El Salvador native Julio Torres, a former SNL writer described as a comic surrealist, injects every single quirky ounce of his personality into Problemista. The experimental indie film financed by A24 explores the dual struggle of an aspiring toymaker and his labyrinthine journey to navigate the American immigration system. Working from a script that he wrote, Torres directs, produces, and stars, making this a singular effort that’s bursting with Torres’ at times crude, often surrealistic, and always a little off-kilter sensibilities. For those operating on his wavelength, Problemista will be an original breathe of fresh air, a new creative voice projecting itself boldly into the cinesphere with Torres’ lispy monotone. His style being a decidedly acquired taste, those who don’t vibe with his unique approach to the dramedy genre however will find this to be a rather long and taxing watch.
