The film revolves around Claudia Larson (played by Holly Hunter), a single mother who works in Chicago as an art restorer. As Thanksgiving approaches, Claudia faces a series of personal and professional challenges that lead her to make the impulsive decision to spend the holiday with her dysfunctional family in Baltimore.
Returning to her childhood home, Claudia is reunited with her eccentric family members, including her parents, Adele (played by Anne Bancroft) and Henry (played by Charles Durning), her quirky sister, Joanne (played by Cynthia Stevenson), and her outspoken Aunt Gladys (played by Geraldine Chaplin).
As the Thanksgiving weekend unfolds, tensions rise and old resentments resurface among the family members. Claudia grapples with her own feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, exacerbated by her recent breakup with her boyfriend. Meanwhile, Joanne struggles with her own marital problems, and their brother, Tommy (played by Robert Downey Jr.), deals with his substance abuse issues.
Despite the chaos and dysfunction, the family ultimately comes together to celebrate the holiday and find moments of joy and connection amid the turmoil. Through laughter, tears, and shared memories, Claudia learns to appreciate the bonds of family and the importance of embracing imperfection.
“Home for the Holidays” is praised for its authentic portrayal of family dynamics and its blend of humor and heartfelt emotion. The film’s ensemble cast delivers standout performances, with Holly Hunter anchoring the story with her portrayal of Claudia. While it was not a box office hit upon its release, the film has since garnered a devoted following and is regarded as a beloved Thanksgiving classic.