Shudder, AMC Networks’ premier streaming service for horror, thriller, and supernatural content, has announced the acquisition of Jayro Bustamante’s latest film, RITA, ahead of its world premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival. The film, written and directed by Bustamante, marks his fourth feature and follows the success of his Golden Globe-nominated Shudder Original, La Llorona (2019). RITA is set to release on Shudder on November 22, 2024.
About Rita
RITA tells the harrowing story of a thirteen-year-old girl who, while fleeing a neglectful household, finds herself in an oppressive state-run orphanage. Inside the orphanage, Rita’s arrival offers a glimmer of hope to the other girls, who believe in a prophecy that an angel will come to release them. United by their shared suffering, the girls plan a daring escape to claim their freedom and expose the orphanage’s abuses. The film is based on a true story that stands as one of Guatemala’s most tragic events, highlighting the bravery of the orphans whose fight for survival sparked a nationwide demand for justice and reform.
Cast and Production
RITA features a cast of talented actors, including Giuliana Santa Cruz, Alejandra Vasquez, Ángela Quevedo, Isabel Aldana, Sabrina De La Hoz, Margarita Kénefic, and Maria Telón. The child actresses, all first-time performers from Guatemala, were selected from a national casting call that attracted over five thousand applicants. These young actors collaborated closely with Bustamante, helping to shape their characters and contributing to the film’s elements of magical realism.
Shudder’s Perspective
Emily Gotto, Shudder’s SVP of Acquisitions and Production, expressed her enthusiasm for continuing the partnership with Bustamante: “We are so proud to continue our work with Jayro, who has proven time and again to be a fearless filmmaker whose dedication to his homeland has put a spotlight on the rich talent and complicated history of Guatemala. RITA again demonstrates Jayro’s deft handling of the horror genre as a catalyst for powerful storytelling, and we can’t wait for the film to leave an impact on audiences.”
Production Team and Deal
RITA is produced by Jayro Bustamante, Jonathan King for Concordia Studio, and Gustavo Matheu. The acquisition deal was negotiated by Jonathan Kier from Upgrade Productions on behalf of the filmmakers and Emily Gotto on behalf of Shudder.
Mark your calendars for November 22, 2024, when RITA will be available for streaming on Shudder. This powerful film promises to be a moving and thought-provoking addition to Jayro Bustamante’s impressive body of work, blending horror with social commentary in a way that resonates deeply with audiences.
