Prancer Returns (2001)

[bunniefuu]

(man)

Charlie.

[drums beating]

[sleigh bells jingling]

[clock chiming]

(man)

hey, there, Charlie.

Let's move it.

Parade's about to start.

[bell jangling]

(man)

oyez!

Oyez!

Oyez-ay!

Welcome to the Santa Claus parade!

[crowd cheering]

[man over loudspeaker]

here we go, folks.

Let's give a hand to the threeoaks high school marching band.

[marching band playing slightly off-key]

They're county championsthree years in a row.

(Klock)

get up thereand get into line.

Come on.

Come on.

Four across right here.

Stay right there.

All right, now, four across.

Troy, over there.

Four across, four across.

This is a parade.

We're marching this way.

(man)

fire engine.

[siren wails]

Looks great.

[horse snorts]

The Saddle Claus.

Give him a hand, folks.

[marching band playing]

jingle bells]

And here's the Gilldercroft

furniture float.

They do such a beautiful job.

Let's show themhow we appreciate

Their hard work and support.

Here comes the mayor.

Hi, mayor-y.

(crowd)

hi!

(man)

and here they are,

The children of the three oaks

elementary school.

(Jamie) what's so interesting?

I was just looking.

There's a reindeer missing up there.

(Jamie)you don't knowabout Prancer?

(Charlie) Prancer?

Yeah, it's a big local legend.

(Charlie) legend? What kind of legend?

Listen; shy boy speaks.

I like you better when you're quiet.

(Jamie) you want to know about Prancer?

Go ask that Guy over there.

He knows all aboutthe missing reindeer.

(man)

give a big hand.

Here comes our bagpipe band.

[playing bagpipes]

-Oof!

-Excuse me.

Jim.

-Denise.

-Hi.

I was wondering when I was going to run into you.

Oh, I bet you're looking for that cute kid of yours.

Yeah.

We should have coffee.

Um, I'd like that.

I'll call you.

Charlie!

Mama's boy.

Charlie, where's your brother?

Saw him earlier.

Should be with the big kids.

He isn't.

You look great.

(man)

I want to see all of you

right back here on main street

Christmas Eve for the annual

Prancer ceremony.

(man)

what are you

doing here, kid?

(Charlie)

well, somebody told me

You know why this reindeer isn't up there with the rest of them.

Well, the town hires me To put the decorations up every Christmas.

Guess that makes me the local expert.

So you think you could tell me about it?

Sure.

But if I tell you the Prancer story, that makes you The local expert from now on--deal?

I like stories.

Okay, good.

Well, I guess it was about ten years ago.

This little girl about your size Found this wounded deer on the outside of town.

She thought it was one of Santa's.

Here, hold this, will you?

Why'd she think that?

I don't know.

Uh, maybe because Her and her family were going through a tough time, And she probably figured if the deer was Santa's, It could help her out.

Anyway, She gets this deer healthy, Takes it out to antler Ridge on Christmas Eve.

Then guess what happens.

Santa comes along, deer takes off-- Wshwwew.

Flies up and joins him.

That really happened?

That's the word.

So every Christmas since then, When I put Santa and his reindeer across main street, Prancer's missing.

Then on Christmas Eve, we have a big ceremony Where Prancer’s reunited with the team.

That's cool.

Oh, maybe you think so.

See, it just makes more work for me, 'cause I put all the deer up, Then they gotta put this one up on Christmas Eve, And it's a mess.

Thanks.

You're welcome.

I'm Tom, by the way.

I'm Charlie Holton.

Charlie Holton, Nice to meet you.

Don't forget, You're the local expert from now on, anybody asks.

I gotta get going.

Maybe I'll see you around.

It's a small town.

(Denise)

ever since we've moved here, You've been in and out of trouble.

Now, why did you skip out on the parade today?

(Ryan)

because it's stupid.

Mom!

(Ryan)

I'm not gonna March in some small-town Christmas parade.

That's just another thing I hate About this stupid town.

I want to back to Chicago.

I want to go live with dad.

(Denise)

we have discussed this.

You said I could go back for Christmas.

Well, I don't know anymore.

No, not after this stupid stunt of yours.

I don't think so.

You can't stop me, mom.

I'm going.

(Denise)

Ryan.

[door slams]

Kind of quiet, huh?

Well, until Ryan learns to behave, He's going to have to eat his dinner in his bedroom.

I think he likes it there.

[sighs]

I need a hug.

Oh.

I'm doing the best that I can here, kiddo.

Charlie, I know how hard it is when a parent leaves.

I've been there.

But if you ever need to talk about it, I'm here for you.

You know that, right?

Are you really going home for Christmas?

I'm going for longer than that.

I wish you wouldn't.

So come with me.

I wish it was like before.

Don't you?

Everybody was happy.

Dream on, bro.

[sighs]

I hope you don't go.

[kids yelling outside]

[kids yelling]

Dear Lord, I pray for a good Christmas for me and my family And for everyone else who's having a bad time.

Amen.

