Prep & Landing (2009)

Prep & Landing (2009) is an American animated television special, based on an idea by Chris Williams at Walt Disney Animation Studios and developed by Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers into a half-hour Christmas special. Wayne, a dedicated Christmas elf, is part of this elite organization whose important job is to prepare homes around the world for Santa’s visit. After 227 years with ‘Prep & Landing’, Wayne eagerly anticipates being promoted to director of the naughty list. However, his former partner and trainee, Peterson, ends up getting the promotion instead. As a new team member, Lanny joins Wayne to help out with the preparations as well.

Despite being bitter about the promotion, Wayne chooses to slack off during a mission. He lets Lanny handle all the work, which turns out to be a disaster. Meanwhile, Santa receives news of a massive snow storm during his flight and is informed that Wayne and Lanny have not prepared the house for his arrival. Due to safety concerns, he is advised to cancel the landing – an unprecedented occurrence. However, Wayne and Lanny assure him that they will make it up to Timmy, the young boy who lives at the house they were supposed to prepare. After finding out that the re-routing was final, Wayne initially hesitates but changes his mind upon hearing Timmy’s grateful words in his sleep. He calls Santa and insists on landing at Timmy’s house. Together, Wayne and Lanny work hard to safely land Santa on Timmy’s roof. When Christmas morning arrives, Santa proudly shows Wayne that Timmy had a joyful Christmas thanks to their efforts. Grateful for their dedication, Santa offers Wayne a promotion as the new director of the nice list – an offer he declines so he can continue working alongside Lanny.