Monday Night Cinema

Tótem

Director Lila Avilés' follow-up to The Chambermaid is a keenly observed family drama, tackling even its heaviest, most tragic themes through a compassionate, insightful lens.

Seven-year-old Sol is dropped at her grandfather’s home as the family prepares a surprise birthday party for Sol’s seriously ill father Tonatiuh. Over the course of the day, Sol observes and helps her aunts, cousins and grandparents as they get the house ready for the night’s festivities. As tempers flare and emotions intensify, Sol and her family grapple with Tonatiuh’s worsening condition, but also embrace the opportunity to celebrate the beauty of a life well lived.

A stellar, engrossing film from one of Mexico’s most accomplished and visionary directors.