to do and she's doing her best.

No, she not. She's awful.

Tommy, I got a cartload of presents

to deliver to a retirement home.

How'd you like to come along as Santa's helper?

Sure!

You know what your mother said.

SANTA: Now, Marguerite.

I'm sure there is some way we can work this out.

CROWD: Marguerite, Marguerite! Hola, Marguerite!

Hello, Santa!

Santa!

Marguerite!

Hasta la vista!

ELIZABETH: It was one of those situations

where I really didn't have a choice.

I hope I still have your support.

Oh, thanks.

Bye-bye.

(SIGHS)

(DOOR OPENS)

ELIZABETH: Hey!

Where have you been? I'm making your favorites.

We went to the retirement home.

ELIZABETH: What?

Yeah, Santa took us.

He came by and invited me.

I was with him every minute, Miss Gates.

He's very nice.

He had no right.

I told you to stay away from him.

That's not true.

You said I couldn't go over to his house.

Don't play lawyer with me, Tommy.

I told you to keep away from him, period.

You completely ignored me.

What's the big deal?

He asked me to go.

And Marguerite came along.

The big deal is my career.

Can you imagine how embarrassing it would be

if a reporter saw you with him?

They'd eat me alive.

I want to see Santa.

Well, you can't.

And put your bike away.

You left it on the front lawn.

It's my fault, Miss Gates.

I should not have given him permission.

Tommy, I'm sorry I got angry.

It's just...

It puts me in a...

Uh, an awkward position.

With the campaign and all, you know?

He may look like a nice man,

but sometimes things are more complicated than they seem.

I came home early to shoot some baskets with you.

Want to play?

(SIGHS)

No, thanks.

Oh, come on. Are you sure?

(SIGHS)

I'll finish making your dinner.

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

(CAR DOOR OPENS)

Can I help you?

I'm Deborah, Santa, and this is Rebecca.

Well, hello, Rebecca. What a lovely surprise.

Oh, and what is that?

Oh, my gosh, look what I found.

We heard you visited the hospital this afternoon.

We brought Rebecca home before you came.

She really wanted to meet you.

I don't know where she got the strength to make it out here.

I'm sorry.

Santa's not allowed to have any visitors.

Oh.

But...

They didn't say anything about royalty.

Please come in, Princess Rebecca.

(LAUGHS)

If we don't put a stop to it right now,

it'll never stop.

Oh, my gosh, I wonder what's in there.

Uh-oh, here it comes.

Oh. DEBORAH: Oh!

Gosh.

Oh!

(LAUGHS) Isn't she pretty?

What do you say, sweetie?

Thank you, Santa.

Oh, you're very welcome, Rebecca.

REBECCA: Her name's Christina. (KNOCK ON DOOR)

Oh, my gosh. Come in!

You've already chosen her name.

I think that's wonderful.

You are something else.

(DOOR CLOSES)

(PHONE RINGS)

(SIGHS)

Hello?

Yes, it is, but I was just going out the...

I'll be right there.

Thank you.

(PHONE RINGS)

Yeah?

(OVER PHONE) Frank, it's Turner.

I'm down at the police station.

It seems they, uh, booked your boy, Santa for an ordinance violation.

But wait till you hear who's bailing him out.

I'm Elizabeth Gates.

I'm here regarding Robert George.

OFFICER: Would you fill this out, please?

OFFICER: And I need your signature on the bottom here.

Thank you.

Let's go, Dad.

Would you like some cocoa?

You always liked cocoa.

No, thanks.

Goodnight, Lizzie.

Goodnight.

(GNOME SQUEALS)

(BELLS TINKLE)

(DOOR SLAMS)

Why are you doing this?

We had an agreement.

I was hoping things had changed.

Well, they haven't.

How could they? Look at you.

I wasn't the world's best father, I know that.

But I want to make it up to you.

I want to spend time with my grandson.

Why? So you can let him down

the same way you let me down?

The way you let mom down?

