The Holdovers Breakout Dominic Sessa Reveals How Paul Giamatti Helped Find His Confidence

Alexander Payne's return to the director's chair for The Holdovers reunites the filmmaker with leading man Paul Giamatti in a role that's already receiving widespread acclaim. This holiday period drama was written with Giamatti in mind, and features a stunning performance from co-star Da'Vine Joy Randolph, as well, but there was one-third of the central trio that required auditions to find.
Set in the '70s at a private New England prep school, The Holdovers takes place during the holiday break when most Barton Academy students leave campus to spend time with their families. Those left behind are Giamatti's grouchy Ancient Civilization teacher, Paul Hunham, tasked with staying behind to chaperone the holdover students; Randolph's Mary Lamb, who chooses to remain at the school after the death of her son in Vietnam; and 15-year-old Angus Tully, played by Dominic Sessa in his onscreen debut.
In an interview with Collider's Steve Weintraub, Sessa gives us a peak into what it's like as a newcomer on the set of a movie production. He talks about working alongside Giamatti and Randolph and what he learned from the two actors, finding the right headspace for heavy scenes, what point during filming he finally felt comfortable in front of a camera, and which scene was most challenging. Sessa discusses how Giamatti inspired confidence in him, what insight he was able to bring to set from his own private school life, and if he sees a career in Hollywood.
#TheHoldovers #DominicSessa #PaulGiamatti
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[@jillcnc]

This guy carries himself like he's been doing interviews like this for years. He's an extraordinary talent, and without Alexander Payne scouting out locations we would likely never see him.

[@danieladamico5485]

His performance is great and the chemistry with Giamatti is also really good. Beautiful film.

[@superjackster0165]

I’m optimistic that he has a successful career ahead of him

[@an-qo6by]

their chemistry was sooo special i loved it. it felt like a classic

[@DeeAnderson-oj2hr]

Agreed!

[@benbergin538]

Fair play to Dominic for not getting distracted by the interviewer's shirt

[@kyliesorenson2114]

he is such a natural at everything, even in interviews he’s so confident & well spoken. i really can’t believe this is his first acting role, i’m so excited to see where his career goes

[@Rosengris]

His character was heart-breaking and believable. Looking forward to what's coming next for him.

[@jackieburleson342]

Was amazed to find out this was his first movie role… He did an awesome job! Great movie!

[@artlesscalamity348]

Wow i had no idea the kid was a first-timer. He did a great job, I’m so curious now about how Payne found him. That’s a pretty big risk for such an anticipated movie, but it paid off.

[@Luke101]

They were scouting his school as a filming location and allowed students to audition for roles. Right place right time

[@tilemaven3747]

A great future in acting for this guy!

[@righteousisthelord180]

So refreshing to see new talent in a movie. It’s not like only 0.7% of people can act.

[@Whenseen]

we had class together before, really great and kind hearted guy. love to see his humble nature!

[@happywithdrawal]

he's such a natural in front of the camera and on interviews! i can't wait to see him in more roles!

[@billger5710]

Congrats to Dominic and well deserved and to the amazing performances by Paul and Da'Vine. A subtle masterpiece by Alexander Payne. This is a new Christmas classic.

[@detailsmove]

surprised to hear it was his first acting role based on how well he performed; it's a phenomenal film all-around

[@mrcarealot]

Stumbled across this movie. I thought I would shut it off within 20 mins but to my surprise I was so deep into this movie. I looked up the character Angus because he just pulled you in. I was shocked that this is his first time. He is incredible and has a very big future ahead of him. Just incredible movie and and actor. You come to find that his jerk like attitude that his character comes with a reason. This is a Must Watch Movie.

[@eamonnoski]

That's cool to hear. I've been looking forward to the movie since I saw the first trailer. It's neat that it was as satisfying for you as it was for me.

[@terrariumelio974]

Domenic is a powerhouse. I can’t wait to see his next role. I feel he’s going to be one of the great ones.

[@y.u.n.gg_tellyy]

He did such an amazing job on the film I’m super impressed

[@marykelley8965]

Fabulous actor! Very well cast!

[@carolynmihalko2566]

Excellent young actor!

[@jaimeechapman2372]

i hope he knows how easy it is to fall in love with him. super talented guy i loved the movie ❤️

[@msmegs93]

Great movie! I have to say my favorite of 2023. His acting was nuanced and beautiful. I look forward to seei g his career develop.

[@Mak84-]

Loved this movie, off-beat Christmas classic for me now!

[@rahulsharda861]

Brilliant!

[@chercher304]

Imagine he beat out the likes timothee chalamet for this role!! Such natural raw talent!! He has the potential to be a serious actor without selling out and do quality work rather than quantity!!!

[@righteousisthelord180]

He’s okay in Dune but he would have ruined this movie

[@chercher304]

@@righteousisthelord180 yea they definitely needed the innocence and charm of a newcomer!!! So refreshing!!!

[@pattycifra6904]

He excelled!

[@axxellein]

TRES Cool

[@paulvargas2609]

He was so good in this film. Not even a Oscar nomination for supporting actor!!!

[@laycebug3260]

does he have a girlfriend? does he want one?

[@joshgts9675]

He's gay.

[@alessandrasam1134]

David Hess young😮

[@jayceewriter7826]

He could upset. They like to upset in the supporting categories

[@Sam19509]

Robert Downey Jr is a lock to win Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars for his role in Oppenheimer.

[@jayceewriter7826]

@@Sam19509 I agree and deserved. RDJ is a master of craft. IF they upset…..

[@Sam19509]

@@jayceewriter7826 he is like sweeping that category in like all award shows the last time that happened was when Brad Pitt won for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. I think it is a tight three way race between Giamatti, Murphy and DiCaprio to win Best Actor at the Oscars but The Holdovers is a comedic genre film not a drama/biopic like the other two so Giamatti has a good chance to win up the middle.

[@laurakojobeecham4872]

Seth Cohen