by Tabatha Golat –
In the cinematic whirlwind of 2023, with giants like Oppenheimer and Barbie stealing the spotlight, there’s a quiet contender I’m secretly rooting for come Oscar time – the endearing comedy-drama, The Holdovers. From acclaimed director Alexander Payne (Sideways) and starring dynamic duo Paul Giamatti and Dominic Sessa, this character-driven gem hit theatres in late 2023, winning the hearts of critics and audiences alike. At the time of writing, The Holdovers is in theatres, but come January 2024, it will likely be available on your favourite streaming service, bringing its unique charm to a wider audience. Don’t miss the chance to witness this endearing comedy-drama.
The Holdovers takes place in the winter of 1970 at Barton Academy, an all-boys boarding school in New England. Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti), a classics teacher, finds himself overseeing a handful of students “held over” during Christmas break. Among them is Angus Tully, a teenage student grappling with the sudden absence of his mother, who has been whisked away on a honeymoon, and Mary Lamb (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), the school’s cafeteria administrator mourning the loss of her son to the Vietnam War. Amidst academic regulations and unexpected camaraderie, Angus and Hunham embark on a transformative journey through the frost-kissed halls of Barton, bonding over ice skating in Boston, confronting family “ghosts,” and sharing a countdown to New Year’s Day. As the holidays conclude, revelations surface and choices are made that cement their friendship and conclude a poignant chapter at Barton Academy. Giamatti and Sessa bring authenticity into their characters and a compelling realism to their roles.
While the plot of The Holdovers is simple, it is the simplicity of the film that allows the characters and relationships to shine. No convoluted storyline, no over-the-top theatrics – just a genuine portrayal of two humans navigating the holiday season together. Payne’s directorial finesse weaves a tale that, while seemingly straightforward, reveals layers of subtle humour. Surrounded by the audience’s laughter, I discovered an unexpected joy in this character-driven gem. The Holdovers is a delightful journey through the nuances of human connection, a perfect antidote to the holiday hustle. This film makes it clear that simplicity, when crafted with care, has the power to resonate.
Some of my favourite films prioritize character-driven narratives and emphasize storytelling over spectacle, a quality that The Holdovers masterfully embodies. If you are looking for similar films with the same commitment to character and storytelling, check out my list of recommendations:
1) Dan In Real Life, Disney+
2) Sideways, Crave
3) 50/50, Netflix
4) Up in the Air, AppleTV
5) Lars and the Real Girl, AppleTV
