Holland, streaming on Amazon Prime, is a film that could’ve been a poignant exploration of family dynamics and personal turmoil. At the very least, I expected to add another film to my “good for her” list on Letterboxd. Instead, I got an uninspired mess of a film, leaving me more bored than invested. The film is slow, sluggish even, and lacks anything for the audience to sink our teeth into. Despite its many flaws, there’s one bright spot—Nicole Kidman’s wacky performance, which provides the only hint of fun in an otherwise utterly boring film. even Kidman’s vibrant energy can’t save the film from its mediocre, predictable story.
The plot centers around a group of characters in Holland, Michigan. Nicole Kidman stars as the central character, Nancy Vandergroot, a woman who lives as a Stepford Wife reincarnate. Her husband, Fred Vandergroot, played by Matthew Macfadyen, is beloved by the town and runs a typical patriarchal household. Gael García Bernal’s character, a mysterious outsider, brings conflict to their lives as he and Nancy grow closer. Nancy suspects infidelity from Fred, and what follows feels more like a soap opera than anything with substance. The movie spends more time dwelling on mundane moments than delving into any real narrative depth. The pacing is painfully slow, and the story takes far too long to go anywhere meaningful. Scenes drag on unnecessarily, lacking urgency and leaving you wondering when the film will pick up—or if it ever will.
Nicole Kidman’s performance is a curious highlight. Known for her dramatic roles, Kidman here embraces the absurdity of her character, delivering an over-the-top performance that is unpredictable and quirky. Her eccentricity injects much-needed energy into the film, providing a stark contrast to the otherwise dull atmosphere. In a film where everything else feels bogged down by predictability and monotony, Kidman’s wild choices are a refreshing breath of air. Her portrayal stands out as the only real source of entertainment, and though it feels a bit out of place, it’s by far the most memorable part of the movie.
Despite Kidman’s best efforts, Holland suffers from a lack of engaging characters. The film fails to flesh out any of the supporting roles, and their interactions feel forced, serving more as filler than anything that adds to the narrative. With nothing to latch onto emotionally, it’s hard to care about the characters or their struggles. This lack of depth makes the already sluggish pacing feel even more excruciating. You’re left waiting for something to happen, but it never quite does.
In a desperate attempt to salvage the story, Holland throws in a plot twist that feels unnecessary, even absurd. Instead of providing a satisfying resolution or emotional payoff, the twist feels like a forced, last-minute attempt at shock value. This decision undermines the film’s already weak narrative, feeling like a cheap ploy rather than a clever narrative turn. It doesn’t add intrigue or tension but leaves you questioning the film’s logic. Far from being a shocking revelation, it invites eyerolls, as its contrived nature pulls you out of the story entirely.
Visually, Holland also falls flat. Despite being set in a town inspired by the Dutch countryside, the cinematography is uninspired, making the beautiful landscapes feel sterile and lifeless. The film fails to use its setting to its advantage, and what should have been a vibrant backdrop feels like an afterthought. The lack of visual creativity contributes to the sense of detachment from the story.
Final Thoughts:
Holland is a prime example of wasted potential. The film attempts to deliver a deep, emotional experience but fails at almost every turn. While Kidman’s quirky performance is the only highlight, it isn’t enough to elevate the film from its predictable, tedious narrative. The twist, which feels more forced than surprising, does nothing to salvage the plot and only compounds the frustration. If you’re looking for a meaningful, engaging film, Holland is one to skip. Its sluggish pacing, weak characters, and absurd twist make it a forgettable experience. Kidman’s performance may offer brief entertainment, but it’s hardly enough to make Holland worth your time.
1.5/5
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My childhood consisted of weekly visits to Hollywood Video and Sunday morning calls to the local movie theater to hear the showtimes for the day. It was during my sixth trip to the theater to see The Dark Knight (2008) that I realized my love of movies may not be considered "typical." This love led me to completing a bachelor's degree in media arts with a special focus in film from Montclair State University. When I'm not rambling on about movies on TikTok, I am feeding into my online shopping addiction, reading a mystery book with specifically a female lead who has a troubled past, or most likely just eating chocolate chip cookies.
My Favorite Movies: Call Me By Your Name, Scream, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, 12 Angry Men, and Almost Famous.