ANNIE KRINGLE
[MUSIC]
01:00:00
[INDISTINCT CONVERSATIONS]
ALBIE
01:00:15
Oh, good morning, Miss Klaus.
ANNIE
Merry Christmas, Albie.
ALBIE
Merry Christmas to you.
IAN
Good morning, Miss Annie Klaus.
ANNIE
Oh, Merry Christmas, Ian.
IAN
You do know that Christmas is over a month away.
ANNIE
Merry Christmas, Tracy. Beautiful bows. Ian, here, every day is Christmas.
IAN
01:00:32
Of course it is. You are absolutely right. Oh, here's the toy popularity report you'd
asked for.
ANNIE
Oh. Just as I thought. We have a lot of work to do. Rally the troops.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:00:47
Conference in ten minutes. Hot cocoa and sugar cookies for everyone!
[ALL CHEERING]
CHESTER
(clears throat) Merry morning, villagers.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 2
[BELLS CHIME]
ANNIE
Oh, it's announcement time!
CHESTER
01:01:03
This is Chester Singleton, Executive V.P. of Operations. We have prepared a state of
the village address to give you our status for the upcoming holiday season. So without
further ado, I give you the man himself, Santa Claus!
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
MARTHA
01:01:19
Go get 'em, Santa Claus.
SANTA CLAUS
Ahem, uh...my fellow villagers...
ANNIE
Cookie?
SANTA CLAUS
Mrs. Klaus and I would like to thank you all for all your hard work this year.
ANNIE
Have one.
SANTA CLAUS
And I'm happy to report that we are poised to have our greatest season that we have
seen since I began my tenure as Santa Claus.
[ALL CHEER]
01:01:40
SANTA CLAUS
Now, it is due in no small part to Chester here, and my daughter Annie, Vice President
of toys,
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
SANTA CLAUS
And all of you who have worked endlessly year-'round to make this season special for
children worldwide.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 3
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
01:02:00
SANTA CLAUS
Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas!
[ALL CHEER]
ALL
Merry Christmas.
MARTHA
Oh, and that is how we do that.
WOMAN
01:02:17
Okay, uh, here we go...
[OVERLAPPING CHATTER]
MARTHA
Well, naughty and nice lists are coming in fast and furious.
SANTA CLAUS
Well, they do every year. A parent's greatest ammunition.
ANNIE
01:02:32
Anybody have time for a cocoa break?
SANTA CLAUS
Who has time for breaks this time of year? I mean, the season's upon us! With you
going on sabbatical, my load just got considerably heavier. Maybe you should not go.
ANNIE
Oh, father!
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:02:47
I've only been waiting for this trip my entire life.
MARTHA
Santa, you know that this is her time. None of us would be here if you had not taken
your season off.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 4
SANTA CLAUS
Yes, but I came back to the village.
MARTHA
And Annie might too. But she needs to experience the world before she can make that
important decision for herself.
SANTA CLAUS
01:03:04
It's a harsh and unforgiving world out there, Martha.
MARTHA
Do not listen to your father, Annie. The outside world is so full of adventure and
wonder. Why, the day Santa came into my diner...
SANTA CLAUS
Ho! (chuckles) Then I was known just as boring old Calvin Klaus.
MARTHA
01:03:22
Calvin Klaus was anything but boring to me. It was love at first sight.
ANNIE
Wouldn't it be wonderful, mother, to go out into the world and find my very own Calvin
Klaus!
MARTHA
This journey is about finding where you belong. But if there is a Calvin Klaus out there
who makes your decision easier, all the better.
MARTHA (CONTINUED)
01:03:45
All right, Annie, are you ready to find out where sabbatical will be taking you?
ANNIE
I'm so excited, mother. It could be anywhere. Paris...Prague...Pittsburgh...
MARTHA
It all depends on this.
SANTA CLAUS
01:04:00
Very exciting indeed.
ANNIE
Places that I've only seen on the globe. And I could go there!
ANNIE KRINGLE - 5
MARTHA
One of the perks of being a Klaus. No peeking, now.
ANNIE
Oh, I wouldn't dream of it. This is far too important.
MARTHA
01:04:15
All righty, then.
SANTA CLAUS & MARTHA
Throw away, throw away, and let the fates fall where they may!
ANNIE
01:04:42
Where am I going? Where am I going...
MARTHA
Los Angeles, California.
ANNIE
Just like the Beverly Hillbillies!
SANTA CLAUS
01:04:57
"Swimming pools, movie stars." For sabbatical?
MARTHA
Think of all the excitement that awaits you in that wonderland of Sunny Southern
California! (gasps)
CHESTER
I know I, for one, would be absolutely devastated if, come Christmas day, Annie decides
to sign over her rights.
IAN
01:05:16
It--it would be that day?
CHESTER
That very day.
IAN
Wait. Does this mean I'm out of a job? Because I--I--I need this job. My father cut me
off, and--
ANNIE KRINGLE - 6
CHESTER
Calm--shh... Ian, you have not heard the best part yet.
IAN
What's the best part?
CHESTER
01:05:31
The best part is that, upon Santa's retirement, the head of operations takes over.
IAN
Wait, you're the head of operations.
CHESTER
Yes, I am. I did not make the rules, Ian. I merely follow them.
CHESTER (CONTINUED)
01:05:47
And you know, I have had my eye on you for some time now.
IAN
Me? Re--really?
CHESTER
Oh, yes. You see, Ian, I was not born into power and privilege, like the Klauses. My
parents came from the rank and file of sleigh maintenance.
IAN
01:06:02
Mine were in postal management.
CHESTER
I have worked too hard--we--we have worked too hard to get here, and it is time for us
to get what's coming to us. Now, you stick by me, and you have a very big future.
IAN
Wait...you just can't force her to stay.
IAN (CONTINUED)
01:06:19
What--what if she comes back?
CHESTER
I cannot...but he can.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 7
IAN
Who is Dean Durling?
CHESTER
He is the man that Annie is going to fall in love with.
CHESTER (CONTINUED)
01:06:34
The man who is going to ask her to stay in Los Angeles with him.
DIRECTOR
Okay, Dean, take 49. With feeling, project! Action.
DEAN
Hey there. You know, after my accident, I was told I may never walk again.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:06:50
But Shaw, Shaw, and Shaw got me $180,000!
DIRECTOR
Cut! Let's do it again. Take 50.
ANNIE
Good-bye.
MAN
Bye, Annie.
ANNIE
Bye.
CHESTER
Have fun.
ANNIE
Good-bye. Uncle Chester will take good care of you.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:07:08
Good-bye. Good-bye. Bye. Good-bye.
WOMAN
Bye, Annie. There she goes.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 8
SANTA CLAUS
Now, if you get homesick, just shake up this snow globe and it'll remind you of the home
you love so.
ANNIE
01:07:23
Thank you, father.
SANTA CLAUS & ANNIE
(chuckle)
MARTHA
Ready for your big adventure?
ANNIE
I'm more ready for it than anything. Good-bye.
ALL
01:07:38
Bye, Annie!
WOMAN
We're gonna miss you, Annie.
MAN
Be careful.
WOMAN
Come back to us.
MAN
We'll miss you a lot. Be careful out there. Bye-bye.
ANNIE
Good-bye, everyone. Good-bye. I'll miss you. Eat lots of cookies!
[UPBEAT COUNTRY/BLUES MUSIC]
SINGER
01:07:56
Snowflakes are fallin', the yuletide's callin', reindeers are spotted in flight. Mistletoe is
hangin', everybody's makin' plans for this wonderful night.
ANNIE
01:08:13
Snowflakes are driftin', I been thinkin'…
ANNIE KRINGLE - 9
TRAFFIC MAN
(whistle blows)
SINGER
What to do to make things right.
ANNIE
Oh...what a wonderful trick!
SINGER
Hey, Santa.
ANNIE
Merry Christmas, driver.
MAN
Where you going, lady?
ANNIE
01:08:29
The Candy Cane Motel, if you please. Doesn't that sound like the most wonderful place
in the world?
MAN
Delicious.
ANNIE
(chuckles) Merry Christmas.
TRAFFIC MAN
Mmm.
SINGER
01:08:44
The wintertime's freezin', somebody's dreamin'...
[ELECTRICITY CRACKLES]
[ENTRY BELLS JINGLE]
01:09:05
TED
Happy Black Friday, Barry.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 10
BARRY
Happy Black Friday, Ted. How's business going?
TED
See for yourself.
BARRY
Wow, this place used to be packed around the holidays. What happened?
TED
Well, the lovely people at Super Store decided to build a flagship two blocks away.
BARRY
01:09:23
Super Store opened at 3:00 a.m. this morning. First 40 people in line got flat screen
TVs for a dollar.
TED
That is why it is time to pull out the big guns. Gotta do something to restore this place
to it's former glory, right?
BARRY
01:09:38
Charley Boone's trains.
