The Holdovers [2023]
Starring: Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa, Da'Vine Joy Randolph
Direction by Alexander Payne
Language: English
In the roster of Oscar nominated movies, I was a little worried about watching this one. Well, maybe not worried. But from the description, it didn't seem like my type of movie. However, my local cinema chain was showing this movie in theatres - a rare treat. I'm glad that I took the opportunity to watch it in full screen: it has become my favourite of the Oscar-nominated films (and I've watched a few - reveiws yet to come). It was the first movie which has been significantly awarded by the Academy which was fun to watch. And before you say something like 'Barbie was also lots of fun', this movie was fun to watch because it was so comforting. For the first time in a long time, I didn't have to strain to understand, whilst profound, incredibly complex themes interwoven with intricate plotlines. This movie was simple and easy to grasp, and because of that it was incredibly powerful and moving.
Let's first talk about the actual way the production was set up, because that was one of my favourite parts of the movie. I have found that many movies set in the past are still shot in high definition, which ruins the whole illusion of being transported into the past. But this movie was shot in such a way where there was almost a grainy quality to all the shots. As such, the movie felt very warm - an authentic throwback to the past.
But let's talk about the actual acting, because that was where this movie really shone. Da'Vine Joy Randolph. It is appropriate that her name is Da'Vine, because her performance was divine! Oh my lord - often I find that grieving characters in films stick to one trope when they are mourning: whether it is happiness, sadness, or indifference. Somehow, she was able to encapsulate all the emotions, which is something a mere script wouldn't be able to write. And she delivered it all with some sass: always a welcome addition to any acting performance. Wow! I have been on the comments sections of the Academy's instagram page, and people who have expressed their love for her role have been ruthlessly attacked in the comments, by haters who say that they 'don't get the hype'. Until I watch Oppenheimer, I can safely say that Da'Vine is my favourite to win the supporting actress category. But I don't think even watching that will change my mind, to be honest. I am scared, though. I really doubt that Da'Vine will ein the award on Sunday evening: I have been noticing subtle racism from the Academy, who have too often voted against African American trailblazers who have been favourites to win their categories.
Speaking of being attacked in Instagram comments sections: Paul Giamatti. Again, he doesn't look like the world' favourite to win. But let me just say, he is absolutely mine. The trope of the sullen old man who finds new meaning in life after an interaction with someone younger is as old as time. Take 'A Man Called Otto' as a recent example. But in a way that is difficult to explain, Giamatti breathed new life into the character, which was brilliant. It looks like Cillian Murphy's year from what I am hearing, but I really hope that the Academy decides to break free from being predictable and votes for Giamatti.
Dominic Sessa's protrayal of a wronged young teenager is something I have seen before, to be honest. He was really good, but wasn't the shining star for sure.
This movie was absolutely brilliant. In terms of acting, I think this movie by far packs the strongest punch of all nominated, save for maybe Killers of the Flower Moon and Oppenheimer. Time will tell!
