Review of Two Days, One Night (2014) by Tuomas R — 18 Sep 2014

This is a subtly powerful film, and something of a psychological thriller. Its suspense builds up slowly but is almost as intense as that of 'The Page Turner' (directed by Denis Dercourt, 2006). 'Two Days, One Night' is a more restrained film, strikingly naturalistic. The suspense is created by the central character, Sandra, in Marion Cotillard's masterly portrayal of her. She is increasingly anguished, at a loss for words when faced with her workmates' lack of support, insecure in her marriage to Manu (Fabrizio Rongione) and still prone to the depression which made her take sick leave.

It's quite plausible that she should try to fight for her job rather than look for a new one immediately: she is struggling both for survival and personal dignity. Also, regrettably, her bosses' heartlessness is plausible (judging by some experience of unfair dismissal). The small solar panels factory where she has been employed is evidently not unionised.

The film may be seen as a study in the precariousness of loyalty, as well as what is called in French 'la précarité' (economic insecurity). Ultimately Sandra's own loyalty to a supportive workmate is put to the test. Clearly such a serious case has legal implications, but this film focuses on the moral aspects.

The scenes in which she is suddenly deliriously happy on hearing music in Manu's car, and in which she attempts suicide, are less convincing and seem mechanical. She gets out of hospital suspiciously fast, rather like one of those soap characters who make an almost instant recovery from some trauma. But apart from these minor faults, a truly fine film.