From chilling desert mysteries to deeply emotional family bonds, Lee Cronin's The Mummy isn’t just another horror film—it’s a story rooted in love, loss, and survival. We caught up with Verónica Falcón, who brings heart and strength to the role of Carmen Santiago, the matriarch at the center of the film’s haunting events.

Speaking with Entertainment Affair’s Melissa Ramiz, Falcón opened up about what makes Carmen such a powerful and relatable character. Inspired by real women—both from director Lee Cronin’s life and her own—Carmen isn’t defined by stereotypes, but by something universal: unconditional love for her family. “No es una abuela latina, es una abuela,” Falcón shared, emphasizing how audiences across cultures are connecting with her character. It’s that emotional grounding that makes the horror hit even harder—because what’s at stake isn’t just survival, it’s family.

At the core of Carmen’s strength is her faith. Whether through prayer or quiet resilience, she leans on belief as a way to navigate the unexplainable. Falcón revealed that some of those moments—even specific prayers—were shaped collaboratively on set, highlighting Cronin’s openness as a director. It’s a detail that adds authenticity to a story already packed with dread and tension.

But bringing this nightmare to life wasn’t without its challenges. Falcón described working with real animals on set as one of the most intense aspects of filming—adding a layer of unpredictability that no amount of CGI can replicate. That commitment to practical effects, a signature of Cronin’s style, elevates the film’s realism and makes its most terrifying moments feel even closer to home.

And like any good horror production, there were a few eerie moments behind the scenes. While preparing for the role in Ireland, Falcón recalled a strange encounter with a mysterious worm appearing out of nowhere—an unsettling coincidence that felt straight out of the film itself. “Nunca sabe uno,” she said with a laugh… or maybe not entirely joking.

For Falcón, choosing roles always comes down to three things: a strong script, a compelling character, and a director with a clear vision. With Lee Cronin at the helm and a story that blends emotional depth with supernatural terror, The Mummy checks every box.

Now playing in theaters, Lee Cronin's The Mummy delivers a haunting new take on a classic legend—one where fear may come from the unknown, but the real power lies in family.