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Lila Avilés made a remarkable leap to fame with her debut film "La Camarista," a poignant narrative that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike during the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival. The film, which tells the story of a woman working long hours in a luxurious hotel in Mexico City, struck a chord for its realistic portrayal of the challenges millions of women face worldwide. This emotionally charged narrative captivated viewers and earned a place on the list of the 100 Best Mexican Films in Mexico, securing the 39th spot.
Avilés' passion for cinema has propelled her to the forefront of the industry. "La Camarista" was selected to represent Mexico in the 2020 Oscars for Best Foreign Film, an honor showcasing her global talents. Although the film did not clinch the Oscar, it did secure her the prestigious Ariel Award and a nomination at the Goya Awards. For Avilés, these accolades were recognition for a well-crafted story and the fuel that ignited her burgeoning career, solidifying her status as a formidable figure in contemporary cinema.
© Getty ImagesBuilding on her success, the Mexican film director continued to captivate audiences with her subsequent film, "Tótem." This recent work centers around the perspective of a young girl spending time at her grandmother's house while meticulously planning a party for her father. The film, set in a common yet evocative environment, showcased Avilés' ability to craft intimate, relatable stories. "Tótem" was nominated for the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival and earned recognition at the Gotham Awards and the San Sebastian Festival, further cementing Avilés' reputation as a visionary filmmaker.
The inspiration behind Avilés' work is deeply personal, drawn from her experiences, particularly her journey as a young mother. Becoming a mother at 24, she has always seen parenthood as a dual responsibility: recognizing her child's individuality while also understanding her role as a mother. This nuanced understanding of motherhood, shaped by the loss of her partner when her daughter was only seven years old, is reflected in her films, which explore the complexities of familial relationships and the intricacies of human connection.
Avilés expressed this sentiment: "One is not the center of the world; there are more important people. That helps to see parents differently, with their mistakes and their beautiful things."
© Getty ImagesAvilés' warm and introspective personality is evident in her approach to filmmaking. Unlike many directors who chase fame through franchises or sequels, she is dedicated to carefully selecting the stories she wishes to tell. For Avilés, filmmaking is not just about creating a product but about leaving a legacy. As she expressed in an interview with Vogue:
"Beyond a small film—it is also something worthy of debate what that is—for me, this is a will. If I leave, I've already left something for my daughter, and for me, that's huge. But I feel that it has to do with the depth or essence you know you need for the story."
© Monica SchipperHer work has garnered critical acclaim and recognition beyond the cinematic world. In a special edition of Barbie for International Women's Day, Mattel honored Avilés with her doll—a 12-inch figure complete with a camera, clapperboard, and her beloved cat, Wawa. This recognition was significant for Avilés, who has had a nostalgic connection to Barbies since childhood. She fondly recalls burying her dolls with a friend before her friend moved away, a memory that adds sentimental value to this honor.
As Lila Avilés continues to carve her path in the film industry, her work remains a powerful reflection of her personal experiences, her dedication to storytelling, and her unwavering commitment to capturing the human condition on screen. Through her films, she has made her mark in Mexican cinema and left an indelible impression on audiences worldwide, solidifying her status as a true auteur.