You make me sound like a criminal.

I was making people happy.

What about your daughter? What about your wife?

What about making them happy?

But then, they couldn't get you a meeting at the White House.

You know that never mattered.

Just leave us alone, please.

Lizzie, can't we start over?

No, it's too late.

I want to spend time with Tommy.

Not as Santa, you won't.

(BELLS TINKLE)

(DOOR SLAMS SHUT)

Here. You move them with this.

Okay. Oh! Good, good.

Watch out, watch out for that. All right.

Uh-oh!

Is your mom any good at this?

Nah, she stinks. Hah!

She never practices.

Well, she gets busy.

Mmm-hmm. I should know.

Aah!

Now, what about your dad? Is he any good at this?

I don't know, I never met him.

Oh.

Sorry.

That's all right.

My mom say we're a real modern family.

(DOOR CLOSES)

Marguerite.

Miss Gates.

(SIGHS)

Is Tommy asleep?

He's in the living room playing Nintendo with your date.

Mallory.

MALLORY: Jump.

TOMMY: Jump, jump.

Now go, go...

Hi, Mom. Hey, Mom.

Hey, guys. Time for bed, Tommy.

Go get changed and then I'll tuck you in.

Is Santa still off-limits?

Yes.

Then I'll tuck myself in.

Goodnight, Frank. Goodnight, Tommy. Thanks for the game.

You're welcome.

I am so sorry.

Something came up and I meant to call.

That's all right.

Bailing a parent out of jail can be a little distracting.

How did you find out?

Our police reporter.

What now?

Well, I'm still hungry. Um...

What's open this late?

Well, I know a good place.

If you could stand the atmosphere.

I didn't know you worked at the New York Times.

FRANK: Twice, fired.

Twice, for insulting my editors.

So, where does the "Gates" come from?

My mother's maiden name.

How old were you when she died?

Fifteen.

It must have been hard.

It was hard.

But I had reindeer and a Christmas-wrapped house

to come home to.

(CHUCKLES)

I'm sorry.

No, go ahead.

I know, it's funny.

Even my therapists couldn't help themselves.

One of them asked me,

was there any way I could get his daughter

a cabbage-patch doll?

(CHUCKLES)

You can't imagine what it was like having him as a father.

(DOORBELL CHIMING)

ELIZABETH: Santa, telling your date to get you home early.

SANTA: Just a minute!

Young man, I want my daughter home by 11:00.

Have a nice evening.

(LAUGHING)

* Holy, holy...

ELIZABETH: Little things, like going to church were unbearable.

* Merciful and mighty

* God in...

ELIZABETH: Or just going out to a restaurant.

Maria Juarez.

Now, that is a lovely name for a lovely little girl.

Thank you. You're very welcome. Now...

One of the worst times was in my sophomore year.

I was captain of the debate team

and we made it to the state finals.

They flew us to the capital.

I had just argued the morality of the Vietnam War.

I was spectacular, and I won it for us.

I remember thinking, "This is what I was meant to be.

"An advocate, a legislator."

And then, Santa arrived.

"Hey, Lizzie!" SANTA: Hey, Lizzie!

"That's my daughter." That's my daughter.

"That's my little elf." That's my little elf.

(LAUGHING)

MAN: That's Santa!

(LAUGHTER CONTINUES)

I am so proud of you, kid.

I love you, kid.

Oh, hello. How are you? Hi, how are you?

Hi, have you been a good girl?

Then came the final straw.

When my mother died.

She was in the hospital with cancer.

And I was at home when the nurse called and said

she'd just died

alone in her room.

They couldn't find my father.

I found him.

He was three flights down,

playing Santa to kids in the children's ward.

(HUFFS)

Well, when were you going to tell all this to Tommy?

I don't know.

Because, you know, I have to go with this story.

I mean, I can, um...

I can put it off for a few days

until you tell Tommy, but no longer.

You'd do that?

The vulture who's looking to turn his career around?

