Satisfaction

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!

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.

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.

Had the pleasure of seeing this film -- and hearing it -- at SXSW. It's a movie that stays with you, isn't afraid to trust the audience to go on the journey. The cinematography is stunning, unwavering and set up as if each shot is its own piece of art. The performances are commanding, patient and do not look away from the ugliest parts of ourselves. I think it could have so easily swung into the melodramatic or waring, but instead it is the restrained performances, particularly of Emma Laird who plays Lola, that carries us through. I want to spend a season on a Greek island like this one, but not like this. Will be watching again. Bravo.

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!