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Examining the Haunting Layers of Rosario

In the pursuit of career advancement, individuals often face difficult choices, including distancing themselves from a troubled past. This theme resonates throughout the new film Rosario, which premieres in theaters this week. The narrative, set in contemporary New York, follows a Latina woman whose aspirations as a stockbroker devolve into a chilling horror story as she confronts family matters following a tragic event.

Directed by Felipe Vargas, known for his work on Milk Teeth, Rosario delves into intricate themes of familial obligation and the persistence of religious heritage. While the film’s climax escalates into a traditional haunted house scenario, it seems to become somewhat disoriented amid the chaos invoked by dark forces. Nonetheless, it possesses the ability to evoke fear and is executed with artistry.

Grandma Has Secrets?

3/5

Release Date
May 2, 2025

Runtime
88 minutes

Director
Felipe Vargas

Writers
Alan Trezza

Producers
Javier Chapa, Jon Silk, Emeraude Toubia

Pros & Cons

Pros: Emeraude Toubia delivers a compelling performance. The film effectively weaves in horror elements and an unsettling atmosphere.

Cons: The latter part of the film becomes excessively chaotic. David Dastmalchian’s character is not fully utilized.

The narrative centers on Rosario, a dedicated Wall Street stockbroker whose hectic life is abruptly interrupted by a devastating phone call about her grandmother’s sudden death. With her mother unavailable and her father, Oscar (José Zúñiga), unable to reach her immediately, Rosario is compelled to travel to her grandmother’s apartment to manage her belongings.

Adding to the tension are flight delays that create a situation where Rosario, alone on a cold winter night, delves into her grandmother’s mysterious past within a dilapidated building — a classic horror premise.

Late Night with the Neighbor, David Dastmalchian

Screenwriter Alan Trezza, whose previous work includes We Summon the Darkness, introduces unsettling characters that heighten the film’s suspense. The landlord, Marty (Paul Ben Victor), initially seems overly familiar, while the elderly neighbor Joe (David Dastmalchian), who appears with questionable motives, further complicates Rosario’s experience as she confronts strange occurrences in her grandmother’s apartment.

Joe’s bizarre claims about his connection to Rosario’s grandmother only deepen her unease, especially as she uncovers an ominous hidden room filled with possibly occult artifacts.

Monster(s) in the House?

As Rosario unravels her grandmother’s troubling history, the apartment becomes increasingly ominous. Vargas has cited Sam Raimi, particularly The Evil Dead, as a key influence, and echoes of that work can be found throughout the film — albeit without the humor. The narrative’s frantic pacing might become overwhelming, especially as the supernatural elements spiral out of control, challenging Rosario’s resolve.

Despite its chaotic climax, the film could resonate with audiences who enjoy unconventional horror, inviting potential for a cult following. Although lacking in humor, Rosario builds intense suspense leading to a climactic finale filled with unexpected twists. Viewers may find themselves questioning the unfolding events as they join Rosario in her battle against encroaching darkness.

Set to hit theaters on May 2, 2025, Rosario is produced by Mucho Mas Media. For more information, visit here.

Source
movieweb.com