Is the Oscar-nominated film poised to become a beloved Christmas favorite?

Actress Da'vine Joy Randolph is in for a pleasant surprise while waiting to be interviewed at the Corinthia Hotel in London. She learns that she has won the award for Best Supporting Actress from the New York Film Critics Circle for her role in the film "The Holdovers." In the film, Randolph plays Mary Lamb, a grieving cook at a New England boarding school during the Christmas season in 1970. Despite just finding out the news, Randolph is in high spirits and excited about her win. The award will be presented at a gala dinner in January. Randolph's co-star, Paul Giamatti, is also predicted to receive awards recognition for his performance in the film. "The Holdovers" has received positive reviews from critics, who praise its engaging story and touches of humor. Interestingly, the film, set during Christmas, will not be released in the UK until late January, as it aims to capitalize on its potential awards success. The film marks Giamatti's reunion with director Alexander Payne, with whom he last worked on the critically acclaimed "Sideways." Giamatti has built a career on portraying complex characters that audiences can sympathize with, despite their flaws. His character in "The Holdovers," Paul Hunham, is no exception. Giamatti jokingly attributes the realistic lazy eye in the film to "movie magic and acting prowess." Randolph believes that the film's success lies in Payne's ability to make ordinary characters feel special and relatable. She also reveals that she was offered the role without an audition due to her comedic skills showcased in the film "Dolemite." As she gears up for the awards campaign, Randolph plans to prioritize rest and self-care. Giamatti believes that "The Holdovers" has the potential to become a Christmas classic, thanks to Payne's timeless storytelling style. As the interview comes to a close, Giamatti shares his favorite Christmas films, including "It's a Wonderful Life," "Elf," and the lesser-known musical "Scrooge" from the 1970s. The refrain of the standout song from "Scrooge," "I hate people," seems to resonate with Giamatti's love for grumpy Christmas characters. "The Holdovers" is set to open in the UK on January 19th.