I watched The Holdovers and I liked it. 3/5
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Alexander Payne‘s latest, The Holdovers, takes us on a Christmas vacation of the mind, swapping sugarplums for existential pondering and eggnog for reflection. Set in a 1970s boarding school, the film centers on three unlikely companions thrown together by circumstance: Paul, a jaded teacher disillusioned with education; Angus, a troubled student grappling with loss; and Mary, a grieving woman haunted by the Vietnam War. Their shared winter break becomes a journey of introspection, humor, and unexpected connection.
The film’s saving grace lies in its phenomenal cast. Paul Giamatti expertly portrays Paul’s simmering frustration and underlying vulnerability, while Dominic Sessa shines as Angus, conveying both teenage rebellion and raw vulnerability. Miss Da’Vine Joy Randolph steals the show as Mary, injecting warmth and wisdom into her poignant role. Their shared chemistry crackles, making even the film’s slower moments engaging.
Payne’s signature wit is alive and well, peppering the script with sharp observations and laugh-out-loud moments. The awkward interactions between the mismatched trio provide ample comedic fodder, especially as they navigate the pitfalls of boarding school life and clashing personalities. However, the film’s humor often carries a bittersweet bite, reminding us of the characters’ underlying anxieties and regrets.
Unfortunately, the film’s deliberate pace can sometimes test patience. Payne’s penchant for long takes and introspective silences, while effective in building atmosphere, can occasionally drag the narrative. Moments of contemplation linger, occasionally feeling unearned, and some viewers might crave a tighter, more plot-driven experience.
While The Holdovers presents its characters with undeniable depth, some themes feel underdeveloped. Mary’s grief, while powerfully portrayed, remains largely an emotional echo, never fully explored. Similarly, Angus’s teenage angst, though relatable, lacks a satisfying resolution. This leaves a sense of incompleteness, as if the film’s emotional arc falls just short of a resounding climax.
Ultimately, The Holdovers is a poignant film that captures the fleeting beauty of human connection and the quiet complexities of life. However, its slow pace and unresolved themes prevent it from reaching its full potential. It feels like a glimpse into a larger story, offering moments of emotional resonance but lacking a fully satisfying journey. Nevertheless, for those who appreciate character-driven dramas with a touch of humor and a melancholic beauty, The Holdovers provides a worthwhile, if incomplete, cinematic experience.