MURINA

Tension and hostility reign in Antoneta Alamat Kusijanović’s first feature-length film, as a young woman begins to test the waters of rebellion, flirtation and freedom in this coming-of-age drama. Julija and her mother Nela lead an isolated existence on a sun-soaked Croatian island, living under the thumb of the family’s domineering patriarch Ante. Callous and single-minded, Ante is brutal with his words and cruel in his actions, preening his wife and daughter to help him broker a deal with old friend and wealthy businessman Javier. Javier’s arrival brings lightness, ease and a warmth that throws Ante’s cold, callous nature into sharp relief.

„Murina is a superb study in sustained subliminal menace... Gracija Filipović is especially skilled playing a young woman learning how to utilise her sensuality to secure her freedom.“
Tim Grierson, Screendaily