Frozen River

Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance in 2008 and double Oscar-nominated this year for Best Actress (Melissa Leo) and Best Original Screenplay, Courtney Hunt's directing debut is a breathtaking mix of action-thriller, acerbic social commentary and unexpected warmth. Ray (Leo) lives on the US-Quebec border, struggling to raise her kids on the minimum wage. When her husband leaves with their savings she finds a terrifying new way to raise money, partnering with Mohawk girl Lila to smuggle immigrants across the frozen river into America.

Followed by director Q&A (tbc).