What a delightful little gem. Home for the Holidays (1995) is one of those movies that I come across by flicking through the channels and a single scene grabs my attention. I never would given this movie a chance had I not seen it by accident. It’s a shame because movies like these are the reason I’m a filmaholic.

Directed by Jodie Foster, it tells the tale of a divorced 40 year old played by Holly Hunter and her dysfunctional family as they gather for Thanksgiving. Robert Downey Jr. plays a rather chirpy in your face brother who’s very confrontational and a delight to watch. The rest of the cast is absolutely perfect. They portray a family with all their little quirks just as if someone planted spy cameras in the living room of a real family. They argue they fight, kiss and tell old tales, storm off and cry, hug and share moments, they entertain you more than you will expect.

I’m actually really surprised at how much I enjoyed this film. The actors are simply amazing giving their characters real life with little nuances and gestures rarely seen by even the so called A list actors. The timing of the comedy is unexpected and had me laughing out loud more than once. An all round quality watch.

Without spoiling the ending for you I’d like to say that it will leave a sweet taste in your mouth. It’s such a nice way to close off our little look into this family. It succeeds at giving us a Hollywood ending without actually being too perfect and unrealistic.