Lila Avilés, the acclaimed director of Totém, which won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, has finished shooting her upcoming film Cábula. The film is set in the fictional Mexican town of Mexicalpan and centers on Toña, a character whose story is described as a journey through personal and societal challenges. Avilés has shared an exclusive first-look image of the film with Variety, offering a glimpse into the visual style and tone of the project. Cábula is set to be presented at the Venice Gap-Financing Market, an event that takes place from September 4 to 6. This market is a key platform for filmmakers to secure funding for their projects, often attracting international investors and distributors. Avilés’ participation highlights the film’s potential to gain attention from a global audience. The fictional setting of Mexicalpan allows Avilés to explore themes that are common in contemporary Latin American cinema, such as identity, community, and the pressures of modern life. While details about the plot remain scarce, the film is expected to continue Avilés’ focus on strong female characters and complex social narratives. Avilés is known for her distinctive visual storytelling and deep engagement with the cultural and emotional landscapes of her characters. With Cábula, she continues to build on her reputation as a director who brings both artistic vision and social commentary to her work. The film is anticipated to be a significant addition to her growing body of work.