You trying to talk me out of it?

Thank you.

Hey! Don't get sentimental on me.

Mangia! Mangia!

Morning.

Oh...

My, haven't we been busy.

Do you like them?

They're lovely. Thank you.

I came to take you for a little drive.

Susan's cleared the rest of your calendar.

Restaurants, shops, theaters.

Hundreds, maybe even thousands of jobs.

CEOs and general managers

from the businesses we've lined up.

They want to meet you.

What about the community center?

Well, people were generally receptive.

I think in five years you'll have it.

Three, and I want it guaranteed.

You know, those suit coats

can get really uncomfortable in the hot sun.

I know your situation, Miss Gates.

I know you're not in a position to demand anything.

Not if you want to be mayor.

And I know I can cost you a lot of time.

And your locker room buddies

won't come trotting out quite so fast

the next time you give them a call.

Look,

you and I, our politics are as different as night and day.

But I can help you out of a jam.

You get a bigger office, I get my project.

And what about the community center?

I'll do what I can.

You have my word.

I guess that'll have to do.

Gentlemen, I'd like you to meet a future governor of this state.

If the senate doesn't snap her up first.

Hi! Welcome aboard. It's nice to meet you.

SANTA: I have storage costs now.

I have zoo fees for my reindeer,

and no income except my social security.

And you also have no skills.

I am very good with children.

But you're not credentialed.

No, I'm not.

I may have something for you.

(PHONE RINGS)

Hello, Greendale Travel, Mr. Claus speaking.

How may I help you?

Rome? Yes!

A very lovely city, especially this time of the year.

How many in your party, Mrs., uh, Miller?

Really? Five children.

That is wonderful. But that's going to be very expensive.

Oh, yes, I would wait for the rates to go down.

Best thing to do is save that family nest egg and stay right here.

Camp out, go to the children's museum, the zoo.

There is so much to see in your own backyard.

WOMAN: That's it.

Would you like a toy with that?

But I didn't order a kid's meal.

We won't worry about that.

Thanks, Santa.

It'll probably break. Have another.

Thanks, Santa.

(SIGHS)

That was our last shot.

But I need a regular job.

I want to be near my grandson.

And I would love to help, but we've struck out.

And you're not qualified for anything.

Actually, there is one thing.

Should we be looking for him

after what your mom said?

I'm worried.

He hasn't been home in days

and we can't find him anywhere.

Look!

Great, he's okay.

I know I should have told you before.

Oh. (SIGHS) Too defensive.

(DOOR OPENS)

Tommy?

Hi.

We need to talk.

I know.

You know?

We've been fighting a lot lately.

And I just wanted to say that I'm sorry.

That I haven't been more understanding.

Thank you, sweetheart.

Yeah.

Got you this. Oh.

I've hated the last few days, too.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Did you get a haircut? (LAUGHS)

Yeah. Yeah, you got a haircut.

Yeah.

Aren't you going to open it?

A basketball!

All right!

Do you want to go play?

Actually, uh, I wanted to talk about something first.

Sure.

It can wait.

Come on.

Oh, he's making his move.

But she's going to hang in there.

Oh, oh, oh.

Oh, yes!

Get off my back, buddy.

All right, I'm going to...

Oh! Oh! Shoot!

Oh, oh, oh, oh, what a move, what a move.

I'm stunned.

I'm knocked out.

Gosh, you're giving me a lesson.

Oh, was that fabulous?

Oh!

Oh, yes!

Yes! Yeah!

Ah!

ELIZABETH: (GROANS) Oh.

My body's too old for basketball.

I'll be the judge of that.

Oh.

So what did he say?

(SIGHS) Who?

Tommy, about your father.

I didn't tell him.

(SLAPS) Ouch.

(SIGHS) I know.

It's just... It's the first time in weeks

we've been getting along.

(SIGHS) It's going to come out, Elizabeth.

If not from me, then someone else.

