Jacques Audiard, the acclaimed French filmmaker known for his genre-bending narratives, has stepped boldly onto the cinematic stage with his latest work, Emilia Pérez, which premiered recently at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. This heart-stirring film uniquely blends elements of musical, crime thriller, and melodrama, tackling complex themes of identity, loss, and societal issues within the flamboyant backdrop of the Mexican drug trade. Though it explores serious themes, the film's vibrant musical elements provide it with a lively and unexpected tone.
At the center of Emilia Pérez is Karla Sofía Gascón, who delivers a remarkable dual performance as both the ruthless cartel boss Manitas and his transgender counterpart, Emilia Pérez, who emerges after faking her death to transition. Gascón's transformation is not only physical but deeply emotional, reflecting her own personal experiences as she navigates the challenges of acceptance, loss, and renewal. The film portrays Emilia's humane mission to help locate the thousands of missing persons across Mexico, shedding light on the heartbreaking reality of disappearances due to drug violence.
Initially, Emilia Pérez originated as the libretto for an opera, and Audiard expressed his long-standing desire to connect with the musical sphere. “I’ve always wanted to tackle opera,” he explained. “The exploration of musicality is what naturally led me to adapt this story.” Interestingly, Audiard acknowledges his own distance from the musical genre, noting, “It’s not to say there aren’t musicals I like, but I wouldn’t describe myself as particularly fond of musicals.” His genuine intrigue for exploring narratives of transformation drives his artistic endeavors, evident through his past works which span languages and cultures.
Upon its premiere at Cannes, Emilia Pérez received rapturous acclaim, securing Audiard the Jury Prize, and bringing recognition to its talented cast, which includes Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña, who each play pivotal roles. The four female leads were awarded the Best Actress prize collectively, highlighting the film’s powerful and diverse representation of women.
Selena Gomez reflects on her own Mexican heritage through her character, Jessi Del Monte, expressing the significance of performing in Spanish: “I just wanted to know I could do it,” she remarked. The role allowed Gomez to reconnect with her roots, sharing, “It’s truly meaningful because I’m proud of who I am.” For her, the experience wasn't just about acting; it provided opportunities for cultural and personal growth.
Interestingly, Audiard’s casting of Gascón was sparked by her potential; he initially saw her as fitting for both male and female roles. “It was important for me to honor the authenticity of her performances,” he noted. The decision to have Gascón portray both identities adds layers to the narrative, emphasizing the complexity of gender and personal transformation.
The film's irreverent tone is exemplified through its creative musical numbers, including the scene where Emilia undergoes her medically assisted transition. It’s depicted as lively and whimsical, offsetting the seriousness of the subject matter. Audiard notes, “If you were too serious about it, you’d end up with something akin to suffering through a documentary. By exploring these themes through music, it softens the painful reality and makes it accessible.”
The film also addresses broader societal issues, placing the personal story of Emilia within the frame of the overreaching crisis of disappearances linked to drug trafficking. With approximately 100,000 individuals reported missing, Audiard intends to spotlight the human impact of these statistics, (leaving audiences with the raw, emotional weight of the tragedy). He relayed his irritation over the perceived disappearance of democracy, commenting, “It’s about the intangible loss of revolutions and rights.”
Following its successful debut, Emilia Pérez is not only expected to gain traction within award circles but is also positioning Gascón as a frontrunner for significant nominations, including Best Actress at the Academy Awards. Gascón, who transitioned in 2018, has the potential to make history as the first openly transgender actor nominated for this award. Her thoughts on this milestone reflect humility and pragmatism; she maintains, “If it happens, it would be beautiful, but if it doesn’t, I’m still happy.”
The synthesis of Gascón's deeply personal narrative, the multi-faceted perspectives of the female cast, and Audiard's cinematic vision creates not just entertainment but provokes thought. The film encourages audiences to confront the realities faced by marginalized communities, particularly the trans experience intertwined with societal violence and despair.
For viewers beyond the initial film festival buzz, Emilia Pérez is now available for streaming on Netflix, inviting new audiences to join Gascón and the talented cast on their unpredictable and poignant narrative. This whimsical yet serious exploration of identity marks yet another unique entry in Audiard’s storied career, promising viewers both entertainment and heartfelt insight.