[melancholy music]

♪ ♪

[whistle blows]

(kids)

♪ have a Holly, jolly Christmas.♪

♪ it's the best time of the year.♪

♪ I don't know if there'll be snow, ♪

♪ but have a cup of cheer.♪

♪ have a Holly, jolly Christmas, ♪

♪ and when you walk down the street, ♪

♪ say hello to friends you know ♪

♪ and everyone you meet.♪

♪ oh-h*, the mistletoe ♪

♪ hung where you can see.♪

Hey, there.

Hi.

Look, we're sorry about yesterday.

You are?

Yeah.

And to make it up to you, We'd like you to play a game with us.

See Jamie over there?

Well,

The object of this game Is to be the first to hit her with a snowball.

Don't worry.

Girls like to be hit by snowballs.

Yeah.

It means you like them.

You like Jamie, don't you?

She's okay.

We'll even let you go first.

So what you do, Get the snowball.

And nail her right in the back of the head.

♪ oh, by golly, have a Holly, jolly-- ♪ ♪

Whoa!

Let's go.

Whoa.

He's in trouble.

He's dead.

[military March played on snare drums]

♪ ♪

[both snickering]

Charlie.

I know you're a nice kid.

Maybe just a little absentminded.

Throwing snowballs When I'm sure you know that's strictly against the rules?

You force me to do something, But it's for your own good.

I'm giving you detention.

[kids gasping]

oh!

(Klock)

today after school

While you're there, I suggest you spend some time thinking about how You might better follow those rules.

Yes, sir.

Thank you.

You may go inside now.

But recess isn't-- Oh, it's over for you.

[kids muttering]

Whap!

[Carol of the bells

playing drearily]

♪ ♪

[creaky groaning sound]

[crow cawing]

[trees creaking]

[loud, mysterious gurgling sound]

[Charlie panting]

[gurgling noise]

[suspenseful music]

[trees creaking]

[spooky gurgling]

[panting and wheezing]

[gurgly neighing]

[grunts]

[gasps]

[bellowing]

Prancer?

[groans]

I gotta get help.

You stay here.

I'll be right back.

[moos]

Whoa!

[mooing fiercely]

[g*nsh*t]

Can't you read?

This is private property.

Huh?

Ryan!

Mom!

Ryan!

Mom!

[reindeer lows]

What are you doing here?

Come on, let's go to my house.

[bellows]

[sighs]

what?

What is it?

[moans]

You want to wear that?

That's it, boy.

Now listen to me.

I'm going to find my brother.

You have to stay here.

So make yourself at home, But don't mess up the place, okay?

[whines]

I need your help.

What are you doing?

Get off of me.

I'll explain on the way.

You have to come.

Where?

What's wrong with you?

The woods.

What can we do for him?

Nothing.

This deer's dead, Charlie.

No, he can't be.

Look, this kind of stuff

happens.

Animals get old, and they die.

But not-- This isn't Prancer.

It's just some deer.

Don't get all worked up.

Come on, bro.

Let's go home.

It's cold out here.

Nothing we can do.

[wind whistling]

[dramatic music]

Ryan!

Did you see that?

(Ryan)

Charlie,

Let's go.

Hey, there, little guy.

[grunts]

[door opens]

Uh, That's my brother.

I don't think he should know about you.

He wouldn't understand.

I have to figure out what to do.

Everything happened so fast.

Hmm.

First things first.

What do I call you?

Prancer.

After your father.

It's a perfect name.

[grunts]

You'll be my secret, Prancer, My secret friend.

[knocking at door]

[gasps]

(Denise)

Charlie?

Stay still.

(Denise)

Charlie?

Um, I got a call from the vice principal at work today.

You want to tell me what happened?

Uh, just playing with my friends.

Sorry, mom.

It won't happen again.

[Prancer grumbles]

Um...

[fakes yawn]

I'm tired.

I think I'll go to bed early tonight.

Uh-huh.

You mind, mom?

A little privacy?

[sighs]

That was close.

We'll have to be careful, Prancer.

[grunts]

I don't think my mom would let you stay here.

Thump!

Thump!

That's right.

That's your dad.

Probably miss him already, Don't you?

[whimpers]

I know how hard it is when a parent leaves, Prancer.

But I'm here for you.

I am.

And I'm going to get you back where you belong-- Somehow.

[hooves clomping]

Hey, Prancer, stop it.

[lows]

What's the matter?

[groaning]

You must be hungry.

Coast is clear, Prancer.

Kitchen is open for business.

[grunts]

What's the matter with you, Prancer?

This is some of the best food in the world.

I could live on this stuff.

I don't know about you, But I'm having breakfast.

[sloppy slurping noises]

Prancer!

Slurrp!

Milk.

Of course.

Little reindeer like milk.

Hi, there.

I don't know if you remember me.

Hopefully, your owner doesn't.

(old man Richards)

what are you doing here?

Whoa.

-I just-- -you sellin' magazines?

No, I'm-- Are you selling Christmas candy?

I don't want any.

I'm not.

Wait a second.

I know you.

That was a mistake.

I was in a hurry.

This is private property.

I know, but-- I want you to hit the road, Junior.

Come on.

I just want some milk.

Milk?

Yes, sir.

I need a lot of it.

I'm willing to work for it.

What makes you think I have a lot of milk?

You have a cow, don't you?

Yeah, but she hasn't given milk in years.

Why not?

Because she's too old.

Well, can I try?

[chuckles]

Yeah.

