The Holdovers: Alexander Payne's Heartwarming Holiday Film Delights Milan Weekly Magazine
Alexander Payne, a two-time Oscar-winning maestro of storytelling, graced the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles with a special screening of his latest masterpiece, "The Holdovers." Milan Weekly was fortunate to be in attendance for this eagerly awaited cinematic delight. Payne, in his signature charismatic style, regaled the audience with tales of the film's creation, instantly winning their hearts.
Renowned for his cinematic gems like "Sideways," "Nebraska," and "The Descendants," "The Holdovers" sees Payne once again taking a deep dive into the complexities of human connections. The narrative follows Angus, a clever but wayward student stuck at school during Christmas, Paul Hunham, an unpopular teacher tasked with supervising him, and Mary Lamb, the cafeteria supervisor choosing to spend the holidays at the school. Through these three characters, the film delves into fundamental human emotions and relationships. The screenplay, while not penned by Payne, expertly weaves themes of class and race, as relevant today as they were in the 1970s, all while delivering the warm, feel-good vibes of a classic Christmas comedy.
Copyright owner: Focus Features Source: IMP Awards
"The Holdovers" manages to touch the very core of its viewers, forging an unbreakable connection between the audience and the characters. Yet, it's worth noting that the screenplay, while not Alexander Payne's creation, occasionally departs from his usual simplicity and realism. Some plot developments and dialogues, seemingly tailored to advance the narrative, at times disrupt the illusion of reality, serving as stark reminders that we're watching a Hollywood production. It's a minor blemish on an otherwise fantastic film, but it's a noticeable one.
Da'Vine Joy Randolph and, especially, Paul Giamatti deliver performances that almost make you forget any script shortcomings. Giamatti's portrayal is exceptional, to say the least; there might be no better actor for the role. Expect his name to dominate the awards season conversation. Randolph, too, shines brightly, providing most of the film's comedic moments with her impeccable timing and delivery. Her performance, much like Whoopi Goldberg in "Ghost," could very well earn her an Oscar nomination, an outcome well-deserved. Mary Lamb, brought to life by a remarkable actress, becomes an absolute joy to watch. Her portrayal, both simple and profound, elicits laughter from the audience consistently, proving that we are witnessing a work of art in the form of acting.
Additionally, Carrie Preston's delightful performance further elevates the film, making 'The Holdovers' a true ensemble showcase of exceptional talent.
The film's enchanting visual appeal owes much to the talents of cinematographer Eigil Bryld and production designer Ryan Warren Smith. Together, they breathe life into 1970s New England, capturing the era's essence with exquisite precision. The cinematography of wintry landscapes adds depth and texture to the story, showcasing the importance of every frame in conveying the film's emotions. Furthermore, it's essential to mention that the movie's enchanting soundtrack, composed by Mark Orton, adds a significant layer of emotion and depth to the film. Orton's masterful score enhances the storytelling, seamlessly weaving through the narrative, and further immersing the audience in 'The Holdovers' heartwarming world.
In "The Holdovers," Alexander Payne masterfully blends the warmth of classic Christmas movies with a profound exploration of human relationships. Set to release in the US on November 10 and in Italy on November 30, this film promises to be a holiday treat for cinephiles. While it may not be a flawless masterpiece, it's a delightful and heartwarming addition to Payne's impressive body of work, with performances that truly shine and moments that make it an unforgettable experience.
Photos of Alexander Payne by Alptekin Top
