Christmas Above the Clouds (2025)
Director: Peter Benson
Writers: Christine Garver, Stephanie Jackson
Release date: November 8, 2025 (Hallmark Channel)
Stars: Erin Krakow, Tyler Hynes, Emily Tennant
Plot: Workaholic CEO Ella Neezer attempts to skip Christmas by taking a flight to Australia, only to find herself on the trip of a lifetime. This modern, comedic retelling of A Christmas Carol sees Ella, who is laser-focused on success but isolated, visited by three quirky Christmas Spirits—Past, Present, and Yet to Come—at 30,000 feet. The spirits force Ella to confront the choices that led to her lonely existence. With nowhere to escape on the transatlantic journey, she must face her past mistakes and glimpse a bleak future. A chance reunion with her ex-boyfriend on the flight might be her only hope to rediscover the true magic of Christmas and the love she thought she’d lost.
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Christmas Above the Clouds (2025) | Transcript
Merry Christmas, Miss Neezer.
I’ll be merry when it’s over.
Oh, um.
Right well, everyone worked really hard on this ad, and we hope you love it.
After Christmas this year, take an unforgettable vacation.
You survived Yuletide.
Now it’s time for a little Youtide.
There’s more to life than work.
Relax with the one you love.
Get spirited away.
And expect more with Great Expectations Trips.
No.
I expected more from all of you.
And if you give me any more yuletide puns, you’ll be fired.
Let’s go back to the copy.
Uh, but this has to go out for New Year’s.
Correct.
You signed off on this approach.
I tried the novel concept of delegating, but it failed.
I’m sorry.
Why are they all couples?
Aren’t we a bit tired of them?
Well, I mean, the concept was couples on vacation.
Uh, did you want to see, like, friends or…
Or someone vacationing alone.
I’m solitary as an oyster, and it suits me just fine.
She never takes a vacation.
Solitary as an oyster.
Why can’t we see a nice, high-powered, hardworking, single woman having the vacation of her life without anyone else around?
Okay, but it’s Christmas Eve.
And what better Christmas gift for us to give to ourselves than the satisfaction of a job well done?
With respect, Miss Neezer.
There isn’t time.
We can’t redo the copy at this stage.
Well, we can’t, but they can.
Here are my notes.
They will make it better.
“Make it better”.
Bobbi and I will be on the 8:30 flight to Sydney.
The rest of you have two days to handle this.
But tomorrow is Christmas.
Which I will blissfully be skipping.
Opting out, flying over.
But Christmas is still happening.
Not for Bobbi and me.
New York to Sydney is the longest flight in the world.
You literally skip a day.
If we leave on the 24th, we land on the 26th.
And that’s what we’re doing.
On purpose?
Well, that sounds super fun, but, um, we’re not skipping Christmas unless you’re saying that we have to.
No, of course not.
Oh.
Of course I’m not saying that you need to work on Christmas.
I’m just saying that the ad has to be done in two days, and I expect to see it when I land in Australia.
But that will be the 25th for us here.
Christmas Day.
Well, you’ll figure it out.
Bobbi.
I have your carryon ready to go.
You have electrolytes, hand lotion, hand sanitizer, eye mask…
My ruby scarf?
You’re what?
I’ll find it.
Snacks?
Salty or sweet?
Sour.
Sounds about right.
Did you say something?
No.
Nothing.
Um, I got you a Christmas present.
Oh.
Well, that was… unnecessary.
I found a photo of you and Marlene Jacobson.
I thought you might like it.
Marlene was the best mentor anyone could ask for.
I’m so glad you like it.
Today is the anniversary of her death.
Today?
Yes.
Wow. I’m so sorry.
Are you okay?
Is this real silver?
It’s plated.
Find my scarf before you forget.
Speaking of scarves, there’s been some requests to turn up the temperature on the thermostat.
Fifty-five degrees is cold for an office.
When you pay the electric bill, you can set the temperature.
But I just…
They can layer.
Good excuse to wear those ugly Christmas sweaters, right?
Right.
Go now, I need to clean up my inbox before we head to the airport.
Okay. I’ll meet you there.
I have to meet Tim in the city first to say goodbye.
Tim?
My son.
Since I’ll be missing Christmas with him.
Right.
Just get my stuff first, okay?
Hey, Fran, now’s not a great time.
And Merry Christmas to you too, sis.
Christmas, bah humbug.
Did you get the wreath I sent?
You didn’t throw it away again, did you?
Not immediately.
Ella Neezer, it is Christmas time.
It is the best of times.
It’s the worst of times.
Okay, I know what will cheer you up.
♪ God rest ye merry dogs and cats ♪
♪ Let’s greet you with woof, meow ♪
♪ Remember, all good little
pets get Christmas treats ♪
♪ Oh, wow! ♪
Look, I don’t remember the rest.
I’m sorry, Francis.
I have to get back to work.
You know, it’s not too late to join us.
Yes, it is.
I am flying to Australia tonight.
I’m sorry.
You know, we haven’t had a Christmas together since you broke up with Jake.
You celebrate Christmas your way, and I will celebrate it mine.
But you don’t celebrate it.
Exactly. Say hi to the kids.
Merry Christ…
Get it together, Ella.
Oh, uh, Miss Neezer.
Hey. Glad I caught you.
Uh. Don’t worry.
We’re working on the copy, but I just wanted to follow up on that message from Angela at Pickwick and Co Paper.
On floor three.
No? Uh, anyways, she’s organizing the holiday collection pool for the doorman, cleaning staff and essential building employees.
I sent you an email.
Walk.
Right. Yeah, uh.
Anywho, a bunch of us have already chipped in, so we’re just wondering what we can put you down for.
Nothing.
Oh, you just want to, like, keep it anonymous.
I want to be left alone.
Do you have any idea how expensive my overhead is?
I don’t make merry at Christmas, and I can’t afford to make everyone else merry.
Okay, but Miss Neezer…
This time of year…
I don’t have anything to give right now.
I have to get to the airport.
Merry Christ…
♪ On the first day of Christmas ♪
♪ My true love sent to me
a partridge in a pear tree ♪
♪ On the second day of Christmas
my true love sent to me ♪
No.
No.
♪ Two turtle doves
and a partridge in a pear tree ♪
No, thank you.