Yeah, you can try.

Have fun, son.

Charlie!

What'd you do with all the milk?

[knocking]

What the?

(Charlie)

listen.

I know we got off

to a bad start yesterday.

But you have to

help me out here.

I have Prancer’s kid at home.

You know, Prancer?

One of Santa's reindeer?

[snorts]

I'm serious about this.

The little guy drinks a ton of milk.

If you can just give me some, it'd be great.

[moos]

Oh.

Come on.

What do you say?

Give it up for Santa.

[panting]

Ah, give up?

No, sir.

I need another bucket.

[milk squirting]

(old man Richards)

how...

How did you-- I just gave her a pep talk.

Pep talk?

Yes, sir.

Told her that I needed it for Santa.

What are you talking about?

Don't you put milk out for Santa?

Not anymore.

Something wrong?

I don't recognize you.

I know most people in town, But you, I-- I don't recognize.

I just moved here.

My mom and dad got a divorce a few years ago.

Hasn't been going all that well.

My mom's worried about me, Because I don't have any friends.

She and my brother fight all the time.

You ever fight with your kids?

What?

Fight with your kids.

Ever do that?

Sure.

Sometimes.

Why don't you ever Put milk out for Santa anymore?

Well, I don't have to.

All my kids are grown up and gone away.

Ever go to that thing they have on Christmas Eve?

Uh, do you always talk like this?

Like what?

Well, you bounce around from one thing to the next.

I can't keep up with you.

What thing on Christmas Eve?

Downtown.

Someone puts Prancer on the display over main street.

All those crowds, jolly people-- No, thank you.

And make sure you bring that back when you're done.

[cow moos]

What do you want?

Hey.

Hey, there.

Charlie, right?

(Charlie)

guess you're wondering why I

have a ten-gallon pail of milk.

I figured you'd tell me if you wanted me to know.

Tom, you think Santa's reindeer live forever?

Never really thought about it.

They've been around forever, right?

Far as I know.

And their names never change?

Right.

What if they don't live forever?

And they have babies, and they grow up To take their parent's place?

Think that's possible?

You seem to have given this Much more thought than I have, Charlie, So if you think it's possible, I think it's possible.

Oh-- oh, no, it's my mom.

Um, that's your pail of milk If she asks.

Looking for something?

What'd you do with him?

Put him in the basement.

Where'd you get that thing?

You have to help me out.

Mom's home.

So?

She might like him.

You know, he's kind of cute, In an ugly sort of way.

She won't even let us have a dog.

Tom Sullivan.

Yeah?

Denise Randolph.

[giggles]

(Charlie)

hi, Tom.

Hi, mom.

What are you doing home?

(Denise)

I was getting groceries.

Wait a minute.

How do you two know each other?

We--yeah, we met at the parade the other day.

Oh, mom, you need help with the groceries?

Um...

Uh, I'll be right back.

You know my mom?

Well, yeah, her-- Your uncle--her brother and I were best friends In high school.

Help me get the milk down to our basement.

Sure.

Wait a second.

Hey, Charlie, Charlie.

What's going on here?

Huh?

I'd like to keep this my secret for now.

Okay, just be careful.

If I were you, I wouldn't keep anything in the house If your mom doesn't know about it.

(Denise)

Charlie.

I'll take it from here.

You go talk to my mom.

Charlie?

Hey.

I can't believe it.

What are you doing back here In the old house?

I thought you were gone for good.

Well, so did I.

Oh, but you know, things happen.

Well, how have you been, Tom?

Uh, can't complain.

How's Marian?

Good.

I don't know, I-- I haven't talked to her in a while.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry to hear that.

Well, like you said, things happen.

The blue b*mb.

Yeah.

Dad left it to me.

Man, your brother and I tooled around in that thing.

I know it's old and all, Denise, But it sounds terrible.

Oh, I know.

I've been meaning to take it in, But time and money-- I'm a little short on both.

I could take a look at it for you sometime.

What did you do, become a mechanic?

No, no, no.

I'm a, uh...

I'm like a handyman now.

Do this and that.

That's why I'm in the neighborhood.

I'm fixing the fence over there.

And I better get back to it.

So it was-- it was great seeing you.

Well, I'm glad you caught me in front of the house, Otherwise I don't think you would have recognized me.

Well?

Well, it's okay.

I mean, I was a lot younger back then.

Life's tamed me a bit.

No, you look really good.

Thank you.

I'll see you around?

Yeah.

I can't believe that Tom was uncle Gary's best friend.

Yeah, and he used to hang out here all the time.

[Prancer groaning]

Listen, guys, Um, I'm going to go out for a bit After dinner For a cup of coffee with an old friend.

[sighs]

Oh, good.

I mean, Have fun.

Be as late as you want.

Well, I thought it would be kind of nice If the two of you could do something together tonight.

[clears throat]

I think was mom's trying to say is that, Because I'm leaving for Chicago tomorrow, It'd be cool

if we hung out.

Um, I didn't want to tell you.

I thought you might get upset Because I'm getting out of the last day of school.

I don't care about that.

It's just going to be a different kind of Christmas.

[doorbell rings]

Hi, Jim.

Good evening, Denise.

(Denise)

come on in.

