John Krasinski of THE OFFICE fame directs this movie about a family with problems. Krasinski plays a guy undergoing a crisis at work. His girl friend, played by Anna Kendrick, is pregnant. Krasinski’s mother, played by Margo Martindale, faces surgery. His father, played by the great Richard Jenkins, is a proud man whose plumbing business is facing bankruptcy. And as if that weren’t enough, Krasinski’s brother, played by Sharlto Copley, is stalking his ex-wife. The cast is solid with interesting roles for Josh Groban and Mary Elizabeth Winstead (from Brain Dead). The weak script and predictable plot subtract from what could have been a really good movie. GRADE: B-
Too bad its not better. Really like Margo Martindale. She was really good on Justified.
Steve, the cast of THE HOLLARS is first-rate. But the script is weak.
Based on your review, I think a comment I once heard about Diet Chocolate-Cherry Dr. Pepper is applicable: “I think we can all agree there’s too much going on here.”
Deb, a lot is going on in THE HOLLARS but not much of it is surprising. Predictability dooms this film.
The cast gave me great hope but I guess I will pass this one up.
Patti, I think you would fidget in your seat like I did during THE HOLLARS.
When it comes to cable. I love the cast. Martindale’s performance in JUSTIFIED was one of the all-time greats.
Jeff, Martindale is wonderful in THE HOLLARS. But they needed to give her more to do.
I’ll give it a shot on netflix. Love the cast.
Maggie, I think a lot of people will watch THE HOLLARS on Netflix or HULU rather than go to the theater.
Why would anyone want to watch (or even make) a movie with such a depressing setup? Everyone has problems. Oh gee, let’s go wallow in someone else’s misfortune. Bah.
Rick, there seems to be an audience for movies about troubled families.
Well you can always watch movies made from Nicolas Spark or Mitch Albom books.
This one does it. An American movie in general release, with 6 top line stars – and I’ve never heard of ANY of them. And proud of it.
Art, you’re starting to sound like Rick!
and we’re both honored, I’m sure.
Shame – I would normally go for this sort of thing. Thanks in advance George!
Sergio, THE HOLLARS isn’t bad. But it’s not very good, either.