Tótem
classified 12A SPlease note: This was screened in Dec 2023
Director Lila Avilés explores the connection between relationships and interior spaces in her second film.
This time, the setting is a large house where, over the course of a long day, family and friends meet for a dual ritual. It's the birthday of young father and painter Tona but, as it will likely be his last, it is also a farewell ceremony.
To begin with, Tona’s weakened body remains unseen. He remains in a room where he tries to summon up the strength required for a humanist ceremony. He will then be showered with all the love and affection needed to face his final journey.
Avilés takes meticulous care in observing her subjects. Her film bends trajectories and feelings, pruning all frills and excess away to reveal the spiritual dimension of human life.