Unraveling the American Dream: A Look into Problemista

Problemista, a 2024 film by Julio Torres, is a wild ride through the struggles of an immigrant chasing the American dream. Alejandro, a Salvadorian toy designer in Brooklyn, faces endless hurdles to land a job at Hasbro. The film is packed with bizarre twists, like a cryogenically frozen husband and a glitchy Craigslist siren, making it a surreal commentary on immigration and the American dream. The film's humor and absurdity highlight the absurdity of the immigration system. Alejandro's journey is a fractured one, much like the Penrose stairs, a never-ending climb. Tilda Swinton plays Elizabeth, an art critic who might just be Alejandro's ticket to a visa. Her character adds another layer of weirdness to the film, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy a good laugh while thinking critically about serious issues. Bad Habit, a novel by Alana S. Portero, is a coming-of-age story set in 1980s Spain. It follows a young girl navigating her trans identity in a working-class neighborhood in Madrid. The novel is a celebration of the small, everyday actions that spark change in society. Portero's writing sheds light on the struggles of women who live life on their own terms, often facing mockery and pathos because of it. Joan Didion's Slouching Towards Bethlehem is a collection of essays that offer a unique perspective on the cultural forces shaping the 1960s. Didion's writing style is a balance of detachment and self-involvement, making her observations both insightful and personal. Her work is a valuable companion for anyone looking to understand the cultural landscape of the time. Baiuca, a musical project by Alejandro Guillén, blends traditional Galician folk sounds with electronica beats. The genre, known as folktronica, creates a unique sound that is both nostalgic and modern. Songs like "Morriña" and "Veleno" convey a longing for home and a sense of magical realism. Baiuca's music is a celebration of Galician culture and the generations of women who passed down their songs.