The quest for escape takes some incredibly odd turns in this creative comedy-drama that attempts to peel back the intersecting paths of identity and happiness.

The film opens with a sombre news reporter discussing the disappearance of Draginja (Ksenija Marinković) years ago. There is no body, no trace of violence, and still no idea as to what happened. We then see Draginja in various narratives – as a vacuum cleaner salesperson who ends up blissed out at a rave after discovering a dead body. Next, she is shown as a nurse with red hair who hires an actor (Boris Isakovic) to pose as her husband for a Zoom call with her son who lives abroad. Finally, we see a more feral version of Draginja, reunited with her parents as she seeks answers.

It’s a movie that seems to flout definition, presenting images and themes that only seem to be relevant in the moment, before being shed as our protagonist seeks another avenue of escape. It is jarring and unsettling for the most part, but the portrait comes through the abstract visuals. Through comedy, tragedy, and absurdity we explore the desperate search for connection. This is easier to see in the first story, where a high Draginja strokes an irate, arguing couple in a public bathroom.

The film explores the idea of the abandoned, invisible older woman in society. Draginja is only in her early fifties, and yet it seems as if she is slowly vanishing from the world’s view (illustrated physically in one well-crafted moment). In response, she moves through society finding the path of the most joy, be it literal or imagined, and while these journeys are conveyed in an unusual way, the sentiment is something you find yourself engaging with.

Pinning everything together is a magnificent performance from Marinković, who puts herself through the wringer in order to meet the demands of her character. What makes her so interesting in the role is the commitment to making Draginja an everywoman, somebody unremarkable who pokes at the veil of reality in order to find something different. Isakovic blends perfectly into her world, in which normality is rendered so absurd that his situation barely seems peculiar. This is an intentionally challenging work that finds its answers in disorientating places. However, those with an adventurous spirit will find plenty to like about this quest for self.

Have You Seen This Woman? streams for free during the entire month of December as part of ArteKino – just click here now for more information.