The Hollars

Put familiar material in the hands of a talented cast, and sometimes you get The Hollars, a mildly funny and modestly poignant examination of family dynamics.

Indeed, there are some indie clichés in place in this bittersweet look at life-changing events in a clan that’s somewhat dysfunctional and somewhat relatable. But if moviegoers are visitors to their oddball home, at least the film doesn’t allow them to overstay their welcome.

The film marks the latest directorial effort from actor John Krasinski, who stars as John, a fledgling graphic novelist who leaves his pregnant girlfriend (Anna Kendrick) and returns home to his small town because his beloved mother, Sally (Margo Martindale), has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

He arrives to find things in emotional disarray, with his father (Richard Jenkins) fearing the worst  — while his family business goes into the toilet — and his older brother (Sharlto Copley) negotiating a mid-life crisis following a divorce that leaves him unable to spend time his daughters. So it’s up to Sally, the family matriarch, to stay upbeat from her hospital bed as she prepares for surgery and an uncertain future.

The screenplay by Jim Strouse (The Winning Season) doesn’t succeed with its attempts at sweeping sentiment, or its lessons about family coming together during tough times and appreciating the good things in life before they’re gone. The film’s tendency to juggle too many subplots feels like a disjointed effort to pile on.

However, The Hollars hits the mark in smaller doses, with character-driven moments that feel more heartfelt and profound. The family’s coping mechanisms are amusing and ultimately touching, whether it’s dad’s emotional rollercoaster of guilt and gratefulness, or mom’s ability to bring a wise calm to the chaos.

The ensemble cast helps smooth out the rough edges — Martindale’s performance is especially audacious and understated. Krasinski eventually dispenses with the constant bickering in favor of a gentler and more authentic portrayal of a family dealing with universal struggles.

There’s not much here that hasn’t been tackled before, but at least it doesn’t feel the need to tie everything up neatly. And at least it doesn’t take place during the holidays.

Rated PG-13, 88 minutes.