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The Holdovers - Movie
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The Holdovers

description The Holdovers Overview

Alexander Payne's 'The Holdovers' is a heartwarming and humorous story about an unpopular teacher, a troubled student, and a grieving cafeteria lady who are forced to spend the Christmas holidays together at their boarding school. The film's strength lies in its witty dialogue, its relatable characters, and its exploration of themes of loneliness, loss, and unexpected connection. It's a charming and poignant film that celebrates the power of human connection in the face of adversity.

help The Holdovers FAQ

Where is The Holdovers set?

The Holdovers is set at the fictional Barton Academy, a New England boarding school, during the 1970 Christmas break. The story keeps a tight focus on the students and staff left behind on campus.

Who are the three main characters in The Holdovers?

Paul Giamatti plays classics teacher Paul Hunham, Dominic Sessa plays student Angus Tully, and Da'Vine Joy Randolph plays cafeteria manager Mary Lamb. Their forced holiday isolation is the center of the film.

Why does The Holdovers look like an older movie?

Alexander Payne and cinematographer Eigil Bryld gave the 2023 film a deliberately 1970s-style look, including period-style framing, texture, and credits. That visual approach matches the film's Christmas 1970 setting.

Did The Holdovers win any major acting awards?

Yes. Da'Vine Joy Randolph won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for playing Mary Lamb in The Holdovers.

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