TED
Yep. Care to do the honors?
BARRY
I'd be honored to do the honors. And...
[ELECTRICITY CRACKLES, BUZZES]
BARRY
Huh. Plan "B." Maybe, uh...advertising.
BARRY (CONTINUED)
01:09:56
Online presence, perhaps.
TED
All of those things cost money. And, as my accountant, you should know that I don't
have any of that.
BARRY
Yeah. And I don't think I need to tell you that you have a balloon payment due at the
end of the month.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 11
TED
I've still got a month. I'll think of something.
[MUSIC]
01:10:16
MAN
You sure you don't want to stay someplace a little nicer?
ANNIE
01:10:31
Look at the name--the Candy Cane Motel. I have to stay here for Christmas.
LUCY
No, it's not the Four Seasons, but it's cheap and it's clean. You want to make a
reservation or not? Great. You're booked. Can't wait to meet you.
ANNIE
01:10:46
Hi. I believe that you have a room waiting for me.
LUCY
What's it under?
ANNIE
Annie Klaus. Uh, K-L-A-U-S.
LUCY
Oh, there it is. The little Annie Klaus. Sounds like I should be saying Santy Klaus.
LUCY (CONTINUED)
01:11:02
Your parents have a good sense of humor.
ANNIE
(chuckles) I get that a lot.
LUCY
We have you under the extended stay. Sign right there.
ANNIE
Yes, I'll be staying for quite a while.
LUCY
Right this way, Miss Annie Klaus.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 12
LUCY (CONTINUED)
01:11:18
Honey, what happened?
MIA
Amy Winton and her stupid friends.
LUCY
Those girls teasing you again?
MIA
She chased me, and then I fell into the mud! But she's just jealous because she didn't
get the part for the solo in the pageant.
MIA (CONTINUED)
01:11:34
And then she called me a baby for believing in Santa Claus.
ANNIE
What? Who would say something like that?
LUCY
Honey, don't you think you're getting a little too old?
ANNIE
I assure you there is nothing babyish about believing in Santa Claus.
MIA
01:11:49
Who are you?
LUCY
That's Annie. She's not a movie star. She's gonna be staying here with us for the next
month.
ANNIE
This Amy Winton person shouldn't be making fun of anyone, let alone someone
believing in Santa Claus.
LUCY
Do you believe?
ANNIE
Of course I believe. I know Santa is real. And he knows who's naughty and who's nice.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 13
LUCY
01:12:05
Here we go. Room number six. Here's your key. Let us know if you need anything.
Welcome to the Candy Cane.
ANNIE
Thank you. I think I'm gonna be very happy here.
[DIALING CELLPHONE]
01:12:31
[CELL PHONE RINGS]
CHESTER
Chester Singleton.
DEAN
First contact is imminent.
CHESTER
Excellent.
[PHONE BEEPS OFF]
[HORN HONKS]
ANNIE
01:12:47
Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas.
MAN
What a freak.
WOMAN
I know.
ANNIE
Merry Christmas.
BOY
01:13:02
Dork!
ANNIE
Merry Christmas.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 14
MAN
Okay, ignore the crazy.
WOMAN
Come on, come on.
[HORN HONKING]
MAN
Hey, are you thirsty, freak?
[LAUGHTER]
ANNIE
01:13:19
(gasps) Why am I-DEAN
01:13:36
You all right?
ANNIE
Uh...I'm okay. I--I--I--my pride may have suffered a blow.
DEAN
Well...well, I'll have you know that not many people in this town are like that to
newcomers.
ANNIE
01:13:54
How did you know I was a newcomer?
DEAN
Um, it was just a hunch. You have a good day now.
[SIREN IN DISTANCE]
01:14:18
ANNIE
Wait, wait, so you're saying that I shouldn't give people hugs when they're sad?
LUCY
Nope. And don't take it personal when they don't say "hi" back.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 15
ANNIE
It's just so different here. When someone back home passes without a smile, then you
know that something is probably very wrong.
LUCY
01:14:34
Well, we're pretty comfortable around here living in fear of each other. We tend not to
make eye contact if we can help it.
ANNIE
When I pass someone without a smile, I like to offer mine.
MIA
Mom!
LUCY
Here, Mia.
MIA
Mommy, the pageant was cancelled.
LUCY
I'm sorry, baby.
LUCY (CONTINUED)
01:14:50
What happened?
MIA
Mrs. Carmichael's mom got sick, and they had to cancel because she had to go to
Michigan.
LUCY
That's too bad, baby. So there's no one else that can direct it?
MIA
No. They just cancelled it.
MIA (CONTINUED)
01:15:06
And I was gonna sing.
ANNIE
Ahh, I love singing.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 16
LUCY
Baby, you know I would do it, but I can't pay Carmen any more than I already do to
watch the motel.
ANNIE
By the time I was five, I knew every Christmas song under the sun. Oh, Mia, I'm so
sorry.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:15:23
Music is food for the soul, especially Christmas music.
MIA
I know, but now it's like Christmas is cancelled.
ANNIE
Oh...we can't let this happen, Mia.
MIA
We?
ANNIE
What if I direct the pageant?
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:15:40
Uh, Christmas is sort of my thing.
LUCY
You don't say.
ANNIE
I directed the Spring Elf Show to rave reviews.
MIA
Oh, thank you, Annie. I've been waiting for this forever.
MIA (CONTINUED)
01:15:56
Thanks, Annie.
ANNIE
01:16:16
Come and play. Wonderland of Toys." Wonderland of Toys. How exciting!
ANNIE KRINGLE - 17
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:16:44
Oh, this is not right.
[ELECTRICITY CRACKLES]
01:17:00
TED
01:17:32
What do you think you're doing?
ANNIE
This is a very popular game this season, in the 85th percentile. You have it all but
behind this toy from last year.
TED
Lady, are you from the bank? I have till the end of the month.
ANNIE
From the bank? No. (chuckles) I'm merely a fan of toys.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:17:53
Oh...hi. I'm Annie Klaus. I'm just visiting. I'm staying at the Candy Cane Motel. I, uh,
saw your flier, and had to experience your wonderland for myself.
TED
01:18:09
Ted Boone, owner of said Wonderland.
ANNIE
Except I don't understand why you would call it a Wonderland, though. That word
evokes images of amazement and adventure, which...your store has none of.
TED
01:18:28
Thanks. That makes me feel amazing.
ANNIE
I finished that display. However, there's plenty of other work to be done.
TED
Well, it does look much better.
ANNIE
I'm in the toy business too. Back home, in Idaho...uh, where I'm from.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 18
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:18:45
My family has a toy business there...uh, in Idaho, where I'm--we have a toy business.
TED
Yeah, you said that. So is this family business very successful?
ANNIE
Oh, I should say so. It's one of the most successful ones ever.
TED
For your town.
ANNIE
Yes...for my town.
TED
01:19:01
Then I sure could use your help around here, but unfortunately, I can't really afford to
pay you right now.
ANNIE
I would never, ever take money for working with toys. I'd be happy to help you while I'm
in town.
TED
Well, that doesn't seem right.
ANNIE
01:19:16
I'm here for a short time to experience the world and try to decide if I want to go back
and run my father's business. Working in your store would help me make that decision.
TED
You're sure about this?
ANNIE
Oh, nothing comforts me more than working with toys.
TED
01:19:33
Working for free, it must be a very successful family business, huh?
ANNIE
Oh...it is. (chuckles) So when do I start?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 19
[MUSIC]
ANNIE
01:19:49
And I can promise I'll make you all proud. I'm going to infuse you with Christmas spirit
while we make the most wonderful pageant ever. Yes, Amy?
AMY
Will you be re-casting a more mature soloist?
AMY (CONTINUED)
01:20:06
Some of us feel that maybe someone got the lead because she started to cry like a
baby.
MIA
I did not cry!
ANNIE
I don't think re-casting is necessary. Here, everyone is a star. There are no small roles,
only small actors.
AMY
One more thing.
ANNIE
Mm-hmm.
AMY
01:20:21
I know the script Calls for a Santa. Will the real Santa Claus be participating?
ANNIE
Oh, heavens no. He's far too busy this time of year. But we'll get one of Santa's
helpers to play him.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:20:36
Shall we, uh, practice some scales? Here we go. (playing scales) Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho.
ALL
Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho.
ANNIE
Bounce.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 20
ALL
Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho.
ANNIE
01:20:52
Look alive, Amy!
ALL
Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho.
[BEEP]
CHESTER
Status report.
DEAN
I can't talk right now. I'm at work.
CHESTER
Time is ticking, Dean. I need you to make this happen now.
DEAN
You know, Chester, nobody could live on this pittance that you're paying me, man.
CHESTER
01:21:07
Quit that job. You work for me exclusively. Consider the ante upped.
DEAN
How upped?
CHESTER
Way upped.
