The Hollars is a great little indie that really has it all. You will shed tears, both invoked by emotional feels and laughter. When the movie opens with Ron (Sharlto Copley) peeing in a pitcher because he was sick of waiting for his parents to get out of the bathroom in their house, which he just moved back into, and quickly goes to learning his mother Sally (Margo Martindale) has a brain tumor, this is apparent.
Ron’s brother John (John Krasinski) lives in New York with his girlfriend (Anna Kendrick), who happens to be very pregnant. She is a designer of pet clothes, living off her wealthy parents’ money, creating a bit of insecurity on her relationship with John for socioeconomic reasons. She is also very underappreciated by John until his somewhat stereotypical but nonetheless sweet revelation at the end of the film.
John and Ron’s father (Richard Jenkins) is an emotional wreck through the entire movie, often breaking out into tears whether or not it was appropriate. Ron is having personal issues of his own after a bitter divorce. His wife’s new preacher boyfriend is played by Josh Groban. Oh, and there’s also an appearance by Charlie Day who plays the husband of John’s high school sweetheart/his mother’s nurse/John’s least biggest fan.
The cast of this film is golden, and in some places, it tries to fit in too much for a single film, yet it’s relatability and tender moments make up for this.
The most obvious message of this film, however, is love. Romantic, familial, and platonic love. Hindered relationships were patched, and existing relationships were strengthened. I dare you not to fall in love with this film.
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