Charlie, you know Jim.

That's Mr. Klock to you, young man.

Well, I rented a couple of videos, And there's some popcorn in the cupboard.

Bye, Ryan.

See you later, Charlie.

I hope not.

Who is this guy?

The Darth Vader of elementary school.

You know you can't keep him here.

Thought you said mom might like him.

I was kidding.

He's not going to be here for long.

I'll have him back with Santa before you know it.

And how do you plan on doing that?

I haven't thought about it.

Well, maybe you should.

But in the meantime, You gotta find another place for him.

Isn't he the greatest thing you've ever seen?

Yeah.

He looks like he could be on that cable show, Freaks of nature.

[grunts]

You didn't hear that.

Ryan, Thanks for helping out today.

That was a cool thing to do.

See, he's not so bad after all.

[groans]

(Klock)

how about you, Denise?

What about me?

Well, you've come back to three oaks.

Is that part of a master plan?

Oh.

No, I came back after dad died In hopes to get the house together and sell it.

But it's been a bit of a struggle Making ends meet in Chicago Ever since matt and I divorced.

So I thought, "heck, "here's a home ready to move into, With memories to boot." Good ones, I hope.

Sure.

And some not-so-good ones, But isn't that everybody's childhood?

If you're lucky, The good memories outweigh the bad.

And that's what I hope for my boys, That the good outweigh the bad.

I mean, they're the main reason I came here.

I just want to make a real home for them.

(Charlie)

I have an idea, Prancer.

You can find anything you want

on the net,

Including the north pole, I bet.

All I have to do is find

Santa's website,

Type in the letter,

And tell him what's going on.

Simple.

♪ h*-h*-h*!

♪ ♪ Check it out.

What'd I tell you?

This is what you do.

You land on a roof.

Santa drops off the presents.

You take off and go to the next house.

Isn't that neat?

I'm telling you; You have a very exciting future ahead of you.

(Klock)

speaking of memories, Some of my best were when we were seeing each other.

I was really sorry to see you go.

You know that.

And I'm happy you're back.

[door opens]

Klock.

Tom.

And Denise.

Hi, Tom.

Old acquaintance?

Yeah, he was my older brother's best friend.

Pretty crazy back then.

(Klock)

still is.

Don't get me wrong.

I like Tom, But he's the kind of guy who never really grew up.

You know the type?

Still acts like he's in high school.

Disappears for weeks at a time to go fishing or hunting.

Drives a motorcycle.

So?

In the middle of winter?

[whispering]

you know, I hate to say it, Denise, But Tom-- totally irresponsible.

So whatever happened between him and Marian summers?

Oh, what do you think?

She got fed up with him.

Did they have any children?

No, no.

I don't think he wanted any.

I mean, there might have been another reason for the breakup.

Anyway, Can't believe I ran into you at the parade the other day.

I don't know.

Seems like fate.

I mean, here I am at a point in my life Where I'm getting ready to settle down, And you turn up suddenly.

(Charlie)

"dear Santa.

"I live in Three Oaks, Michigan.

"remember that place?

"you'll never guess who I have living in my house.

"Prancer’s kid.

"we'll meet you at antler Ridge on Christmas Eve, "seven o'clock sharp!

"you know the drill...

Your friend, Charlie." [grunting]

(Charlie)

done.

(Santa)

thank you for your letter.

Listen, you little elf, Mom's at the door.

Sure you don't want to go down to south bend?

It's tempting.

Be like old times.

Let's do it.

I have to get up early in the morning.

Ryan's heading off to Chicago.

Okay, I won't press.

Rain check?

Sure.

Good night.

Good night.

Had a great time, cookie.

Remember?

Yeah, you know, I'd kind of like to forget that nickname, If you don't mind.

It was good seeing you, Jim, Nice catching up.

Hey, mom.

Charlie's asleep.

He is?

Uh, yeah, he was kind of beat.

I hope he's not coming down with something.

Seemed fine to me.

Okay.

Good night.

Good night.

Don't play your music too loud.

Get that deer out of here.

Okay.

[sniffing]

[grunts]

[Tchaikovsky’s dance of the

sugar plum fairy plays]

♪ ♪ [water trickling]

Oh, no.

Ryan?

Mom?

[grunts]

Whoa!

What are you doing in the bathtub?

[door slams]

It's mom.

[whimpers]

Ryan?

Charlie?

Hi, mom.

What on earth are you doing up so early?

Thought I'd take a bath.

That's very...

Unusual of you.

[sighs]

well, I couldn't sleep.

Christmas coming and all.

Too excited.

Mo?

You mind?

A little privacy.

Right.

Privacy.

Whew.

[cow mooing]

[footsteps clattering]

[groans]

Hello, there, young man.

Hey, already out of milk?

(Charlie)

no, sir.

I need another favor.

Oh, what is it this time?

Well, sure, I heard about it.

The little girl was practically a neighbor.

Now it's happening all over again.

Yeah, looks like it, eh?

Thanks for taking Prancer,

Mr. Richards.

It was getting too dangerous for him at my place.

Oh, well.

He's just another mouth to feed, But don't worry.

I'll take care of him.

Sure you don't want to come?

I didn't think so.

I can do things with you.