And then I've got a really big problem,

because I like you and I like Tommy,

but I also like my job.

(SIGHS)

What if I gave you something else?

I thought we were going to keep those two separate.

I'm talking about a story.

About a greedy developer

who wants to tear down the old railroad station

and who's going all out

to make sure it gets done before anyone can stop it.

It could buy you an extra day.

Two days. One.

Or you're the headline tomorrow.

(SIGHS)

Okay, one day.

So are we done with business now?

I think so.

Are we going to negotiate about this, too?

Probably.

Oh. Mmm.

Frank? Yeah?

Oh, what took us so long?

Why, have you been thinking about this for a while?

Mmm, two or three years. Oh, you coward.

How long have you been thinking about it?

Four or five. (LAUGHS)

Weeks.

Liar.

(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)

I know. I saw it, too.

Kind of kills Schaefer's project, doesn't it?

Before, his big hope was surprise,

get it through before opposition rallies.

Now, I'll bet we've got,

what, 20 calls against tearing the station down.

Maybe we can turn a negative into a positive.

If you can bring this home for him,

Schaefer will be very grateful.

MICHAEL: City Attorney's office.

I've got to have it on my terms.

I still want...

Mr. Robert George. He says you know him.

Tell him I'm busy.

Elizabeth, you are playing with fire.

He says to tell you that's the name

he'll be using from now on.

Could we talk about this later? I'll take it.

(DOOR SHUTS)

Come in, please.

Where is everything?

In the garage, storage.

Sit down.

Being Santa Claus kept me from my daughter and my grandson,

so I'm giving it up.

You can't give it up.

It's in your blood.

You're in my blood, too.

I took a job at a barber shop.

I think I know one of your first customers.

Now, don't hold it against him.

He saw me in the shop.

I appreciate the gesture, Dad.

It's just a little late.

I could have used this kind of concern 20 years ago.

I had the concern, Lizzie.

I just didn't know how to raise a teenage girl.

It was my whole life, Dad.

I made mistakes, I know that.

Give an old man a chance.

You hurt me so many times.

You just weren't there for me.

And you were there for everyone else.

That's all going to change, I promise.

Look.

(KNOCK ON DOOR)

Excuse me.

Santa.

Santa's not here anymore.

Sir, we've been living on the streets now for about eight months.

My kids haven't had something to smile about for a long, long time.

If we could just have a few minutes of your time.

Please.

It's not as easy as you thought, is it?

Excuse me.

Hi.

Hi, Mom.

You got a minute?

Sure.

Am I in trouble?

No, not this time.

Tommy, you're clear about your father, right?

I loved him.

I wanted to marry him.

But marriage wasn't for him.

So, eventually he left.

Just you and me, kid.

And you know how I've always said

that we don't have any relatives,

I'm an only child, and my parents are dead?

Yeah.

Well, that's not completely true.

My father is alive.

I have a grandfather?

Yes.

How come you never told me?

Because I didn't want him in my life

and it was easier to say that he was dead.

You lied to me.

(SIGHS) I was trying to protect you.

I should have told you before, I know that.

But it's so complicated and hard to understand.

What's he like?

Actually, you've met him.

I have?

Mmm-hmm.

Who is he?

The man you think is Santa.

Santa Claus is my grandfather?

Not Santa Claus,

the guy who dresses up like Santa Claus.

Wow!

Santa Claus is my grandfather!

He's not Santa Claus!

Yes, he is.

You should see him. He's Santa Claus.

I want to tell Lester. We've got to go over there.

No, Tommy, you're not going.

But, Mom, he's my grandpa.

And he's my father, and I know what he's like.

He's charming and he's fun

and he'll disappoint you every single time.

You'll have a birthday party or a game or a graduation,

and he won't show up.

Yes, he will. And when he does show up,

he gets all the attention.

Everything becomes about Santa, never you.

You'll get very hurt, the way I did.

I want to see him.

I want to see my grandpa.

I understand.

But you can't.

