Thanksgiving movies are the ugly stepchild of holiday cinema. Languishing between behemoths Halloween and Christmas, it can be tough to find new options for viewing. “Hollidaysburg” is a 2014 indie that’s worth a go in your November film rotation.
The product of reality TV
I had never heard of this movie. And it isn’t the easiest to locate (I had to rent it on YouTube). I quickly discovered it was produced for a reality show called ‘The Chair’ which in and of itself seems interesting as it pits fledgling filmmakers against each other. Filmmaker Anna Martemucci makes her directorial debut, and “Hollidaysburg” was a finalist on the show. Don’t worry – we’ll cover the competing picture next November.
I loved the synopsis. The plot revolves around five college freshman returning to their hometown of Hollidaysburg, PA for the long Thanksgiving weekend. Despite being gone a mere three months, each of the characters is dealing with their own issues, courtesy of their newfound independent semi-adult lives.
We get the standard themes for this type of film. People returning home after time spent elsewhere. Those that stayed in a small town versus the ones that left. Friends reuniting, only to discover they’ve been drifting apart. And that while you’ve been gone, everyone else continues on.
The budgetary limits are obvious at times. There are noticeable editing gaffs and a setting that seems blatantly consistent. And the story is one that’s been retold many times. There are stylistic elements are present. It reminded me of “Pieces of April” in its darkly comedic tones. But the characters are enjoyable enough to make it work.
Great acting
Rachel Keller serves as the lead. Keller plays Tori; an artsy sort who missed out on New York City and landed in Pittsburgh. Tori narrates much of the events, including her opening revelation that “no one at college knows anything about you” and that’s why its so great. Keller is an excellent actress who I would like to see more of. She plays the character in a way that makes the viewer feel for her as she deals with relationship issues, both with high school stud Scott (Tobin Mitnick) and best friend Katie (Kate Boyer).
The main part of the cast is completed with Claire Chapelli as Heather and Tristan Erwin as Petroff. Both are solid and have an unusually pleasant chemistry.
“Hollidaysburg” is a fun Thanksgiving movie. It won’t become an all-time favorite. If you like similar coming-of-age type stories, this one will fill your needs.
“Hollidaysburg” is currently available to rent on YouTube.
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