'The Holdovers' is a film for those who like formulaic stories with generic characters. In this case three misfits are closeted at an exclusive boys' school over a Xmas vacation in the 1970s, and somehow they must reconcile with their dysfunctions, discontent, disappointments and each other during that period. They comprise an unpopular veteran teacher, a troubled student and the school's cook. Paul Giamatti's teacher is essentially a repeat performance of his character Miles from director Payne's 2004 film 'Sideways' - and problem student Angus has been seen many times previously. The film might have possessed more originality if it had focused on Mary the cook, who is grieving over the loss of her son, recently killed in the Vietnam war.
Nothing noteworthy occurs during the proceedings - with little by way of drama or comedy and several scenes meandering off into irrelevance. At the film's conclusion the resolution of these characters' issues seems artificial, predictable and unsatisfying. The acting is above average, but it's mystifying that so many are enthused over this stale cupcake.
Nothing noteworthy occurs during the proceedings - with little by way of drama or comedy and several scenes meandering off into irrelevance. At the film's conclusion the resolution of these characters' issues seems artificial, predictable and unsatisfying. The acting is above average, but it's mystifying that so many are enthused over this stale cupcake.
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