Picture this: you’re stuck with a cranky teacher, arrogant classmates and the school cook over winter break, holed up in your bitterly cold Northeastern boarding school. With subtle humor, “The Holdovers” explores this uncomfortable situation while conjuring nostalgia for late 20th-century films and tugging at heartstrings.
Starring Paul Giamatti as the cranky Mr. Hunham, Dominic Sessa as the troubled student Angus Tully and Da’Vine Joy Randolph as a grieving Mary Lamb, the three characters bond over Christmas break festivities despite frustration and among tragedy.
Exploring the complexity of human relationships and the ghosts of our pasts, “The Holdovers” teaches much about love and empathy, grief and joy. Each character was loveable and relatable (yes, even the grouchy Mr. Hunham), and the excellent screenplay heightened such connections to the audience.
Even better were the actors themselves; Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa and Da’Vine Joy Randolph gave excellent performances, bringing life to their roles. Never having seen Sessa or Randolph before, I was pleasantly surprised by the strength of their acting.
But what stood out to me the most was the outstanding visuals. Utilizing techniques from the late 20th century, the cinematography was artful and nostalgic. While watching, the slow and tasteful scenes conjured comparisons of other classics, including “Dead Poets’ Society” and a hint of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” While clearly a modern film regarding subject matter, the visuals were a warm embrace from the past.
With multiple Oscars nominations under its belt, “The Holdovers” is exceptional. Half feel-good and half tearjerker, I came away from the film satisfied and lightened. If you’re looking for a humorous yet moving watch, I heartily recommend “The Holdovers.”
