North Country

Josey spends a lonely Christmas waiting by the tree with her young son and daughter. This moment highlights the disarray in her life and sets the tone for the struggles she will face.

Her husband returns unexpectedly and violently assaults her, leaving Josey bloody on the floor. This traumatic event marks a turning point, pushing her to take decisive action for her and her children's safety.

Without hesitation, Josey packs her belongings into her pickup truck with her children. This act symbolizes her resolve to escape her abusive marriage and seek a better life.

Josey finds temporary refuge at her parents' house in northern Minnesota. However, her father's disrespectful comments challenge her newfound sense of safety, making her feel judged and unwelcome.

In need of work, Josey takes a temporary job washing hair at a local salon. It is there that she reconnects with her old friend Glory, who informs her about high-paying positions at the nearby iron mines.

Realizing the mine job offers significantly better pay, Josey decides to apply. Knowing her father works there, she understands the potential backlash but feels driven by necessity.

Before starting her job at the mine, Josey endures a humiliating pelvic exam to prove she is not pregnant. This experience highlights the patronizing treatment women face in the workplace.

Upon starting her job, Josey and her fellow female workers confront a hostile environment. Their supervisor's disdain and the lewd behavior from male coworkers create a toxic atmosphere that makes work unbearable.

Josey bravely confronts her supervisor about the intolerable conditions at the mine. His dismissive response not only undermines her concerns but also reflects the broader misogyny present in the workplace.

Determined to challenge the systemic issues, Josey requests a formal meeting with Mr. Pearson, the owner of the mine. His efforts to undermine her position only serve to bolster her resolve to fight for justice.

Josey faces another layer of trauma when she is assaulted by Bobby Sharp, her former high school boyfriend. This event adds to her determination to seek legal representation and hold the company accountable.

Initially hesitant, Josey's lawyer comes around to support her case against the mine. During a town meeting, unexpected backing from her father reaffirms her strength and determination in the fight ahead.

The court proceedings commence, displaying Josey's bravery as she stands alone against the injustices she and her co-workers faced. Her courage inspires Solidarité, yet the path is fraught with hostility.

Despite being subjected to harsh questions about her character in court, Josey gains support from her fellow workers and her father's outrage stirs others to join her cause. The courtroom evolves into a unified force for change.

Months later, Josey is on a path to reclaim her life filled with hope. As her son plays hockey with her attorney, she contemplates teaching him to drive, signaling a new chapter of joy and respect.