Totem Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: Totem
| Movie | Totem |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| Director | Jakub Charon |
| Genre | Crime |
| Runtime | 92 minutes (1h 32m) |
| Language | PL |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Totem (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 3.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Totem are led by Karol Bernacki . The supporting cast, including Malgorzata Krukowska and Joanna Majstrak , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Totem does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Crime films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Totem has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Crime fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Totem
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2017, Totem is a Crime film directed by Jakub Charon, written by Jakub Charon. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Karol Bernacki as 'Dziki'.
Ending Explained: Totem
Totem Ending Explained: Wild after leaving prison becomes a goalkeeper in the nightclub. Directed by Jakub Charon, this 2017 crime film stars Karol Bernacki ('Dziki'), alongside Malgorzata Krukowska as Dagmara, Joanna Majstrak as Ewa, Milan Skrobic as Olaf. Rated 3.8/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Totem?
Wild after leaving prison becomes a goalkeeper in the nightclub. His girlfriend - Dagmara, one of the dancers working in it. Ambition tells him to seek a better life, and the young boy wants to break free from the social plight. The model for him is his brother Igor - a gangster at the head of a criminal group in the city. But he does not want the Wild to enter his murky world. Dagmary's pregnancy coincides with the brutal treatment of a girl by a group of clients. Wild learns of a big deal on the illicit drug market. He decides to take revenge on the people who want to hurt his girlfriend and, with the help of Igor, decides to rob the bandits. This gives rise to exciting gang battles and spiral revenge, which no one will be able to control.
Jakub Charon's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Karol Bernacki ('Dziki')'s journey. His girlfriend - Dagmara, one of the dancers working in it.
How Does Karol Bernacki ('Dziki')'s Story End?
- Karol Bernacki: Karol Bernacki's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Malgorzata Krukowska (Dagmara): Malgorzata Krukowska's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Joanna Majstrak (Ewa): Joanna Majstrak's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Totem Mean?
The ending of Totem brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Karol Bernacki's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Totem Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Totem Based on a True Story?
Yes, Totem draws from real criminal cases and investigative records. Directed by Jakub Charon and starring Karol Bernacki, this crime film explores how real events have been adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version of Totem
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: Totem uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch Totem?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Where to Watch Totem Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
NetflixTotem Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about Totem age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Totem (2017) is 92 minutes (1h 32m). Directed by Jakub Charon, the film runs for 92 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 3.8/10, and global performance metrics, Totem is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 2017 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Totem worth watching?
Totem is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 3.8/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Totem parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Totem identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Totem (2017)?
The runtime of Totem (2017) is 92 minutes (approximately 1h 32m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
