Julio Torres discusses his new film 'Problemista' inspired by his immigration struggles with humor. He shares about collaborating with his mom, love for challenging personalities, and stand-up beginnings. The film delves into absurdities of visa renewal and bureaucratic obstacles in a light-hearted manner.
Julio Torres infuses personal experiences into his satirical film 'Problemista', shedding light on immigration challenges with a comedic twist.
Torres' creative title 'Problemista' reflects his approach to art and life, highlighting the importance of playfulness and problem-solving in filmmaking.
Deep dives
Julio Torres: From Stand-Up Comedy to Movie Director
Julio Torres, a comic, actor, and writer, transitions from stand-up comedy to becoming a movie director with his new satirical film Problemista, where he also writes and stars. Drawing on his experiences as an immigrant from El Salvador, he reflects the challenges of the US immigration system through his protagonist Alejandro, who navigates financial and bureaucratic hurdles. Torres' unique comedic style includes giving personalities to inanimate objects, showcasing his original voice and creativity.
The Concept of Problemista
The title of Julio Torres' movie, Problemista, stems from his creative process of finding a playful alternative to a more dreary title like 'Problema.' The term 'Problemista' represents individuals who both create and solve problems, mirroring Torres' own approach to his art and life. Through the character of Alejandro in the film, Torres explores the complexities of dealing with immigration obstacles intertwined with personal growth and challenges.
Influences and Collaborations in Problemista
Torres infuses his personal experiences and family connections into Problemista, such as featuring a castle designed by his architect mother in the movie. He emphasizes the collaborative nature of filmmaking, highlighting how working with others and incorporating personal elements can enhance the creative process. The film's character dynamics, like Tilda Swinton's eccentric appearance, showcase Torres' attention to detail and his ability to combine visual aesthetics with storytelling.
Navigating Identity and Artistic Exploration
Growing up as an immigrant in a Catholic country while dealing with atheism and later acknowledging his sexuality, Torres reflects on feeling like an outsider and the challenges of personal expression. He shares his journey from focusing solely on achieving a work visa to embracing creativity and self-understanding. Torres' unique perspective and authenticity in addressing his multifaceted identity contribute to his growth as a filmmaker and comedian.
Comic, actor and filmmaker Julio Torres came to the U.S. from El Salvador in his 20s. His new film, Problemista, draws from his personal experience struggling to get a visa. "This movie deals with the problem of immigration, but I think of it as a very silly, happy and joyful movie," he says. Torres talks with Terry Gross about his love of difficult people, collaborating with his mom, and getting started in stand-up.
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