[horn honking]

Look, I gotta run.

Be cool.

[sorrowful music]

♪ ♪ (Charlie)

is Ryan coming back?

Of course.

He said he wasn't.

Ryan's a little confused right now.

About what?

Well, maybe about the same thing you are.

He's not sure where his home is.

See, if we had lived in Chicago, you would have two homes, One with me

and one with your dad

And his new family.

But we moved here.

I know why we came here.

Dad doesn't want us around.

That is not true.

It just seemed like I was getting in his way all the time.

Hey, look at me.

Your father leaving had nothing to do with you, Charlie.

He loves you.

Come here.

I love you.

I love you too.

[Prancer bellowing]

[rooster crows]

Moo!

[bus horn honks]

[Prancer bellows]

[school bell ringing]

Oh, my gosh.

I got it.

[Tchaikovsky’s fairies playing]

♪ ♪ [Prancer bellows]

[school bell ringing]

Oh, my gosh.

What is that?

Whoa!

A reindeer!

A reindeer.

Wow!

Mr. Klock.

Emergency.

I am speaking to the district superintendent.

Then perhaps you'd like to tell him There's a reindeer roaming the hallways with the children.

(Klock)

all right, all right, Step aside.

Out of the way.

[bellows]

All right, back up, back up, back up.

Be sure to thank Kris Kringle for your present.

There's a deer in the school.

What?

Somebody get security!

Prancer!

[grunting]

Let him go!

He won't hurt anyone.

Charlie, let go of me.

Stop it!

Crunch!

[yelling]

[growling]

Get him in a classroom!

No!

(Klock)

you!

In my office!

I'm trying to be really calm right now.

But you know what I'm actually doing?

I'm standing here, and I'm asking myself, If I were your father, What would I do

In a situation like this?

Clearly, some kind of

Significant punishment is in order.

What will you do with Prancer?

I've called animal control.

The deer is dangerous.

I expect that he will be put down.

You can't do that to him.

I can, and I expect they will.

You don't understand how serious this is, do you?

Yes, I do.

Well, I'm glad to hear you say that.

But you don't.

What's that supposed to mean?

It means I can't trust anyone over nine.

And you're not my father.

Charlie,

Get back here.

You're in big trouble, little man.

[sprightly adventure music]

♪ ♪ Click!

[lows]

Hey.

You two seen Charlie Holton?

(man)

and that deer?

(Klock)

I work with kids every day, Denise.

I know how unpredictable they can be.

A pet deer?

I mean, I can't believe it.

Where did he find it?

Where did he hide it?

Mr. Klock?

I'll be accompanying the search party.

Excuse me.

Very good.

When you find that deer, I want it put down.

You understand?

See, Denise.

Here's the sheriff.

Everything's under control.

My son's run off with a dangerous deer.

How is that under control?

Did you say something to him, Jim?

No.

I mean, I think I was very understanding.

Excuse me.

(Charlie)

he'll be coming after us, Prancer.

We'll have to stay hidden until Christmas Eve.

That's two whole days and two nights.

I've never even camped out before.

First things first.

Shelter: Gotta find some.

Wonder if that's the way to antler Ridge.

Come on.

Let's go.

Hey, slow down, will ya?

(man)

this is a little different than your typical search.

The boy may not want to be found.

We've got to get to him before sundown.

After dark, he may not be able to get home, Even if he wants to.

Each group have a walkie-talkie?

Yeah, sir.

Why don't you head on home, Denise?

I'll be in constant touch with the search parties, And I'll call you the second I hear anything.

I'm going to go get some warmer clothes.

I can't just stay at home While my son is out in the Forest somewhere.

We'll go the rest of the way tomorrow.

This is a pretty good place to stay for the night.

[grunts]

[sighs]

of course, I'm not sure what we're going to do For the next three to four hours.

Hey, I have an idea.

Why don't I tell you a story?

I bet you like stories.

A Christmas Carol.

There once was a Guy named scrooge, The meanest man around-- Like Klock, that guy you bit.

Picture him.

Well, scrooge lives all alone in a house that nobody enters, And he's mean to everybody.

He gives no money to the poor.

[echoing]

he hates it when dogs-- To his family and scrooge And says "God bless us, every one." Isn't that a great story?

Of course, it's better told around a nice, warm fireplace.

[grunting]

Hey, you're warm.

There, that's better.

[phone ringing]

Hello.

Denise, it's Jim.

Listen, you probably

know this already,

But all the parties have called off the search for the night.

Uh, yeah, I know that, Jim.

Are you okay?

Maybe I should come over and spend the night.

(Denise)

uh, no.

I'm--be fine.

I'm a little worried about you.

Well, you know, I'm worried about Charlie, But thank you for your concern, And I'll call you if I need anything.

Bye.

[doorbell rings]

Tom, hi.

I'm sorry for bothering you.

No, no, no.

I just got home.

I was working all day.

I didn't know about Charlie till I got your message.

Um...

Tom, did you

know about

Charlie and his deer?

No.

I knew something was up, But he said he wanted to keep it a secret, And I told him he shouldn't have anything in the house That you didn't know about.

I should have mentioned something.

I told Charlie I'd keep his secret a secret, And my word's good.

But kids don't always know what's best for them.

