Satisfaction

I saw this film at SXSW yesterday and during opening remarks from the filmmaker to 'let the film slowly wash over you' could not have been more appropriate. The outline here on iMdB sets the outline of the plot so no reason to repeat this.

The cinematography, acting, location (as noted on Greek island), music are all top notch. To echo the filmmaker indeed this is a slow burn that as the film progresses you begin to ask the obvious, hum how will this end?

It is very hard to describe the underlying pain the main female character, Lola, is experiencing without giving more away but there is one critical scene where the emotions on her face say it all. For her sake I pray this was shot with minimal takes.

An explosion does finally come but is one of beauty so do let this film wash over you.

Satisfaction is a quietly magnetic film that pulses with emotional depth and artistic flair. Alex Burunova crafts a story that feels both personal and expansive, drawing you into moments that are at once raw, tender, and contemplative. With striking visuals and a poetic rhythm, the film doesn't rush to explain itself-it invites you to feel your way through it. The performances are subtle yet powerful, grounding the film's more abstract layers in genuine human emotion. It's the kind of story that leaves space for reflection and stays with you long after it ends. Amazing directing, actors and cinematography!

Emma Laird is phenomenal. She doesn't perform so much as exist on screen - every glance, every pause, every shift in her body carries weight. There's a storm constantly building behind her eyes, and she somehow manages to hold it in without ever feeling distant. It's the kind of performance that pulls you in and quietly wrecks you.

Fionn Whitehead matches her with a kind of understated vulnerability that adds even more tension to their dynamic. The chemistry is raw, complicated, and at times hard to watch - in the best way.

And the ending? It leaves you with a knot in your stomach and a million questions. It's not about clarity - it's about sitting with the discomfort.

Alex Burunova is a filmmaker in full command of her voice - precise, fearless, and unafraid to live in the gray. Satisfaction doesn't offer closure - it offers honesty. And it stays with you.

I saw Satisfaction at a screening and was brought to tears. Director Alex Burunova is a master of her craft, coaxing incredible performances out of her top notch cast and mixing poignant storytelling with stunning visuals to create a movie that has left an imprint on my heart.

The challenging subject matter is handled with care and respect, and the musical score could be a character of its own. It's hard to find words for how impressive this film is!

The film's protagonist, Lola, is unforgettable. Her story is both relatable and exotic, and the chemistry she has with her co stars is electric.

I absolutely loved Satisfaction! I watched it at SXSW and was completely taken by the film's stunning visuals-every frame feels like a work of art. The cinematography beautifully captures Lola's world, while the sound and music made me truly feel what she hears and what she's trying to express deep in her mind. The movie seamlessly unfolds her journey, adding layers of emotion and depth. As a female composer, I also related to the ending - it was such a subtle yet powerful moment. That restart felt incredibly real, both for her independence and her music. The film resonated with me in so many ways, and I can't recommend it enough!