The film Emilia Pérez tells the story of a Mexican drug cartel leader who disappears by transitioning into a woman. Its lead, Karla Sofía Gascón, made history as the first openly trans actor nominated for an Oscar, marking a significant milestone for transgender representation and inclusivity in cinema.
Blending drama, music, and comedy, Emilia Pérez has sparked debate with some praising its bold storytelling while others criticize it for its portrayal of Mexican culture. Despite the controversy, it won Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical and Best Non-English Language Film.
But what’s behind this controversy?
One of the most controversial aspects of Emilia Pérez is its portrayal of Latin American communities. While the film aims to celebrate the traditions, customs, and languages of these cultures, many critics argue that it perpetuates harmful stereotypes such as associating Mexican identity with drug cartels and violence.
Most production decisions were made by creatives outside the Latin American community, raising concerns about authenticity and reliance on clichés. French director Jacques Audiard admitted to minimal research, stating that his main source about Mexican culture was the lead actress Karla Sofía Gascón from Spain.
Critics argue that the primary cast lacked Mexican actors, and the movie overlooked authentic representation by excluding Mexican creatives from key roles. Even Selena Gomez’s Spanish-speaking performance drew criticism, with Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez calling it “indefensible.”
Does the movie fairly portray sensible issues of Mexico, or is it a biased vision that feels disconnected and superficial? What do you think? Comment below.
Related Readings
CNN en Español. (2025, January 15). Entrevista a director de “Emilia Perez”: Se disculpa con México. https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2025/01/15/entretenimiento/video/entrevista-director-emilia-perez-disculpa-mexico-showbiz-orix
Hola! USA. (2025, January 18). Emilia Perez director Jacques Audiard apologizes to Mexicans who found the film offensive. https://www.hola.com/us/entertainment/20250118762956/emilia-perez-director-jacques-audiard-apologizes-mexicans-found-film-offensive/
The Guardian. (2025, January 16). Jacques Audiard: Emilia Perez director apologises. https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/jan/16/jacques-audiard-emilia-perez-director-apologises
Newsweek. (2025). Netflix, Emilia Perez, Golden Globe, Latin America outrage. https://www.newsweek.com/netflix-emilia-perez-golden-globe-latin-america-outrage-2010625
America Magazine. (2025, January 17). Emilia Perez, Netflix, and the Oscars. https://www.americamagazine.org/arts-culture/2025/01/17/emilia-perez-netfliz-oscars-249691
Associated Press. (2024, May 19). Emilia Perez at Cannes, Selena Gomez. https://apnews.com/article/emilia-perez-cannes-selena-gomez-990c93036d4be92267e655f9a042b21d
Hello! Magazine. (2025, January 5). Is Emilia Perez a true story? Inspiration behind film. https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/739049/is-emilia-perez-true-story-inspiration-behind-film/
Vox. (2025, January 23). Emilia Perez, Selena Gomez, Oscars, Green Book, Crash, transgender musical. https://www.vox.com/culture/390998/emilia-perez-selena-gomez-oscars-green-book-crash-transgender-musical
WHO13. (2025, January 6). The Brutalist, Emilia Perez take top honors at Golden Globes. https://who13.com/news/the-brutalist-emilia-perez-take-top-honors-at-golden-globes/?nxsparam=9