Tótem

Seven-year-old Sol spends her day at home at her grandfather's house, while her family and friends prepare the most likely last birthday party for her father. During the day, chaos unfolds on several levels and she realises that life is changing, in this colourful and fascinating drama film.

This Mexican gem of a film is told through the eyes of seven-year-old Sol. She spends the day at her grandfather's house while family and friends prepare a celebration for her father, Tona. It's the birthday of the young father and painter, but since it is likely to be his last, it is also a farewell ceremony. Tona tries to gather strength for the humanistic ceremony where he will be showered with all the love and affection needed to face his final journey. Seven-year-old Sol both observes and participates in the preparations, and throughout the day, chaos unfolds on multiple levels, and she realizes that life is changing. The film's setting is colorful and fascinating, where the director explores the connection between human relationships and spirituality, with a strong presence of nature.

Christin Berg

Director

Lila Avilés (b. 1982) is a Mexican director, screenwriter, actress, and producer. After directing several short films, she made her feature film debut with The Chambermaid in 2018, which premiered at the Toronto Film Festival. Tótem is her second feature film, and it premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in 2023.

This film is part of