Rust and Bone is a brilliantly acted, but often depressing character study. Marion Cotillard (The Dark Knight Rises) is Stephane, a killer whale trainer who loses both legs in an accident. Before the accident, she kind of connected with Alain who has custody of his son and lives with his sister and brother-in-law. He's a ne'r do well who, after the accident, becomes her friend with benefits and then more.

He's also an amateur ultimate fighter. For fun, she tags along.

The story is what it is, and other than the ridiculous ending crisis, isn't bad. What drives the film is the acting. Cotillard got a Golden Globe nomination but was ignored in the Oscar noms. She's exceptionally good as a beautiful woman dealing with not just the intensity of the loss of her limbs but also the loss of a career she loved.

Rust and Bone director Jacques Audiard (A Prophet) is an exceptional storyteller and developer of interesting characters. This one may not impress you when you see it, but it will grow on you after you leave.

Director: Jacques Audiard

Stars: Marion Cotillard

Mr. Movie rating: 4 stars

Rated PG-13 for mature themes, horror. It is playing at Regal's Columbia Center 8, the Fairchild Cinemas 12 and at Walla Walla Grand Cinemas.

5 stars to 4 1/2 stars: Must see on the big screen
4 stars to 3 1/2 stars: Good film, see it if it's your type of movie.
3 stars to 2 1/2 stars: Wait until it comes out on DVD.
2 stars to 1 star: Don't bother.
0 stars: Speaks for itself.