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.

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.

No over-explaining, no unnecessary exposition-just pure, confident storytelling. Burunova understands that cinema is at its most powerful when it allows the audience to engage, interpret, and feel without being spoon-fed. Instead of forcing explanations, she lets the story breathe, using atmosphere, glances, and unspoken moments to communicate just as much as-if not more than-dialogue ever could.

Many films fall into the trap of over-explaining their themes, afraid that viewers won't "get it" unless every detail is spelled out. Satisfaction takes the opposite approach, trusting that the audience will pick up on the subtleties-the shift in body language, the weight of a pause, the tension in a moment of silence. It's a refreshing and rare kind of filmmaking, one that rewards patience and attention to detail.

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!

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!