DVD/150: DEUX JOURS, UNE NUIT (Two Days, One Night; Jean-Pierre & Luc Dardenne, 2014) - Cotillard's Quest...

Sandra has been on sick-leave from her job in a small factory after a nervous breakdown but is ready to return.  But, on the Friday before, she learns the owner has decided the workforce can manage without her but gives them a vote: keep Sandra as a workmate or get a 1,000 Euro bonus.

Sandra is distraught but her husband Manu convinces her to visit each of her sixteen colleagues over the weekend and ask for their vote.

Sandra explains to each how losing her job will impact her family; sometimes she succeeds, sometimes not, but constantly reevaluates exactly what she is asking them to do while battling feelings of hopelessness.

The Dardennes usually work with little-known actors so for them to work with Marion Cotillard is unique but she responds with a performance of powerful simplicity.  Fabrizio Rongione is excellent as Manu as are the supporting cast.

Shelf or charity shop? I will keep this fine film as I am sure repeat viewings will reveal more in Cotillard's performance *nb* it ended up at the charity shop...