Even the trailer for Rust and Bone raises expectations. Working from a strong screenplay by Jacques Audiard and Thomas Bidegain, Marion Cotillard delivers a powerful performance. When the Oscar nominations are announced, expect her name to be at the top of the list.   

This masterful tale begins by exploring the world of Alain van Versch (Matthias Schoenaerts). He’s a jack of all trades, wandering from job to job. While working as a bouncer, he meets Stephanie (Cotillard), an independent woman who makes a living as a whale trainer. She experiences an accident, losing both legs, which causes her to reflect on life and how a relationship can change the way she feels about everyday events.

If this sounds like a very internal story, let me assure you that Rust and Bone offers plenty of joyous release from the more serious side. Both Cotillard and Schoenaerts don’t so much improvise as they erupt on the screen, unafraid to lay their emotions bare. It’s brave work from two very fine thespians.

Director Jacques Audiard creates moments of genuine, harmonic beauty, such as when Stephanie visits the whales after the accident. Facing a giant plate of glass, she waits for one of the creatures to appear. When it does, the result feels like a snapshot. The blue-toned water holds our attention rapt. It’s my favourite shot of the year.

Other things to spark your interest about this intelligent, grown-up motion picture are Juliette Welfling’s editorial genius and a twist you won’t see coming.

In my view, Rust and Bone can do no wrong -- and I feel honoured to have experienced its myriad pleasures.

(Released by Sony Pictures Classics and rated "R" by MPAA.)