Screenplay by Jerry A. Vasilatos Copyright, 1993 Jerry Vasilatos & Nitestar Productions FADE IN: 1. EXT. BELMONT NEIGHBORHOOD - NIGHTA full moon glows in the sky. As we tilt downwards, Christmas lights twinkle silently in the windows of a courtyard brownstone. The cold December wind howls forlornly. Although the street is empty, CHRISTMAS CAROLERS can be seen singing in front of one of the buildings. As the carolers move along, a WOMAN appears. Groceries in tow, she makes her way through the courtyard of her building APPROACHING the doorway. Fumbling with her keys, she enters. 2. INT. COURTYARD BUILDING FOYER - NIGHT Adjusting a small lightbulb on the wall in the foyer so that she can see, the woman begins for the staircase but stops on seeing a small package that's been left at its base. THE PACKAGE is two-tiered. Wrapped in green, it is tightly secured by a bright red ribbon and bow. Underneath the ribbon, a white envelope peeks out with the name "KRISTINE" written on it. THE WOMAN shakes her head in disbelief and approaches the gift slowly. After kneeling to scoop it up, she gazes at it for a moment and after tearing open the card, discovers it is signed: "WITH LOVE, NICK." Sighing heavily in exasperation, KRISTINE scowls. CUT TO: 3. INT. APARTMENT BEDROOM - EARLY A.M. The bedroom lays quiet. Although the drapes have been drawn to keep out the first rays of sunlight, it is grey and overcast outside. Against one wall on a mattress, an unseen lump slumbers uneasily beneath twisted bed sheets. Near the bed, we can see the soft neon glow of a digital clock radio on the nightstand shift from 6:59 to 7:00. In an instant, the morning NEWSCAST fills the room- NEWSCASTER (on radio) ... EBS news, with news from around the world. It's seven a.m. in Chicago this Christmas Eve, coming up in this half hour, peace in the middle east is threatened as Jewish and Arab funda- mentalist groups clash in Jerusalem, leaving fifteen dead and twelve injured. Atheist groups continue to boycott at Daley Plaza in opposition to the city's annual holiday display... A HAND reaches out for the alarm clock from beneath the covers as the SLEEPER STIRS.4. EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - MORNING A Chicago newspaper with the headline AUTO PLANT LAYS OFF 50,000 WORKERS lies on the stoop. A byline story adds ECONOMY CAN'T FIND YULE CHEER. Another story at the bottom of the page reads CHURCH ROBBED OF CHRIST CHILD STATUE. The paper is dated DECEMBER 24TH. A FIGURE EXITS THE FOYER in a robe and slippers. Reaching down, he picks up the paper and glances at the front page. 26. A young man still, despite a creased brow and weariness in his eyes suggesting more than just a lack of sleep. MEET NICK ALLMAN. Turning to head back in, he straightens a crooked CHRISTMAS WREATH hanging on the front door. 5. EXT. CHICAGO CITY STREET - MORNING The skyline of Chicago looms wide-shouldered beneath a steel grey sky. Dreary is an understatement- this is a Chicago winter. On Lake Shore Drive, a rain and dirt streaked Celica drifts along an entry ramp signaling it's intention to merge with oncoming traffic. Once clear, it quickly enters the open lane and is almost side-swept by a speeding MAZDA ZX. 6. INT. NICK'S CELICA - MORNING Reacting instantly to avert a collision, Nick watches as the DRIVER of the Mazda passes, honks his horn and FLIPS HIM OFF.NICK Jeeesus... Incredulous, Nick looks around to re-affirm whether or not he was in the right. On the car radio, the Phil Spector version of "Sleigh Ride" can be heard. Twisting the wheel sharply, Nick angrily fixes his gaze on the car that has almost run him off the road and filled with adrenaline, he hits the gas. 7. EXT. LAKE SHORE DRIVE - MORNING Nick's car guns forward in an effort to catch up and pass the speeding Mazda. 8. INT. NICK'S CELICA - MORNING Closing the distance between himself and the Mazda, Nick suddenly hits the brakes- NICK'S POV As a POLICE CAR pulls out from the side of the road in pursuit of the ZX. BACK ON NICK who SMIRKS and salutes the driver of the sportscar as he passes by- NICK And a Merry Christmas to you too my friend- 9. EXT. LAKE SHORE DRIVE - MORNING Nick's laughter can be heard as his car speeds on towards downtown. 