Well, sometimes they do, Denise.

You just have to trust them.

[sighing]

I don't even know if I can trust myself anymore.

Sometimes I think

Ryan and Charlie

Would be so much better with their father.

Not that matt is the best dad in the world, But he's so practical.

I mean, he wouldn't let Any of this

get by him.

Well, you can't blame yourself for Charlie running off.

Why can't I?

I mean, Ryan's taken off to Chicago.

Charlie--I don't even know where Charlie is.

This isn't a home.

This is a place to run away from.

Oh, God.

Poor Charlie.

Okay, look, Charlie's gonna be all right.

He's tougher than you think.

And you need to get Some sleep, And I'll come back as soon as it's light, And we'll go find him.

Have a little Faith, Denise.

We're gonna find him, okay?

Thanks, Tom.

(woman)

♪ if you believe deep in your heart, ♪

♪ then things that aren't possible ♪

♪ suddenly are.♪

♪ if you believe, ♪

♪ a wish on a star might really come true, ♪

♪ and they do.♪

♪ if you believe.♪

Dear God, please let Charlie be okay, Because he's a really neat kid.

Amen.

♪ even though it seems impossible, ♪

♪ on Christmas Eve night, ♪

♪ while children sleep, Santa comes by, ♪

♪ delivering gifts only if-- if you believe.♪

♪ I'm sorry, boy.

I'm tired, that's all.

You know, I feel bad.

You know why?

Because I don't think I can stay out here for another two days.

I'll get frostbite Or starve.

You understand what I'm saying?

I can't take care of you anymore.

[grunting]

You have to fly away.

It's the only thing to do.

Head for the north pole.

It's time, Prancer, Time for you to take your father's place.

Here's what you do.

You run as fast as you can,

Think positive thoughts, flying kind of thoughts, And you jump up, And you should be able to take off into the Sky.

Let's try one, okay?

That's it.

Faster, boy.

Remember, think flying thoughts.

On three, jump into the air.

You ready?

One, two, Three.

Oof!

[grunts]

No, Prancer, you're supposed to take off.

Like an airplane.

Let's try it again.

Isn't this the way to antler Ridge?

Yeah, I told Charlie about this Prancer legend we have.

Oh, yeah, I've actually heard about the legend.

Do you think he's trying to retrace the little girl's path?

Oh, it's a hunch.

That's it, boy.

This is the one.

You're going to do it this time.

No, don't stop.

Follow me, Prancer.

Ah!

Ah!

[screams]

[grunts]

Hey, there, boy.

You were trying to warn me,

weren't you?

[grunting]

No, stay there.

You hear me?

Prancer.

Stay there.

You hear me?

Prancer,

Where are you going?

(Denise)

Charlie!

[bird squawking]

Charlie!

[crow cawing]

[trees creaking]

Charlie!

Charlie!

[Prancer grunting]

[bellowing]

Let's go.

Charlie!

[dramatic music]

♪ ♪ [moaning]

He'll come back.

I know he will.

[bellows]

Prancer.

Mom.

Hi, Tom.

[walkie-talkie beeping]

Sheriff, come in.

[man over radio]

go ahead.

It's Tom Sullivan.

We found him.

Hey, sweetheart.

Take care of Prancer.

(Denise)

everything's going

to be okay, honey.

[whimpers]

Thank you.

What are you doing?

Taking this animal to the shelter.

You'll do no such thing.

Ma'am, when a wild animal bites someone, We're required to take it into custody.

Why?

Well, we have to check to see if the animal has any diseases.

Based upon that and other factors, Possibly put the animal down.

You can't do that.

This animal helped save my son's life.

Well, it's the law.

(Denise)

Tom, we can't let them Do that.

I'm going to take you to Charlie, And I'll go to the shelter And make sure they don't do anything rash, okay?

Come on.

(man)

it's procedure, Mr.Sullivan.

There's nothing I can do about it.

Okay, who else can I talk to?

Who's the supervisor here?

Mr.Dexter, But he's gone home for the rest of the day.

He won't be back in till tomorrow morning, And as far as I know, That's when the vet's supposed to put the deer down.

Give me Dexter's phone number.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I can't give out information of that nature.

All right, you have Dexter call me Before anything's done to that deer, okay?

Mom?

Hi, sweetheart.

How you feeling?

You slept all the way home from the hospital.

Where's Prancer?

Don't worry about Prancer right now.

Doctor says you need to rest, And fortunately for us, it was just a sprain.

Where is he?

He's at the shelter.

The shelter?

You let them take him

to a shelter?

No, listen, sweetheart-- They're going

to k*ll him.

Klock will do it himself.

He hates Prancer.

Charlie.

Tom was just down at the shelter.

He said your deer is fine.

I tried to stop them, honey.

Believe me, I did.

How you doing, big boy?

Charlie, your mom did everything she could to help Prancer.

I screwed up everything.

What do you mean?

I made a mess of everything.

I tried to help Prancer but just made everything worse.

I was the last person he should have come to.

Charlie, that deer is the luckiest deer in the world.

Nobody could have taken care of him like you did.

Let me ask you something.

You believe in your deer, that he's Prancer’s kid, Right?

There you go.

See, when you believe in something, It makes other people believe, and when that happens, Things have a way of working out.

