Watch The Hollars

"The Hollars" is a heartwarming family comedy-drama movie that premiered in 2016. The film follows the life of John Hollar, a struggling graphic novelist who returns to his hometown after learning that his mother Sally has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Upon his arrival, he realizes that his family members have been facing their own problems, and he becomes a source of support for them.

The movie is directed by John Krasinski, who also stars in the lead role as John Hollar. The all-star cast includes Sharlto Copley as Ron, John's older brother, Richard Jenkins as Don Hollar, John's father, and Charlie Day as Jason, John's high school friend. The chemistry between the cast members is fantastic, and they show a great deal of emotional depth and humor throughout the film.

The plot is driven by the emotional turmoil of the Hollar family members as they navigate their relationships with one another while dealing with Sally's illness. John, who is struggling in his marriage and career, must confront his past and reconnect with his family. We see him reconcile with his father, whom he had a strained relationship with since his mother's affair, and rekindle his relationship with his high school crush, Gwen.

Ron, on the other hand, is having marital problems of his own and an unwanted pregnancy with his wife's sister. He struggles to cope with the challenges he is facing and turns to alcohol to deal with his emotions. The film also explores the impact of Don's retirement and the financial burden of Sally's illness on the family.

The film's strength lies in its portrayal of the everyday struggles of an average family, and how they cope with adversity while trying to maintain their sanity. The relationship between John and Sally is particularly remarkable, as we see them bond over shared experiences and mutual support. Jenkins gave an especially nuanced performance, portraying Don's love and concern for his family despite his gruff exterior.

The film's soundtrack, composed by Josh Ritter, beautifully complements the narrative, with its folk-inspired melodies and lyrics. The cinematography is also excellent, with a great use of the dramatic and serene settings of the small town. The close-up shots and subtle camera work add to the film's emotional intensity, making it an intimate family drama.

Overall, "The Hollars" is a heartwarming film that explores the complexities of family relationships, the messiness of life, and the power of love and forgiveness. The humor and wit conveyed through the script make it an enjoyable watch, but it doesn't shy away from the realities of living with illness or family drama. The film is a reminder of the importance of family and the bonds that tie us together, no matter how much we may struggle to maintain them.

In conclusion, "The Hollars" is a unique blend of comedy and drama that manages to hit all the right emotional notes. The film's brilliant cast, excellent soundtrack, and beautiful settings make it a must-watch for anyone who has ever struggled to balance the competing demands of family and life.

The Hollars is a 2016 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 53.