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The Holdovers

Duration: 2:13
Rating
7.9/10
Set in the early 1970s at a prestigious New England boarding school, "The Holdovers" follows the story of a grumpy history teacher left behind to oversee a group of students who cannot return home for Christmas break. Among these students is a bright but troubled young rebel who seems to constantly test the limits of authority. Through a series of unexpected events and shared experiences during the otherwise quiet and lonesome holiday period, the mismatched pair sheds their initial animosity and gradually develops a surprising and heartwarming connection. As they navigate personal struggles and confront past demons, their evolving friendship becomes a source of redemption and growth for both, proving that the most unlikely people can become allies and even change each other's lives in profound ways.

Directors

Direction: Alexander Payne

Script: David Hemingson

Main cast: Paul Giamatti, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Dominic Sessa

Ticket office

Budget: $13 million

Box office: $45.7 million

Synopsis

In the delightfully nostalgic setting of the 1970s, shines a light on an unconventional group of characters brought together by circumstance, offering a heartfelt reflection on loneliness, redemption, and unlikely bonds. The story unfolds in a prestigious boarding school where winter break is in full swing, and most students eagerly depart for a season of festive cheer. Yet, not everyone has the luxury of family or a home to return to—these are the holdovers. Among these few is a mismatched trio whose lives unexpectedly intertwine, forcing them to confront their personal dilemmas while uncovering unexpected friendships.

At the center of the narrative is Paul Hunham, an embittered teacher who reluctantly volunteers to watch over the stranded students. Life has made Paul a figure marked by cynicism, his stern demeanor contrasting sharply with the season's usual cheer. However, behind his gruff exterior lies a complex character shaped by disappointments and long-held regrets, yearning for a sense of purpose as he walks the hallowed halls now eerily quiet. Paul expects a monotonous stretch of days, but the fates have scripted a very different chapter for him.

Joining him is Angus, a brilliant yet socially awkward student left behind by circumstance. Studies come effortlessly to him, yet social connections elude him as easily. Angus, in his awkwardness, carries the weight of isolation, grappling with a void that youth and intelligence alone cannot fill. His intelligence is coupled with an emotional experience that his precocious mind is ill-equipped to handle, making his stay a bittersweet solitude, a far cry from the youthful revelry outside the school grounds.

Rounding out this unusual gathering is Mary, the compassionate and resilient cook whose warmth and generosity illuminate even the darkest winter days. As the sole parent-like presence at school during this time, Mary embodies a quietly nurturing spirit that has seen her through life's vicissitudes. Her cheerful resilience offers a counterbalance to the others' skepticisms and hesitations, weaving a tapestry of warmth and acceptance amidst the chill.

As the days roll on through a hushed campus, the trio embarks on an unexpected journey filled with poignant humor, introspective moments, and poignant revelations. Each has a story to tell—stories that stir the heart and mind, unveiling fears, hopes, and dreams hidden beneath everyday facades. Their interactions become a shared journey of growth, where lessons on empathy, acceptance, and self-discovery are as much on the agenda as the math or history awaiting Paul's return to classroom duty.

Through their unfolding camaraderie, beautifully captures the essence of connection that transcends age, background, and preconceptions. As the snow blankets the campus, these three solitary figures find warmth in one another, revealing the untapped power of human connection and the hope of new beginnings. With its soul-stirring narrative rich in themes of reconciliation and belonging, the film leaves audiences with both smiles and introspection, a testament to the power of unexpected alliances forged in the quiet moments of life.

Argument

Cast

Paul Giamatti

Paul Giamatti

Professor Paul Hunham

Da'Vine Joy Randolph

Da'Vine Joy Randolph

Mary Lamb

Dominic Sessa

Dominic Sessa

Angus Tully

Carrie Preston

Carrie Preston

Miss Lydia Crane

Brady Hepner

Brady Hepner

Teddy Kountze

Ian Dolley

Ian Dolley

Alex Ollerman

Jim Kaplan

Jim Kaplan

Ye-Joon Park

Michael Provost

Michael Provost

Jason Smith

Andrew Garman

Andrew Garman

Dr. Hardy Woodrup

Naheem Garcia

Naheem Garcia

Danny

Stephen Thorne

Stephen Thorne

Thomas Tully

Gillian Vigman

Gillian Vigman

Judy Clotfelter

Tate Donovan

Tate Donovan

Stanley Clotfelter

Darby Lee-Stack

Darby Lee-Stack

Elise

Bill Mootos

Bill Mootos

Mr. Endicott

Dustin Tucker

Dustin Tucker

Mr. Rosenswieg

Juanita Pearl

Juanita Pearl

Mary's Sister Peggy

Alexander Cook

Alexander Cook

Priest

Multimedia

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