10. INT. NICK'S OFFICE - DAY Within an office cubicle, Nick gazes lethargically at the computer screen on his desk. Around him, fellow employees carry out their tasks within the large AD AGENCY they all occupy. NICK flips off his computer, his co-worker JAY enters with some folders- JAY Hey hey... NICK Hey Jay. JAY What's up NICK Nothing. I just finished up that ad for that stupid mailing. JAY How's it going? NICK Not good enough for a raise- Surprised, Jay sits on the edge of the desk. JAY You get your review? Nick nods, looking up at his friend. NICK This morning. Of all days, can you believe that? (beat) You're due for one, right? JAY Nah, I haven't been here long enough. Two more months- NICK (sarcastically) Two months... two years... I'm begin- ing to think we can never be here long enough for that "raise"... Jay commiserates with Nick. JAY I can't believe it... I mean, your ad copy's great, the mail pieces are sound... it's all bringing in business... NICK Yeah, well... not enough I guess. (more to himself) I can't believe I went to college, got a degree... all it's gotten me is the chance to pimp for this ad agency. Jay begins to laugh but on seeing Nick's impassive demeanor, catches himself.JAY Nick, it's Christmas Eve. You know- holiday spirit... be of good cheer? Nick snorts. NICK "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" is about all I can think of right now, that and the ghost of bills past, present, and future. I just wish I can get out of here so I can finish up shopping for my family- Nick shrugs. NICK I'm sorry man, I don't mean to trash your mood. It's just that I'm... JAY A little short on Christmas spirit. NICK (dejectedly) Yeah. Jay pulls aside the folders he's carrying to reveal a flat, brightly wrapped Christmas gift. JAY Well... maybe this'll help.Nick is taken totally aback. Jay passes the gift along, pleased at himself for having cheered up his friend somewhat. NICK Aw Jay... you shouldn't have... JAY But I did. Nick looks the package over. NICK Look Jay, I didn't have a chance to do any shopping for anyone here... I... I didn't get anything for anyone- Jay smiles chidingly. JAY I figured that. Nick smiles crookedly and looks over the package. NICK Should I open it now? JAY Considering your mood I would say the sooner, the better. Nick tears away at the wrapping. JAY It's nothing fancy or anything, just something I picked up at a used book- store. Nick holds up a book entitled "HOW TO BREAK INTO FILM". He laughs. NICK Am I that obvious? Jay nods at some of the movie posters tacked to the walls of Nick's cubicle. JAY I know you're always looking ahead. Nick flips through the book gratefully. NICK Yeah. Just don't tell anyone around here, they'd probably can me before I could get something real lined up. Jay chuckles. NICK Thanks man. This's really made my day.Jay smiles, shakes Nick's hand and gets up to leave. JAY (looking at his watch) No problem man. I gotta fly... I'm meeting Tammy- Merry Christmas. NICK Yeah, you too. Nick watches after Jay, looks down again at his gift and then left within the solitude of his cubicle, gathers his things together- 11. EXT. DOWNTOWN CHICAGO - AFTERNOON Around the area of the Loop where Nick's office is situated, Christmas shoppers bustle as the last minute rush begins. Nick walks out of his office building towards Michigan Avenue and passes a SALVATION ARMY WORKER. SALVATION ARMY WORKER Help the needy sir? Nick tosses a few coins into the pot. SALVATION ARMY VOLUNTEER Thank you, you have a Merry Christmas- NICK Yeah... As Nick continues on, he approaches a BAG LADY. Dressed in layered and ratty clothing, she seems to carry all of her belongings in the shopping basket she drags behind her. BAG LADY Could you spare some change sir? It'll help with the downpayment on my new condo... (beat) Please... Nick slows his step. Disarmed by the woman's self-effacing humor, he can't help but be charmed by her approach while still sympathizing with the seriousness of her plight. Digging deep into his pocket, Nick pulls out a five and passes it to the woman. BAG LADY Thank you sir. Merry Christmas! Nick nods. Pausing to watch her move on, Nick pulls his coat collar close as a sudden wind kicks up. He then continues on down the street. 12. INT. NICK'S CELICA - LATE AFTERNOON Nick guides his car through Lincoln Park towards Broadway. Through his windshield, he takes in the images of a CHRISTMAS MONTAGE- NICK'S POV outside. Traffic fills the street. Holiday banners hang from streetlamps while strings of Christmas lights twinkle from the branches of barren trees. Ignoring the signals, some pedestrians walk into the street causing even more congestion. On the sidewalk, a man dressed in a Santa Claus suit rings a bell to attract last minute shoppers. He waves as Nick passes. Up the street, shoppers bustle hurriedly in and out of the various storefronts oblivious of each other. One woman with two kids in tow argues angrily with a meter maid who is about to issue her a ticket because the meter just expired. At another corner, a couple just off work meet and enter a bar for a drink with some friends before retiring home for the evening. They ignore a disabled panhandler begging near the door. PASSING A CEMETERY Nick sees a solitary old man kneeling. Laying a wreath at the grave of his deceased wife, he then rises and crosses himself. AS IT STARTS TO GET DARK Nick sees a Christmas tree lot