Miss Gates, quick! You have to see this.

NEWS REPORTER: The details in this story just will not end.

Now it seems, the local Santa here

is father to more than just Christmas.

According to documents recently obtained,

the Santa cited for disturbing this local neighborhood

is none other than the father

of the city attorney who shut him down.

Oh, it may not be as hard-hearted

as it all sounds, though.

Several days ago, when Santa was arrested for violating the order,

his daughter, our own city attorney, Elizabeth Gates

posted his bail,

after she put him there in the first place.

So, bah, humbug, Ms. Scrooge!

And we'll continue to follow this story...

You put my grandfather in jail?

I hate you.

(DOOR SLAMS)

SUSAN: Is there anything else I should know?

Did you work for the K.G.B.?

Was your mother an ax-murderer?

I wish you had told me about this.

We could have gone proactive on damage control.

Mallory is in with his editor.

Probably getting fired.

Keep calling, say it's important.

I can't believe this.

Not only did you put Santa Claus in jail,

but you publicly did in your own father.

Hey, sell your kid to the slave trade

and we can cover all the bases.

You know, you're not being helpful.

All right.

First thing we do is push up the council hearing on the railroad station.

More bad publicity?

That's the last thing we should do.

We're in free fall right now.

To get you back in a good light

you're going to have to pay, big time.

For starters, that means you're going

to the fund-raising luncheon with Schaefer today.

You need a wealthy friend who can buy you

a lot of positive publicity.

So go on upstairs,

get your war paint on, and hurry.

Michael, keep calling Mallory.

(KNOCKING)

Why is Santa's house for rent?

We got to tell Tommy.

Hello!

Hey. Where you going?

I'm not sure.

Somewhere.

I have messed things up for Lizzie since I got here.

She'll be happier when I'm gone.

That's what Santa does, he makes people happy, huh?

Why'd you call me?

This is the money I raised for Santa's Dream World.

I've no use for it now.

Make sure it goes to a good place.

I'm sorry.

Some dreams can't come true, Mr. Mallory,

no matter how much we hope.

I have to ask you something.

What happened the night that your wife died?

So do you really think he'll let you live with him?

Of course. He's my grandfather.

That's so cool.

He's moving.

Who?

Santa! Santa!

He's packing up.

He can't leave!

My mom must have told him

to leave town or she'd put him in jail.

We've got to stop him.

But your mom will go ballistic.

Who cares?

He's not just Santa, he's my grandpa.

Perfect.

And my tail is between my legs.

You'll get your shelter next time.

Right now we need to make sure there is a next time.

So just keep moving and do not answer any questions.

(REPORTERS CLAMORING)

Bundle up. It's cold out there.

All right. We're going to surround the house.

And no matter what,

even if they try to arrest us

we don't give up, okay? ALL: Yeah!

We don't go home until they say Santa can stay.

Let's go!

Hurry up, guys!

(HORN HONKING)

(TOMMY SCREAMING)

WOMAN: (OVER PA) Dr. Phelps, 4721.

Dr. Phelps, 4721.

Oh, Miss Gates.

Where is he?

Intensive care.

How did this happen? You were supposed to be watching him.

He climbed out his window.

The boys say he was going to

help his grandfather.

You should have been watching him!

I think we'll need some coffee.

Marguerite, would you give me a hand, please?

(SOFTLY) Yes.

Miss Gates? Yes.

I'm Dr. Nichols.

What's going on?

Right now we're setting his broken arm,

but he did experience a head injury.

It might be a concussion, I don't know.

We're running tests to assess the trauma.

Can I see him?

Not now, the nurse... Doctor?

That's my baby in there.

When the nurses finish up you can go in.

Elizabeth?

(SOBS)

How is he?

They don't know.

He was trying to see Santa.

From the moment he showed up,

that man has been at the bottom of everything that's gone wrong around here.

I don't think you can blame your dad for this.

It never would've happened

if he hadn't tried to get back into my life.

