Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard, has made history by leading the nominations for the 2025 Academy Awards with 13 nods, marking it as the most nominated non-English film ever.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominees on January 23, 2025, just weeks before the Oscars ceremony scheduled for March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Impressively, Emilia Pérez has overtaken prior record holders such as Roma and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, both previously honored with 10 nominations.
Among its nominations, Karla Sofía Gascón stands out, becoming the first transgender actress to be nominated for Best Actress, showcasing significant advancements for representation within the film industry. Gascón’s role as "Manitas del Monte"—a character transitioning to Emilia Pérez from narcotrafficking—has been widely acclaimed, gaining recognition not only for its performance depth but also for its broader themes related to identity and redemption.
The story told through Emilia Pérez addresses pressing social issues, encapsulating moments of transition and the violence associated with drug trafficking and corruption. "It’s not just about the awards; it’s about the conversations it spurs around sensitive topics," Gascón noted during interviews.
The Oscar nominations came after the usual announcement was delayed due to severe wildfires across Los Angeles, which claimed numerous lives and forced many residents to evacuate. This backdrop adds urgency and emotional weight to the film's reception, as it resonates with viewers against these chilling realities.
Besides Best Picture and Best Actress, Emilia Pérez is recognized across various categories, including Best Director and Best Original Song with two nominations for "El Mal" and "Mi Camino." Other films like The Brutalist and Wicked are right behind Emilia Pérez with 10 nominations each.
Critics have mixed reactions to the film’s intense themes. Some argue it dramatizes serious issues such as the search for missing persons, reminiscent of Mexico's Dirty War—a painful aspect of history for many families. This nuanced approach leads to mixed responses about the film’s handling of complex subjects. Despite tensions, it paves the way for important discussions about representation and social advocacy through cinema.
Emilia Pérez’s impact is palpable, as experts believe this could shift perspectives within the Academy, heralding greater inclusion for international films. "With the rise of international voters within the Academy, the traditional barriers are starting to erode," predicts industry analyst Pete Hammond.
The film enters the Oscars surrounded by high expectations, yet the correlation between nominations and wins has been fraught with complexity. For example, The Power of the Dog, nominated for 12 Oscars just two years ago, only secured one statuette, illustrating how the number of nominations does not guarantee victory.
For now, Emilia Pérez stands poised as the frontrunner, leading conversations on awards night, with Gascón and her co-star Zoe Saldaña recognized among the frontrunners.
"It’s about time we see people of different backgrounds celebrated on such platforms," Gascón emphasized. The feeling among many is hopeful yet cautious, as the Oscar race evolves each year.
Overall, Emilia Pérez's historic achievements amplify its underlying narratives, generating discussions not only about cinema but also about cultural identity, human rights, and the multifaceted nature of storytelling. These elements combine to make the upcoming Oscars not merely another award ceremony but a pivotal moment for film history.