The Night Before

On Christmas Eve in 2001, Ethan Miller experiences the tragic loss of his parents in a car accident, leaving him devastated. This pivotal event sets the course for his emotional journey, deepening his bond with lifelong friends Isaac and Chris who support him through this dark time.

In the aftermath of their loss, Ethan, Isaac, and Chris establish a tradition of spending every Christmas Eve together. This ritual becomes a cornerstone of their friendship, providing a sense of stability and joy amidst their individual struggles.

Fast forward to 2008, the trio encounters a mysterious woman at a bar who shares stories of the legendary Christmas gathering known as The Nutcracker Ball. Intrigued and excited, they decide to embark on a quest to attend this elusive party, which sets their adventurous spirit into motion.

By 2015, the dynamics of their lives have changed. Chris is coping with fame and the pressures that come with it, while Isaac is enjoying family life with his wife Betsy and preparing for their baby. In contrast, Ethan faces the challenging reality of a breakup with Diana and a dead-end job, dressed as an elf.

While working at the hotel, Ethan stumbles upon three tickets to The Nutcracker Ball while sorting coats. This unexpected discovery fills him with excitement and hope, giving the group a chance to finally experience the legendary party they've been dreaming about.

As the excitement builds, the trio contemplates the significance of their tradition amidst their evolving lives. They are torn between growing older and the desire to relive the carefree days of their past, highlighting the challenges of adulthood.

Betsy surprises Isaac with a box full of substances, adding a wild twist to their evening plans. This gift ignites a night of shenanigans and spontaneity, pushing the trio further into the world of holiday escapades.

The night kicks off with the friends dancing exuberantly on the iconic FAO Schwartz piano to Kanye West's 'Runaway'. This moment encapsulates their youthful spirit and strong bond, setting the tone for the night of festivities ahead.

As the night progresses, they enjoy a boisterous karaoke session singing 'Christmas in Hollis'. However, the fun quickly turns chaotic when Isaac becomes overwhelmed and has a dramatic breakdown in the bathroom, showcasing the unpredictable nature of their night.

While mingling with Diana at the bar, Ethan's attempts to reconnect lead to awkward encounters. His struggles highlight the emotional turmoil he faces as he grapples with feelings of rejection and longing amidst the festive celebrations.

Chris finds himself in a complicated but exciting romantic encounter amidst the chaos. This unexpected twist serves to emphasize the complexities of friendships and relationships as they navigate their changing lives.

As the night progresses, the trio faces various obstacles while trying to reach The Nutcracker Ball, including a dramatic chase for stolen weed. Each challenge provides comedic relief while also testing their loyalty and friendship.

On Christmas morning, things take a frantic turn when Isaac receives a call about his wife's labor, urging them to rush to the hospital. Their mad dash concludes with realized panic over a false alarm, revealing the unpredictability of life.

In the aftermath of their wild night, the friends reflect on their experiences and come to terms with their fears and insecurities. This resolution emphasizes the importance of friendship and support as they welcome new beginnings.

The friends gather around Isaac's newborn, realizing the true meaning of the holiday season. They celebrate by serenading the baby with 'Christmas in Hollis', culminating in a heartwarming reminder of love and camaraderie.