ANNIE
Trust me, Ted, there's a method to my madness.
[MUSIC]
01:21:22
TED
You've been at it all morning, yet all I see is madness.
ANNIE
(chuckles) In chaos there is order. How's the train coming?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 21
TED
Still having technical difficulties.
ANNIE
Well, keep working on them. The store needs energy.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:21:38
It needs excitement. People shop in places that make them feel good.
TED
What makes you feel good?
ANNIE
Christmas. Christmas makes everyone feel good, and you don't have so much as a
single candy cane in here.
TED
Well, this might come as a shock to you, Annie, but Christmas makes some people feel
like failures at life, love, and the pursuit of happiness.
ANNIE
01:21:58
All the more reason to surround yourself with it. You have to give people a reason to
shop here instead of that Super Store. I'm sorry to tell you, Ted, but Christmas may be
the best thing you've got going for you.
TED
It worked for my father.
ANNIE
Exactly.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:22:14
So put out some sugar cookies, throw up some garland, and put up some lights. Oh,
lots of lights.
TED
Do you think decorating is gonna magically solve the problem of this balloon payment?
ANNIE
Oh...not just your money problems, but your soul.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 22
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:22:32
Infuse yourself with the Christmas spirit, and life just looks better.
LUCY
We are treating you today.
MIA
Yes.
WAITRESS
Here you go.
ANNIE
Excuse me...are you married?
WAITRESS
01:22:48
Why?
ANNIE
I'm just curious.
WAITRESS
Prince charming hasn't been lucky enough to find me yet.
ANNIE
Oh. Well, you can't give up hope. You're in the right place. One day, he is gonna walk
through that door and sweep you off your feet. And then you'll move to his village with
him and be crazy in love for years and years.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:23:07
And you'll help him run a successful family business. And then maybe you'll have a
daughter that you'll love dearly.
WAITRESS
Then I guess I better stay in this dream job.
ANNIE
That's how my parents met.
LUCY
01:23:22
Yeah.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 23
ANNIE
Him!
LUCY
Who's him?
ANNIE
The man who helped me the other day. Hello! Hey, hello! Hello!
MIA
01:23:37
What is she talking about?
LUCY
I don't know, baby.
[MUSIC]
ANNIE
Hello!
LUCY
(knock on glass)
ANNIE
01:23:57
Where'd he go?
LUCY
Don't you ever run after no man. Hear me?
MIA
Okay.
LUCY
Not a good look. Don't do that.
[WINDOW SQUEAKING]
01:24:12
DEAN
Excuse me, ma'am.
ANNIE
It's you.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 24
DEAN
Well, if it isn't the lady soda shake.
ANNIE
I'm Annie.
DEAN
Dean. Dean Durling.
ANNIE
01:24:28
It's so nice to meet you...(giggling) again.
DEAN
The pleasure is most definitely mine. So what, do you work here?
ANNIE
Uh, yes.
DEAN
Well, then, this must be fate.
ANNIE
01:24:43
Yes. Uh, this would be great for a six-year-old.
DEAN
Oh. I really appreciate your help. I have absolutely no idea what to get for him.
ANNIE
Is--is this your own child?
DEAN
01:24:59
Oh, no, no. No, I'm not married. I'm single as the day is long. No, it's for an orphan
that I'm sponsoring for Christmas. You know, I just knew I had to do whatever I could to
give this poor kid the best Christmas imaginable.
ANNIE & DEAN
Christmas is far too imp-ANNIE
01:25:16
Whew, what a lucky boy to have been chosen by you.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 25
DEAN
Oh, it's the least I can do. You know, Christmas is my favorite time of year.
ANNIE
Mine too.
DEAN
I love the decorations, the music, the...
ANNIE & DEAN
Lights. (chuckle)
ANNIE
I love lights.
DEAN
I love lights.
ANNIE & DEAN
(laugh)
DEAN
So...
ANNIE
Huh...
DEAN
Thank you so much again for your help. This place is so much better than Super Store.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:25:46
I guess people don't realize it's here. But I will definitely be back. Bye.
ANNIE
Bye.
[BELLS JINGLE]
[BUBBLES PERCOLATING]
LUCY
01:26:01
I bet that foot bath feels perfect.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 26
ANNIE
Oh...(chuckles) it's the most wonderful feeling in the world.
LUCY
Who needs a man? That's always warm and never talks back.
ANNIE
Why don't you have a husband, Lucy?
LUCY
01:26:16
I had three husbands, Annie.
ANNIE
Oh.
LUCY
The last one, he left me with a baby and ran off with a 20-year-old named Kiki Keller.
ANNIE
I'm so sorry to hear that.
LUCY
It's cool. Between running the business and raising Mia, I really don't have the energy
to date.
ANNIE
01:26:32
Well, I think that there's a Calvin out there for everyone.
LUCY
Who's Calvin?
ANNIE
Oh, it's a--it's a saying that we have back home. It means your one true love.
LUCY
You think the guy at the diner could be your Calvin?
ANNIE
Well, I couldn't be certain, but I'd sure like to find out.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:26:49
At least before Christmas. That's when my family wants me to make the decision
whether I'll go back and run our business. But I have to see what's out here for me first.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 27
LUCY
Don't you think that's a lot of pressure to put on yourself?
ANNIE
Not when you know he's out there waiting for you to find him.
LUCY
01:27:05
I wish I had that kind of faith. How 'bout Ted? That guy from the toy store. He's cute,
right?
ANNIE
Oh, I suppose so. But he's my boss, Lucy.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:27:20
That would--that would be inappropriate.
LUCY
True. Trust me, I have dated a lot in L.A. there's not a lot of options.
ANNIE
Well, you can't have met everyone. I mean, there must be at least 100 people in this
town.
LUCY
At least. Let me take that.
ANNIE
01:27:35
Oh. Well, I'm not gonna give up.
LUCY
Good for you, Annie.
ANNIE
Oh...
[MUSIC]
01:27:53
MARTHA
Well, do you see how silly you were to be worried, Santa?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 28
SANTA CLAUS
01:28:08
I do, Martha. I should have listened to you.
MARTHA
I'm glad you finally realize that. Well, it's time to turn in. Come along.
SANTA CLAUS
I'll be in shortly.
MARTHA
Well, all right. Good night, my love.
MARTHA (CONTINUED)
01:28:23
Chester.
CHESTER
Good night, Mrs. Klaus.
SANTA CLAUS
Let's hope she doesn't meet up with this boy again.
CHESTER
Well, you want your daughter to be happy, do you not, Santa?
SANTA CLAUS
Of course, Chester!
SANTA CLAUS (CONTINUED)
01:28:38
I'd just prefer her to be happy here.
CHESTER
I know. But have faith, my friend. One never know what then next several weeks will
bring.
SANTA CLAUS
Mm.
TED
01:28:58
This is what it used to look like during Christmas.
ANNIE
(chuckles) Is that you?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 29
TED
Uh-huh.
ANNIE
You look so happy.
TED
I was. I loved that engine.
ANNIE
We'll get it working soon enough.
TED
She's a goner.
TED (CONTINUED)
01:29:14
Death by neglect. Welcome to Wonderland Toys. How can I help you?
DEAN
Hey. I'm here to see Annie. Hi.
ANNIE
Hi.
DEAN
01:29:29
Hey, I, uh...have a bit of a confession to make. I couldn't stop thinking about you. You
know that feeling like you've--like you've known someone forever? I don't know, it's
silly.
ANNIE
No, no, no.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:29:44
I don't think it's silly at all.
DEAN
Well, do you want to grab coffee or a hot cocoa?
ANNIE
Hot cocoa is only my most favorite thing in the world!
ANNIE KRINGLE - 30
DEAN
No kidding. Me too. Like I said, Annie, this really must be fate.
ANNIE
01:29:59
Uh, well, right now?
DEAN
Don't you get a break or something?
TED
30 minutes?
ANNIE
(exhales, chuckles)
DEAN
01:30:14
Yeah, that's when I realized I had to become a lawyer.
ANNIE
I think that is so wonderful. It hurts my heart to see people in need.
DEAN
Yeah, I feel like I've been really blessed in my life, so I feel sort of an obligation to give
back.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:30:31
Like with the orphans.
ANNIE
And how long have you worked for this orphanage?
DEAN
Years. I know. I mean, the kids are really amazing. You know, I feel like if they don't
have parents, then they should have a really great holiday.
ANNIE
01:30:46
If you give me the name, I can ask, uh...my father to send presents as well.
DEAN
Oh, sure, yeah. It's called Our Lady of the Holy Grail Orphanage for boys in need.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 31
WAITRESS
01:31:07
Hey, you're that guy from that commercial. "After my accident, I was told I would never
walk again." Kurt, look it's "I'll never walk again" guy!
DEAN
I think you have me confused with someone else.
WAITRESS
Oh, I've been doing this a long time, and I never forget a face.
