564 words, 3 minutes read time.
In Alexander Payne’s latest film, “The Holdovers,” audiences are immersed in a poignant tale centred around individuals left behind, each grappling with reasons that hinder them from fully engaging with life. Set against the backdrop of a New England boys’ boarding school in 1970, the movie expertly weaves together the lives of Mr. Hunham, a cantankerous classics master played by the brilliant Paul Giamatti, and the eclectic cast of characters navigating the holiday season.
Dominic Sessa delivers a standout performance as Angus Tully, one of the Barton students left on campus during Christmas break. Da’Vine Joy Randolph, portraying Mary Lamb, the Barton head cook and a bereaved mother, also shines in her role. Both actors skilfully bring their characters to life, creating captivating interactions with Mr. Hunham that significantly contribute to the film’s emotional depth.
The film skillfully captures the essence of people who, for various reasons, find themselves on the sidelines of life. Through sharp dialogue and understated humor, “The Holdovers” creates a genuine connection with the audience. A notable example is a scene where Mr. Hunham is kissed under the mistletoe at a party, his reaction is to tell the story of Aeneas taking mistletoe to the underworld! This moment serves as a subtle reflection of Mr. Hunham’s intellectual world, revealing how he predominantly resides in the realm of the mind’ and how difficult he finds it to interact in a ‘normal’ way.
As the narrative unfolds, we witness the characters’ journey towards rediscovering life. The film’s central dynamic, especially the evolving relationship between Mr. Hunham and Angus, is complemented by moments of genuine laughter and heartwarming connection. The movie incorporates the themes of race and class, providing a salient reminder of the societal dynamics during the Vietnam War era.
However, it’s essential to note that the pacing of “The Holdovers” might be considered slow by some viewers. This film does not adhere to the frenetic speed of an action movie; instead, it offers a deliberate and contemplative approach, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the characters’ experiences. This deliberate pacing is a concious choice, emphasizing the film’s focus on character development and the exploration of profound themes.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its ability to navigate clichés associated with makeshift family stories while infusing them with timeless truths. The characters, portrayed by Giamatti, Sessa, and Randolph, resonate with the audience, offering a refreshing take on unexpected friendships and mentorships. The film cleverly addresses the theme of people left behind, capturing the struggles and growth of those not fully engaged with life.
Throughout the narrative, we see the transformation of Mr. Hunham from a rigid and detached teacher to someone worth rooting for. The understated humor, combined with Giamatti’s compelling performance, breathes life into the character. By the film’s conclusion, I was cheering for Mr. Hunham, hoping he embarked on a journey to explore the world and perhaps even completed a monograph or book.
“The Holdovers” stands as a testament to Alexander Payne’s storytelling prowess, delivering a grownup drama for grownup people that transcends its ’70s setting. The film’s deliberate pace invites viewers to reflect on the nuances of human connections. It’s underlying message is that cynicism is never the answer to either personal or social problems and that there is always hope for change.
Reviewed by Pat Harrington
Picture Credit: By Focus Features – IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74995266
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spiritofthedrum said
Watched this in a cinema in a small French seaside town in February. In France it’s called ‘Winter Break’.