GENRE:
Dramedy
RATING:
R for language and some drug use
RUNTIME:
2 hours and 13 minutes
PLATFORM:
Download
STARRING:
Paul Giamatti (Sideways, Billions, Saving
Mr. Banks)
Dominic Sessa (newcomer); Da’Vine Joy Randolph (Only
Murders . . .)
DIRECTOR:
Alexander Payne (Election, Sideways,
Nebraska)
WRITER:
David Hemingson (Kitchen Confidential,
Whiskey Cavelier)
PLOT:
A cranky prep school teacher remains on campus over the holidays with a student
with no place to go.
FULL DISCLOSURE: I have enjoyed a number of Alexander Payne films
STORY STUFF: The story is okay. I heard the word ‘cozy’ thrown around when talking about this film. It fits; especially during this holiday season. You know the curmudgeon is going to soften up and the rebellious kid will learn some lessons. Incredibly predictable but sweet at the same time.
ACTING STUFF: Giamatti plays the grumpy teacher perfectly. He is at times gruff and over the top in his disciplinarian role but he also has heart and makes you empathize with him along the way. Sessa rises to meet Giamatti’s talent. There are some great chemistry moments between the two. Randolph also adds some extra ingredients to the mix as the cook who has recently lost her son in the war.
ARTISTIC STUFF: From the production company logos on, it is clear that Payne wants to create a truly 70’s film experience. It’s a fun idea but I’m not a huge fan of dramedies from the 70’s. The sets were authentic, so that was nice. There’s not much else to say.
VERDICT:
Three stars out of five
SEE IT IF:
You like seventies dramedies.
UPCOMING REVIEW: Best of 2023
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