♪ On the third day of Christmas
my true love gave to me… ♪
Merry Christmas, Miss…
♪ three French hens ♪
Neezer.
♪ And a partridge in a pear tree ♪
I’ve been all over.
Please do something about this line.
Gold Elite. Humbug.
I can’t find your ruby scarf.
What?
I’m so sorry.
I… I… went to your house.
The dry cleaner.
I… I didn’t even get to say goodbye to Tim.
Oh, really?
It’s fine.
I bought these.
Will any of them work?
Bobbi, those are burgundy, crimson and claret.
Are you serious?
I know yours was special.
No, I don’t have special things.
It was just…
Excuse me. Pardon me.
Sorry. Just gonna slide through here.
Jake.
Ella.
Wow. Hi.
Hi.
Hi.
Oh, um…
Jake, this is my assistant, Bobbi.
Bobbi, this is my Jake.
This is my…
Ex-fiancé.
Hi.
You were engaged?
What’s it been, five years?
Six.
Six years. Today, actually.
Right.
Well, we… should go.
We are checking in.
Yeah.
I got a flight to check into, too.
See you around.
Sure.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
You’ve had some hard Christmas Eves.
We need to do something about this line.
Are you okay?
Stop asking me if I’m okay.
I’ll be okay when we get on this plane and away from all of this…
Christmas.
♪ And a partridge in a pear tree! ♪
Okay.
Merry Christmas!
Just right there.
Oh, can I interest you in any holiday items for the flight?
No, thank you.
Oh, we have light up necklaces.
We have reindeer antlers, Santa’s hat, elf ears,
♪ and a partridge in a pear tree! ♪
Are any of them noise canceling?
No, but we do have some earplugs in your vanity kit.
Wonderful.
I’m just…
Allow me.
♪ And a partridge in a pear tree! ♪
I’m going to need more space.
Oh, sir. Let me grab that for you.
Oh my!
Sorry, Santa.
Ho-ho-ho!
Welcome to Sydney Air.
I’m your captain and your not-so-secret Santa for this flight.
Surprise! The Christmas crackers are from me, but I have even more excitement on my sleigh.
Now I know you’re all sad to be missing Christmas on land.
So we’re going to do our darnedest to give you a Christmas above the clouds.
Oh no.
And I’ll be your emcee for the duration of this flight just under 20 hours.
And oh, who do we have here?
Ho-ho-ho!
Ah! It’s Santa.
Well, it’s Santa.
And here’s my first elf, Pip, to welcome you aboard.
Okay, everybody.
Are we ready to take it again from the top?
♪ On the first day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me ♪
♪ a partridge in a pear tree ♪
Everybody!
I know, Mom, believe me, I am devastated to be missing Christmas.
Sardine?
Bobbi, you didn’t even make it home before the flight to say goodbye to Tim.
I know, how is he?
Can I talk to him?
He did just need his inhaler but he is okay now.
I’ll put him on.
How’s your seat?
It’s really good, Mom.
Cozy.
Mommy.
Tim, how are you feeling?
I’m doing better now.
I love you.
I’m so sorry I didn’t make it home.
It’s not your fault.
Guess what?
What?
I asked Santa to bring you back for Christmas morning.
Oh, honey. Santa can’t…
I need your tablet charger.
I have to go, Tim. I love you.
And that neck pillow.
Oh, this is madness.
Do you know that in first class they’re insisting on singing Christmas carols before serving the champagne?
Okay.
This is gonna be such a long flight.
Excuse me.
Pip.
Will there be meal service at the beginning of this flight?
Yes. Just a quick multicourse Christmas feast before the lights dim.
Please do not wake me for that.
Alternatively, we have our Hanukkah Across Hemispheres, Gefilte Fish Stick Feast, for our kosher option.
Okay.
Yeah, thanks. I’m in 2A.
You have got to be kidding me.
Merry Christmas to us.
You know, I think it would be best if you asked to switch seats with someone.
Is that right?
Well, I was upgraded to this seat, so you’re more than welcome to ask if it’s that much of a problem to you.
No, I can’t, because I always sit in 2B.
Still anxious about flying?
Why are you flying now?
I thought you loved Christmas.
We.
Loved Christmas.
There’s a convention in Sydney at the beginning of January for child advocacy groups around the world.
I was invited to talk.
With my mentors hip program for my charity.
Oh.
And…
I still do love Christmas.
Well, what about spending it with your mom?
Cheaper to fly today.
She pushed me to go.
What about you?
Don’t tell me you’re finally taking a vacation.
No. It is a work trip.
We’re on boarding a chain of boutique hotels in Australia.
Oh, come on, can’t you just switch seats with someone?
And miss the opportunity to feel this level of vibrant awkwardness for the next 20 hours?
No way.
You are trying to annoy me.
How could I do that?
You’re impenetrable.
You’re the Grind Culture Queen of New York.
I see you read the Forbes article.
Thought you’d love it.
All publicity is good publicity, okay?
This flight is 9,929 miles.
Wow, you don’t say.
I’m Oliver.
Want to give me math problems?
No, I don’t.
Say, Oliver.
Want to switch seats?
Do I?
You know what?
I got a better idea.
Why don’t I write down some problems for you to solve on the plane quietly.
Make them difficult.
Thank you.
Don’t mention it.
Jake.
Thank you.
Now, please take a moment to review our safety video.
Ah!
Ella Neezer.
Of all the luxury first-class pods and all the jumbo jets in the world, you walk into mine.
Merry Christmas.
It can’t be.
What are you doing flying commercial?
Marlene?
In the flesh.
There must have been something wrong with that champagne.
Well, duh. It’s Prosecco.
No, no, this can’t be.
I… I… I must be dreaming.
You won’t believe what you see with your own eyes.
Boo!
Marlene!
You’re supposed to be dead.
I’m haunting you.
No, no, no. I… I… have to wake up.
Please keep your seat belt fastened while the seat belt light is on.
Just doing my job.
Giving the safety demonstration is your job?
It’s. My. Torture.
Doomed to travel eternity in an airline safety video.
Watching lonely, greedy souls make the same mistakes I did.
Mistakes?
Marlene, no.
You were everything I’ve aspired to be.
You were a force.
You were the pinnacle of hashtag girl-boss.
You knew just how to be a woman in business, and you rose right to the top.
But I didn’t.
Yes, you did!
You had everything!
I had nothing.