closing up shop. Along the sidewalk, some indigent people shuffle slowly in no particular hurry since they have no home to go to. 13. INT. ELECTRONICS STORE - EARLY EVENINGNick gazes almost hypnotically at the array of walkmen, headsets and other electronic toys in front of him. The price tags, wrapped in holiday bows, are astronomical. A CLERK comes up. CLERK Can I help you sir? Sir, can I help you find something? Nick fixates on the display, his attention a million miles away. CLERK Sir. Is there something I can help you find? Nick glances at the clerk, at once snapping out of his daze. NICK Oh... no. (sheepishly) If I can't find it myself, I don't think you could help me. Patting the clerk's shoulder gently, Nick moves towards the door. NICK Thanks anyway though. 14. INT. NICK'S APARTMENT - EARLY EVENING A key is heard at the door. In an instant, Nick enters the creative hodgepodge of his darkened apartment and in flipping on the light, reveals all of his dreams and frustrations. In the livingroom, a drawing board stands in mute testimony to the dozens of sketches in various states of completion taped to it. Along with Nick's graduation certificates, some framed movie posters on the wall overlook an entire shelf bursting at its seams with movie books. In the front room, a cluttered PC workstation is situated between an artificial fireplace and steamed up bay window. Piled on top of the television cabinet nestled in one corner are some videotapes while next to where the couch is, a dwarf-sized Christmas tree decorated with dimestore ornaments tilts uneasily to one side. NICK dumps his packages on the couch. Passing an array of holiday greeting cards displayed atop the fireplace, he moves some papers aside on his desk to reveal an ANSWERING MACHINE. Undoing his coat, he pushes PLAYBACK- ANSWERING MACHINE ... Hello Nick, this is your Mom. Your sister and brother just got in and we're wondering when we're all going to see you. Please let us... please let me know when you'll be coming home so I can make up your room. We all miss you. The machine beeps to the next message. ANSWERING MACHINE Hey dude, it's Buddy. A bunch of us are meeting at D'Agostino's to- night around 6:30 for a drink before heading home for Christmas. Give me a call... let me know if you're coming. Later... A sudden pounding is heard at the front door, startling Nick. Stopping the answering machine, he goes over to open it and finds KRISTINE standing beyond. She glares at him harshly. In her hands are the two PACKAGES that were left in her foyer the night before. KRISTINE I thought we talked about this. Attempting to avoid Kristine's wrath, Nick sheepishly averts his attention elsewhere. NICK Yeah. Um... you want to come in? Not answering, Kristine enters. Shutting the door behind her, Nick uncomfortably begins to tidy up some things as she folds her arms. KRISTINE Nick, we talked about this. You just never listen... Nick stands staring at Kristine, measuring how to respond. NICK For Christ's sake Kristine, what was I supposed to do, just forget about you? KRISTINE We're not going out anymore, I told you not to get me anything. Nick is at a loss for words. Her rage vented, Kristine softens a bit, but doesn't stand down. KRISTINE Why did you do it? A long beat passes in which Nick collects his thoughts. He then replies quietly- NICK It's Christmas. I thought it'd be the right thing to do. Kristine paces frustratedly. KRISTINE Oh come on Nick. This isn't about Christmas. You go out and buy me a necklace, and a tape of a movie we watched together during a different time... how am I supposed to take this? NICK Kristine, I got you the necklace, because I thought it would look good on you. I bought you the movie because I knew it was one of your favorites from when you were a little girl... Nick throws his arms up. NICK Why do we have to argue about this? It made sense to get them because I figured they'd be things you would like... KRISTINE (quietly) But I told you I couldn't accept anything from you- NICK (angry now) That was after I bought them. You don't want them, fine. Give them away. Throw them away. But I'll be damned if I'm gonna return a Christmas gift that I bought for somebody. Anybody, not just you. (frustrated) God why do you have to make such a big deal out of this? KRISTINE Because it always seems that you are calling, or doing things for reasons you're not being up front about. Nick plops down wearily onto the sofa. NICK And just what am I not being "up front" about? KRISTINE Wanting to get back together. Manipulating Christmas for some- thing else.Nick stares at her, then looks down, cornered by some of the truth in her statement. He massages his temples as Kristine sits down next to him. KRISTINE (gently) I'm not trying to be mean. I think it's very sweet of you. But some- times I don't think even you realize some of the reasons why you do the things you do, and it's always going to make me keep my distance. That's why I told you not to get me anything. That's why it makes me uncomfortable. Concentrating on the wall, Nick tries to gather his thoughts, then speaks- NICK Kristine, I knew you weren't going home for Christmas, I wanted to do something nice. (his voice cracking a little) I don't get through Christmas very well. Being alone doesn't make it any easier.
