Though grippingly shot and paced, its realism makes it not an easy watch. However, one never questions the horrific circumstances in which the protag finds himself and the ending provides a bitter sort of closure and enough salve on the wounds to make the story palatable.

A harrowing edge-of-your-seat adventure tale with social punch. Full Review

Rating: 3/4 -- Whatever its motivations as a docu-drama, Buoyancy also bears the unmistakable outline of a Jack London story; it's an adventure film, if a grim one. Full Review

Rating: 4 -- Rathjen wisely relies on naturalistic performances from mainly non-professional actors to recreate the circumstances rather than dramatize them. Full Review

This is capital I, capital C, Important Cinema. It aims to educate and inform, rejecting the notion that cinema should entertain you completely. For the globally conscious viewer, this will be right in your wheelhouse. Full Review

3.5 stars out of 5 -- [T]he more violating and terrifying life that awaits Chakra when he leaves home is what will dominate BUOYANCY. It’s also when the movie livens up, grows more foreboding, and begins to outgrow the straightforward, familiarly naturalistic style that overpowers its opening scenes.

Vivid and suspenseful, this immersive Cambodian thriller resonates with authenticity. Full Review