Movie Review - The Hollars

The Hollars *** (out of 5) (PG-13) This is one of those dramedies about a dysfunctional family gathering for some event (wedding, funeral, etc.) or the Holidays, in which all sorts of ancient grudges and current problems come to a bunch of heads, ideally delivering a satisfying mix of laughs and tears, without causing diabetic comas in the theater from excessive heartstring tugging, or other emotive sins. The script could go either way, but a superb cast makes it work as intended.

John Krasinski (who also directed) is a struggling New York graphic artist with a wonderful pregnant girlfriend (Anna Kendrick). When his mom (Margo Martindale, who seems genetically programmed to nail any role, in any genre, she accepts) collapses in their Midwestern home, he rushes back to be supportive to her, his brother (Sharlto Copley) and their dad (Richard Jenkins). All sorts of new and old issues swirl around the foursome, from Copley’s financial and marital failures, to Dad’s teetering business, to Krasinski’s insecure drifting in all phases of life, besides Martindale’s serious medical status. They cover a whole lotta territory with impressive efficiency, and a fine balance of heart, humor, and relatable substance. Krasinski increases the value of his stock on both sides of the camera.

The family name seems gimmicky, as if better suited to broad comedy. Despite that misleading element, the rest rings true....and that’s what counts. (9/16/16)