DEAN
01:31:22
Well, I'm not an actor. You know, I don't think they hire lawyers to do commercials.
Excuse us.
SINGER
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way...
[BEEP]
[MUSIC]
[CELLPHONE RINGS]
01:31:38
[BEEP]
DEAN
Yeah?
CHESTER
Status check.
DEAN
I just dropped her off. Gave her a little taste. Look, I don't want to come on too strong
to early, but don't worry.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:31:57
I know exactly what I am doing.
CHESTER
Good-bye.
[BEEP]
ANNIE KRINGLE - 32
[DIAL TONE]
CHESTER
(sniffs)
MIA
(singing off key) Away in the manger, no room for a bed. The little Lord Jesus lay down
his sweet head.
ANNIE
01:32:18
Don't be afraid, Mia. Sing from your heart, like no one's listening.
AMY
Oh, people are listening...and looking for ear plugs.
MIA
I'll try.
[MUSIC]
01:32:34
[INDISTINCT SHOUTS]
[ENTRY BELLS JINGLE]
01:32:54
ANNIE
(sighs) where have you been? I've been worried.
TED
Wandering. (clears throat) Thinking. I'm not gonna torture myself by dragging this out.
TED (CONTINUED)
01:33:12
It's over.
ANNIE
We'll--we'll figure something out.
TED
I've gone over this for the past three hours in my head. Two weeks is nothing.
ANNIE
Please don't give up hope, Ted. Not this close to Christmas.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 33
TED
What does Christmas have to do with anything?
TED (CONTINUED)
01:33:28
It's just a stupid day to go along with the other 364 horrible days that my year's made of.
ANNIE
Don't say that! Ted, miracles always happen at Christmas.
TED
You know, people keep saying that, but I have yet to see one.
ANNIE
01:33:43
Well, you have to have faith.
TED
Faith means nothing. I tried it. I tried hope too, and that also failed. I'm not gonna fight
the inevitable. Sorry, Annie, but I'm letting you go.
LUCY
01:34:00
I'll get Carmen to stay late and watch the motel. Why are you doing this for Ted, again?
ANNIE
Because he's a good person. He deserves to be happy. He's just lost his way, and I'm
trying to help him find it again.
LUCY
Seems like a lot of effort to go through for someone who's just a friend.
MIA
01:34:15
I mean, I would do it for a friend.
ANNIE
Yes. Anyone would. All right, you two, we don't have much time. Here are your lists.
Lucy, I'll meet you at Wonderland in an hour. I can't wait to see Ted's face in the
morning when he sees this.
TRUDY
01:34:34
Mom, look at this place.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 34
ANNIE
Oh! Here they come.
TRUDY
I know, it's cool.
WOMAN
It's really cool.
TED
What the...
TRUDY
Can we go in?
BARRY
Oh, wow.
WOMAN
01:34:49
Wow, this is really great. They really spruced it up, huh, honey?
TRUDY
I want to go in.
WOMAN
Do you?
TRUDY
Yeah.
[OVERLAPPING POSITIVE COMMENTS]
TED
01:35:04
Did you do this?
BARRY
Dude, I was babysitting you all night.
LUCY
I'd say it was a success.
BARRY
Where did you get all this stuff?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 35
TED
01:35:20
I was gonna ask you the same exact question. Barry, seriously. Come on. All right?
BARRY
Dude, I have no--a real tree? Wow. Okay, okay.
WOMAN
01:35:35
Excuse me, do you gift wrap?
TED
Of course. It's complementary.
WOMAN
Excellent. Trudy, could you go get three more of those for your cousins?
TRUDY
Okay.
MAN
(chuckles) Isn't it great?
GIRL
Yeah.
GIRL (CONTINUED)
01:35:50
Oh, look, dad.
[OVERLAPPING CONVERSATIONS]
TED
It's all coming together.
LUCY
You gonna go talk to him?
ANNIE
Oh, I just wanted to see his expression. Like I said, Christmas makes everything better.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:36:05
I just wanted him to see what I see. What Dean sees?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 36
DEAN
I gave up on love a long time ago. I didn't think there was anyone out there with the
same...morals and ethics as me.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:36:21
I didn't know that I'd ever find my other half, so I--I stopped looking. And then one day, I
wandered into a sink hole, and there you were. My paramedic savior.
WOMAN
Stop, Dean.
WOMAN (CONTINUED)
01:36:36
I--I can't. I cannot. Did anyone here believe him?
CLASS
No...nah...
WOMAN
We have to believe you, Dean. Now, read it again. Live it. Feel it.
WOMAN (CONTINUED)
01:36:51
Mean it! Action!
DEAN
(voice breaking) I gave up on love a long time ago.
WOMAN
Better.
DEAN
You know, I didn't--(clears throat) line!
WOMAN
01:37:10
(sighs)
ALL
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah
ANNIE
All right. Great work, everybody. Please memorize your solos and your songs before
tomorrow's rehearsal.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 37
AMY
01:37:27
Will do. Oh, wait. I don't have a solo. Right, Mia?
ANNIE
Remember what I said, Amy.
AMY
Right. There are no small parts, only teeny parts.
ANNIE
01:37:43
Hey! (laughing)
TED
Is there anything you can't do?
ANNIE
Oh, I can't, uh, eat shellfish. My throat closes up, and I could die.
TED
I have to remember that.
ANNIE
01:37:58
What are you doing here?
TED
I went to the motel. Lucy told me where I could find you.
ANNIE
Mm-hmm. So...you had a good day, huh?
TED
It was a good day.
ANNIE
(chuckles)
TED
What you did for me was just--I mean--I have no words.
ANNIE
01:38:17
I can think of a few.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 38
TED
Such as?
ANNIE
Such as..."You were right, Annie." All it took was a whole lot of Christmas spirit to
awaken the sleeping giant.
TED
We're not out of the woods yet, but we live to see another day.
TED (CONTINUED)
01:38:32
Why would you do this for me?
ANNIE
To prove to you that miracles exist.
TED
Perhaps they do.
ANNIE
Once you witness a miracle, you can't not believe. Oh, Ted, this is just the beginning.
There's so much more that we can do.
TED
01:38:48
We? You still want to work for me, even after I fired you?
ANNIE
Oh...that. I didn't believe that for a minute.
MAN
Thanks. Merry Christmas.
TED
01:39:04
I bought a couple newspapers.
ANNIE
Let me see.
TED
It's just a blurb, but a blurb with a large circulation.
ANNIE
Oh, I feel wonderful.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 39
TED
Every little bit helps. And it's all because of you.
ANNIE
No. It's all thanks to Christmas.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:39:22
Oh...there you are! I was wondering when you would show up.
DEAN
Yeah, huge court case. But we settled. And here I am. I love what you guys have
done with the place.
ANNIE
Oh, it's just a little something we threw together.
DEAN
A little something?
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:39:37
It's like I walked into a dream. And seeing you makes it even more so.
TED
You know, I'm gonna step into the office and cut these out.
ANNIE
Save me one.
DEAN
So hey, Annie, I stopped by the orphanage this morning, and I met the cutest new little
orphan, his name's Charlie Brownstone.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:39:57
He's eight years old. You know, passed amongst his relatives. You know, abandoned
by all of 'em. He's out hiking one day, and he wanders off and ends up getting lost, and
ends up spending, like, three days in the wild eating nothing but sticks and ants.
ANNIE
01:40:12
(half-gasps)
ANNIE KRINGLE - 40
DEAN
Fortunately, somebody found him, you know, and they dropped him off at the
orphanage steps. The attached a note to his tattered little sweater.
ANNIE
Oh, that's awful.
DEAN
Yeah. See, I just felt like I had to stop by and get something for little Charlie
Brownstone.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:40:31
Seeing you is just icing on the cupcake.
ANNIE & DEAN
(laugh)
ANNIE
How old is Charlie again?
DEAN
Uh, nine.
ANNIE
Okay--all right, we have a lot of things for him.
DEAN
All right.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:40:54
Annie...look, could we have a seat for a second? You mind?
ANNIE
Sure.
DEAN
01:41:09
Annie...do you believe in love at first sight?
ANNIE
I'm sorry?
DEAN
Do you believe that when we find our one true soul mate, we'll know?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 41
ANNIE
I do.
DEAN
Yeah, it happened that way with my parents.
ANNIE
With my parents too. (chuckles)
DEAN
Huh.
ANNIE
01:41:24
Why do you ask?
DEAN
Just looking at you right now made me think about that. Hey, do you want to go out this
Friday night? I have tickets to The Nutcracker. I'd love it if you come with me.
ANNIE
I love The Nutcracker.
DEAN
Yeah?
ANNIE
I'd love to go.
DEAN
All right, it's a date.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:41:39
It starts at 7:30, so I'll pick you up at 6:30?
ANNIE
Oh, I work until 6:00, so can you pick me up here?
