OTC Rating : 4/5
Introduction
Antoneta Alamat Kusijanović’s Murina , streaming on MUBI, is a visually captivating and emotionally charged coming-of-age drama set against the stunning backdrop of the Croatian coast. The film won the prestigious Camera d’Or at Cannes, showcasing Kusijanović’s mastery in blending natural beauty with psychological tension. Through its compelling narrative, breathtaking cinematography, and intricate sound design, Murina presents a gripping tale of a young girl’s struggle for freedom.
Story & Narrative Structure
The story follows Julija (Gracija Filipović), a restless teenager living with her domineering father, Ante (Leon Lučev), and her passive mother, Nela (Danica Ćurčić). When an old family friend, Javier (Cliff Curtis), visits their remote coastal home, the underlying family tensions intensify. Julija sees Javier as a potential escape from her father’s oppressive control, while Ante views him as a threat to his authority.
The narrative unfolds with a slow-burn intensity, employing a linear structure that mirrors Julija’s internal journey. Kusijanović crafts a tale of generational conflict and repressed desires, using the family dynamic to explore broader themes of patriarchy, freedom, and identity.
Image credit : MUBI
Direction & Cinematography
Kusijanović’s direction is precise and evocative, capturing the claustrophobic family dynamics while juxtaposing them with the expansive, liberating seascape. Her ability to build tension without overt drama speaks to her skill in character-driven storytelling.
Helene Louvart’s cinematography plays a crucial role in this dynamic. The camera frequently uses underwater shots to symbolize Julija’s entrapment, with the water acting as both a physical barrier and a metaphor for her yearning for freedom. The sunlit Adriatic Sea contrasts with the shadowy interiors of the family home, visually reinforcing the oppressive atmosphere Julija navigates.
Performances
Gracija Filipović delivers a remarkable performance as Julija, portraying her mix of rebellion, hope, and vulnerability with authenticity. Filipović’s expressive eyes and body language convey more than dialogue ever could, making her an empathetic protagonist.
Leon Lučev excels as Ante, bringing a menacing authority to his role. His presence is both magnetic and unsettling, perfectly embodying the toxic masculinity that stifles Julija’s growth.
Danica Ćurčić’s portrayal of Nela adds emotional complexity, as she oscillates between loyalty to her husband and concern for her daughter. Cliff Curtis, as Javier, provides a charismatic contrast to Ante, serving as both a source of hope for Julija and a catalyst for the family’s unraveling.
Image credit : MUBI
Production Design & Art Direction
The film’s production design, led by Ivan Velimir Tolic, uses minimalism to its advantage. The stark, sun-bleached landscapes of the Croatian coast become a character in themselves, symbolizing both confinement and the potential for freedom.
Art direction emphasizes simplicity, with the family home feeling like a sunlit prison. The choice of earthy tones and sparse interiors reflects the family’s emotional isolation and Ante’s rigid control.
Sound Design & Music
Sound design in Murina is subtle yet profoundly effective. The natural sounds of the sea—waves crashing, water bubbling during underwater sequences—are used to enhance the film’s emotional landscape. The sound of Julija’s breathing during these scenes intensifies the feeling of entrapment.
Evgueni and Sacha Galperine’s score complements the visuals without dominating them. The music shifts between soothing and suspenseful, mirroring Julija’s emotional journey. The underwater sequences, paired with a muted soundscape, create an immersive experience that draws the audience into Julija’s world.
Editing
Editor Vladimir Gojun employs a deliberate, measured pace to build tension throughout the film. The cuts between underwater shots and surface interactions reflect Julija’s dual existence—one constrained by familial expectations, the other free and unbounded. Transitions are smooth, maintaining the film’s meditative tone while heightening the suspense in key moments.
Image credit : MUBI
Final Verdict
Murina is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. Kusijanović’s debut feature demonstrates a deep understanding of human relationships, power dynamics, and the universal desire for autonomy. The film’s technical excellence, from Louvart’s breathtaking cinematography to the immersive sound design, makes it a standout in contemporary world cinema.
Why You Should Watch It
- Immersive cinematography that captures the beauty and danger of the Adriatic Sea.
- Powerful performances, especially from Gracija Filipović.
- A compelling narrative that explores family dynamics and personal freedom.
