Quake is a quiet, unsettling film that sticks with you-not because of loud drama or big twists, but because of the way it handles trauma and memory with eerie realism. Set against the stark backdrop of Iceland, the film follows Saga, a single mother who suffers a seizure and begins to lose pieces of her memory. What starts as a medical crisis turns into a much deeper psychological journey.
Aníta Briem gives a strong and restrained performance. You really feel her confusion and desperation as she pieces together her past. The movie moves at a slow pace, but that works here-it mimics how memory loss and trauma recovery actually feel: unclear, frustrating, and nonlinear.
Visually, the film is beautiful in a cold, minimal way. The camera lingers a lot, and while some viewers might find that dragging, it does help you sit in Saga's headspace. The sound design is also subtle but effective-nothing flashy, just enough to make you feel a little uneasy.
That said, Quake isn't for everyone. If you're looking for action, fast pacing, or clear-cut answers, this isn't your movie. But if you're into quiet, introspective dramas with psychological depth, it's worth your time.
Bottom line: A haunting exploration of memory and family secrets, with a strong lead performance and an atmosphere that lingers. Just don't expect instant gratification.