DEAN
I look forward to it.
ANNIE
Me too.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 42
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:42:00
Um...that's Ted.
DEAN
Yeah.
ANNIE & DEAN
(chuckle)
LUCY
Oh, we are having the best girls day.
MIA
Yeah.
ANNIE
I love this place.
LUCY
Oh, you want to take your picture with Santa?
MIA
No, mom. He's not the real Santa anyway.
ANNIE
01:42:16
Of course he's not.
MAN
Hi.
LUCY
This is one of my favorite stores. (gasps) Ooh, look! Look. How about this for Annie's
date?
MIA
01:42:31
Mom, she's dating a lawyer, not a rock star.
ANNIE
Maybe something a little less...revealing would be nice.
LUCY
Well, I think it's cute. I'm gonna go find out how much it is. (laughs, makes cat noise)
ANNIE KRINGLE - 43
MIA
Oh, no, it's Amy Winton.
ANNIE
01:42:46
Oh. Throw her a smile and kill her with kindness. Remember, the cure for animosity is
generosity.
MIA
Hi, Amy.
AMY
(scoffs) Mia, I'm surprised to see you here and not on Santa's lap, like all the other
infants.
ANNIE
01:43:03
Amy...can I speak to you for a minute? Hi. We both know that Santa is real, very real
indeed. In fact, I know that you personally wrote him a letter asking for an iPod, a $100
gift certificate to Forever 21, and a teddy bear to replace the old one that Isabella, your
housekeeper, ruined in a washing machine.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:43:32
Am I right? Now, your letter is gonna look pretty sad to Santa after he gets one from
me, telling him how naughty you've been. I can put you on the naughty list for
life...(softly) for life, Amy.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:43:49
Now, if you'll just, uh...improve your attitude and apologize, I can put you back on the
nice list. Have a nice day.
AMY
01:44:08
I'm sorry, Mia.
MIA
Well, thank you. Bye.
MIA
Bye.
ANNIE
Bye. (chuckles)
ANNIE KRINGLE - 44
LUCY
01:44:23
Merry Christmas.
TED
You too.
LUCY
Your stylist has arrived. Who's ready for a first-date makeover?
TED
Me! You're probably talking to her, huh?
LUCY
Once I get my hands on her, she's gonna look like a supermodel.
TED
01:44:38
I think she looks great as she is.
WOMAN
Thank you.
ANNIE
Thank you, Ted. I can only hope Dean agrees with you.
TED
I just hope he knows how lucky he is.
ANNIE
That's a very sweet thing to say.
LUCY
01:44:53
(chuckles)
ANNIE
Well, I don't know why I bothered bringing blush. Ted seems to bring that out in you just
fine.
TED
(chuckles) You guys go get ready. I'll finish up here by myself.
LUCY
Come on, Annie.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 45
TED
01:45:14
(exhales deeply)
[CASH REGISTER BELL DINGS]
TED
So, Dean...what kind of law do you practice?
BARRY
Oh, the kind where you show up in court and represent a client.
TED
Sorry, Matlock.
BARRY
01:45:29
I don't mean to be rude. Just, all day, you know, it's law this, legal that, blah, blah, blah.
You know, once I punch out, I like to turn it off.
[DOOR OPENS]
01:45:45
LUCY
01:46:07
She looks good, right?
TED
Annie, you look beautiful.
ANNIE
Do you really think so, Ted?
TED
I'm speechless.
DEAN
Annie, you are a vision of gorgeousness.
LUCY
You look familiar.
DEAN
I have one of those faces.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 46
LUCY
01:46:23
No, no, that's not it. Where you taking her tonight?
DEAN
Uh, that ballet, then Maurice's.
LUCY
The French place?
DEAN
Yeah, I hear the food's great.
LUCY
I hear it's expensive.
DEAN
Well, she's worth it.
TED
He's a lawyer, Lucy. I'm sure he can afford it.
DEAN
Well, guys, I--we best be going.
ANNIE
01:46:40
Of course. (laughs) Bye, everyone.
LUCY
Have fun.
[BELLS ON DOOR JINGLE]
LUCY
So what did you and Dean talk about?
TED
Nothing important.
TED (CONTINUED)
01:46:56
I found him kind of smarmy. He's not good enough for her, Lucy.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 47
LUCY
Look, I don't want to get in your business, but I've seen the way you look at her, and you
know Annie has an important decision to make.
TED
I am well aware of it.
LUCY
Maybe she should have all the facts before she decides whether to stay or go.
TED
01:47:11
What facts do you think she's missing?
LUCY
That she has other options besides Captain Smarmy.
TED
I don't want her to go.
LUCY
And you have the power to prevent it.
BARRY
Hey, you go those books for m--hello.
LUCY
Hi. Remember what I said.
LUCY (CONTINUED)
01:47:27
Bye, Ted.
BARRY
Um...bye. Okay. Who was that?
TED
Her name's Lucy, and she would crush you.
WAITRESS
Here you go.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
ANNIE KRINGLE - 48
ANNIE
01:47:43
I loved that giant Christmas tree.
DEAN
Oh, it was awesome.
ANNIE
I've never seen The Nutcracker live before, only on video. The ballet doesn't often
come to Norpole.
DEAN
How come I've never heard of Norpole, Idaho, before?
ANNIE
Uh...it's very small and difficult to get to.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:48:02
But this time of year, it's magical. Every inch of our village is covered with snow and
spectacular lights and rows of gorgeous poinsettias.
DEAN
Oh, I'd love to visit sometime.
ANNIE
I'd like that.
DEAN
You know, when I was a kid, we had these, uh, neighbors at the end of our cul-de-sac
that went all-out decorating.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:48:21
I mean, you know, they had the animatronic Santa, the reindeer on the roof--you know,
the whole nine. And everyone called the house "the Christmas House."
ANNIE
That sounds like some neighbors of mine back home.
DEAN
You know, when I have a family, I don't care how exhausted I am, but I am picking up
where the staidlams left off.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 49
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:48:38
I mean, my house will be the Christmas house.
ANNIE
I think that's a marvelous idea. All it takes is one family, and the Christmas spirit is
infectious.
DEAN
Yeah. I just, uh...I really hope I can find a woman to come on board with me for that.
ANNIE
01:48:55
Well, I don't imagine that she'd be that difficult to find.
DEAN
Well, maybe I've already found her.
ANNIE
(laughs)
[DOOR CLOSES]
01:49:10
TED
But we're doing better, aren't we?
BARRY
I mean, yeah, but you're not in the clear yet, Ted. And the payment's only part of it.
You still have to make monthly expenses.
TED
Ah, my good-luck charm's gonna come through. I have faith.
BARRY
Annie.
TED
Yeah.
BARRY
(chuckles)
ANNIE KRINGLE - 50
TED
01:49:25
And I wish there was something I could do for her to thank her for everything she's
done, maybe give her some of that Christmas spirit she's so fond of.
BARRY
Well, if I know one thing about women--is that all they want is for a man to listen to what
they want and then get it for her.
TED
Very true.
BARRY
So what does Annie love?
TED
01:49:40
Annie loves lights.
BARRY
Okay. You're gonna have to figure that one out on your own.
TED
I think I just did.
DEAN
So I-I went down to the orphanage. There was a little money in my pocket, and I said,
"Rally the troops."
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:49:56
"We're going to Disneyland."
ANNIE & DEAN
(laughing)
ANNIE
They must've been so thrilled.
DEAN
Oh, they were beyond.
ANNIE
(laughs) You know, I've never been there before.
[MUSIC]
ANNIE KRINGLE - 51
ANNIE
01:50:20
Wow. Why did you do that?
DEAN
Uh, I...I just couldn't resist. I'm having so much fun on our date, I didn't want it to end.
ANNIE
(laughs) Me neither.
DEAN
Why don't we go grab a drink, then?
ANNIE
Yes. Eggnog?
[MUSIC]
01:50:37
LUCY
01:50:56
Annie.
ALL
Surprise!
ANNIE
What is this? (laughs)
MIA
It was Ted's idea.
ANNIE
Oh, look at these lights, Dean.
DEAN
Yeah, hard to miss.
ANNIE
They are so beautiful.
TED
Well, we wanted it to feel a little more like home to thank you for everything you've done
for us, for store, for the pageant.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 52
ANNIE
01:51:17
Hmm. Well, you did a wonderful job.
MIA
Oh, thank you.
ANNIE
Oh, isn't it gorgeous, Dean?
DEAN
Peachy.
ANNIE
(sighs happily) Peachy.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:51:32
(chuckles) They all have the kindest hearts, father, just like you.
SANTA CLAUS
Uh, Chester's here. Say hello, Annie. I'm putting you on speaker.
ANNIE
Hello, Uncle Chester.
CHESTER
My dear Annie, we miss you something awful around here.
