Murina

Julija, portrayed by Gracija Filipović, lives with her parents, Ante and Nela, on a secluded island along Croatia’s picturesque Adriatic coast. The film unfolds over a weekend as Ante surprises the family by inviting his long-time friend, Javier, with a proposition to buy their land and transform it into an upscale resort. However, what starts as a friendly visit soon spirals into chaos as buried grudges and family conflicts surface.

As a quiet yet strong-willed teenager, Julija observes her parents’ preparations for Javier’s arrival with a casual disinterest, only joining in when specifically prompted. Julija, an enthusiastic swimmer and skilled spearfisher — often seen in her one-piece swimsuit — frequently escapes to the ocean throughout the weekend, seeking solace in the water.

Her world shifts when she witnesses a flirtation between Javier and Nela during a seaside outing. In a shocking revelation, she discovers that her mother and Javier once shared a romantic past, with Javier even considering marriage to Nela. In a desperate attempt to liberate their family from Ante’s overbearing influence, Julija encourages Nela to rekindle her relationship with Javier. However, Nela dismisses the idea, declaring that “as soon as he boards the plane,” Javier will forget about them.

The family dynamics reach a climax during a celebration held for Javier on the eve of his departure. Ante forbids Julija from attending and confines her to a locked area in their home. Yet, determined to confront the unfolding events, she ingeniously escapes through a floor hatch and dives into the depths of the ocean, making her way to the vibrant party. A confrontation ensues between Julija and Ante, highlighting the mounting tensions.

As the sun rises the next day, Javier departs the island without finalizing the promised real estate deal. In the aftermath, Ante and Julija decide to go spearfishing—an activity they once shared fondly, now tinged with unresolved tension. Swimming closely behind her father, Julija takes aim with the speargun but deliberately chooses to miss. The two resurface, locking eyes as a wordless understanding passes between them, and Julija ultimately swims away into the vastness of the sea, her thoughts lingering in the turmoil of the weekend.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:15