The Holdovers (2023) Review

 

Recent Oscar nominee sweep the Holdovers is Alexander Payne’s most relevant film coming after a 6 year interval after the poorly received Downsizing. That 2017 Matt Damon film criticized for it's alienating nature seemed to send a message to Payne that he didn't ignore as in his most recent film he delights in the ability to create comfort and coddle his audience.  

A Christmas movie if I've ever seen one, the holdovers delight in a charming 70s warmth examining age and expectation in a cozy end of the year narrative. This probably helped by my viewing experience being in the Belsize Park everyman one of the smaller of the already high on comfort chain on luxury cinemas. Granted I do also think my seating was good at near the back the screen seemed miles away which for the holdovers. A movie that revels in restraint rather then special seemed appropriate. 

From the opening credits where the studios re-use or create vintage logos in a move that at times I consider tacky but here I find works due to the subdued nature of the rest of the film Payne shows he is drawing in for a comfortable ride. Though in my opinion the film runs about 10 minutes too long it's never an enjoyable ride. Performances by Paul Giamatti and Domanic Sessa's possessing a childlike understanding with Da'Vine Joy Randolph adding both comedy and sadness to her co-star's standoff. One of the principal names that I think make the movie is cinematographers Eigil Bryld, who seems to perfectly understand the subdued vibrance of Christmas imagery with his use of light and shadow. 

In the end if anything I would say the movies sweet and though not the most thought provoking of this year's roster it delivers an entertaining watch providing both a nostalgic calmness but also modern entertaining bight with some truly spectacular quotes, perfect for the holiday season or anyone looking or a Saturday watch with their mother or grandparents