10 Movies and Shows Similar to The Holdovers (2023)

Description: Similar to 'The Holdovers', this film explores the dynamics between mismatched individuals forced to spend time together, leading to personal revelations. Both movies capture the essence of youthful angst and the complexities of growing up, with a balance of humor and heartfelt moments.

Fact: The entire film was shot in sequence. The iconic fist pump scene was improvised by Judd Nelson. It was John Hughes' second directorial effort.

Description: Like 'The Holdovers', this coming-of-age story explores themes of friendship, loss, and the transition from childhood to adolescence. Both films feature a nostalgic tone and a mix of lighthearted moments with deeper emotional undercurrents. The focus on character development and formative experiences is similar.

Fact: Based on a Stephen King novella. River Phoenix was only 15 during filming. The train bridge scene used real trains.

Description: Like 'The Holdovers', 'Dead Poets Society' explores themes of mentorship, personal growth, and the impact of an unconventional teacher on students' lives. Both films are set in educational environments and feature a strong emotional core, blending humor with poignant moments. The storytelling style is character-driven, focusing on the relationships between the protagonists and their mentors or peers.

Fact: Robin Williams won a BAFTA for his role as John Keating. The film's famous line 'Carpe Diem' became a cultural catchphrase. It was director Peter Weir's first American film.

Description: This film shares with 'The Holdovers' a focus on a troubled but brilliant young man who forms a transformative relationship with an older mentor. Both movies delve into themes of self-discovery, emotional healing, and the power of human connection. The dialogue-driven narrative and mix of humor and drama are also similar.

Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Robin Williams' performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The famous park bench scene was largely improvised.

Description: Wes Anderson's film shares with 'The Holdovers' a quirky, character-driven narrative about an unconventional student-teacher relationship. Both films blend comedy with melancholy, featuring protagonists who are outsiders in their academic environments. The visual style, while more stylized in 'Rushmore', similarly serves the emotional tone of the story.

Fact: This was Jason Schwartzman's acting debut. Bill Murray took a significant pay cut to be in the film. The film's budget was only $10 million.

Description: This film shares with 'The Holdovers' a focus on a dysfunctional group of people coming together and forming unexpected bonds. Both movies balance comedy and drama while exploring themes of family, personal struggles, and acceptance. The road trip structure in 'Little Miss Sunshine' parallels the confined setting of 'The Holdovers' in creating intense interpersonal dynamics.

Fact: The film was shot in just 30 days. Alan Arkin won an Oscar for his supporting role. The dance sequence was choreographed by the young actress herself.

Description: Like 'The Holdovers', this coming-of-age story deals with themes of loneliness, friendship, and personal growth. Both films feature introspective protagonists navigating challenging emotional landscapes, with a mix of humor and poignancy. The nostalgic tone and focus on formative relationships are also similar.

Fact: The author of the novel, Stephen Chbosky, also directed the film. Emma Watson learned to drive stick shift for her role. The tunnel scene was filmed in one take.

Description: This film shares with 'The Holdovers' a focus on a young protagonist navigating personal challenges and forming meaningful connections. Both movies feature authentic, nuanced performances and explore themes of self-discovery and emotional vulnerability. The naturalistic storytelling style is also comparable.

Fact: Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley lived together before filming. The screenplay was adapted from a novel. Many scenes were improvised.

Description: Similar to 'The Holdovers', this film centers on a shy teenager who finds guidance and confidence through an unlikely mentor. Both movies capture the awkwardness of adolescence and the transformative power of summer experiences. The tone balances humor with emotional depth, focusing on personal growth.

Fact: The water park scenes were filmed at a real, functioning park. Sam Rockwell improvised many of his lines. The directors also wrote 'The Descendants'.

Description: Like 'The Holdovers', this film blends humor with poignant emotional moments, exploring themes of friendship, mortality, and personal growth. Both movies feature unconventional relationships that profoundly impact the protagonists. The unique visual style and heartfelt storytelling are also similar.

Fact: Won both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at Sundance. The filmmakers used over 100 different film parody titles. Many scenes were shot in the director's childhood home.