The Holdovers Alexander Payne: Director Alexander Payne, known for characters difficult to love, offers a departure in his latest film, “The Holdovers.” Set in a frosty 1970 Massachusetts prep school, this holiday dramedy introduces us to the curmudgeonly teacher Paul Hunham, played by Paul Giamatti. Despite the prickly exterior, this film exudes warmth, making it a potential contemporary holiday classic.
“The Holdovers” is a nostalgic homage to a bygone era, evident from the throwback studio logo to the grainy film stock. The story unfolds at Barton Academy, where Hunham relishes handing out failing grades to privileged students. Comically unapproachable, he reeks of fish, enveloping himself in pipe smoke and whiskey fumes. His disdain extends from students to a disliked headmaster.
When tasked with supervising “holdover” students during winter break, Hunham, with no friends or family, reluctantly accepts. The focus shifts to the brilliant but troubled student Angus, portrayed brilliantly by Dominic Sessa. Their initially turbulent relationship becomes the heart of the film, observed from a distance by the school’s cook, Mary, played by DaVine Joy Randolph.
“The Holdovers” achieves authenticity by casting actual high school students and utilizing Massachusetts locations, including Northfield Mount Hermon and Deerfield Academy. Sessa’s portrayal of a impulsive student adds to the film’s genuine feel.
The film’s authenticity extends to its representation of 1970s Massachusetts during a “field trip” to Boston. The meticulous location choices, supervised by Kai Quinlan, capture the era accurately. Local actors, like Alexander Cook, contribute to the film’s realism.
In the lead role, Giamatti shines, delivering a performance reminiscent of his previous collaboration with Payne in “Sideways.” DaVine Joy Randolph, impactful since “Dolemite Is My Name,” holds her own, portraying Mary’s stoic grief and existential crisis.
“The Holdovers” pays tribute to the New Hollywood era, prioritizing quirky characters over plot. During an early screening, Payne discussed exposing Sessa to 1970s films, influencing the film’s tone. As the credits roll, the film leaves hearts full, making it a perfect choice for cold holiday months with loved ones, whether blood relatives or chosen family.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the plot of The Holdovers?
Stream The Holdovers exclusively on Peacock, distributed by Focus Features. You can also rent or buy it on Vudu and Apple TV+.
Where can I watch The Holdovers at home?
The Holdovers, a 2023 American Christmas comedy-drama flick helmed by Alexander Payne and penned by David Hemingson in his first crack at feature writing.
Is The Holdovers a comedy?
The Barton Academy in Alabama is real, but The Holdovers’ boarding school blends together various Massachusetts locations. In the picture, you can see a building from the esteemed Deerfield Academy.