Well, you had an impressive portfolio.
I had no one in my life.
I was miserable.
I never took a vacation.
I never made anyone’s life better.
I never even celebrated Christmas.
Are those chains?
Forget about the chains.
I’m wearing polyester.
I’m literally caught dead in something I wouldn’t be caught dead in.
Oh, you poor thing.
Don’t pity me.
I made this fate for myself.
I forged these chains in life with my own selfish choices.
Your chains, Ella Neezer were nearly this long several Christmas Eves ago.
Imagine how heavy they would be now.
You could end up behind the screen like me.
Oh. Or worse.
In an employee’s training video.
I want to help you.
You have a chance and hope of escaping my fate.
Oh, thank you, thank you, Marlene.
Tonight, you will be visited by three spirits.
That’s the chance and hope?
It is.
Uh, no. No, I’d rather not do that.
The first spirit will come when the seat belt light tolls one.
Can’t they all just come at once and I can get them out of the way?
You will be visited by spirits.
And please take the time to locate your nearest emergency exit, which may be behind you.
But your fate has no exit.
Fare thee well, Ella Neezer.
No, no…
Oh!
You look like you’ve seen a ghost.
It’s gonna be okay.
Let’s kick off this 20hour flight right.
Now, many of you may not know, but I was honorable mention at the 2014 Tasmanian Poetry Slam.
So, I’ll be sharing with you some of my most favorite spoken word Christmas poems.
So if you see a koala on you Christmas morning hikey and you likey-likey-likey, put tinsel on the eucalyptus tree and give her a candy cane.
Crikey.
You okay?
Not really.
I can’t really feel my arm.
Yeah.
You probably just need some sleep.
I can’t sleep, I have work to do.
Right. Work.
Your favorite Christmas tradition.
Ma’am.
Ma’am.
I’m gonna need you to come to an upright position, please.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas!
I’m the Ghost of Christmas Past.
We know you have choices when you time travel.
Time travel?
So, on behalf of your soul, we would like to thank you for traveling with us.
Wait, did I have choices?
Well, that’s the point.
Your choices.
Where did everybody go?
Please take a moment to review the Christmas time travel information.
And if you’re unwilling to perform any of the functions, just ask to be reseated.
Can I be reseated?
No.
Merry Christmas!
Wha…
I will be accompanying you to Christmas time past with services to memory and continue service to regret.
Wait, do you know who I am?!
Ella Neezer, Grind Culture Queen, CEO of Great Expectation Trips.
Okay, well, the first ghost, Marlene Jacobsen.
Have you heard of her?
Mhm.
She appeared on the screen.
And so we’re just gonna do this right here in my seat.
Please follow the emergency lights to the exit.
Merry Christmas!
No, no, no, no.
Marlene assured me there would be no exit.
So, I think what’s happened is we just got some wires are just getting crossed. If I could…
If we experience a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will be released.
Oh!
Be sure to secure your mask first before helping others.
But you’re always looking out for number one, am I right?
No.
No, no, no! Aaaaa!
I’m experiencing a sudden loss in cabin pressure!
Merry Christmas!
Stop saying tha…
Oh!
I’m gonna need to speak to your manager.
You’ll be receiving an email with a survey regarding your experience.
Oh, wait.
This is…
No, this can’t be.
Your past?
It is.
Merry Christmas!
This is Hodges, my boarding school.
And that’s me.
I used to love that song.
Strange to have forgotten that.
I felt so lonely that Christmas.
Solitary as an oyster, if you will.
I was 10.
Our mom and dad had to work overseas, so Francis and I stayed at school the entire break.
Shh. It’s okay.
These are but shadows of things that have been.
She can’t hear you.
Oh, and there’s Francis.
♪ God rest ye merry dogs and cats ♪
♪ Let’s greet you with woof, meow ♪
Come on, let’s go sing some carols.
Francis always had a way of making everything feel better.
And you used to let her.
Now, let’s see another Christmas.
What?
This is my grad school library.
And that’s me, again.
You’ve always been a hard worker.
Burning the midnight oil.
Wakey, wakey. Library’s closing.
Mm.
What?
Why is the library closing?
Well, let’s see, it’s Christmas Eve.
Some people celebrate and sleep in beds.
I know you.
You do?
Global Markets Analysis.
Oh.
Yeah. You used to always come to class ten minutes early, like me.
Sorry, of course.
You were always so pretty.
Pretty busy.
Anyway.
It’s okay.
Never too busy to have a conversation with a cute librarian.
Okay.
I’m Jake.
Ella.
Gingerbread cookies?
Roasted chestnuts?
Shh.
I really hate to do this, but I do have to kick you out.
No, please.
Five more minutes.
Come on.
I’ll keep studying and you can close up.
Okay, that was spooky.
Is this place haunted?
Timers. Lights are on, timers.
It’s less exciting.
Yeah.
Okay.
Okay.
I do know something that might light you up though.
I like lights.
Great.
Follow me.
Cruising out.
I planted this tree 400 years ago.
No, you didn’t.
No, I did.
Look, we’re gonna chop it down.
It’s gonna go in my living room.
Wow. You’re ancient.
Oh my gosh.
That’s it.
So pretty.
Oh.
Thanks.
I like the color.
Keep it. It looks better on you.
Thirsty?
Okay, okay.
So.
What is your plan after graduation?
Librarian’s always an option.
It’s a small world.
I’ve actually been looking into jobs that involve sleeping in libraries.
No, no, no, something tells me you’ve got a plan.
I have a plan.
It’s just embarrassing to say it out loud.
Oh, good.
Do you want me to gather some people?
Some people…
Hey, hey, hey.
Go ahead.
I want to build my own travel company.
One that makes it easy and efficient for people to plan unique vacations.
That’s fantastic.
That’s not even a little bit embarrassing.
Well, it is if I can’t pull it off.
Of course you can.
I just met you and I know that.
It’s a great idea. I’m a believer.
You love traveling?
To be honest, I haven’t really done any.
Really?
So, now I want to see the world.
Yeah.
China.
Australia.
I want life to feel like a big adventure.
Sounds like you’re going to have a wonderful life.
I hope so.
Anyway, I don’t have the plan quite as figured out specifically as you do, but, um…
I do know I want to do something to help atrisk children.
Atrisk?
Yeah. You know, ones that need positive relationships, connections.
