Over the course of a film spanning a mere two days, the Dardenne Brothers have demonstrated the fundamental characteristics of life, with all of its virtues and vices unabridged.

Money as the root of all evil

Two Days, One Night depicts the debacle of a Belgian woman named Sandra, who, after taking sick leave to battle depression, is laid off from her job; a decision voted on by her coworkers, who were forced to choose between her and their year-end bonuses. Through an altercation between the foreman, however, who intimidated a majority of the workers to vote against her, Sandra is given a second chance, which would be a re-vote on the following Monday. The film details her weekend-long Odyssey from coworker to coworker’s house, as she attempts to try and convince them to sacrifice their bounty for her well-being, serving as a reminder of the economic predicament that plagues Europe as well as the world.

The film casts money in a sinister role, reminiscent of its similar position within society. It is the point of all conflict, and the source of the struggle that Sandra so helplessly fights. Yet, despite its obvious evils, the film bestows upon it an allure so powerful that it tears apart households and rips through friendships.

Self interest vs. self sacrifice

Two Days, One Night is a scintillating observation of human nature. It pits self-interest versus morality, and empathy versus the allure of money. With every doorbell and every phone rang, we witness a different facet of humanity. We find hope through those who sympathize, reminders of the good left in humanity that struggle with the lust for money but ultimately come out on top. We feel despair through those who refuse, and those who embody the victims of the skirmish between righteousness and greed. Through the daunting decisions of 16 coworkers who couldn’t be more different but are joined by their shared betrayal of Sandra, the Dardenne Brothers have brought our inner convictions to life.

Raw and visceral portrayals of life

Every confrontation plays out with an enthralling semblance of reality. The meek Sandra shuffles from door to door, waiting, ready to explain her situation. The camera lies still, unfaltering in capturing the characters’ reactions. It shows both perspectives without cutting, and in doing so, adds even more weight to each conversation. You see the values within each of her interviewees stir up in conflict as she awaits a mere “yes” or “no.”

The performances in this film are definitely carried by that of Marion Cotillard, who was nominated for an Oscar for her role. And it is a deserving nomination, as she captures the despair of a clinically depressed woman who finds out that none of her friends are really willing to stand up for her. The rest of the cast is more of a mixed bag. Some characters do well, while others feel a bit awkward and encumbering. But from this unease belies a realization that forgives the less experienced actors: people in real life are awkward, especially when given the impossible decisions that they are forced to make within the film. We also get to witness the implications of their choices eat away at their psyches and influence their lives in unexpected ways, all of which further exemplify the human condition.

The film radiates with a humanity that will surely resonate within its audience, but at the same time it felt a bit lacking. Although every confrontation begets different reactions, there was a discernible pattern to it, and one that always ended with Sandra heartbroken and hopeless. After a while, it felt too tiring and predictable. Thankfully, this was overshadowed by the film’s methodical pacing and from its ending, which was an immensely satisfying conclusion.

Conclusion

Two Days, One Night is a good film that provides brilliant examinations of human nature, and it is deeply resonating because of it. Even without a much needed escalation in terms of plot, it manages to really make the dreaded re-vote Monday feel like a significant one, going so far as to even use its simplicity to create a further harrowing quandary within the ruthless fiscal backdrop of general employment.

What did you think of Two Days, One Night? If you were forced to choose between allowing a coworker to keep their job, or a personal and deserved bonus, which would you pick? Let us know in the comments!

(top image source: Cinéart)