SILENCE. Outside, the wind HOWLS through the apartment's cracks. KRISTINE Nick... I get lonely too this time of year, I know it's hard... but thinking about the past is dangerous. This relationship does not work. We do things too differently. It makes me sad to think that, when I can re- member all of the things we shared. NICK (glumly) Like our hard heads. Disarmed momentarily, Kristine allows a smile. KRISTINE Like our hard heads. (regaining her composure) We've gotta stop doing this. Kristine rises, holding out the necklace and tape to Nick. NICK I don't have the receipts. Kristine shakes her head. KRISTINE Please Nick. No more. Nick nods. The storm between them has passed, despite the delicate truce. He gets up and walks her to the door. KRISTINE what are your plans this evening? NICK I don't know yet. How 'bout you? KRISTINE I'm having dinner with my room- mate and her family, then I'm heading out for midnight mass with them in the suburbs. NICK Sounds like a blast.The two stop at the door. KRISTINE Well... I figure it's the best place to get my head together with everything else being the way it is. NICK Yeah... Not knowing how to say goodbye, Nick shifts awkwardly. NICK Well. Merry Christmas.A beat passes. Caught up in her emotions, Kristine embraces Nick suddenly, holding him close. KRISTINE Merry Christmas Nick. Nick watches after Kristine as she exits the apartment and then closes the door slowly. After pacing the length of the livingroom, he kicks a metal waste can across the room and then surveys the sudden emptiness in his apartment- 15. EXT. D'AGOSTINO'S BAR - EVENING Some cars pass this cozy little Wrigleyville saloon known as D'AGOSTINO'S. BARKEEP (V.O.) Last call...! 16. INT. D'AGOSTINO'S BAR - EVENING In the corner of the back room, a television set tuned in to "IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" rests on top of a wooden perch jutting out from the wall. Below it, Nick sits exasperated over a beer before his pal BUDDY and some other friends who have gathered to share a last minute drink to toast the holiday- BUDDY (to Nick) ... I'm really sorry man. You two still gonna keep in touch? NICK I don't know! It's a little hard trying to salvage something, when I still can't figure out why we went bad in the first place! Buddy squints his eyes at Nick, trying to keep up- NICK You know what I mean? A beat passes. BUDDY Kind of. Nick snorts derisively at himself. NICK Well. Maybe I just gotta let it go and give it a rest. Looking at his friend empathetically, Buddy tries to offer him some words of solace. BUDDY No. No, I do understand. Re- member last year when I broke up with Jennifer just before the holidays? I never thought I'd get through it if it weren't for my family. That's what the holidays are for man, that's what you've gotta concentrate on, is your family. (raising his beer) Haven't you been home yet? NICK No. I managed putting it off 'til tomorrow. Disappointed by Nick's attitude, Buddy shakes his head with a disapproving look. NICK (defensively) Oh, c'mon Buddy, you know how my family is. Everybody's so busy talking, nobody ever listens- (beat) It's not anyone's fault, it's just that... everything's already so stressed out that Christmastime, just makes it worse. BUDDY You'd think twice about saying that if you ever lost them. Nick stares at Buddy a moment, then looks down. BUDDY When my mom got diagnosed with cancer this year, all I could think about was how important it was to be home with her, because none of us knew how much more time she had. That's when you realize everything else is really bullshit, when all the things that make sense look like they're just about to be yanked out from under you! And look at her now... she's in remission! Nick looks back up at his friend, recognizing the truth in what he says. NICK (quietly) Thank God for that. Buddy nods. It's obvious that almost losing his mother has left an everlasting impression. BUDDY You know it. She fought it all the way and won. He lifts his beer. BUDDY To my mom. Nick raises his bottle. NICK God bless her. Sipping from their drinks, the two silently ponder it all. On the television set above, GEORGE BAILEY sits at MARTINI'S BAR praying for a miracle. Noticing, Buddy yells up at the barkeep- BUDDY Hey Bob!!! Isn't anything else on? BOB the bartender holds up