Winter Sleep

With winter closing in, an Anatolia hotel owner prepares for the coming cold, but the severe weather transforms his cozy inn from a shelter into an emotional prison for the aging former actor, his resentful wife, and his recently divorced sister.  Anatolia is in Asia Minor and the western protrusion of Turkey.  Think "no man's land and barren". The movie is an emotional roller coaster with more philosophy than Aristotle could ever imagine.  The story can be confusing but you will get the drift.  The young wife hates the husband who is a conceited bully.  As for the sister, I would have divorced her too.  I give it a strong 4.  Stars Haluk Bilginer, Melisa Sozen, Demet Akbug.

Two Days, One Night

On the verge of losing her job, Sandra and her husband come up with a last-ditch strategy:  get her workmates to give up their bonuses so she can stay on.  With a single weekend to make it work, Sandra and her husband take her crusade for sympathy all over town.  A real twist for a French movie which usually leaves you up in the air on what really happened. Unusual subject, supportive husband, a real situation and a cut and dried ending.  You will be exhausted by the end as you follow Sandra around town.  I see why it won a Cannes Film Festival award.  I give it an 8.  Stars Marion Cotillard, Fabrizio Rongione, Oliver Gourmet.