But Prancer’s in jail.

I know, But let me worry about that for now.

You just-- you get some rest.

You're gonna help me?

Charlie, I'm gonna do everything I can to help you fix this.

I promise.

[dogs barking]

[dogs whining]

(Denise)

I don't know if this is Such a good idea.

Well, it could work.

I had to think of something.

I promised Charlie.

And your word is good?

Yes, it is.

There they are.

I'm scared.

Well, that's normal.

Everybody's afraid to get in front of the camera.

It's the abnormal ones who like it.

So just keep saying this is for Prancer, okay?

Okay.

Okay, he's ready.

[over TV]

this is Charlotte Purcell in three oaks, Michigan.

Ten years ago, a little girl named Jessica Riggs Found a wounded deer in the woods not far from this town.

She believed

it was Prancer,

And her story has become

local legend ever since

Tonight the legend has come alive once again.

Eight-year-old Charlie Holton Was rescued after an intense

search in those same woods

Outside three oaks.

He had gone missing a day earlier, But he wasn't alone.

Charlie was with a deer he believes is Prancer’s son.

[Charlie over TV]

I found the deer in the woods

near my house

A couple of days ago.

He followed me to school,

And, well, he bit

my vice principal.

He didn't mean to.

He was just protecting me.

What makes you think This is the son of one of Santa's reindeer, Charlie?

He has the same Mark on his forehead that Prancer did.

He's just a little deer.

I don't want him hurt.

(Purcell)

calls to the shelter Where Prancer is

being kept revealed

The deer is due to be put down tomorrow morning.

Charlie.

Hey.

They're gonna k*ll Prancer.

You heard her.

Charlie, nothing's happening to that deer tonight; trust me.

(Purcell)

the offspring

of Prancer.

We'll be sure to keep you

up to date on this story

And Prancer’s fate

in the coming days.

This is Charlotte Purcell reporting.

Honey.

(Tom)

okay, thank you.

That was Mr.

Dexter, the supervisor at the shelter.

The mayor called him And told him not to touch that deer tomorrow morning.

There's going to be a big meeting at the town hall Tomorrow at : .

They're going to discuss this thing.

You want up?

There you go.

I am so proud of you, sweetheart.

(Tom)

come on.

Hop on; I'll give you A lift upstairs.

Hey.

Oof!

Oh!

What have you been eating?

I don't know.

Graham crackers.

Meatloaf.

Potatoes.

Quite a day, huh?

I was outside Charlie's room this afternoon When you were talking to him.

I saw him hug you.

Hmm.

And just right now, When you took him upstairs to bed...

I know it is such a simple thing, But you have no idea how good it is to see that.

Oh, hey, he's a great kid.

And you got a lot to do with that.

[laughs]

Thanks.

You know, Tom, for never wanting to have kids, You have quite an easy way with them.

Who told you I didn't want to have kids?

Marian was the one who wanted to hold off having a family.

Wanted to see the world first and, uh...

I don't know.

I don't think she thought I would be a good father.

I'm kind of unpredictable at times.

Like a big kid.

Maybe that's why I get along with them so well.

It's a shame we were such a mismatch.

I mean, I would have loved To have a big ol' house full of kids, You know?

But you meet someone, And you think you're the love of their life.

You find out you're not.

I know the feeling.

Hey.

Take my truck home tonight.

No, no.

Yeah, go on.

I don't want you driving your bike At night.

Come on.

Okay.

Good night.

Good night.

Looks like you're safe for now, Prancer.

I know, I know.

Trust me.

I said I'd get you back to antler Ridge by : tomorrow.

I will, one way or another.

(man)

they said it on the news last night: Prancer's practically the town mascot.

[applause]

We have to be very careful how we handle this.

The eyes of the world are on us.

[applause]

[drumroll]

[doorbell rings]

Sorry I'm late.

I had to stop

to get help.

It's okay.

They said they wanted to come.

They said they'd behave.

(boy)

we saw you on TV

last night.

We want to learn more about this deer of yours.

It's a long story.

We like stories.

[inspiring marching music]

[applause]

All right, all right.

Just sit down, please.

(Klock)

if I may?

I'd like to address the room.

[crowd groans and grumbles]

(man # )

show up on time, then.

(man # )

take off that sling, you faker!

All right, first of all, first of all, I want to remind everybody about the buck That came into town a few years back.

It terrorized a lot of people, Rammed some cars with its antlers.

(man)

that's right.

Now, that animal was put down.

Everybody remembers

the wolf a few years ago.

A lot of people's pets disappeared.

That animal was put down as well.

I took six stitches in this arm.

This is not a docile deer we're talking about.

This is not Santa's little helper.

[crowd groaning]

But I want

to be clear.

I want to be clear about something.

I'm glad that I'm the one that took the six stitches And not one of my kids.

[applause]

So whatever you decide

to do, mayor,

And I can only suggest

what you do,

I think it would be

A mistake to let that animal go.

Just the thought of it coming back into town And doing this to one of my kids Is not worth the risk.

I, for one, don't want that on my conscience.

[crowd murmuring]

Yes, well, In order for us all

to enjoy the Prancer ceremony

Without any further

controversy,

We will put off any final decision about the deer Until after the holidays.