the remote control and aims it at the television. Flipping channels only reveals "It's a Wonderful Life" on almost every other station although at different points in the movie. Everyone in the bar howls with laughter. Buddy leans back to pull a few bills from his pocket while Nick contemplates George Bailey's dilemma. BUDDY (signaling Nick to rise) Christmas is what you make of it pal. If Jimmy Stewart can get through it, so can the rest of us. 17. EXT. ADDISON & SOUTHPORT - NIGHT Nick and Buddy leave D'Agostino's while exchanging "GOODBYES" and "MERRY CHRISTMASES" with their other friends. As the group separates and the lights in the bar grow dim, the two start down the icy street. NICK You know what really sucks Buddy, is that even if stuff was great with my family, even if I was still on decent terms with Kristine, even if I was halfway satisfied with my job, something still wouldn't seem right. BUDDY Like what? NICK Like everything! Take a look around us, everybody's hurting! I saw this bag lady today, all she wanted was some money so she could eat... BUDDY Well did you give her something? NICK Yeah I gave her something... but does it matter? Is it gonna make a difference? BUDDY (firmly) As long as you put forth the effort, it does...Buddy examines his friend, not sure of what other comfort he can offer. He then holds his hand out. BUDDY Come on... A beat passes. Extending his hand, Nick shakes with Buddy. NICK (sighing) Yeah, well... thanks for listening. BUDDY You've been there just as many times for me. Merry Christmas "Saint Nick"... Get home safely. NICK I will. The friends part. As Buddy disappears down the street. Nick looks up at the moon. NICK No snow. (beat) It should snow for Christmas. As Nick gazes up into the night sky, a COUPLE pass intent on getting somewhere on time. Distracted by them, he watches as they scurry past and seeing their destination, follows after them.18. EXT. MUSIC BOX THEATER ON SOUTHPORT - NIGHT Following after the couple, Nick finds himself in front of the MUSIC BOX THEATER, a small, refurbished movie palace situated in the middle of the neighborhood. Beneath the marquee, a group of people stand in line waiting to buy tickets. Looking up, Nick sees the words: "WHITE CHRISTMAS" "WONDERFUL LIFE" X-MAS SING-ALONG A group of HIGH SCHOOLERS carrying JINGLE BELLS catch Nick's attention. As they notice him, they all chime "Merry Christmas". Nick nods, indicating the theater.NICK Which one's playing next? HIGH SCHOOLER "It's A Wonderful Life." Last show too... NICK Why would you pay to see "It's A Wonderful Life" when you can see it at home for free? HIGH SCHOOLER Are you kidding? They sing Christ- mas Carols right before the show! Come on, you'll have some fun... NICK Ah... I don't know... Sensing that Nick is alone on Christmas Eve, the kids try coercing him into checking out the show. KIDS Come on... HIGH SCHOOLER But you'll need one of these- The girl passes him one of the JINGLE BELL STRINGS. Nick studies them amusedly. NICK Thanks.HIGH SCHOOLER Make sure you put them to good use! As the high schoolers move on, Nick shakes his head and looks back at the other holiday revelers surrounding him. Intrigued at their enthusiasm, he clutches the jingle bells close and gets in line to buy a ticket. 19. INT. MUSIC BOX AUDITORIUM - NIGHT The house lights are dim. Excited audience members have already filled the small movie palace. Along the auditorium walls, garland and ornaments decorate the terra cotta facades reminiscent of an ornate Spanish village. In the back of the theater, Nick enters with his jingle bells. Up near the front, lyrics are projected onto the screen while an ORGANIST playing a huge WURLITZER and the THEATER MANAGER both guide the audience through the last verse of "SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN". As the song finishes, the audience ROARS its approval. THEATER MANAGER That was great!!! Once again, I want to welcome you all to our Annual Holiday Sing Along!!! If you haven't been here for this before, although something tells me most of you have,all you have to do is follow along with the lyrics on the screen as our previous song takes on a different... "twist"- As the organist begins, the theater is FILLED with the power of the Wurlitzer's old-fashioned sound. Energized by it, Nick takes a seat as the theater manager leads the audience in an alternate version of "SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN" with lyrics behind him on the immense screen that concentrate on the holidays more ironic aspects- MANAGER AND AUDIENCE "Oh, you'd better get set, to cough up some dough... here's the sad news in case you don't know... Santa Claus is coming... to town...." Nick laughs. MANAGER AND AUDIENCE "Your wife gets the gifts... the kids get the thrills... first of the year you'll