REVIEW: Alexander Payne’s ‘The Holdovers’ is a funny, emotional winner

This just in, Paul Giamatti continues to be a national treasure.

The Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee portrays Paul Hunham in “The Holdovers.” A teacher at a private boys high school in the 1970s, Paul has earned himself a reputation as a notoriously tough teacher and not the most pleasant to chat with.

Unfortunately for some students who have to stay at the school during the holiday break, they have to spend their days with Paul, who’s the designated the chaperone. One student in particular, Angus (Dominic Sessa) has to spend an extended time there. But as time goes on, he finds himself bonding with both Paul and the school’s head cook Mary (Da’Vine Joy Randolph)

Films centering on a mentor guiding a student, and both growing from the experience, is a classic story-telling device. As a result, “The Holdovers” feels very recognizable. Not only are there quite a few cliches used, but the movie’s setting in  the 1970s gives off a very throwback type vibe that will be familiar to many viewers.

Yet the film never feels like it’s being derivative and instead stands completely on its own. The execution is at such an elite level by the cast and crew that an audience can’t help but be engrossed with the story, fall in love with the characters and appreciate the setting in a time gone by.

The writing by David Hemingson is exceptional, with a great deal of personality on display, especially with the three leads. The trio of main characters have been broken by events in their lives, and the way they navigate the current situation they’re in and develop bonds with each other makes for a captivating watch.

While the film centers on individuals who’ve been emotionally damaged, “The Holdovers” also manages to be immensely funny. A fantastic balance is struck with the comedy in “Holdovers,” with a good level of cynicism, but not so much that it ever undercuts any of the heartwarming moments. Much of the humor also factors in greatly with the leads growing closer over the holidays.

The picture also very much works as a Christmas movie. At first, the holiday is simply a catalyst for the group to come together. However, as the film goes on, the seasonal magic is felt more with the characters becoming a small family over the break.

The acting plays a huge role in the movie’s success, too. Giamatti is especially great, giving arguably the best performance in his career. It was like he put everything he had into this role, his heart and soul, making his character have a great deal of depth.

The character is much more complex than his tough exterior lets on, and Giamatti is extraordinary at breaking down the character’s walls. As the film plays on, the actor convincingly shows more of the charming educator and good man that Paul is, the man who believes in what he does and the people around him, even if he doesn’t always show it. He will deservedly be in the running for an Oscar.

Giamatti doesn’t fully steal the show, though, because the supporting cast is strong, too. Remarkably, this was Sessa’s first acting credit, yet he pulls off the performance here like an experienced pro. Angus’ teenage angst and rebellious nature, as well as his greater stress from dealing with his family situation feels very real thanks to Sessa’s work.

Randolph is also essential in making the movie excel. Her character recently experienced a tragedy and Randolph manages to make the emotions that come with such a situation painfully clear on screen. She also beautifully portrays the character’s strength, as the woman tries to carry on and be a friend to Paul and Angus.

The interactions between the characters are phenomenal, too, with superb chemistry on display, especially when it comes to the relationship at the heart of the film. Watching Paul and Angus bond, with Angus finding a good male role model to give him some guidance, while the teacher has his eyes opened a bit when it comes to his career and life is endearing, and works thanks to the performances.

Director Alexander Payne has put together a truly fine film. It’s a film about broken people leaning on each other. It’s about youth, the importance of mentorship, the benefit of friendship for the human condition, dealing with the difficulties life throws and learning to move forward, all presented with award caliber filmmaking and a comfortable atmosphere.

“The Holdovers” is a powerful drama and a comforting Christmas film at the same time. It’s heartbreaking, heartwarming, meaningful and provides plenty of laughs. The work by Payne and company is absolutely commendable. 5 out of 5.