Review of Two Days, One Night (2014) by Tatsuhito K — 22 Oct 2015

Two days,one night is a gem of a movie. It's raw, brave and relevant in this economically wary decade. The crux of the story is this, that Sandra Bya who was off work due to depression was about to comeback. But management have realised that they can be more efficient if they lay her off and give everyone a bonus. So naturally when a vote occurs most agree in favour of a bonus.

So over the course of two days and one night Sandra has to convince enought people to forego their bonuses so she can stay in her job.

Okay, so the acting is nothing short of excellent especially from Marion Cotillard, as she portrays her characters emotions in a subtle and nuanced performance. As she plays a character who genuinely understands what she is asking of others, the hurt she feels when some say no and the joy she feels when some say yes to her staying while at the same time showing her character dealing with her depression.

The story is smart, short and straight to the point, there are only scenes which don't focus on Sandra trying to get others to keep her on, and those scenes fit perfectly into the film.

This film is a testament to the human spirit, while at the same time shows that this world is also driven by the material need to survive if you want to have the big house or that extra child.

Overall this is a well made and enjoyable film, you are on tenterhooks and genuinely do not know what the final outcome will be, by the end even Cotillard's Sandra has become a better person.

I do feel this film is overly praised in terms of it being seminal film in contemporary cinema, however this being said I do understand the praise it receives and generally agree with it. While not a keeper definitely one worth watching.