ANNIE
01:51:47
Things are looking up here, but you never know. I might be back before you know it.
Perhaps I'll be bringing someone home with me.
CHESTER
Why, that would be lovely.
DEAN
01:52:02
I'm really sorry I'm not gonna be able to help you build sets tomorrow. I promised
Charlie Brown I'd teach him how to play chess.
ANNIE
That's more important, Dean. Charlie needs you.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 53
DEAN
Yeah, I just wish I didn't have such a big heart. It hurts too much.
ANNIE
(chuckles) Ted, can you imagine these poor orphans who can't have a traditional
Christmas?
TED
01:52:20
We could make sure these kids have a real Christmas.
ANNIE
What do you mean?
TED
Well, we've been doing better. I can throw the Wonderland Christmas party for Dean's
orphans, maybe even get some of that exposure we've been looking for for the store.
ANNIE
Two birds, one stone.
TED
Mm-hmm. And a balloon payment.
DEAN
You know, I really don't think they're gonna like this.
ANNIE
01:52:36
What do you mean? The orphans will love it.
DEAN
No. Yeah, I just--I mean, it's really difficult to get them up here. You have to get
clearance from an administrator. It's a whole...
TED
Well, I'll be happy to make the call if you're too busy with your law cases.
DEAN
No, I... I'll handle it. I mean, I'm--I'm the one with the relationship, right?
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:52:52
(chuckles)
ANNIE KRINGLE - 54
TED
They can play with anything in the store, take some stuff home. We can do face
painting and make ornaments.
ANNIE
Oh. (laughs) We'll help those poor children at Our Lady of the Holy Grail Orphanage for
Boys in need, while helping our store as well.
TED
Everybody wins.
ANNIE
01:53:08
Yeah! (laughing) You've been wanting to do more, and now you can.
DEAN
Yeah. Yeah, it's great. It's just--it's great. I mean, it's…really, really great. I-I actually
got--I'm gonna go get on that right now. All right.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:53:24
Whew.
TED
Ah!
ANNIE & TED
(laughing)
ANNIE
Oh, that really looks like snow. Oh, Mia, that's great snow.
TED
Channel 11 is on board. They're sending a crew to cover the party.
ANNIE
Oh, that's fantastic.
TED
This is it, Annie.
ANNIE
Miracles keep happening.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 55
TED
01:53:39
You know, it's funny. They didn't start coming until you did.
LUCY
Hey, Annie, come here!
ANNIE
(gasps) I love that!
LUCY
Okay, Annie, we've got the Ernsons Building and the Gingerbread House, and the
Becks just arrived with more green paint.
LUCY (CONTINUED)
01:53:56
Now, if we can only find someone who's handy with a circular saw, so we can start on
the manger.
BARRY
I'm sorry. Did you say circular saw?
LUCY
I did.
BARRY
That just happens to be my specialty.
LUCY
Really?
BARRY
Almost every other day. I mean, I-I could help you out, if--if you'd like.
LUCY
All right.
LUCY (CONTINUED)
01:54:12
Come out back with me.
BARRY
I'd be honored to. Um, is this thing hard to use?
TED
No, no, it's a piece of cake. You'll be fine. Yeah, this isn't gonna end well.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 56
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
MIA
Ted...have you ever did something you wanted to do, but you were scared.
TED
01:54:31
Sure. We all have.
WOMAN
This one over here is done.
TED
Is this about your solo?
MIA
Well...what if I mess up or...or everyone hates it?
TED
It's not easy to put yourself out there.
MIA
01:54:46
I really want to do it, but...I'm scared.
TED
It's tough to be vulnerable, to put yourself out there for ridicule and rejection, hoping
beyond hope that the rewards outweigh the risks.
TED (CONTINUED)
01:55:06
But you just stand there, frozen...not doing anything.
WOMAN
I love the sparkle!
MIA
Are we still talking about my solo?
LUCY
Excuse us. Excuse us.
BARRY
Ow! Mm!
ANNIE KRINGLE - 57
BARRY (CONTINUED)
01:55:21
Ooh, oh! Ouch! Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow! Uh, it's just a little flesh wound. It will heal.
LUCY
No, no, no. I am taking you to the emergency room.
BARRY
If you insist.
LUCY
Come on.
BARRY
Ow. Ow.
MIA
01:55:36
You know what, Ted? I'm gonna go for it. No fear. I'm gonna go for it. And you
should, too.
[CHILDREN CHATTERING PLAYFULLY]
01:55:58
[MUSIC]
WOMAN
Hi.
DEAN
01:56:14
Hey. Um...I need to, uh--I need to rent some orphans.
WOMAN
I'm sorry?
DEAN
I need to, like, rent or--or sign out some orphans for the day, Saturday.
WOMAN
Were you interested in adoption?
DEAN
Oh, no, I hate kids. No, I just want to borrow some so I can throw a party for them, you
know, and the dirtier and the skinnier, the better.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 58
DEAN (CONTINUED)
01:56:34
Yeah, it's to impress a girl.
WOMAN
That's it. I'm calling the police.
DEAN
There's no need to be rash. I'm...I'm leaving. I was just--I was just kidding. (chuckles)
ANNIE
Oh, you look great.
GIRL
Thanks.
ANNIE
01:56:50
Listen, everyone! This is our last chance to get this right before we show everyone
what we can do, so I need you guys to focus. Santa, everyone, in your places.
Shepherds...
AMY
01:57:09
Once upon a time, in the snowy village of the North Pole lived a man who went by the
name of Santa Claus.
[HOLY NIGHT PLAYING ON KEYBOARD]
ANNIE
01:57:50
See you tomorrow!
GIRL
Okay.
ANNIE
Call time is 5:00 p.m. Do not be late.
MIA
Ted!
GIRL
Don't forget your costume!
ANNIE KRINGLE - 59
MIA
I didn't miss a single lyric.
TED
I can't wait to see it.
ANNIE
Hi. How was today?
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
01:58:05
Were you terribly busy without me?
TED
We were terribly busy without you--a welcome problem, considering how business has
been.
ANNIE
What are you doing here?
TED
I came to see if you're busy.
ANNIE
Uh, between this and the orphans, busy--no. Overwhelmed--a lot.
TED
01:58:20
You do everything for everyone else, Annie. Time to let me do something good for you.
ANNIE
I was supposed to have a date with Dean, but he had to work late again.
TED
His loss is our gain. Come on, we have to go back to the motel and get you two
changed.
MIA
Changed for what?
ANNIE
Where are we going?
TED
01:58:35
Just dress warm--Norpole, Idaho, warm.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 60
MIA
This was a great idea. I love skating.
ANNIE
(laughs) It's so wonderful to be cold again. Thank you, Ted. I really needed this.
TED
Well, anything I can do to make this place a little more like home for you.
MIA
01:58:53
(laughs) Hurry up, slowpokes! Whoa!
[LAUGHTER]
ANNIE
Oh!
TED
Careful, Apolo Ohno.
ANNIE
Sorry!
[LAUGHTER]
MIA
I think I better go--I'm gonna go sit down.
MIA (CONTINUED)
01:59:08
You know, I don't want to injure myself for tomorrow's big debut. I'll see you.
[LAUGHTER]
ANNIE
Mia, I'm very proud of you. You really earned your solo.
MIA
Why, thank you, Annie.
MIA (CONTINUED)
01:59:25
And you know what else?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 61
ANNIE
What?
MIA
Amy Winton said I did a good job, too.
ANNIE
I always say, this is the time of year to be kind. I'm glad Amy Winton heard it, too.
MIA
Proceed with caution.
ANNOUNCER
And now it's time for couple's skate. So grab that special someone and take a few laps
around the rink.
TED
01:59:46
That Mia is one incredible little girl.
ANNIE
(chuckles) Isn't she? She adores you.
TED
It's just nice having kids in the store again.
ANNIE
So why have you spent the last two Christmases alone?
TED
Well, I guess after my marriage ended, I just got used to being alone--no love, no
disappointment.
ANNIE
02:00:09
No love, no love.
TED
I know. But my perspective has changed drastically since. It's like you came into my
store and you saved my life.
ANNIE
It's not me. It's Christmas.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 62
TED
02:00:24
No, it's you.
ANNIE
Aah!
WOMAN
Okay, don't let me fall. Don't let me fall.
TED
Hey, hey, it's couples-only skate.
ANNIE
02:00:41
Uh...uh, we--we should probably go see if Mia's all right.
TED
Yeah, yeah. Um, yeah, that's a good idea.
ANNIE
(laughing)
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:01:04
Would you like to come inside for some hot cocoa?
TED
Sure. That sounds great.
ANNIE
(laughs)
DEAN
Annie.
ANNIE
Dean. How was court?
DEAN
Oh, it was good. I won...again.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
02:01:21
I always win.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 63
TED
Yeah, I bet you do.
