In a world that is bitter and complicated, it’s refreshing to see an acclaimed director return to the big screen to spark a little faith in humanity.
Alexander Payne makes his triumphant return with “The Holdovers,” a dramedy that centers around a curmudgeonly history teacher (Paul Giamatti) at a New England boarding school forced to chaperone a group of students with nowhere to go during the holiday winter break. During this time he forms unlikely bonds with one of his students (Dominic Sessa) and the school’s head cook (Da’Vine Joy Randolph).
Tragic and touching, “The Holdovers” is a nostalgic gem filled with empathy, warmth, sharp writing and impeccable performances.
I feel that Giamatti is an underrated actor, but his talents shine so brightly as the sharp-tongued professor, especially as his layers slowly peel back as his relationship with Sessa grows stronger. Speaking of Sessa, he delivers a staggering breakthrough performance. This newcomer is one to look out for.
But it is Randolph whose effortless charm and raw emotion command the screen. There is something so charismatic and endearing about her performance, that you cannot help but root for her from the moment you meet her. And I will be rooting for her this Awards Season.
Despite each character’s emotional development and painful relationship with grief, there is a level of coziness and warmth woven throughout the film.
Payne has carefully crafted a Charles Dickens-like holiday tale that immerses you almost instantly into 1970 New England with a wintry aesthetic and soundtrack so intoxicating, you’ll be craving a hot cocoa.
Between its authenticity, strong performances and earnest emotion, “The Holdovers” has become an easy favorite this year.
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