It’s harder to be healthy and happy when you feel alone.
Wow.
Now I really am embarrassed.
Stop.
Well, helping atrisk kids is much more noble than planning vacations.
The world needs both.
Equally.
And you know what we need?
We need to take a selfie.
Oh.
I always try to take a photo of the best part of my day.
Look.
This is it, right here.
Just don’t ask me to download it anywhere.
Upload it? Offload it?
What? Wait, all of your photos just live on your phone?
I think so.
Photos live on phones?
I’m challenged in so many ways, but technically challenged is definitely one of them.
Okay, you gotta let me help you with that sometime.
Okay.
Why do you look so sad?
Because I was so happy.
Come.
There’s many more Christmases to see.
I interned here in grad school.
That’s Fez, the owner.
This was the best office Christmas party.
Silly, huh?
To indulge in all this merriment and other intangibles that don’t make any money.
I know what you’re doing.
What? What am I doing?
You want me to say, ‘wow, what a supportive work environment’.
Wasn’t it?
I’ll have you know, this company failed, and the following year, everyone had to look for new jobs.
You have a very selective memory.
You’re selecting the memories.
No, no.
One dance.
I work here.
I don’t want to make a fool of myself.
Are we at the same party?
Okay, well, two fools don’t make a right.
I disagree.
Are you sure you’re not the Ghost of Christmas Nostalgia?
You want me to think everything was better than it actually was.
This is what it was.
No tricks.
Ugh.
Let’s buckle up.
It’s time for a memory montage.
Does that mean we’re landing?
No.
But it is a descent which can cause turbulence, especially when heartbreak is involved.
I don’t handle turbulence well.
Please use caution when opening your heart, as articles may have shifted during flight.
What?
Wait, what are you talking about?
What’s going on?
Here we go!
How about this one!
So all of your selfies can live on the frame and not on your phone.
So, you’re saying this isn’t a phone?
I’m kidding. It’s perfect.
I got the job with Marlene Jacobson!
Oh, I knew it. I’m so proud of you.
Let’s go celebrate.
No!
Let’s go celebrate.
No time. Too much to do.
You are now free to move about the cabin.
Merry Christmas.
This is Marlene’s office.
I know our travel itinerary.
You’ll be my right hand at all times.
And I mean all times.
You don’t have an active social life, do you?
No, but I do have a…
My point is…
Where did the seatbelts go?
You ask all the wrong questions.
I need your focus here.
We must be in sync, a team.
Got it.
No problem, Miss Jacobson.
You may call me Marlene.
Except when it irritates me.
Okay. Thank you, Miss Jacobson.
Jim.
Is that work-related?
I’m sorry.
I was just delivering my secret Santa gift.
Oh, is that something you need to apologize for?
Employees should not prance around the office pretending to be elves during work hours.
Stealing time from one’s employer never put anyone on the nice list.
What? She’s right.
Oh, no. I was giving, not stealing.
When it comes to the bottom line, time and money are interchangeable.
Exceptions cannot be made.
Certainly not for the frivolity of a sneaky Santa.
It’s actually secret Santa.
Is it?
I’ll stay late.
I learned this lesson the hard way, Ella.
But you don’t have to.
It’s difficult to be a woman in charge.
It’s not fun to be the person that no one likes, but it’s more important to be respected.
That sounds tough.
It’s a choice.
It’s lonely at the top, but I think you can get there.
That means a lot.
Thank you, Miss Jacobson.
I told you to call me Marlene.
You’ll be on call 24/7.
Got it.
And I don’t want to hear the words ‘No’, ‘I can’t’, or…
‘I’m otherwise engaged’.
Good.
Distractions are the enemy of success.
Watch and learn, kid.
I’ll teach you how to get everything you ever wanted.
Oh!
Come on, Dive Bar Christmas is the one tradition we have left that your work has not ruined over the years.
I told you, I’m on a deadline.
You’re always on a deadline.
Jake, I can’t have this conversation again.
I get it, I get it, but…
You don’t get it!
I’m finally getting what I want.
Are you?
Excuse me?
Come on, Ella.
You wanted to… to build a company, remember?
You wanted to travel the world.
I’m trying.
When’s the big adventure coming?
You have no idea what I want!
Maybe you’re right.
Maybe I have no idea.
I thought you wanted a wonderful life with me.
Please don’t make me relive this.
I did.
But I think we just want different things now.
Okay.
I won’t stand in your way.
I don’t want to see any more.
There, there.
It’s just one more layover.
This is my office.
Yes, it is. Last year.
Merry Christmas.
We cannot settle for mediocrity.
You’re dismissed.
What? They underdelivered.
Bobbi.
It’s 9:38 a.m.
I’m sorry I’m late, Miss Neezer.
We have to close tomorrow for Christmas.
But we all have the same amount of work to do.
I’m sorry. I had a family emergency.
I will ask you to deal with your emergencies on your time and my emergencies on mine.
Like, do you see our listings in Iceland?
All of the amenities include ‘private beach’.
Is that something you’re capable of fixing?
Let me set my stuff down and I’ll get right on it.
Bobbi.
If your personal life is making this job too difficult for you to handle, perhaps you should look elsewhere.
I’m not sure I said it quite like that.
I know.
I don’t know.
I… I… don’t know what else to do, Mom.
How’s he holding up?
He’s resting comfortably now.
Oh, I can’t believe an emergency room would take all night to see a sick child.
You must be exhausted.
I just hope he’s gonna be okay.
I don’t even want to know what that visit’s going to cost.
Honey, honey, don’t even think about that right now.
Can you tell him I love him?
I will.
He loves you too.
Who’s the child? Is that Bobbi’s son?
Is he okay?
Why are you worried?
She got those listings fixed before she left work that day.
This isn’t about the listings.
This is about her child.
Oh, that’s the seat belt sign.
It is time to return to your seat.
In the unlikely event of a water landing.
Remember, pull the tabs to inflate the vest or blow air through the tube.
Ah.
We hope you enjoyed your journey.
And thank you again for traveling with us.
Wait. I’m not ready yet.
What happens to her child?
Merry Christmas.
Oh.
Ew. Am I in coach?
Ahhhhh!
So…
You good?
What are you doing here?
What are you doing here?
First class was occupied. I thought I…
Ugh.
Ow.
Oh.