DEAN
Hey, I'm really sorry I had to work so late, but I got us a movie and my laptop to watch it
on. It's not too late for our date, is it?
ANNIE
No. Uh, no, of course not.
TED
Well, good luck at the show, Mia--break a leg.
TED (CONTINUED)
02:01:37
I can say that to you now that you're not on the ice.
MIA
Thank you. Okay, bye.
ANNIE
Wait. You're more than welcome to join us on our date. Well, then, uh, cocoa another
time?
TED
You two lovebirds have a good time.
ANNIE
02:01:53
Thank you so much for today.
[ENGINE TURNING]
ANNIE
It was really wonderful. Bye.
DEAN
Movie?
[KEYS CLACKING]
02:02:10
[MUSIC]
ANNIE KRINGLE - 64
ANNIE
02:02:28
Whew. Can you finish up? I need to get the children in places, and we start in five.
LUCY
I got you covered. Go ahead.
TED
Annie.
ANNIE
You came. I didn't know if you would.
TED
Of course I would. Why not?
ANNIE
02:02:43
I...I thought you might be angry at me.
TED
Annie, I'm not angry at you. You have your life, and I have mine, and that's just where
we are right now.
ANNIE
Yes. I'm glad you came...for Mia.
TED
02:02:58
Yeah. Me too...for Mia.
ANNIE
Well, I have to get started, so...
DEAN
02:03:13
You got to stop calling me like this, Chester. You're messing with my chi.
CHESTER
Our deal was that you'd be checking in every day, Dean.
DEAN
Look, I've been busy. Look, I had to go to, like, 13 orphanages in the last 3 days. I
mean, you really ought to be paying me more.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 65
CHESTER
You're getting plenty.
CHESTER (CONTINUED)
02:03:29
Now, I need an update.
DEAN
Listen...this girl is gonna be so in love with me when she sees how happy those
orphans are on the account of my giant heart that she's--she is gonna be begging me to
let her stay in L.A. with me.
CHESTER
How can you be so sure?
DEAN
02:03:44
Because, Chester, I am a really good actor.
CHESTER
Just get it done. Tick tock, tick tock, tick tock, Dean.
[CELL PHONE BEEPS]
DEAN
(exhales deeply, grunts)
ALL
(singing) Be near me, Lord Jesus.
ALL (CONTINUED)
02:03:59
(singing) I ask thee to stay close by me forever and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear
children in thy tender care and take us to heaven to live with thee there.
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
02:04:25
MIA
A wise person once told me Christmas is the season of giving, and I've got a lot. So it's
time for me to give back.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 66
MIA (CONTINUED)
02:04:42
May I have my good friend Amy Winton, please? I dedicate this song to one of my
family members. I mean, she's not really my family member, but she's done so much
for me that I think she's family.
MIA (CONTINUED)
02:05:01
This song is dedicated to Annie Klaus.
[APPLAUSE]
MAN
Hear, hear.
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
MIA & AMY
(singing) Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright.
MIA & AMY (CONTINUED)
02:05:28
(singing) Round yon virgin mother and child holy infant so tender and mild.
MIA & AMY (CONTINUED)
02:05:43
(singing) Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.
ANNIE
(laughs)
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
LUCY
02:05:59
That's good! That's good, baby! My baby--oh, I'm so proud of you.
MIA
02:06:14
Thank you.
BARRY
You did an awesome job--awesome.
ANNIE
You should be proud. She really is quite amazing.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 67
MIA
Thank you.
LUCY
Yeah, she is. Um, Annie, I want to thank you...
MIA
Ted. Oh, thank you.
TED
02:06:29
Hey, so I liked what you said about going for it.
MIA
Well, thank you. And, um, how's things going?
TED
What are you talking about?
MIA
You know...you and Annie.
TED
Annie is with Dean.
MIA
Oh.
MIA (CONTINUED)
02:06:45
She shouldn't be, and you know it. I'll see you.
AMY
Can I talk to you?
ANNIE
Uh, sure. You sang beautifully tonight, Amy.
AMY
Thanks. I was wondering, um...can you tell Santa I've changed?
ANNIE
02:07:07
Oh, honey, he already knows.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 68
AMY
Thanks, Annie.
ANNIE
Attention, everyone! There's no rest for the weary. We have another event to get off
the ground.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:07:23
We can't let Dean down. He's working tirelessly, as we speak.
[APPLAUSE]
ANNIE
(sighs)
[KNOCK AT DOOR]
ANNIE
02:07:46
Oh.
DEAN
Hi.
ANNIE
I didn't expect you.
DEAN
Well, I'm sorry I missed your big show.
ANNIE
Oh. The orphans needed you, Dean.
DEAN
I got these for you.
ANNIE
Oh, they're beautiful.
DEAN
(laughs) I wanted to give you this, too.
ANNIE
02:08:03
What was that for?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 69
DEAN
Oh, for being the Christmas miracle that I've been wishing for. Oh, here...Annie,
um...uh...you know, I gave up on love a long time ago.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
02:08:28
You know, I didn't think there was anyone out there with the same morals and ethics as
me. You know, I didn't think I was ever gonna find my other half, so I stopped looking,
you know. And then one day I-I wander into some random mom-and-pop shop, and
there you were...my toy-store savior.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
02:08:55
Annie...I know this is fast, but I think I really may be falling for you...hard.
ANNIE
I think I'm falling for you, too, Dean.
DEAN
02:09:22
Hmm. Well, Annie, I will--I will see you tomorrow...at the store, bright and early.
ANNIE
Mm-hmm.
DEAN
Good night, Annie.
ANNIE
Good night, Dean.
DEAN
All right.
[DOOR OPENS]
DEAN
(chuckles) Sleep well.
ANNIE
Sleep well.
[DOOR CLOSES]
02:09:38
ANNIE KRINGLE - 70
[MUSIC]
TED
02:09:57
What the...?
DEAN
I was told I may never walk again, but Shaw, Shaw, and Shaw got me $180,000.
(laughs)
TED
Oh-ho-ho, I knew it.
WOMAN
02:10:12
This is a really great cause, and it looks like everyone is having a great time. Thanks
for letting us stop by.
ANNIE
Thank you so much for coming.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
LUCY
He's such a good Santa.
ANNIE & LUCY
(chuckle)
ANNIE
02:10:27
He's a great Santa. What a natural.
MIA
You would know.
TED
All right, children, Santa's gonna take a little breather. I'll be back in ten minutes. In the
meantime, enjoy the cookies and ho, ho, ho. And what would you young ladies like
Santa to bring you for Christmas?
ANNIE
02:10:44
(laughs) You're the most pathetic Santa I've ever seen.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 71
TED
(laughs) Annie, can I talk to you alone for a second?
DEAN
Kids are having such a great time.
ANNIE
02:10:59
(chuckles)
LUCY
Dean, where's Charlie Brownstone? I'd love to meet him.
DEAN
Uh, you know, it's the greatest thing. He, uh--he was adopted...
ANNIE
(gasps)
DEAN
This morning--yeah, by a minister, no less, and his doctor wife.
TED
What a lucky break for Charlie Brown...stone.
DEAN
02:11:17
Isn't it, though? Hey, can I talk to you for a quick sec?
ANNIE
Oh.
DEAN
Do you mind? Annie, uh, I would never want to pressure you.
ANNIE
I appreciate that.
DEAN
02:11:33
Well, I just--I just think that we owe it to ourselves to see where this relationship is
going. You know, and honestly, I'd go back home with you, but I don't think I can leave
my clients, you know, not when they're destitute and counting on me for their very
survival.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 72
ANNIE
Of course not.
DEAN
02:11:48
Look, what...what I'm trying to say...is I would love it if you would please stay in Los
Angeles with me and give us a chance.
ANNIE
I'd love nothing more, Dean.
KID
02:12:08
There he is. Santa!
KID
Santa!
TED
Hello, children. Ho, ho, ho. Ho.
[TRAIN WHISTLE BLOWING]
[JAZZY CHRISTMAS MUSIC]
SINGER
02:12:24
A trip to the department store to sit on Santa's knee. Yes, Christmastime is on my mind
and wouldn't you agree? Spirit of the holidays...
SARAH
02:12:39
Excuse me? Are you Annie?
ANNIE
I am.
SARAH
I'm Sarah Schubert, executive director of Second Chances.
ANNIE
Oh.
SARAH
Hi.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 73
ANNIE
Bye. Second Chances?
SARAH
Yeah.
ANNIE
I thought it was Our Lady of the Holy Grail for Boys in need.
SARAH
I'm sorry. I'm--I'm not following.
ANNIE
02:12:54
Uh, I'm sorry. I-I must be confused.
SARAH
Well, I understand this party is all thanks to you.
ANNIE
No, not thanks to me--thanks to Dean.
SARAH
Oh, and which one is Dean? I'd like to thank him as well.
ANNIE
Well, uh, Dean Durling...