get all the bills... Santa Claus is coming, to town!!!" As Nick watches the crowd around him, he catches sight of the high schoolers who smile and wave their bells at him.MANAGER AND AUDIENCE (CONT.) "... And you'll be very lucky... if RIGHT at Christmas time... old Santa Claus brings YOU a tie from the well known five and dime..." Pulling his bells out, Nick waves them back and follows suit as the theater manager winds the audience towards the finale- MANAGER AND AUDIENCE (CONT.) "Oh, you're gonna be broke so smile and sit still, if he don't get you INCOME TAX will... Santa Claus is coming... TO TOWN!!!" The audience applauds wildly. As they die down, the manager continues. THEATER MANAGER If you were here for the last film, you should already have this one down. Put your hearts into it, because you never know what magic it will cause..."WHITE CHRISTMAS" is played. As Nick sings along with the audience, we can tell he seems to finally be filled with some warmth. As the song winds down, a special film loop in the projection booth causes it to look as if it's SNOWING within the theater. Still singing, the audience members throw their hands together in wild approval. As the song ends, the curtains part to reveal the familiar image of the LIBERTY FILMS logo while the first strains of the opening music to "IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" can be heard- THEATER MANAGER That was great!!! From the Music Box staff to you and yours, have a safe and happy holiday, and thanks again for coming!!! As the manager and organist depart from the auditorium, Nick applauds with the rest of the audience as the FILM BEGINS- 20. EXT. MUSIC BOX THEATER - LATE NIGHT Outside, a mild snowfall that has already accumulated two inches makes the Music Box Theater and all of Southport Avenue look like a postcard. Even after the show ends, small flakes continue falling as the audience members stream out. Exiting the theater, Nick looks around and smiles. He is definitely in better spirits. 21. EXT. SOUTHPORT AVENUE - LATE NIGHT As Nick begins his journey home through the snow, he sees a LITTLE GIRL gazing out from her open apartment window along the avenue reaching out and catching snowflakes. As she catches sight of him, Nick smiles at her and waves up. LITTLE GIRL Hey mister. NICK Merry Christmas! Hey... you be careful up there! LITTLE GIRL Have you seen Santa Claus? NICK No, not yet. It's still early though. I'm sure he'll be along while you're asleep. LITTLE GIRL I don't know. Momma doesn't think he'll come. Nick's eyebrow raises, a little stunned by her statement. Wondering what she means, he carefully presses. NICK Well why does your momma think that? The little girl shrugs. LITTLE GIRL She said first he has to visit the families whose daddies are working.NICK Oh. Doesn't your Daddy work? LITTLE GIRL No. He's dead. My momma works though. Nick gazes speechlessly at the little girl. As he puts two and two together realizing what hard times the little girl's widowed mother must be facing, she suddenly APPEARS next to her daughter. Looking a little haggard, the young mother picks her daughter up. MOTHER Come on honey, it's time to go to bed- Thinking quickly, Nick digs into his coat pocket- NICK WAIT! The MOTHER looks down, noticing Nick for the first time. Wary, she begins to lower the window. NICK Please, hold on... The mother pauses. MOTHER What do you want? NICK Well, your little girl told me how you don't think Santa Claus is coming... The mother's face tenses. A combination of SHAME and RESENTMENT. Before she can answer though, Nick has pulled the JINGLE BELLS from his pocket. NICK Since he's so busy, he wasn't sure if he'd be able to get everywhere either, but I saw him. The little girl's eyes brighten.NICK Yeah!!! I saw him, and he gave me these, and he wanted to make sure that you get them... Nick takes a step back and tosses the jingle bells up towards the window. They bounce off the wall and fall back down to hit Nick on the head. NICK (grabbing them) Wait a minute. Get ready now... catch!!! He throws the bells again, clearing the window. As they pass through, the little girl grabs them- NICK (pleased with himself) You take care of those... they belonged to Rudolph!LITTLE GIRL See mommy, I told you Santa would bring something! Nick looks up at the mother nervously, not knowing what to expect. NICK I hope I wasn't out of place there. I... The mother shakes her head and holds her lips tight for fear of crying. Not wishing to embarrass the woman, Nick quickly moves on. Watching after him thankfully, she shuts her window and moves out of view.DISSOLVE TO: 22. EXT. SIX CORNERS - LATE NIGHT Nick walks through the silent snow swept streets. Around him, the three streets Belmont, Lincoln and Ashland crisscross. At the streets' juncture is a wide open