The Review
The Holdovers may not initially appear to be extraordinary, but it undoubtedly ranks among director Alexander Payne’s finest works. This film is filled with humor, moments of tenderness, and serves as an outstanding example of the meaningful connections that can be formed within an unconventional family. Taking place in a strict New England boarding school in 1970, it easily passes the test as a must-see movie. Reuniting with Paul Giamatti, who starred in Payne’s acclaimed film “Sideways,” Payne and screenwriter David Hemingson incorporate elements reminiscent of “A Christmas Carol.” The story follows a group of students at the prep school who are unable to return home for the holidays, requiring supervision during the two week period encompassing Christmas and New Year’s. Giamatti portrays Paul Hunham, a history teacher known for his penchant for tormenting his students. He has been assigned the unenviable task of supervising these holdover students, partly as a consequence for failing a privileged student and partly because he has no one to spend the holidays with himself. Amidst this group of misfit students is Angus, played by newcomer Dominic Sessa, whose mother has embarked on a vacation with her wealthy new husband, leaving him behind. Additionally, Mary, portrayed by Da’Vine Joy Randolph in a show...
