Rita, a 13 year old girl, runs away from her abusive father to the big city. She finds solace until she's placed in a safe house run by the State. Rita and her cellmates plot an escape that ends in a shocking act of violence.
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Rita is Jayro Bustamante's fourth feature film. This is also the third time that he has represented Guatemala for the Oscars following Ixcanul in 2015, La Llorona in 2020 (which was shortlisted) and now Rita in 2024. The film had its world premiere at the 28th Fantasia International Film Festival on July 25th, 2024. It was released in theatres in Guatemala in August 2024. Shudder has picked up distribution across the USA and it was released on their platform on November 22nd, 2024.
The Guatemalan Film Commission did not publicly announce that their submission would be Rita until The Academy announced the list of eligible films on October 28th, 2024.
The film is produced by Jayro Bustamante, Jonathan King for Concordia Studio, and Gustavo Matheu.
Rita is a drama and it was filmed in Guatemala City, Guatemala.
To check out all previous submissions for Guatemala, click HERE.
"I hoped that together we could find our happy ending after all."
Jayro Bustamante’s Rita is an extraordinary film that skillfully balances fantasy and reality to tell an unforgettable story of resilience and courage. The film immerses us in the journey of a 13-year-old girl, Rita, as she navigates the challenges of life in a children’s home, where she and her peers face systemic neglect and harsh conditions. Through its evocative storytelling, Rita reveals the strength of the human spirit and the power of imagination in the face of adversity.
Giuliana Santa Cruz shines in her role as Rita, delivering a performance that is both tender and commanding. Her portrayal captures the vulnerability and quiet determination of a young girl who refuses to lose hope, even in the most oppressive circumstances. Santa Cruz’s nuanced performance makes Rita a deeply relatable and inspiring character, whose personal growth becomes the emotional heartbeat of the film.
The visual language of Rita is breathtaking. Bustamante’s use of magical realism infuses the story with vibrant, symbolic imagery that reflects the inner world of the children. Moments of fantasy beautifully juxtapose the stark reality of their environment, creating a cinematic experience that is both mesmerizing and emotionally profound. The rich cinematography, paired with a hauntingly evocative score, immerses viewers in a world where imagination and resilience become tools for survival.
Bustamante’s storytelling is deeply empathetic, focusing on the camaraderie and resourcefulness of the children as they navigate their daily lives. The film celebrates their strength, ingenuity, and the bonds they form with one another. These elements bring warmth and humanity to the narrative, transforming what could have been a tale of despair into a hopeful and empowering story.
Rita is a triumph of modern cinema, blending artistry with a compelling narrative to create a film that lingers long after the credits roll. Bustamante’s vision challenges audiences to see the resilience and creativity that thrive even in the harshest conditions, reminding us of the transformative power of hope and storytelling. It’s a must-see film that elevates both its characters and its viewers.