Tótem
Tender and loving portrait of a Mexican family celebrating life at a bittersweet birthday party. A film that shows how everyone prepares for loss differently.
Seven-year-old Sol spends the day at her grandfather’s home, helping her aunts Nuri and Alejandra with the preparations for a surprise party they are throwing for Sol’s father, Tonatiuh. The party will however likely be his last and hence it is also a farewell ceremony. As daylight fades, a strange atmosphere takes over. Sol will come to understand that her world is about to change dramatically, embracing the essence of letting go and cherishing the breath of life.
A film that prepares for loss, TÓTEM amasses signs and forms of life: animals, insects, plants and a parade of wonderful human beings who are stronger together. Winner of the Prize of the Ecumenical Jury at the Berlin International Film Festival.