Okay, this is gonna sound a little bit zany but there was this flight attendant, and she’s also a ghost and she took me to New York, and you were there…
Ella. Ella, Ella, breathe.
Breathe, breathe, breathe.
What? What?
Breathe, breathe.
Okay, look, you probably had a bad dream, right?
Right?
Yeah.
Good, good.
Ell, why are you wearing a life vest?
The ghost gave it to me.
Okay, why don’t we talk about this back at the seats?
Or at least not in the bathroom.
Yeah, yeah.
Yeah.
Yeah?
Because I need to use the bathroom.
Oh, yeah, sorry.
Why do you have a life vest?
I really wish I knew.
Please do not play with the emergency equipment.
I’m…
It… it… it compromises the safety of the crew and the passengers.
I won’t, and I’m sorry.
May I please have something to eat?
I’ve changed my mind about the Gefilte Fish Stick Feast.
Excellent.
Can I get you anything to drink?
Beer? Wine? Spirits?
No. No spirits. Just the gefilte fish.
Thank you.
Excellent.
And… hands off.
You feeling better?
A little, I think.
Look…
Listen, Jake…
I wanted to say I’m sorry.
You’re sorry?
Yeah. I shouldn’t be giving you a hard time about working Christmas Eve’s and bringing up the past.
This is not…
No, Jake. I have… I have been thinking…
Also, I could change seats if you still want me to.
No, Jake.
I’ve been thinking, and I wanted to say that I realized there were quite a few Christmases where my work may have detracted from the holiday.
You mispronounced ‘ruined’.
Okay. Tomato, tomato.
Destroyed. Annihilated.
Yeah, fine. That.
What I want to say is…
I really think I could have managed things better.
Thanks for saying that.
A few years late, but yeah.
Are you still making those holiday photo gifts?
Behold.
The calendar.
Wow.
Yeah.
It sure looks like something a mother would love.
Do you mean only a mother would love?
I didn’t say that.
You said it with your eyes.
No.
I mean, it was implied, but…
But, I didn’t say it.
Sure.
Please, sir. May I have some more?
More?
Math problems.
Oh.
Coming up.
Where is my food?
It’s first class.
I’m sure it’ll be coming soon.
There you are.
I was just looking for a place to pin these.
Incoming.
Vrrrrrrrmmm!
Hey, matchies.
Pinsy twinsies.
Would you like to be my copilot for a bit?
Oh, no.
Actually, I was just looking for some food.
Oh, I’ve got just the thing.
You must be famished.
After all that zipping about you’ve done tonight.
Excuse me?
Ghost of Christmas Present.
Let’s kick the tires and light the fires.
Haha!
What the Dickens?
This is the cockpit?
Oh, yeah.
Let’s start with dessert.
What are you keen on, huh?
We’ve got Yule log, fruitcake, apple pie, Vegemite.
Oh, figgy pudding, chocolate pudding, cherry pudding, toffee pudding.
That’s a lot of pudding.
And pavlova!
Okay, but let’s get things started here.
Oh, we’ve got to savor all the moments.
We do?
You’re such a cute little humbug.
When do we start to see the visions.
Ah.
Presently.
What?
Wait.
Don’t we take the emergency exit?
No. That’s how the spirits did it in the past.
You’re with the present now.
Hold that.
Well, you better buckle up.
Visions of present and near present, incoming.
Are you sure you want to put that on the equipment?
Where are we?
I don’t remember this place.
No, of course you don’t.
This is the present, silly.
Yeah. All of this is actually happening right now in real time.
Those are my GET employees.
Yeah, I know. I’m omniscient.
Well, why aren’t they working?
They have a commercial to finish.
♪ Four calling birds,
three French hens, ♪
♪ two turtle doves
and a partridge in a pear tree ♪
Woo!
Why is everyone always singing that song?
Eggnog?
Now you’re drinking on the job?
It’s virgin.
So, just egg and cream?
And nutmeg.
Ulgh!
All right, here’s to our fourth annual.
GET Office Christmas party.
Cheers!
I didn’t approve an office Christmas party.
They’d better not submit for reimbursement.
It’s a good thing that we always plan our own, because there is no way that Krampus would ever approve one.
What’s a Krampus?
Oh, it’s a horned beast.
Of course.
Oh.
Wait! Me?
I’m the horned beast?!
Who likes to punish people.
Of course, giving us a holiday party would mean acknowledging our value.
She’d never do that.
Nope.
Parties are a cost inefficient way to promote team bonding.
Plus, some people find them very awkward.
And some people should just listen.
She treats us like we’re beggars in Victorian London.
Exactly. I thought she’d respond to our heat request by giving us coal.
Yes.
Mined by orphans.
Totally. She has no idea how unappreciated we feel.
But you know what, guys?
It’s Christmas Eve.
Let’s not focus on the bad.
I mean, she haunts us when she’s not even here.
I didn’t know they thought that.
No, no, they think that.
Present-tense.
Huh?
No.
Can’t all be hits.
I expect a lot from them.
But I want this company to succeed.
I thought that made me a good boss.
Oh.
What do you think now?
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, guys.
Hold up.
You won’t believe this.
Bobbi just texted that Krampus used to be engaged.
No way.
I mean, I’m… I’m assuming he left her.
I’m just saying.
Everyone will leave her eventually.
I know I will.
I am getting out the first chance I get.
There it is.
All right, now let’s get some dessert.
Crikey. This is depressing, ay?
Can we go back to the plane now?
Yeah. Nah, heaps more to see.
But we can get some food in ya.
Not hungry.
Oh, well, more for me.
Oof, stone the flaming crows.
Did your ears pop?
This is Francis’ house.
Everyone start, please.
We were waiting for you.
Everything looks amazing.
Thank you.
So, your sister couldn’t make it?
No, no, she’s traveling for work.
I heard there was a parade that needed to be rained on.
Bubble that needed bursting, party that needed pooping.
I thought it was just Christmas she had a problem with?
Christmas, joy, love.
The basics.
Kevin, don’t say that.
She doesn’t have a problem with love.
Tell that to Jake.
They broke up at Christmas, so it’s a difficult holiday for her.
It’s not just that.
She is the antithesis of Christmas.
That’s not fair.
That’s not fair.
It’s not?
It’s not?
No.
Ella she’s put up a wall for reasons I can’t explain, but I still hope she’ll change.
