Q&A: Julio Torres and Tilda Swinton on their surreal New York saga ‘Problemista’

Julio Torres debuts as a director with 'Problemista,' a surreal journey through New York's art world and immigration hurdles, starring himself and Tilda Swinton.

In 'Problemista,' directed and starred by Julio Torres, an aspiring toy designer from El Salvador navigates the complexities of the U.S. immigration system alongside Tilda Swinton, an art critic. The film explores a labyrinth of challenges and quirky encounters within New York's art scene, reflecting on both Torres' and Swinton's characters as immigrants. The narrative is enriched by Torres' own comedic background and Swinton's transformation into the character of Elizabeth, highlighting pressing issues like immigration through a surreal and humorous lens.