Mark Kermode reviews The Holdovers - Kermode and Mayo's Take

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A cranky history teacher at a remote prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go.

[riagrix]

I thought Paul Giamatti was absolute perfection in this. Sublime. One of the finest performances I’ve seen from any actor in years. In fact all three main actors really show what they’re made of. A wonderful film.

[thomasfahey]

This is exactly the sort of film I would have seen in 1971. My high school had a plaque at the entrance memorializing the graduates who had died in Vietnam. By 1969 it had 200 names on it. Paul may have literally saved that kid's life. I couldn't find a false note anywhere on the screen. It was like being there.

[nikdavies]

Watched it "on the high seas" because I wanted to watch it over Christmas. Thought it was absolutely phenomenal. Practically flawless. I'm so excited to see it again now with its official release

[lippythelion]

This has gone immediately into my Top 5 films- funny, sad, thought provoking and acted and directed superbly. I think this will fly under the radar but become a classic in time.

[leightonbate]

It's one I can see me revisting every Christmas.

[frankisfrank]

My wife and I went to see it with friends. We were all crying at the end... Amazing flick. Reminded me when I saw Hal Ashby's films... Thanks Alexander Payne for another gem...

[kingkook]

This is such a fantastic film. I live in France now, and it did come out here in time for Xmas. As Mark suggested, they really don’t make films like these anymore, and it was pure joy from start to finish. And I think this is Paul Giamatti’s best film since Sideways! He’s stunning, along with the whole cast! Go and watch it!

[nigelbradshaw]

Watching the journey of the main characters was just an absolute joy

[chrisstronach]

Just seen it this afternoon at The Tyneside cinema. Loved it! Thoughtful, perceptive and humane performances, and a film that actually has something to say about human relationships. 10 out of 10.

[nicklager]

Besides Giamatti and the strong direction both Randolph and the revelation Sessa must be mentioned. The feature works so well because of the fantastic chemistry between them.

[Jan-xnkz]

Mary broke my heart with her box of grief.

[rachelb-prospero]

Absolutely wonderful film . Fantastic casting and ALL the hairstyles and costuming were spot on for the principals and extras. Bloody fantastic job

[maureenking]

I rented it on Amazon Prime, when it started, I thought I had clicked on the wrong movie, the beginning was so old school.
I loved it, acting, the music, I'm a child of the 60-70's from Boston, so I cried a bunch❤

[MichaelG]

I was prepared to like it, but was skeptical it would be as good as it was reviewed. It really was an excellent film. I'm of a similar age to Mark Kermode and it was the sort of American films I remember watching on TV growing up. Looking at the credits, my first thought was, "This looks like a Hal Ashby film."

[sooperalex]

What a phenomenal film "The Holdovers" is! I could've happily spent another hour in that world, barely batting an eyelid. It's a stunning, intimate tale interweaving the lives of three vastly different individuals. Far from being Oscar-bait, this film is crafted for sheer enjoyment, discussion, and rewatching. I'm convinced it has the makings of a future Christmas classic, provided it gets the recognition it deserves. If it snags an Oscar, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised.

Every actor nails their role, but Paul Giamatti, in particular, is exceptional. His portrayal of a character with a lazy eye – a detail that's intriguingly never addressed or explained – is spot-on. Giamatti embodies a self-righteous curmudgeon who believes he's above it all. Yet, when he finally opens up, revealing his soul to these kindred spirits, it's an immensely powerful moment of pathos.

The film respects its audience, never taking us for granted. Each time you hope for a character to shine, they do, and it never feels like pandering. It's a masterclass in filmmaking – from the stunning cinematography, the effective use of zooms, to the evocative soundtrack and the intentionally scratchy audio. It left me nostalgic for an era of cinema I never experienced, wondering why they don't make films like this anymore. A truly perfect cinematic experience.

[KingWagu]

The release schedule here in the UK is nuts. A Christmas movie released in cinemas in mid January, with the blu ray release on the last day of December over a year after release in the US, so bizarre: it's like they want to bury it.

[seancorrigan]

Paul Giamatti was truly great in this film. As great as he was in "Sideways" in my opinion, and that's saying something.

[ruthwindham]

Loved this film! (BTW, "Wonder Boys" is also one of my all-time favorites. The book, which extends far beyond the confines of the film, is also worthwhile.)

[popboy]

The Holdovers is an instant classic.
You may say it's 21st Century's Dead Poet Society, or the Wonder Boysor, even The Breakfast Club (minus 4 students)....or any other "teens movie".
a teacher, there are students, there are (or lack) distant what The Holdovers is about is: Human Condition.
Alexander Payne is our generation's Frank Capra. He brings humanity on each movie he's made.
A Must see film.
One of the best of the year and the far

[Sjohnable]

I also loved every moment of The Holdovers and the film it reminds me of most is Alan J. Pakula’s The Sterile Cuckoo. The quirky humour, the delicate, heartbreaking honesty and, most definitely, the music.