Lila Avilés’ ‘Tótem’: A Heartfelt Exploration of Life, Death, and Family

An Intimate Portrayal of Family Dynamics

At the center of the story is Sol, a perceptive 7-year-old girl played by Naíma Sentíes. Sol’s father, Tonatiuh or ‘Tona,’ is battling cancer, and the weight of this impending loss looms over the entire family. Avilés skillfully portrays the family dynamics with authenticity, showcasing both the bickering and laughter that often accompany such gatherings.

Confronting the Reality of Illness

Despite the festive atmosphere, the film never shies away from the devastating reality of Tona’s illness. Sol, in particular, is acutely aware of her father’s deteriorating condition. She yearns to see him but is repeatedly told that he is resting. The family’s attempts to shield Sol from the truth raise questions about whether they are protecting or distracting her from the impending loss.

Immersing in Sol’s Perspective

Avilés masterfully captures Sol’s perspective, immersing the audience in her watchful eyes and the growing sense of dread she feels. Through Sol, we witness the adults’ world, bustling with activity but seemingly distracted from the impending tragedy just down the hall. Sol’s isolation and her longing to connect with her father create a poignant and heart-wrenching narrative.

Cinematic Depth and Symbolism

Cinematographer Diego Tenorio adds another layer of depth to the film with his seamless transitions between rooms and characters. Each scene feels like a visit to a different interplanetary body, emphasizing the alienation and disconnection felt by the characters. Avilés also incorporates glimpses of insect life, reminding us that even in the face of death, life continues to move forward.

A Melancholic Perspective on Life

One of the film’s most striking aspects is its profoundly melancholic perspective on the constant churn of life. Sol resists the festivities and finds solace in solitude, observing the world from the rooftop with contempt. In a talent show meant to cheer Tona, Sol stands tall and performs like an adult beyond her years, while her mother acts as a magician’s assistant, symbolizing the duality of their existence.

Masterful Direction and Authenticity

Avilés’ direction is masterful, allowing the story to unfold organically without resorting to sentimentality or overemphasis. The film’s richly textured portrayal of death and family is a testament to Avilés’ talent as a filmmaker. ‘Tótem’ serves as a powerful reminder that life’s complexities cannot be shielded or distracted from, but must be faced head-on.

A Must-See Cinematic Achievement

‘Tótem,’ Mexico’s shortlisted Oscar submission, is an exceptional film that captures the essence of the human experience. Avilés’ attention to detail and her ability to evoke genuine emotions from the audience make this a must-see film. It is a cinematic achievement that explores the universal themes of life, death, and family with a profound sense of humanity.

Conclusion

‘Tótem’ is a heartfelt exploration of life, death, and family. Lila Avilés’ masterful direction and authentic portrayal of family dynamics create a poignant narrative that immerses the audience in the perspective of a young girl facing the impending loss of her father. The film’s rich symbolism, cinematography, and melancholic perspective on life add depth and complexity to the story. ‘Tótem’ is a must-see cinematic achievement that captures the essence of the human experience.