The Gryphon Gazette

By Ethan L. ‘25

Set against the backdrop of New England in the year 1970, The Holdovers unfolds within the prestigious walls of Barton, an exclusive all-boys boarding school. The narrative centers around a group of students, unable to return home for the Christmas holidays, who find themselves under the watchful eye of Paul Hunham (portrayed by Paul Giamatti). Hunham embodies the traditional professor, characterized by sarcasm and disdain for compromise. He teaches ancient civilizations and is not shy about failing the offspring of influential figures, often cloaking his critiques in phrases rich with historical gravitas and a sharp tongue that does not spare even the most privileged. His peculiar habit of interspersing Greek and Latin into conversations reminds the readers of many educators in their own lives and their scholarly prowess.  Despite his vast knowledge, Hunham’s inability to “read the room” often sets him apart, for better or worse.

As the story progresses, what initially presents itself as a classic prep school narrative, complete with clever schemes and confrontations, takes an unexpected turn. The introduction of a “laugh-out-loud Christmas miracle” dramatically alters the course of the story, leaving behind a singular student, Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa), whose circumstances prevent him from joining his peers in their holiday departures. Directed by Alexander Payne, with a screenplay by David Hemingson, The Holdovers benefits from Payne’s adept handling of complex characters and emotionally charged narratives. This film marks Payne’s eighth directorial endeavor, following acclaimed works such as “Citizen Ruth,” “Election,” and “Sideways.” Payne’s direction imbues the film with a nuanced balance of humor and depth. He navigates the personal tragedies and intricate dynamics that define the story, which is why The Holdovers tugs at our heartstrings. His ability to craft simultaneously light-hearted and significant scenes is a testament to his directorial finesse.

Paul Giamatti’s portrayal of Hunham showcases a character of great complexity and depth. Giamatti brings a nuanced interpretation to the role, navigating Hunham’s gruff exterior and vulnerable interior with equal skill. The film also introduces significant secondary characters, including Mary Lamb (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), whose interactions with Hunham and Tully add layers of humanity and warmth to the narrative. Randolph’s performance, in particular, stands out, offering a portrayal that combines strength, vulnerability, and a sharp wit. The dynamics among Hunham, Tully, and Lamb evolve into a compelling exploration of connection and individual growth. Their journey, which has a lot of moments of tension, humor, and revelation, serves as the film’s heart. The Holdovers transcends its initial setup, evolving into a story that explores the nuances of human relationships and the complexities of life with a tender yet incisive touch.

In drawing comparisons the film can be seen as an antithesis to Wes Anderson’s “Rushmore,” despite sharing thematic elements. While Anderson’s work often reveals stylized aesthetic and narrative precision, Payne’s film opts for a more grounded and gritty approach, with raw emotion and character-driven storytelling. This distinction highlights Payne’s unique position in contemporary cinema.

The movie has also made a significant splash this awards season, particularly with its presence at the Oscars. One of the film’s standout features, Paul Giamatti’s nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of Paul Hunham, displays the film’s impact. Giamatti’s deep and nuanced performance as a complex educator has been universally praised, with his ability to reveal the character’s vulnerability beneath a tough exterior being what makes him so innately likable. This critical acclaim, combined with the film’s exploration of meaningful themes such as redemption and the intricacies of human connections, positions Giamatti as a formidable contender for the Oscar. His portrayal aligns well with the types of roles historically celebrated by the Academy, suggesting a strong likelihood of his winning. Besides Giamatti, The Holdovers is also nominated for Best Picture, Da’Vine Joy Randolph for Best Supporting Actress, Hemingson for Best Original Screenplay, and Kevin Tent (ACE) for Best Film Editing.

The Holdovers is a film that can be enjoyed by all generations and emerges as a deeply poignant and engaging film, adeptly blending humor with emotional depth. With Alexander Payne’s gritty and heartwrenching directing style paired with a remarkable performance by Paul Giamatti and his fellow cast, the film delves into the complexities of human relationships, personal growth, and the profound influence of education. It transcends the typical prep school narrative to offer a nuanced, grounded exploration of its characters and their societal contexts. With its critical acclaim and Oscar nominations, especially for Giamatti’s nuanced portrayal of Hunham, The Holdovers confirms its status as a significant and impactful piece of contemporary cinema. It’s a film that resonates with audiences and critics alike, marking it as a must-see of the season and a strong contender in the awards circuit.