The Enchanting Tale of The Holdovers

A Nostalgic Journey

Step into the enchanting world of The Holdovers, where the past comes alive with a grainy aesthetic, somber pacing, and intimate character development. This remarkable film transports viewers to a time that feels remarkably real, immersing them in the era in which it unfolds.

Christmas dinner in The Holdovers

The story revolves around a classics teacher at a prestigious New England boarding school who reluctantly agrees to chaperone a group of students with nowhere to go during the Christmas break. The nostalgic quality of the film evokes a sense of longing for a bygone era, captivating audiences with its rich portrayal of the past.

Angus Tully and Mary Lamb sitting together in The Holdovers

Acclaimed Recognition

The National Board of Review and the American Film Institute have both recognized The Holdovers as one of the best movies of its time. It garnered widespread acclaim and received five Academy Award nominations, including a nod for Best Picture. The exceptional performances of Paul Giamatti and Da’Vine Joy Randolph have been celebrated with numerous honors, adding to the film's illustrious reputation.

A Timeless Setting

The Holdovers unfolds its captivating story in the holiday season of 1970, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into a bygone era. While the school year resumes in January of 1971, the majority of the film takes place in December of 1970, immersing viewers in the enchanting nostalgia of the time period. The choice of setting in 1970 allows the filmmakers to delve deeply into the characters' relationships, free from the distractions of modern technology.

Capturing the '70s Aesthetic

The Holdovers not only transports viewers to 1970 but also captures the visual essence of the era with remarkable authenticity. Cinematographer Eigil Bryld's meticulous work behind the scenes brings the '70s to life, infusing the film with a distinct aesthetic that mirrors the filmmaking style of that time.

Bryld's dedication to recreating the '70s aesthetic is truly commendable. Despite the unavailability of traditional film stock, he ingeniously utilized digital technology to achieve the desired effect. By studying the cinematography of classic '70s movies and collaborating with expert colorist Joe Gawler, Bryld succeeded in color-grading The Holdovers to emulate the aged film negatives from 1970, immersing audiences in the authentic visual allure of the era.