She’s my sister.
We got each other through a lot of tough times when we were young.
I love her, and I’m sad that she’s not here.
And I’m sad for her because she is missing out on a very joyous Christmas, especially with you wonderful people here.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
My favorite.
Home Alone.
Polar Express!
Batman returns!
Ooh, waddling on ice.
It’s Batman Returns!
Oh, oh, oh, oh! Garfield Christmas!
What?
Time’s up.
Batman Returns.
Obviously.
Wasn’t it supposed to be a Christmas movie?
It is a Christmas movie.
Okay. You’re up.
Oh, boy.
Here we go!
Ella would have known that.
I did.
I feel really bad about what I said earlier.
Yeah, you should.
And I just want to make a toast to Ella Neezer.
May she be having a very Merry Christmas, wherever she is.
Probably somewhere above Ohio.
Well, we’re thinking of you, Ella.
May you have a very Merry Christmas above the clouds.
She wouldn’t take it, but may she have it nonetheless.
To Ella.
Time to go.
Oh.
I don’t want to be responsible for any flight delays, okay?
All right, I’ve been working on this one all year, okay?
First. Two words.
Two words.
It’s a movie.
Okay.
And uh…
Do more.
Uh… It’s, uh, two words.
I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun.
Looks like us, ay?
I don’t know this place.
Hot choccy.
Wait! Where are we?
What are we doing here?
I don’t recognize it.
Oh.
This is Jake’s charity.
Yeah. Isn’t this sweet as…
Jake’s throwing this party, so all these kids can have a bit of fun after school with Santa.
All right, you little legends.
Who wants some Christmas stuff?
Yes. All right, here we go.
Crayon? Oh hey, buddy.
You want some?
Nah. His mentoring program has improved the lives of children who’ve been exposed to a whole host of disadvantages.
It’s the most impactful new youth charity of the last five years.
Well, he knows he’s doing good work, but working in nonprofit can be harder than working in the private sector.
Charity, it’s often overlooked, even by those with the means.
Wow!
This is beautiful.
Lucy.
Who’s Lucy?
Hey. Glad I ran into you.
Same.
Do we have more hats?
Sure.
That’s Paul, our friend from Hempstead University.
I know.
Any chance you, uh you want to grab lunch with me?
After we wrap up?
Oh, uh…
I can’t.
I’m sorry.
Of course, you must have plans.
I mean, it’s Christmas Eve and all.
He doesn’t want to. Take a hint.
I just have a lot to do before my flight tonight.
Oh, that means you’re missing Christmas.
What a sacrifice.
Okay. She’s laying it on pretty thick.
Okay. You had your chance with Jake.
Didn’t Past cover that?
Let me know if you find those hats.
Of course.
Yes.
And don’t worry, I’ll get them to the kids.
Thank you.
But, uh, I’ll hold you to that lunch when you’re back.
Looks like you got something to look forward to in the new year.
What are you talking about?
What’s he talking about?
Lunch with Lucy.
You should go.
You… you haven’t seriously dated in, like, what?
A decade?
A decade? Relax.
You deserve to be happy, man.
I’m happy.
Is he happy?
Mm.
I’m happy.
Come on. Look how happy I am.
All right, well, think about going out with her when you come back.
Yeah, thinking about it.
It’s time to move on.
Ready to head next door?
Please.
I’m starving.
Yes.
Dive Bar Christmas, here we come.
Dive Bar Christmas.
Okay, so that’s Jake.
What now? Where is your yoke?
Oh. No need.
No, just a quick walkabout.
Hm.
Come on.
Gotta get those steps in.
Nifty, huh?
You’ve got this.
I can’t believe they still do Dive Bar Christmas.
Presents! I love it!
The white elephant tradition we started in grad school.
Ah, exchanging useless gifts in a cozy bar in the middle of the workday.
Yeah. Sounds like everything you despise.
Sorry, dude.
What?
Come on.
You know, I love the bass.
Savage.
It’s us!
The very first Dive Bar Christmas.
You look so young and happy.
Yeah. We do.
Even Ella.
Yeah.
I… ran into her the other day.
You did?
It was such a bummer.
She just seemed so annoyed and sad and lonely.
Oh.
Don’t sound so disappointed.
Serves her right after how she treated you.
Okay. I can’t watch this anymore.
Hold on, just a tick.
I gotta go. Pack my bags.
All right.
Send pics from down unda.
Hey, that’s my accent.
Will do. Love you guys.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Well, just one layover en route to our last stop.
Fine. Let’s go.
Really?
No objections, no snark?
Not even a humbug.
Okay.
This way.
I can’t believe he still lives here.
He hasn’t changed a thing.
Wait. Why did he decorate for Christmas if he knew he wasn’t gonna be here?
Well, I suppose Christmas still means something to him.
Merry Christmas, Ella.
Wherever you are.
I’m right here.
It’s time to go.
Ghost.
Ghost!
Hey! Hey, can’t we go back to the plane?
I want to talk to Jake.
Sorry, mate.
We’ve got to stay present.
I don’t think this is my present.
Well, you have to see how your choices affect others, even indirectly.
Well, whose house is this?
Come. We’re on our final approach.
Do we just float through the door?
No.
We just walk through it.
Oh.
Mortals.
I’m going to Australia with mommy.
Slow down, Tim.
I can’t.
My plane is performing a tail slide.
That’s such a beautiful chicken, mom.
Bobbi’s recipe.
Oh, this is Bobbi’s family.
This plane has eight reindeer power.
And Tim is Bobbi’s son. Of course.
Poor Timmy.
Bobbi should have been able to be here.
It is a crime for a mother to have to miss Christmas with her child.
Not that Krampus cares.
They call me Krampus here, too?
Oh, yeah. Yeah.
Tim.
Timmy!
We were telling you not to run around like that, Tim.
Hey, don’t scold him.
Get his inhaler. I know, come on.
What’s going on?
There you go.
That’s it.
All right.
One puff.
It’s okay, buddy.
All right, we have your finger.
There we go.
He’s at 95.
Is that good?
Yeah. When it goes below that, they usually need to take him to the doctor.
I thought his new maintenance drug was supposed to prevent him from having these episodes.
There is a new one we can try, but…
Not covered?
Hey, it’s Christmas, and we’re not spending it in the ER this year.
