Riding the Romanian New Wave, the Berlinale Silver Bear winner (and contender for a Best Foreign Language Film Oscar) may be tough to track down but won’t be easily forgotten. Hardened-by-juvie Silviu is approaching release from a childhood of mess halls, bullish fights, and armed guards. Faced with the possibility that he won’t get out, he holds Ana, a student doing research at the prison and the object of his desire, against her will. Remember 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days? Prepare to be assailed again.
It’s like: Dog Day Afternoon behind bars.
Take: A hostage (for the night).
Premiered: January 5