"Tótem: A Mexican Family Drama Embracing Life and Death"
Originally Published 1 year ago — by NPR
Tótem, a radiant Mexican film by Lila Avilés, portrays the tango between life and death through the lens of a 7-year-old girl, Sol, as her family prepares for a birthday party while her father battles a terminal illness. The film captures the lively chaos and intimacy of Mexican family life, offering a touching portrayal of human connection amidst the looming presence of death. Through delicate storytelling and luminous camerawork, Tótem explores the complexity of emotions and the fleeting moments of life, ultimately delivering a poignant reflection on the thrilling and chilling polarity of being alive.