Problemista
Alejandro is an aspiring toy designer from El Salvador, struggling to bring his unusual ideas to life in New York City. As time on his work visa runs out, a job assisting an erratic art-world outcast becomes his only hope to stay in the country and realize his dream.
Critics Sentiment
Alejandro confronts Elizabeth in dreamlike dragon knight sequence
Alejandro accepts sex work and discovers Hasbro theft
The film recovers from its lowest point during Alejandro's desperate sex work to its emotional peak when he finally stands up to Elizabeth in the surreal dragon battle sequence.
Problemista maintains generally positive reception throughout, with critics consistently praising Torres' unique voice and Swinton's powerhouse performance. The film peaks during its surreal emotional confrontations and dips during its more uncomfortable cringe moments. Overall, reviewers appreciated its fresh take on immigration struggles through magical realism, even when the quirky humor didn't always land.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 40
Julio Torres
Alejandro
Tilda Swinton
Elizabeth
RZA
Bobby
Isabella Rossellini
Narrator (voice)
Catalina Saavedra
Dolores
James Scully
Bingham
Laith Nakli
Khalil
Spike Einbinder
Spray
Logan J. Alarcon-Poucel
Young Alejandro
Greta Lee
Dalia
Larry Owens
Craigslist
Glo Tavarez
Beatriz, Khalil Law Paralegal
Kelly McCormack
Sharon
Eudora Peterson
FreezeCorp Receptionist
Ronald Peet
Apple Customer Service Rep
Greta Titelman
Celeste
Shakina Nayfack
Nadine
Theo Maltz
Travis
River L. Ramirez
Estefani, Bank of America Rep
Sheila Moikangoa
FedEx Clerk
Crew
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