Totem

Ama feels completely Dutch. She has lived in Rotterdam with her family for years. She loves swimming and dreams of becoming as good as Dutch champion Ranomi Kromowidjojo. But what no one knows is that she is actually living in the Netherlands illegally. When her mother and little brother are arrested, Ama is forced to go on a search for her father through the streets of Rotterdam. During this thrilling journey—while evading the police—her totem animal reveals itself as her guide: a giant porcupine. This magical-realist, politically charged family film tells an adventurous story about how not every child in the Netherlands has a guaranteed place in society.

The young lead actress delivers a powerful performance and, together with her magical totem animal, brings a heartfelt and believable story to life. 'Totem' is a film full of friendship, strong family bonds, and the search for identity and a safe place to call home.