The Holdovers

The Holdovers

From Cinema D‘Amore by Cinema D‘Amore

December 25, 2025 · 42 min · Season 5 · Episode 5

About this episode

The episode discusses Alexander Payne’s The Holdovers, exploring its themes of grief, loneliness, and unexpected connection.

Cinema D’Amore hosts Justin and Chuck dig into Alexander Payne’s The Holdovers, a bittersweet, Christmas-set drama about an isolated teacher, a troubled student, and a lunchroom companion who come together as an unlikely family over winter break. The episode unpacks the film’s mix of dark humor and quiet melancholy, its deliberately retro 1970s vibe, and standout performances from Paul Giamatti and Da’Vine Joy Randolph, while exploring themes of grief, loneliness, and the strange comfort of unexpected connection. Merry Christmas to anyone spending the holidays alone, this one’s for you. Hosted by Justin MorganCo-hosted by Charles PhillipsMixing and Music by Scratchin’ Menace Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky for updates. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and all major platforms. Please subscribe, rate, and review. We appreciate the support!

People in this episode

Hosts: Justin, Chuck

Topics covered

  • film
  • drama
  • Christmas
  • humor
  • loneliness
  • connection

Keywords

  • Paul Giamatti
  • Da’Vine Joy Randolph
  • 1970s
  • bittersweet

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube

Books & works: The Holdovers

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