Yeah!

[applause]

This meeting is adjourned.

Thanks for coming, Mr. Richards.

Oh, least I could do after-- After letting your deer get away.

This might be dangerous.

Hope you don't get in trouble.

I'm years old.

How much trouble can I get into?

[chuckles]

Looks like we're all here.

Let's get to it.

[door beeping]

[sobbing desperately]

(boy)

sir, She lost her cat.

Oh.

I'm sorry to hear that, but we're not officially open.

I'm just here to guard the deer.

[cries harder]

Uh...

No cats came in today.

Could we just take a look?

I mean, it'll only take a minute.

Okay.

Just make it fast.

Thank you so much, sir.

Thanks.

[dogs barking]

Great work, guys.

You should have seen Jamie.

She was great.

We're in.

Phase two.

Uh, you were supposed to have Prancer here, right?

What'd I just tell you?

Somebody took the deer.

What?

What's that?

[nervously]

o-okay, everybody out.

Oh, place is closed-- on the double.

[Tchaikovsky’s fairies playing]

[tires squealing]

Charlie.

[knocks]

Charlie?

Could he be sleeping?

♪ ♪ (man)

oh, this is not good.

[horn blaring]

Oh, these guys better not get me fired.

Is there a problem?

Well, what do you think?

Of course there's a problem.

Coming, Mr. Richards?

The ceremony's about to start.

Ah, we'll make it.

Now.

Well, we could use your help, Sonny.

Come on.

Let's go.

W--yeah, okay.

[Prancer gurgling]

Good to see you too, boy.

I missed you.

We're going to find the key and get you out of this jail.

Time to go see Santa.

Got 'em!

[grunting]

Yes.

Okay, let's go.

[barking]

(Klock)

yes, sheriff.

I'm looking at them even as we speak.

I will.

Thank you.

I'll see you shortly.

I must tell you,

Charlie,

This is a lot

More serious than throwing a snowball.

[dog barks echoing]

[giggles quietly]

What's so funny?

I don't know.

All of a sudden, I just feel like everything's going to be okay.

[dogs barking]

[barking]

Whoa, whoa!

Whoa, okay, okay.

Okay, okay, get down.

Okay, okay, okay, okay.

(Ryan)

so much for the Darth Vader

of elementary school, huh?

[Klock groaning]

Ryan!

Hey.

What are you doing here?

Well, you weren't at home.

I just had a hunch where I might find you.

(Jamie)

good timing.

Why are you back so soon?

You were on the national news, bro.

I had to come back and see what was going on.

Besides, I missed you.

This is real sweet and all, But shouldn't we be going?

(Klock)

this isn't the end of this, Not by a long shot!

[barks]

Only half an hour till : , Charlie.

We won't make it.

[groans]

Hi, mom.

Hi, son.

I couldn't just leave him in the shelter, mom.

It's Christmas Eve.

Then I guess we're just going to have to get him up To antler Ridge.

(Jamie)

merry Christmas, Charlie.

Well...

That was kind of fun.

Okay, it was fun.

Come on.

Let's go.

(chorus)

♪ in heavenly peace, ♪ ♪ sleep in heavenly peace.

♪ ♪ [applause]

(mayor)

as always, Before Prancer joins the rest of the team, There is a reading-- by yours truly, of course-- Of the night before Christmas.

[clears throat]

"twas the night

before Christmas

"when all through the house,

"not a creature

was stirring,

Not even a mouse."

[grunts]

You think Prancer will be able to get to antler Ridge From here okay?

Oh, I think we're close enough.

Ha!

[dog barking]

Whatcha doing in there, Jim?

Where have you been?

Get me out of here.

Oh, clam up!

(mayor)

"and I heard him exclaim 'ere he rode out of sight, Merry Christmas to all,

and to all a good night."

And now for the main event.

[applause and cheering]

I'm gonna miss you, Prancer.

[whines]

You have to go.

[grumbles]

Go.

[groans]

[Charlie sniffling]

It's okay, boy.

It's time to go home.

[lows]

[groans]

[dramatic music]

♪ ♪ [crowd gasps]

[moos]

(man)

you see that?

Did you see that, sheriff?

(Klock)

what?

Oo!

What'd I miss?

What did I miss?

Whoosh!

I think it's time to go home.

What about you guys?

Let's go home.

(woman)

♪ if you believe deep in your heart, ♪

♪ then things that aren't possible suddenly are.♪

♪ if you believe, ♪

♪ a wish on a star might really come true, ♪

♪ and they do.♪

♪ if you believe, reindeer can fly, ♪

♪ even though it seems impossible ♪

♪ on Christmas Eve night, ♪

♪ while children sleep, Santa comes by, ♪

♪ delivering gifts only if-- if you believe.♪

♪ so run to the edge of your dreams, ♪

♪ and jump over the side at least once in your life.♪

♪ it's time to start spreading your wings ♪

♪ and take to the Sky.♪

..♪ and all things illogical can possibly be, ♪

♪ then open your mind and repeat after me, ♪

♪ "anything you can imagine can be achieved ♪

♪ if you believe." ♪

♪ if you believe.♪

♪ ooh-ooh-oh-ooh.♪

♪

---the end---