Totem (2017)

Totem (2017): A Chilling Exploration of Fear and Family

Introduction

Totem is a 2017 Hollywood horror movie that weaves a tale of suspense, supernatural dread, and intricate family dynamics. Directed with a keen eye for building atmospheric tension, this film delves into the dark and eerie experiences of two sisters as they confront sinister forces. For lovers of the horror genre, Totem delivers a spine-tingling narrative that explores fear not just as an external threat but also as something deeply personal.

Plot Summary: What Is Totem About?

The story revolves around two sisters, Maria (played by Kerris Dorsey) and her younger sister, Ellie (portrayed by Ahna O'Reilly), whose lives are thrust into chaos following a harrowing family tragedy. After suffering a profound loss, the sisters move back to their family home, only to find that it is haunted by a malevolent spirit tethered to the house and their personal history.

As the supernatural occurrences escalate, the film probes into themes of trauma, guilt, and the unbreakable bond between siblings. The ominous entity in the house manifests through disturbing poltergeist activity and eerie apparitions that not only threaten their physical safety but also their sanity. The movie encapsulates the psychological horror of confronting unseen forces while grappling with emotional scars.

Main Actors and Their Performances

• Kerris Dorsey stars as Maria, the elder sister who embodies resilience and vulnerability. Kerris brings depth to her role, conveying the complexities of a young woman trying to shield her sister from danger while battling her own fears.
• Ahna O’Reilly plays Ellie, the younger sibling whose innocent curiosity about the supernatural winds up being a catalyst for the unfolding horror. Ahna effectively balances the innocence and unfolding terror that her character experiences throughout the movie.

The chemistry between Kerris and Ahna forms the emotional core of the film, anchoring its terrifying elements in relatable human emotion. Their performances help elevate Totem beyond a conventional ghost story, highlighting familial love amidst darkness.

Director and Writer

Totem was directed by Marcos Mereles, who is noted for his ability to craft deeply atmospheric and disturbing narratives. His direction in Totem emphasizes mood, slow-building tension, and an unsettling ambiance that permeates every scene.

The screenplay was also penned by Marcos Mereles, showcasing his talent for blending psychological horror with supernatural elements. The writing emphasizes subtle scares and character-driven storytelling rather than relying heavily on jump scares or graphic violence, which appeals to purists of the horror genre.

Technical Aspects and Cinematography

One of the standout features of Totem is its haunting cinematography, which uses shadow, muted colors, and claustrophobic framing to evoke a sense of dread and isolation. The score complements the film’s mood perfectly with eerie, minimalist music that keeps viewers on edge throughout.

Reception

While not a blockbuster hit, Totem carved a niche for itself among horror enthusiasts for its intelligent approach to ghost story tropes. It is praised for focusing on emotional depth in addition to supernatural thrills.

Conclusion

In sum, Totem (2017) is a carefully crafted horror movie that succeeds in creating an immersive atmosphere of fear grounded in family tragedy and psychological torment. With strong performances from Kerris Dorsey and Ahna O’Reilly, along with Marcos Mereles’ direction and writing, it offers a unique horror experience for those looking for suspense coupled with emotional resonance.

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