intersection overwhich the abandoned hulk of an out-of-business department store looms. Christmas decorations are visible on some buildings, as well as twinkling lights. The avenue itself though, with the exception of one or two passing cars, is barren.NICK looks up at the sky, focusing on the constellations.One star shines brighter than the others, TWINKLING in the night.Nick snorts cynically. For a moment though, he suddenly imagines that he hears angels singing. Realizing that the idea is absurd, he focuses back on the street and sees beyond the darkened storefronts a Gothic CHURCH SPIRE cutting upwards through the low drifting clouds. Curious as to the origin of the singing, Nick starts walking-23. EXT. ST. ALPHONSUS CHURCH - MIDNIGHT Nick finds himself standing in front of ST. ALPHONSUS CHURCH. Blanketed with snow, the scale of the structure is humbling as is the facade. On each of the four walls situated at the base of the steeple, a Roman numeral clock face bears the time 12 O'CLOCK MIDNIGHT.Nick gazes at the open doors of St. Alphonsus. A few latecomers can be seen arriving. Drifting towards the steps, Nick joins their ranks and enters. 24. INT. ST. ALPHONSUS CHURCH - MIDNIGHT The church is only half-full, not quite matching the numbers seen earlier within the Music Box. A CHOIR sings "O HOLY NIGHT" in a loft at the rear. Entering from the back, Nick looks about taking in the solid stone columns and meticulously varnished woodwork. Interspersed along the walls between a half-dozen confessionals are brass plaques depicting the stations of the cross. Overlooking the altar is a stained glass window with a giant crucifix hanging in front of it. Off and to the side is a small NATIVITY CRÈCHE.Passing some worshippers, Nick advances respectfully up a side aisle towards the front of the church so that he may get a better view of the CRÈCHE. Approaching it, he stops to notice that the CHRIST CHILD FIGURE is missing.Nick looks around at the congregation gathered for the midnight service. No one seems to notice that the Christ Child figure is gone. Distressed by this, Nick glances around for an USHER and on spotting one, quickly shuffles over. NICK (whispering) Excuse me- The usher notices Nick. USHER Yes? NICK The Christ Child figure... The usher looks at Nick quizzically. NICK It's just that... your Christ Child figure is missing. The usher nods her head in affirmation, totally unruffled. Nick is incredulous. NICK I'm sorry, but hasn't anybody noticed? USHER Oh yes, it's been missing since yesterday. Some teenagers stole it from Father Jacobse, although I can't imagine what they plan on doing with it- NICK is having a hard time dealing with the usher's complacency in the matter. Around them, the congregation has quieted for the PRIEST who has appeared, preparing to start his sermon. NICK (to usher) It's Christmas Eve! Isn't anybody upset about it? The usher looks at Nick with a serenity in her eyes that speaks volumes- USHER The child may be missing, but his spirit is still in our hearts. Mesmerized by the service around him and the people that have come together in worship, Nick glances towards the altar as FATHER JACOBSE begins.FATHER JACOBSE Although many of us face troubled times these days, we must always keep in mind that Christmas, is not the holiday where we get what we want... but when we get what we need... As the impact of Father Jacobse's words hit Nick like a hammer, he is suddenly transported back to the events of the past twelve hours- FLASHBACK Jay passes his gift along to Nick- NICK Thanks man. This's really made my day. Jay smiles, shakes Nick's hand and gets up to leave. JAY (looking at his watch) No problem man. I gotta fly... I'm meeting Tammy- Merry Christmas. NICK Yeah, you too. FLASHBACK Nick digs into his pocket and pulls out some money for the BAG LADY- BAG LADY Thank you sir. Merry Christmas! FLASHBACK Buddy counsels Nick at D'Agostino's- BUDDY ... That's what the holidays are for man, that's what you've gotta concentrate on, is your family. (raising his beer) Haven't you been home yet? FLASHBACK Kristine embraces Nick, holding him close. KRISTINE Merry Christmas Nick. FLASHBACK The high school girl passes Nick one of her JINGLE BELL STRINGS. HIGH SCHOOLER Make sure you put them to good use! FLASHBACK Nick throws the jingle bells up to the little girl as the mother looks down thankfully. MOTHER What do you want? NICK Well, your little girl told me how you don't think Santa Claus is coming. Since he's so busy, he wasn't sure if he'd be able to get everywhere either, but I saw him. The little girl's eyes brighten. NICK Yeah!!! I saw him, and he gave me these, and he wanted to make sure that you get them... FLASHBACK Nick in the electronics store, with the clerk offering assistance- CLERK Sir. Is there something I can help you find? Nick