The movie being reviewed today is called “The Holdovers.” Directed by Alexander Payne and written by David Hamington, this film is a unique blend of comedy and tragedy. Set in a remote Prep School during the Christmas holidays in the 1970s, the story revolves around a cranky history teacher and a troubled student who have to spend the holidays together. With a runtime of 2 hours and 13 minutes, “The Holdovers” is a refreshing take on the Christmas genre.
What Stands Out
There are several aspects of “The Holdovers” that make it stand out:
- Paul Giamatti’s outstanding performance: Paul Giamatti, known for his impressive acting skills, delivers once again in “The Holdovers.” His portrayal of a complex and unlikable yet lovable character is commendable.
- Talented new actor: Dominic Cessa makes a remarkable onscreen debut in “The Holdovers.” His performance adds depth to the film and leaves the audience excited to see his future projects.
- Realistic setting: Unlike many movies that rely on sets and sound stages, “The Holdovers” was shot at real locations. This adds an authentic touch to the film and enhances the viewing experience.
- Clever dialogue and witty humor: The dialogue in “The Holdovers” is clever, witty, and at times, inspiring. The film successfully balances visual and spoken humor, making it an enjoyable watch.
- Timeless themes: “The Holdovers” explores themes such as family, sacrifice, acceptance, and loneliness. These thought-provoking themes make for engaging conversations with family and friends after watching the film.
What Parents Should Know
While “The Holdovers” is highly recommended for adult audiences, there are a few aspects parents should be aware of:
- Not suitable for young children: The movie may not be engaging for young kids as it primarily revolves around adult characters and their experiences.
- Profanity and mature content: “The Holdovers” features profanity, including the use of f-bombs. The film also portrays and discusses prescription drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and weed.
Funny and Interesting Lines
Here are a few lines from “The Holdovers” that highlight the quality of the script:
“Your logic is flawless,” sarcastically remarks Paul Giamatti’s character when a student says something ridiculous. This line showcases the clever writing and witty banter in the film.
Another line by Giamatti’s character is, “Do not cross the Rubicon.” It reflects his transformation throughout the movie, as he learns to see the world in shades of gray rather than black and white.
The film also delivers inspiring lines, such as “Your history does not dictate your destination.” This message resonates with the characters, who strive to overcome their past and become better individuals.
Recommended Films
If you enjoyed “The Holdovers,” here are a few other films you might also like:
- “School Ties”: An older movie that explores similar themes of identity and belonging.
- “Dead Poets Society”: A classic film that combines inspiration and heartbreak in a boarding school setting.
- “Renaissance Man”: This movie features Danny DeVito and portrays the relationship between a professor and his students, highlighting the challenges and growth that come with education.
That’s all for now! For more movie reviews and updates, bookmark yesmovies. Have a fantastic day and see you in the next review!
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