I don't know, maybe you shouldn't have tried

to keep Tommy away from his grandfather.

Frank, he was a lousy father,

and a lousy husband.

And he would make a lousy grandfather.

You know, I talked to your father today about your mother.

And he said that the doctors

made him leave the hospital that night,

because he hadn't slept in days

and they promised him that your mother

would be okay in the morning.

But he didn't want to leave her,

so he went downstairs to be with the kids.

He just wanted some company.

And you believe him?

Yes.

Yes, I believe him.

Miss Gates, you can go in now.

(SIGHS)

Hi, pal.

I always told you to watch out for cars, you know.

You're going to be okay.

You'll see.

Just you and me, kid.

I love you so much.

You admitted a little boy to emergency,

name's Gates, Tommy Gates.

He's been moved to intensive care.

Where is that?

Oh, I'm sorry, only family is allowed.

I am family.

I mean blood relatives.

I am a blood relative.

Why don't you take a seat over there

and I'll send someone over to meet you?

I've got someone dressed here like Santa.

Would you see if he's supposed to be here?

(SIGHS) Send security.

WOMAN: (OVER PA) Security, 12th floor.

MAN: Sir, excuse me, sir...

SANTA: I need to get in there.

What's going on?

Oh, some guy in a Santa suit.

SANTA: I'm telling you the truth. Now take your hands off me.

Sir, we have to ask you to leave.

This area is for families only.

I am family.

Lizzie.

Lizzie, how's Tommy?

Ma'am, do you know this gentleman?

Come on in, Dad.

(EXHALES)

Don't you ever get hot in that suit?

You're asking me now?

This suit is murder.

Now, my first suit, your mother sewed for me.

She put in all those little vents here and there.

Fit like a dream.

What did mom really think about it?

About what?

You being Santa Claus.

She thought I was crazy, just like you do.

(CHUCKLES)

I'll tell you something, Lizzie.

The only thing better than doing what you want with your life

is knowing that somebody loves you enough to let you do it.

The only thing I ever wanted was to be something other than you.

And I failed.

I ended up just like you.

Devoting too many hours to a dream and

my own child waiting for me.

At least you were making people happy.

Yes, I brought joy to a lot of lives.

But I'll tell you something, Lizzie.

I would trade it all in a second

to have spent more time with my daughter.

No change.

(SIGHS)

ELIZABETH: Why don't you go and get some rest?

I am not leaving.

Not this time.

Brought you some breakfast just the way you like it, hmm?

I have to cover the council meeting today.

Your boy, Schaefer?

I'll be back when it's over.

So you still have your job?

Mmm, hard to tell.

For the time being.

I'm sorry, Frank.

Ah, don't be. Some things are more important than a story.

You know, I wish I'd learned that 20 years ago.

I would have won a Pulitzer by now.

See you.

Thanks. Sure.

NURSE: Miss Gates?

I know this is a difficult time.

We have some kids who heard your father was here.

Well, they could use some cheering up.

Let me talk to him.

SANTA: Using a bat

made from a local guava tree branch,

Roberto Clemente began playing

the organized game of baseball...

Dad? With a neighborhood team...

Dad?

There are some children in the hospital who want to see you.

I'm sorry. I'm here with my daughter and my grandson.

Dad, go ahead.

If there's any change

I'll get you right away, I promise.

Lizzie, I can't leave.

I want you to go.

It's okay now.

You'll call me?

Absolutely.

Go.

They're waiting for you.

All right, then, that's our deal.

You take care of the leg

and I'll take care of the truck.

Mmm-hmm.

Right? Easy with the hand.

Okay, easy, easy. Okay.

Good, wonderful.

Easy. Easy.

Who's next?

ELIZABETH: I am.

I want my son back.

I don't have that kind of power.

Yes, you do.

You're Santa.

You've given so much to so many.

Can't I have some, too?

I could try.

But you have to believe in Santa.

I don't know if I can do that.

