Mexican production “Tótem” a possible nomination for Best International Film at the Academy Awards

“Tótem” by director Lila Avilés will represent Mexico with a possible nomination for the Best International Film category at the Academy Awards.

The Mexican Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMACC) announced Thursday the selection of the filmmaker’s film, described as a Mexican family portrait that has been screened at major international festivals.

The 96th Academy Award ceremony for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is scheduled for March 10, 2024.

Mexico has been nominated nine times in the international film category.

Including Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s “Biutiful” (2010) and Guillermo del Toro’s “Pan’s Labyrinth” (2006).

In 2019, our country won the coveted international statuette at the Academy Awards for “Roma” by Alfonso Cuarón.

Distributor CineCANÍBAL had previously announced that Lila Avilés’ film was chosen to compete for Best International Film at the Hollywood Academy Awards.

Tótem, de Lila Avilés, es la película elegida por la AMACC para representar a México en los 96 premios Oscar 2024. #MéxicoenelOscar🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/CAMvOiC7c0

— AMACC (@AcademiaCineMx) September 28, 2023

Tótem follows the story of a young girl who, on the occasion of a surprise birthday party for her father, sees events unfold that are about to dramatically change her life.

The film has won more than 15 awards at different festivals such as Berlin, London, Biarritz, Telluride and San Sebastian.

This will be the second time that AMACC has backed director Lila Avilés, whose debut feature, La Camarista, was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Film in 2020.

The film will be released in Mexican theaters in the coming months, but first it is expected to premiere at the Morelia International Film Festival.

TYT Newsroom