That is a blessing.
Mmhmm.
That’s true.
Oh.
That’s Bobbi.
Hey, honey, did you make the plane?
So, Tim has asthma?
Is it bad?
Well, they’re still trying to figure out the right treatment.
Bobbi’s paycheck mostly goes to out-of-pocket medical expenses, which is why she still has to live at her mother’s.
She is a self-absorbed tyrant.
Mom, I’m lucky to have a job that lets me support Tim.
But he needs you, too.
I want to be there.
Believe me, I’m devastated to be missing Christmas.
Bobbi should have told me about all this before she agreed to skip Christmas.
Agreed? Is that what she did?
And what good would it have done to tell you, ay?
What was that you said?
Uh…
Here it is.
Ah, “I don’t make merry at Christmas.
And I can’t afford to make everyone else merry.”
Huh? See that?
It’s right there in me hand.
I asked Santa to bring you back for Christmas morning.
Oh. Honey. Santa can’t bring…
I need your tablet charger.
Hey, that’s you.
And your neck pillow.
I don’t like hearing my own voice either.
It’s always a bit higher than you think.
Now, before we start, shall we do Christmas gratitudes?
Well, I’m grateful for this feast.
I am grateful for all of you.
I’m grateful for Miss Neezer.
You don’t have to be grateful for everything, Tim.
Yeah. She’s the reason your mommy isn’t here.
But she gives mommy a good job, and that lets her buy medicine, which makes me feel better.
To Miss Neezer, I hope she is happy.
To Miss Neezer.
Return to your seats!
No!
This is the end of our journey, love.
Thank you for your presence.
Hold on. What happens to Tim?
If these visions remain unaltered by the future…
I see an empty chair where Tiny Tim once sat.
What?
No.
No, no, no, no, no!
Wait! Wait!
Hey! Spirits!
Just put me back in my seat next time, okay?
Are you okay in there?
Can I help you?
Everyone else is sleeping.
I hope the pilot’s awake.
He’s probably eating.
Wait. What?
What? I don’t know.
Something you want to say?
Will you please tell me more about this talk you’re giving?
Overcoming Isolation Through Mentorship.
Did I mention that?
Uh, Sarah did.
I ran into her.
Oh, right.
Oh.
Let’s see.
We.
Provide after school care and support for about 50,000 kids in the Tri-State area.
I mean, it’s just a drop in the bucket.
Our goal is to be in every major city in the world one day.
Lofty, I know.
You can do it.
I believe in you.
Thanks… for, um asking about it.
I’ve been thinking a lot about success, lately.
But really, just tonight, actually.
And I’ve got the job of my dreams but it doesn’t make me feel.
It’s hard, you know, because everyone around me is wishing me a Merry Christmas, but…
I just haven’t felt merry since…
It’s been a long time.
It’s never too late to change.
Probably get some sleep.
Still got a long way to go.
Good night.
Good night.
Can I help you?
Air Marshal.
Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come.
Oh, boy.
You’ll tell me what will happen in Christmases yet to come?
Oh, no.
So you don’t want me to open the door?
Okay, okay.
Uh, well, just before we get going, um, in the end, if it’s not too much trouble, do you think you could put me back in my seat instead of the lavatory…
Why, why, why, why are you pointing at me?
Whoa.
Well, my office building is still here in the future.
That’s good news.
You’re omniscient too, right, just to be clear?
Look, I’m not trying to tell you how to do your job, and I’m certainly not complaining because the last two ghosts were a little too chatty, if you know what I mean, but…
I think it could really help if you had some commentary or guidance for me, you know?
Seems you’re not open to notes, and I respect that.
Sir! Sir!
Oh, is it warm in here?
Did I agree to turn the thermostat up, or is heat just free in the future?
I don’t normally talk this much, I’m just nervous.
And I don’t have a lot of experience being nervous.
But you are just so… okay.
Well, this looks like the last of it.
She’d be happy to know the catering bill for the service will be low.
No need to put out a spread if they don’t expect anyone to come.
Who are they talking about?
Still, don’t you feel like a little bad?
I mean, shouldn’t we be mourning or something?
I am mourning.
I never got a recommendation letter.
Hey!
Isn’t that Miss Neezer’s scarf?
Is it?
It is!
I just found it and took it since it was freezing in the office.
One thing you can say for Krampus.
She had taste.
That’s about all you can say.
Wait, wait, wait.
Who are they talking about?!
Wait!
Hey, put the vase down!
Why are they packing up my office?
Hey, this is my stuff.
Stop!
Not the chair. Not the chair!
He’s desecrating my custom perfect posture ergonomic chair.
This is real silver!
Let me have that one.
I cleaned this office every day and never got one word of thanks.
Can’t you do something?
I opened the door for her for years.
Never a smile, never a ‘Hey, how ya doing?’.
I don’t even think she knew my name.
I did!
It was Bill or Budge.
Hey, Todd.
Todd! I was getting there.
How about we celebrate?
Not the ‘O2!
In styrofoam?!
Good riddance.
Oh, let’s check out the back room.
Yeah.
Not the back room.
Jake.
Jake?
Francis.
Kind of you to come.
Yeah.
You certainly didn’t have to.
I wanted to.
Thanks.
I’m so sorry, Francis.
I’m sorry for you, too, Jake.
They’re acting like somebody died.
Hey, how you been?
Good.
I’ve been, uh, focused.
On the center, you know.
Have you been seeing anybody?
Me? No.
No, no.
Since Ella I haven’t really found that spark with anybody else.
You will, Jake.
You will.
If I’m being honest…
I stopped trying.
A long time ago.
He gets past this, right?
I mean, I’m flattered, but this is Jake we’re talking about.
He’s basically the greatest guy ever.
Okay, Ghost, you work for me, right?
You’ve got to tell me what’s yet to come.
What happens to Jake?
The public library.
I don’t understand.
He’s a lonely librarian?
Like Donna Reed.
No, no, no, no. No, this is too awful.
Take me somewhere else!
Anywhere but here.
Really? Just show me some happiness.
Please. Please!
So shall we do the Christmas gratitudes?
Wait.
Why is Tim’s chair empty?
Bobbi?
I am grateful for…
Oh, sweetheart.
Oh, I know, I know.
We miss him, too.
This is so unfair.
I don’t understand why are you showing me this?!
No.
