In a fiercely competitive awards season, one film has emerged as a frontrunner: “Emilia Perez.” Initially overlooked after its Cannes Film Festival debut, Jacques Audiard’s musical thriller, about a Mexican cartel boss undergoing gender affirmation surgery, is now a major awards contender. Its recent triumph at the Golden Globes, securing four awards including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, solidifies its position. This success follows its strong showing on the BAFTA longlists, further cementing its status.
The film’s rise is a testament not only to its artistic merit but also to Netflix’s strategic investment. The streamer acquired the U.S. and U.K. rights for approximately $12 million, subsequently investing significantly more in its awards campaign. While “Emilia Perez” garnered two prizes at Cannes (the jury prize for Audiard and best actress ensemble), translating Croisette success to the U.S. awards circuit isn’t guaranteed, particularly for films tackling sensitive social issues. Many initially perceived the film as a risky venture, given concerns about cultural appropriation and authenticity. The director is not trans, doesn’t speak Spanish, filmed in France rather than Mexico, and cast actresses regardless of nationality.
Despite these potential pitfalls, “Emilia Perez” has resonated. Netflix successfully framed the narrative around themes of sorority and redemption, capitalizing on Karla Sofía Gascón’s powerful performance as Manitas, the cartel leader. Gascón’s personal journey, transitioning at 46, added an undeniable layer of authenticity to the campaign, which strategically highlighted the strong chemistry between Gascón, Selena Gomez (as Manitas’ wife), and Zoe Saldaña. Even negative press surrounding Gomez’s Spanish didn’t derail the momentum.
However, the film’s awards success contrasts sharply with online criticism. Many condemn its portrayal of Latina women as stereotypical and its use of trans identity as a redemptive tool for a murderous protagonist. This makes “Emilia Perez” arguably the most divisive film of the season. To mitigate potential political backlash, particularly during the presidential race, Netflix encouraged the cast to avoid commenting on current events. The fact that the film was a fully French production, shot entirely in France, was not concealed, leveraging Audiard’s reputation and the growing appreciation for European cinema.
The Golden Globes’ more international voting body favored “Emilia Perez,” but the Oscars present a different challenge. While “Anora,” the Palme d’Or winner, might gain traction domestically, France’s significant representation within the Academy’s international voters could benefit “Emilia Perez.” Furthermore, the film has garnered vocal support from high-profile figures including Denis Villeneuve, Guillermo del Toro, Michael Mann, James Cameron, Emily Blunt, and Meryl Streep, among others. This widespread industry backing, coupled with the Golden Globes win, significantly enhances its Oscar prospects.
While the awards race remains fluid, with several nominations and ceremonies yet to unfold, “Emilia Perez” has transformed from a potentially controversial underdog into a formidable frontrunner. Its journey underscores the power of strategic campaigning, a compelling narrative, and a strong performance, even amidst significant controversy.