Misogyny both personal and societal; patriarchy, male ego, spousal abuse and neglect. The myth of American exceptionalism, and deferral of corporate responsibility to the point of malfeasance. Feminism, self-empowerment, and self-actualization; life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Beyond these central themes, the narrative in these 12 minutes is short and simple, but engaging. A strong hand guiding the production realizes the great vivid color in all aspects - hair and makeup, costume design, set design and decoration, props. Those few effects we see look swell, as does the lighting. Paul Keany embraces every iota of malicious indifference and cruelty in his portrayal of Walter, and Alexandra Marian Hensley is marvelous opposite him as Joanna: hard-working, giving and self-sacrificing; neglected, put-upon, and fed up. Hensley dominates the screen with fine nuance and strength of personality, but she and Keany work well as scene partners, cheekily playing off each others' conflicting energies.
It's dark, and heavy with big ideas, but also entertaining and - strangely enough - satisfying. Quick a watch as it is, 'Satisfaction guaranteed' is both fun and thought-provoking, and I'd call that a success.