glances at the clerk. NICK Oh... no. (sheepishly) If I can't find it myself, I don't think you could help me. (beat) Thanks anyway though. BACK ON NICK REALIZING what he's been missing as Father Jacobse FINISHES his sermon-FATHER JACOBSE ... Every now and then we need to look into our hearts, and realize that the source of all the emptiness we sometimes feel, is in not recog- nizing the true spirit of Christmas- the spirit of faith... the spirit of goodwill... and the spirit of under- standing-NICK'S EYES GLAZE OVER Wiping them quickly, he takes a position at the nearest available pew. As the choir begins singing their energy practically ILLUMINATES THE CHURCH WITH LIGHT-25. EXT. ST. ALPHONSUS CHURCH - CHRISTMAS The Christmas service at St. Alphonsus lets out. Exiting the church amongst the other worshippers, Nick passes the usher who joyfully shakes his hand- USHER Merry Christmas! Nick nods, and reflected in his expression is a renewed sense of optimism not only for himself, but all mankind. NICK Thanks. 26. EXT. NICK'S APARTMENT - CHRISTMAS Nick makes his way home down the silent snow swept street. Climbing up the steps of his building, he lets himself through the first set of doors and enters the foyer. 27. INT. NICK'S APARTMENT FOYER - CHRISTMAS Nick fumbles with his keys in the dimly lit entryway. As he begins to unlock the second door, he hears a light knock from behind him. Turning, he sees KRISTINE standing outside. Of all the people Nick expected to see at this point in the evening, Kristine is the LAST mon his list. Regaining his senses quickly however, he hastily opens the door. NICK Hey- KRISTINE I thought I'd stop by to see if you still might be here... Nick is still a little dazed by her appearance. Snapping to, he ushers her in- NICK Come on in... Kristine enters the foyer, Nick closing the door behind them. The two face each other awkwardly- KRISTINE I'm sorry... I tried calling first, but all I got was your machine- NICK Yeah, I was out... A long beat passes, leaving Nick to further wonder as to the meaning behind Kristine's visit. Kristine herself seems uncertain. Sensing this, Nick breaks the ice- NICK How was your night... how was church? KRISTINE It was good... NICK Yeah... ? KRISTINE Yeah... It was really good- (beat) There are just a few things that I needed to come by here and tell you tonight...Nick gazes at Kristine not knowing what to expect. KRISTINE (stammering) I was pretty hard on you earlier and... I kept thinking through the service that, regardless of what we've been through, you have always been there for me and... She shuffles nervously, her guard now totally down. KRISTINE ... I wanted you to know that I appreciate it, and... I wanted to thank you- NICK gazes at Kristine in disbelief, thankful at the fact that a reconciliation is dawning. NICK (gently) Of course... KRISTINE I even tried to get you something, but... everything was closed. Nick rolls his eyes self-effacingly- NICK That's how this whole thing started... Kristine laughs, and the two are suddenly struck by the absurdity of their situation. NICK Look, Kristine, I'm really sorry that those things I bought you put you on the spot... KRISTINE Just forget about it, really... (meeting his eyes) It's Christmas. NICK Yeah... Nick and Kristine stand shivering in the cold, unwilling to part but not quite knowing where to go next. Nick glances outside. NICK So... how 'bout the snow... ? KRISTINE It's beautiful. NICK Yeah. Nick looks at her. NICK It's cold. She nods. NICK You want to come up for a minute? I could make you some hot chocolate- KRISTINE Umm... yeah... you sure? NICK Yeah! Pondering uncertainly whether or not Nick's suggestion is a wise one, Kristine relents after a moment and then smiles. KRISTINE Why not.NICK opens the door. It is an emotional moment, and despite the lessons both he and Kristine have learned during this cold winter solstice, each still feels very much alone. For now though, they have found some comfort in each other through the peace that comes from understanding.NICK There's just one thing I've gotta do first... As Nick and Kristine head up the staircase, the dank December wind outside howls quietly. 28. EXT. NICK'S APARTMENT - CHRISTMAS Although it is dark, we can still see snowflakes falling. Nick's apartment dominates the frame. As we pull back from it, a light in his livingroom window goes on, after which we can see him SILHOUETTED while picking up the phone and dialing- NICK Hi mom, it's me... I'm sorry I'm calling so late. No, no, everything's fine, really. I just wanted to let you to know that I'll be over first thing in the morning. I love you too. Merry Christmas-THE CAMERA TILTS UPWARDS AND THEN PANS ACROSS TOWARDS THE BRIGHTLY LIT CHICAGO SKYLINE. FADE TO BLACK END CREDITS © 1993 Jerry Vasilatos and Nitestar Productions.
