The 2025 awards season has been filled with discussions, debates, and controversies, and Emilia Pérez has found itself at the center of the storm. The French-Spanish musical drama, directed by Jacques Audiard, tells the story of a Mexican drug lord who transitions into a woman with the help of a lawyer.
While the film has received international praise, it has faced harsh criticism in Mexico, where audiences argue that it perpetuates stereotypes and fails to authentically represent Mexican and transgender communities.
At the heart of the controversy is Selena Gomez, who plays Jessie del Monte, the Mexican-American wife of a cartel leader. Facing backlash over her Spanish accent and casting, Gomez has now spoken out about her experience and her unwavering support for the film.
Selena Gomez’s Performance Under Scrutiny
From the moment Emilia Pérez premiered, Gomez’s Spanish-language performance was heavily criticized. Many Mexican audiences and critics questioned why a Mexican actress was not cast for the role, arguing that:
- Gomez’s accent sounded too American, making her character less believable.
- The film failed to authentically represent Mexican culture, reinforcing Hollywood’s history of casting non-Mexican actors in Mexican roles.
- The lack of Mexican talent in leading roles highlighted ongoing issues of representation and tokenism in international cinema.
Despite the backlash, Gomez remains proud of her performance, recently stating that she would do it all over again without hesitation.
Emilia Pérez and the Karla Sofía Gascón Scandal
Beyond Gomez’s performance, Emilia Pérez has also been caught up in a growing controversy involving Karla Sofía Gascón, the Spanish actress who plays the film’s protagonist.
Gascón, who won Best Actress at Cannes for her role, has faced backlash over past social media posts containing racist and intolerant remarks. The resurfacing of these posts led to public outrage, causing many in the film’s production team to distance themselves from her.
This controversy has overshadowed the film’s success, raising questions about:
- The inclusivity of its casting decisions
- The film’s ability to authentically tell a transgender narrative
- Whether the backlash will impact its Oscar chances
Selena Gomez’s Response: “I Would Do It Again”
Despite the controversy, Gomez remains firmly committed to Emilia Pérez.
While attending the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, where she received the Virtuoso Award, Gomez addressed the criticism and expressed her unwavering pride in the project.
“Part of the magic has disappeared, but I’ve decided to keep feeling proud of what I did, and I’m grateful. I don’t regret anything, and I would make this film again and again if I could.”
Gomez also acknowledged that working with director Jacques Audiard gave her the opportunity to prove herself as a serious actress.
“The simple fact that someone saw something in me beyond the obvious was a very special experience. The director trusted me, and I was grateful because I could show people that I am capable of more. I hope this is just the beginning for me in this field.”
Does Emilia Pérez Have a Future?
Despite the controversy, Emilia Pérez has been highly successful in international film circles. The film has received:
- 13 Academy Award nominations, making it a major contender at the 2025 Oscars
- A Golden Globe win for Best Supporting Actress (Zoe Saldaña)
- Critical acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival, where Gascón won Best Actress
However, its reception in Mexico has been overwhelmingly negative. Many believe the film:
- Exoticizes Mexico, rather than portraying it with depth and accuracy
- Fails to provide authentic representation, with non-Mexican leads in a Mexican story
- Ignores the complexities of trans identity, reducing it to a narrative device rather than a meaningful exploration
Director Jacques Audiard fueled the backlash further by stating that he did not conduct deep research on Mexico, claiming that he already knew enough—a remark that many Mexicans found dismissive and arrogant.
Will Emilia Pérez Win an Oscar?
The fate of Emilia Pérez at the 2025 Academy Awards remains uncertain. While it has gained strong momentum, the film’s controversial reputation may impact its chances.
Key Questions for Oscar Night
- Will the backlash against Karla Sofía Gascón affect her Best Actress chances?
- Can the film overcome its poor box office performance in Mexico?
- Will Hollywood voters support a film facing so much controversy?
Final Thoughts
Emilia Pérez has ignited a global conversation about representation, cultural sensitivity, and the ethics of casting in international cinema. While Selena Gomez remains steadfast in her support, the film’s legacy will be shaped by ongoing debates about its portrayal of Mexico and the trans community.
The 2025 Oscars on March 2 will mark the final chapter in the film’s turbulent awards season, determining whether controversy will overshadow recognition—or fuel its victory.