Does your son believe?

With all his heart.

Well, he had to get it from somewhere.

I believe, I do.

Then you'll get your wish.

Elizabeth. How are you holding up?

Oh, I know this is a terrible time.

I am so sorry.

I just need five minutes.

You're right, it is a terrible time.

I wrote a statement. It just says you support the project.

I need your signature. This is it.

This is what we've been working for.

I don't want to sign anything now.

I don't want to think about any project.

I just want to be in there with my son.

Five minutes.

No!

MAN: Somebody get Dr. Williams!

NURSE: Miss Gates!

Dr. Williams, come here!

Miss Gates, Miss Gates! Hurry!

Am I in trouble?

Tommy!

Thank God!

Oh!

Would you get my father, please?

Is he okay, is he out of danger?

Everything is perfect.

He probably didn't even have a headache.

I'm hungry. Oh...

DOCTOR: Whatever you want.

I'm gonna keep him here for another day or so just to be sure.

But all his vital signs are good.

You did it. No, you did it.

Oh.

Tommy, this is your grandfather.

I believe we've met.

Doctor, thank you so much.

You know, I don't think medicine had much to do with this one.

(LAUGHS)

Santa? Mmm.

I have a question.

Sure.

You're my grandfather.

And Lester wants to know if that makes me an elf

or just a helper.

It makes you my daughter's son.

And there's no higher honor I can think of.

Now you got to get some rest.

Don't go.

You heard the doctor.

You've got to rest.

I'll see you again.

Where's he going?

I don't know.

Dad?

Dad, what's going on?

Now that Tommy's all right, I think I'll be leaving.

What are you talking about? Leaving town?

I just cause problems.

You're in the middle of your campaign.

To hell with the campaign.

Don't say that.

Listen, you have a wonderful career in front of you

that you've worked very hard for.

I don't want to interfere with that.

I am so proud of you.

Where will you go?

Back to Nebraska.

Maybe I'll open my dream world there.

I can't bail you out in Nebraska.

Don't worry about me.

I've got my daughter back.

Santa?

Thanks for my gift.

I love you, kid.

It figures.

You leave and we get North Pole weather.

The car can't make it that far, huh?

Afraid not.

I prefer the train, anyhow.

Get to see more of the country that way.

Drive safely.

I'll see you on Thursday.

Call if you need the sleigh.

Okay.

(HONKING)

(POLICE RADIO CHATTER)

Hey, Santa, where you going?

Home, to Nebraska.

I've decided to pull up stakes here.

Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.

Look, no hard feelings about the arrest, huh?

No hard feelings.

Hey, can we drop you somewhere?

I don't want to impose.

(CHUCKLES) What, are you kidding?

It would get my kids off my back for us running you in.

Afraid you've made a mistake.

This is the old station.

I need the new station downtown.

No, we're in the right place.

(JOVIAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(CROWD CLAPPING)

(CROWD CHEERING)

Welcome to Santa's Dream World.

But how?

The city council voted to make this Santa's permanent home.

It's a non-profit, public structure

open 365 days a year to children of all ages.

You should have seen your daughter.

Those developers didn't stand a chance.

And I got it all right here.

(LAUGHING)

You used your magic for me.

I used my magic for you.

What about your campaign?

I'm still running, just not as hard.

And with a lot less money.

We may still have our fights, Dad,

but we're on the same side now.

Please stay.

I would love to.

(CROWD CHEERING)

* Santa's staying and we're so jolly

* Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la

* Deck the halls with boughs of holly

* Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la

* Don we now our gay apparel

* Fa-la-la, la-la-la La-la-la

* Toll the ancient yuletide carol

* Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la *

MAN: Snow!

It's snowing.

It's a miracle!

Merry Christmas, Santa.

But it's June.

No, it's not.

It's Christmas.

Come here.

ALL: * We wish you a Merry Christmas

* We wish you a Merry Christmas

* We wish you a Merry Christmas

* And a happy new year