Audiard’s “Emilia Perez” has garnered attention at the Cannes Film Festival for its audacious and unconventional premise. The film follows Rita, a Mexico City lawyer hired by a cartel kingpin to assist him in fleeing the country for gender confirmation surgery. This leads to a complex relationship between Rita and Emilia Perez, played by Karla Sofía Gascón. The story unfolds as Emilia returns years later, posing as Manitas’ sister to remain close to her children, who are living with her ex-wife. Despite its unusual plot, the film has received applause from audiences, with critics noting its melodramatic grandeur.
Audiard, known for films like “A Prophet” and “Rust and Bone,” approached “Emilia Perez” as a kind of opera, drawing inspiration from a novel about a narco trafficker seeking to change his identity. The narrative of the film is described as telenovela-worthy, with twists and turns that keep viewers engaged. While the movie features well-known stars like Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña, it is Gascón who steals the show with her portrayal of both Manitas and Emilia. Gascón, a transgender actress, initially struggled with playing both roles but ultimately embraced the challenge.
Despite its unconventional premise, “Emilia Perez” is praised for its sincerity in exploring themes of personal change and identity. The film follows Rita and Emilia on a journey across multiple countries, with original songs by French pop musician Camille and a score by Clément Docul. Gascón hopes that Emilia will be viewed not just as a trans character but as a complex human being deserving of respect. The film’s tonal shifts and narrative leaps may be polarizing, but for Audiard, they add depth and complexity to the story.
The backdrop of Mexico’s social issues, including the problem of missing people and unsafe regions, adds a layer of depth to the film’s narrative. Audiard chose to set a musical against this tragic background, highlighting the juxtaposition of joy and sorrow in the characters’ lives. Gascón emphasizes the importance of treating trans individuals with dignity and acceptance, asserting that they deserve to be seen just like anyone else. Despite its unconventional approach, “Emilia Perez” succeeds in delivering a compelling story that challenges traditional storytelling norms and shines a light on important social issues.