No, no, no!
Please! Tell me.
Is this what will happen or what might happen?
Can I alter my destiny?
Please, Ghost, please. I can change.
I’ve learned from all three spirits.
I’ll do anything to prevent this future from coming to pass.
I’ll never forget kindness and charity.
I’ll always hold the meaning of Christmas in my heart.
Thank you!
I’m alive!
Oh, hello beautiful coach lavatory.
I love you!
I love this mirror!
I love it here!
Oh, sorry.
Wait. Why is everyone grabbing their stuff?
Did we land?
I thought we had 15 more hours till we reached Sydney.
Lady, we’re in Utah.
Utah?
There was some issue in the cockpit, so they wanted to land and have a technician check it out, just to be on the safe side.
I heard the pilot spilled apple cider on the controls.
Crikey! That tracks.
Didn’t you hear the announcements?
No. I… I… I must have fallen asleep.
In the bathroom?
What day is it today?
December 25th.
It’s Christmas Day? I didn’t miss it?
Okay, did you hit your head?
Oh! Christmas in Utah!
My sister Francis lives in Utah!
Oh, Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas.
Oh, Oliver! Merry Christmas.
I hope that Santa brings you a thousand math workbooks!
Oh, boy, me too!
I gotta go.
I’ll keep you posted.
Okay. I love you. Yes.
Can you believe this delay?
But we didn’t miss Christmas.
Attention, passengers.
Due to an unforeseen technical issue, this plane is grounded indefinitely.
We will rebook you all on a new flight tomorrow, December 26th.
Hey, what are you doing right now?
Deplaning?
Come with me to breakfast.
It’s 1:00 in the morning.
Exactly. Christmas morning.
Are you okay?
Never been better.
Jake.
There’s nothing I can do about the many Christmases that I ruined.
Destroyed.
Annihilated.
But what I can do is take you to breakfast, if you’ll let me.
Oh, uh…
Come on!
I’m a lot of things, but I’m better than the airplane terminal.
Plus, duty free is closed.
Breakfast sounds nice.
Yes!
After you…
Miss Christmas.
See you at baggage claim.
Merry Christmas.
I’d love for you to help me spread some Christmas cheer.
Don’t worry.
I’m already looking at new flights.
I promise the next flight to Sydney is tomorrow…
What am I supposed to do tonight?
Oh, I found some excellent options.
I just have to call…
If the options are so excellent, why haven’t you secured one?
Only because we just landed and it’s the middle of the night, and choices might be limited because it’s Christmas.
Christmas?
Christmas, Christmas, Christmas.
Always an excuse for Christmas.
I suppose you’re going to tell me that I should give you a bonus because it’s Christmas.
I didn’t say that.
Well, I’ll tell you what.
I’ll do better than that.
I am going to double your salary and give you a promotion.
I am also going to get the best health insurance plan there is for you and everyone else at the company.
One that covers all of Tim’s medicine.
You remember who Tim is?
Of course.
Australia can wait.
I bought you a first-class ticket home so you can be with Tim on Christmas.
You leave in a few hours.
Bobbi, I have been awful to you and everyone.
And I apologize from the bottom of my heart, but I promise you that I am going to make it better.
And if you keep working for me, if you keep working with me…
I will make it right.
And I will never take you for granted again.
I don’t know what to say.
Merry Christmas, Bobbi.
Merry Christmas, Ella.
Attention, Sydney passengers.
We just learned that a Christmas angel has offered to comp everyone’s room at Five Golden Rings Luxury Resort until flights can be rebooked!
Come get your GET vouchers from Great Expectation Trips.
Oh. GET.
Huh? I get it.
So will you give Francis a heads up that you’re coming for Christmas?
No.
Surprises are great.
Okay, what’s going on here?
What do you mean?
For someone who is excited to skip Christmas, you seem pretty thrilled with the change of plans.
Yeah, I am.
Jake, seeing you tonight made me realize what my future could look like if I don’t change my priorities.
I used to think that if I was successful if I had money that I would be happy.
But I’m not.
I wanted to be self-sufficient.
To.
Not rely on anyone.
But the thing is, if you don’t need anyone, you don’t have anyone.
And I don’t want to go through my life alone.
I think what I’m trying to say is…
I don’t want to go through my life without you, Jake.
And I don’t know if it’s just because it’s Christmas or just that weird thing that happens at high altitude, but…
I can finally see how wrong I was.
I’m so sorry, Jake.
I’m so sorry.
And I’m ready to change.
I promise I will.
I’m pretty sure this was…
I missed you.
I missed you, too.
I’m coming!
Coming.
Surprise!
Merry Christmas, Francis.
Oh.
Oh.
Jake.
What are you guys doing here… together?
Uh…
It’s kind of a long story.
Yeah.
Our flight was diverted nearby, Yeah.
And, um, well, it must have been fate, because…
I really want to spend Christmas with you.
I haven’t been the sister you deserve.
And I can’t tell you how much I regret that.
But I don’t want to be out in the cold anymore.
Will you have me?
Of course I’ll have you.
Yeah. Will you have me too?
Merry Christmas, Kevin.
Ella, I can’t believe you made it.
Me too.
Jake.
Yeah.
Buddy, what are you doing here?
Come on in.
Jump scare, sorry pal. Good to see ya.
Oh, kids, get down here!
Look who’s here.
Is it Santa?
Even better.
Tim.
Bobbi! Your home!
Mommy!
I knew Santa would bring you home.
Merry Christmas, Tim.
Merry Christmas to you, too.
Hi, Mom.
It’s a miracle.
Hi baby.
Hi.
He won’t bite, I promise. He’s all yours.
Take good care of him, though, okay?
I miss him already.
Is that our old scarf?
I don’t know where it came from.
Hm. Must be magic.
You have no idea.
What happened to you on that airplane?
The Ella that I saw at the airport last night, it’s not the same.
Miss Merry Christmas, that’s here now.
I don’t know, I think maybe the Christmas spirits just did their work.
You mean spirit?
Mm. Felt like more than one this year.
I love you.
Ella.
I love you too, Jake.
I always have.
Bobbi!
You made it home!
I did.
Thank you, Ella.
Tim wants to say hi, too.
Merry Christmas, Miss Neezer.
Merry Christmas, Tim.
I’m so glad you could all be together today.
God bless us, everyone.
