The new film Rosario just added a fresh and intriguing addition to the supernatural horror scene. Forget your typical ghost stories and ghouls; this movie has a unique spin that dives into some seriously compelling territory.
A Nightmare
Emeraude Toubia (“Shadowhunters”) steps into the lead role as Rosario, a sharp and successful stockbroker making waves on Wall Street. She’s got her life meticulously planned and executed. However, when she’s forced to spend a nightmarish evening alone with the recently deceased body of her estranged grandmother, she finds herself in a fight to survive.
Toubia’s emotions feel realistic. She gives an excellent performance. She is determined and decisive and rises to the occasion. We need more female characters like Rosario in the genre. She doesn’t just sit there, crying and begging, resigned to her fate. She steps up and gives her battle with the supernatural all she’s got.
A Killer Cast
David Dastmalchian (Late Night with the Devil) plays Joe, a neighbor who really wants his air fryer back. Rounding out the cast are José Zúñiga as Rosario’s father, Oscar, along with Diana Lein and Paul Ben-Victor. Felipe Vargas helms the film with a dark and creepy vibe from beginning to end.
However, I found it disappointing that Dastmalchain wasn’t in a more featured role. His character comes off as annoying and has little screen time or development. I mean, this guy is a serious talent; why waste that?
A Terrifying Tale
The premise of Rosario is a recipe for intense suspense. Imagine being trapped in a confined space with a dead body. Throw in a heavy, isolating snowstorm that cuts you off entirely from the outside world. That’s the claustrophobic nightmare Rosario finds herself in, and her dread is amplified with every passing moment. As the night drags on, she’s not just dealing with a dead relative; Rosario finds herself confronted by terrifying supernatural forces. She soon uncovers a horrifying truth: she’s become the target of a deadly and ancient family curse. Rosario must delve into her family’s past’s darkest and most deeply buried secrets to survive.
Something Fresh
What makes Rosario particularly interesting is its exploration of the underrepresented religion of Palo, an Afro-Cuban religious tradition based on sacrifice. This fascinating religion creates a unique and culturally rich backdrop for the scares and an eerie feel.
Body Ick
We also get a fresh take on body horror, and boy, does this movie have it. That’s another thing this movie gets right. We get to see things we’ve never seen a million times, which is rare nowadays. It gives us something fresh and gooey and gross. It also doesn’t hurt that the special effects are good. The director and special effects team clearly put in the work to make everything look as good and realistic as possible. And for that, we’re thankful. I’m so over cheap, half-assed CGI that’s so fake it’s almost funny; almost.
An Unfulfilling Ending
I have to say the ending was a bit predictable. We’ve seen it time and time again. It’s a classic setup. Don’t worry; I’m not going to spoil it, but I will say that after such a great story, I found it a bit meh. I was expecting something more. I will, however, say that the movie is still worth watching.
Watch it Now
Rosario delivers a gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you love jump scares or prefer well-crafted tension, this film is poised to keep you entertained—and maybe a little freaked out. My takeaway: Know your family history, don’t get stuck with a dead body, and never, ever loan out your air fryer.
Watch Rosario now. And let us know what you think.
