The Good Boss (Spain) (9/24)

Because the international films that make their way to the US often do so via the festival circuit and their Oscar campaigns, we tend to end up with a fairly dour view of the world’s cinema. Dramas, after all, are more awards-friendly than comedies. Last year’s Spanish submission, however, is a satirical workplace comedy starring Javier Bardem (most recently spotted in the unhinged Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile film) that is just plain funny. The film from lauded Spanish director Fernando León de Aranoa follows Julio (Bardem), the owner of a factory who starts meddling in the personal lives of his employees in order to win an award. Who among us hasn’t been subjected to a boss who is just a liiiiiiiiiiittle too curious about our out-of-work goings-on? And while the film is sharp comedically, it doesn’t shy away from making a statement as well. If you want to laugh internationally, hit play on The Good Boss.