SARAH
Uh-huh.
ANNIE
The very handsome man.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:13:09
He's been working with your orphanage for years.
SARAH
I don't know of any Dean Durling. We just received a call several days ago from the
owner, inviting us to this event.
ANNIE
Dean Durling hasn't been volunteering for you?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 74
SARAH
I'm sorry. I've never heard of him.
SARAH (CONTINUED)
02:13:24
And I've worked there for 16 years.
ANNIE
(chuckles) There isn't, by any chance, a orphan named Charlie Brownstone who was
adopted this morning by a minister and his doctor wife?
SARAH
02:13:41
Unfortunately, we haven't had any adoptions in several weeks and certainly no one
named Charlie Brownstone.
ANNIE
Excuse me.
SARAH
Uh-huh.
DEAN
02:14:04
What'd I tell you, huh, ye of little faith? It's in the bag, baby. No, she bought the whole
thing. Chester, listen, I did my part. Annie's staying in L.A. Now you do yours. I want
my money.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
02:14:20
No, no, don't mail it. Come on, you can afford FedEx, Chester.
[OBJECTS CLATTERING LOUDLY]
DEAN
Oh, no. Annie. Annie, wait. Annie, come back. Wait.
DEAN (CONTINUED)
02:14:36
Annie, come on, I can explain all of this. Annie.
[BELLS ON DOOR JINGLE]
DEAN
(grunts angrily) Okay, uh...well, it's been fun, guys.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 75
DEAN (CONTINUED)
02:14:51
Um, you hold down the fort. I'll be seeing you. (clears throat)
[DOOR CLOSES]
MIA
I never liked him in the first place.
ANNIE
02:15:07
(breathes deeply)
[MUSIC]
[KNOCK AT DOOR, DOOR OPENS]
MIA
Annie?
ANNIE
Mm-hmm.
MIA
Annie, what's wrong?
ANNIE
02:15:24
I feel so stupid. I believed every lie he told.
MIA
You are not stupid. He's the stupid one. Oh, Annie, please don't go.
ANNIE
02:15:39
I have to.
MIA
But why?
ANNIE
(sighs) Because...I came here to find my future, and I didn't.
MIA
Annie, will we ever see you again?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 76
ANNIE
02:15:54
(breathes deeply) Here...take this...to remember me by.
MIA
02:16:09
Thank you.
ANNIE
(chuckles softly)
MIA
Annie...I know who you are.
ANNIE
Who I am, Mia, is Annie Klaus from Norpole, Idaho.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:16:28
And I want to go home. You be good, okay?
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:16:48
Bye, hon. (sighs)
MAN
So...how'd you like L.A.?
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
02:17:13
ALBIE
Oh, welcome back, Miss Annie.
ANNIE
Oh, thank you. It's good to be home. Yay! Oh! I've missed you so much.
[ALL CHEERING]
02:17:29
ANNIE
It is lovely to see everyone again. How have you been--good? You all look wonderful!
Yay! I'm so happy to see you!
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]
ANNIE KRINGLE - 77
MAN
Yay!
[KNOCK AT DOOR]
02:17:50
MARTHA
Annie. Good morning.
SANTA CLAUS
Good morning, Annie.
MARTHA
Welcome back.
ANNIE
Oh, thank you. Well, I need to get to it. It's Christmas Eve, and I'm afraid Chester has
left us with a bit of a mess.
MARTHA
02:18:05
He has been exiled, you know.
ANNIE
As well he should be.
SANTA CLAUS
Um, I'm sorry, Annie. I-I did not know.
ANNIE
Of course not, father. I don't blame you. We treated Chester like family.
SANTA CLAUS
02:18:20
Well, he's on his own now.
DEAN
Make sure you get all that caked-on food off with that scrubber of yours.
CHESTER
Okay.
DEAN
You got it?
ANNIE KRINGLE - 78
CHESTER
Yes, Dean.
CHESTER (CONTINUED)
02:18:35
I do believe I can handle this menial task.
DEAN
You know what, Chester? Don't give me any attitude. I'm trying to help you out there.
MARTHA
You know, Annie, everybody in the outside world is not like this Dean fellow. Your
experience might've been much different had Chester not intervened.
ANNIE
02:18:52
I suppose so.
MARTHA
I mean, you met some lovely people there.
ANNIE
Yes. But my place is here. I'm sure of that now.
SANTA CLAUS
Are you sure, Annie? You know, fate sent you there, and fate always knows what it's
doing.
SANTA CLAUS (CONTINUED)
02:19:11
We have something we want to show you. Martha.
[TV CLICKS ON]
TED
If I only told her how I felt...if I ever see that Dean guy again--he drove her away.
TED (CONTINUED)
02:19:26
He took her away from us.
LUCY
We'll keep looking for her, Ted.
TED
How? There's no Norpole, Idaho.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 79
MIA
We'll find her, Ted. Don't worry.
TED
I'm in love with her.
TED (CONTINUED)
02:19:41
And I'll never get a chance to tell her how I feel.
ANNIE
Ted is my Calvin.
SANTA CLAUS
02:19:59
Yes, Annie.
ANNIE
I always knew it. I just...I just ignored the signs.
MARTHA
You know, sometimes an adventure takes you on a roundabout course to your
destination, but fate always gets you there.
ANNIE
02:20:18
(laughs)
BARRY
02:20:34
This turkey is incredible, Lucy.
LUCY
Thank you.
MIA
It just doesn't feel like Christmas without Annie.
LUCY
I know, Mia. But we are going to enjoy tonight and be thankful for the time that we had
with her, okay?
[LOUD BANGING ON ROOF]
02:20:50
ANNIE KRINGLE - 80
MAN
(man groaning)
LUCY
What was that?
TED
It sounds like something hit the roof.
MIA
Or someone.
TED
What the...?
MAN
That's a tight fit. (groaning)
TED
02:21:12
What the...?
MAN
(groaning) Oh, my goodness, such clatter.
MIA
Santa!
SANTA CLAUS
Hello, Mia. (laughs)
MIA
Wow.
SANTA CLAUS
That was a tight fit.
SANTA CLAUS (CONTINUED)
02:21:28
Hello?
ALL
Annie!
ANNIE
Hi.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 81
MIA
02:21:43
I knew it.
ANNIE
You did. But you can't tell your friends. This has to be our little secret.
TED
Annie, how did-ANNIE
Uh...I guess I have a little explaining to do.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:22:01
This is my father--Santa Claus. Father, I think that you know everyone.
SANTA CLAUS
I do! I've known you all for some time now.
TED
So this is the toy business you're in?
TED (CONTINUED)
02:22:16
I get it now.
SANTA CLAUS
Well, I should be getting on my way. (chuckles) Yes, a lot of work to do. You know, this
is the busiest night of the year for me, but I am coming back to see you.
MIA
Mm-hmm.
SANTA CLAUS
Mwah!
SANTA CLAUS (CONTINUED)
02:22:33
Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!
LUCY
Merry Christmas.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 82
SANTA CLAUS
On dasher, on dancer...
ALL
Wow.
ANNIE
02:22:52
Surprise.
TED
So what made you come back?
ANNIE
I guess sometimes...and adventure leads you on a circuitous course towards your
destination.
TED
02:23:07
I'm not following.
ANNIE
It took me a day back in the village to realize something.
TED
What's that?
ANNIE
That you're my Calvin.
TED
Your what?
ANNIE
It's a...expression they have back home.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:23:23
It means...my one true love.
TED
Oh, that's funny, because I realized weeks ago that you're my Calvin.
ANNIE
All this time, I thought I was so comfortable because of Dean...when it was always you.
ANNIE KRINGLE - 83
TED
02:23:47
I like that. "It was always you."
ANNIE
Mm-hmm.
TED
Merry Christmas, Annie.
ANNIE
Merry Christmas, Ted.
LUCY
02:24:14
I see that we've got one more present under the tree here. (gasps) "To Ted from
Santa."
TED
What is this?
ANNIE
Why don't you open it and find out?
TED
02:24:32
The Christmas express.
LUCY
(laughing)
TED
A track? Oh, come on.
LUCY
Turn it on.
TED
02:24:56
It works.
BARRY
Whoo!
ANNIE
Yay!
ANNIE KRINGLE - 84
TED
Unbelievable.
[LAUGHTER]
ANNIE
02:25:11
I told you we'd get the Christmas express working again. (laughs)
TED
So...after your father retires, you're taking over the family business.
ANNIE
If I go back.
ANNIE (CONTINUED)
02:25:27
I still have a couple hours to decide. I was hoping for a little help.
TED
If I decide to go with you?
ANNIE
Then we both run the business.
TED
Hmm. So, if your father's retired, then who's Santa?
ANNIE
02:25:43
I guess we'll just have to wait and see. (laughs)
[MUSIC]
02:26:00
[END OF TAPE]
02:27:00