Zoe Saldaña and Selena Gomez Star in the Vibrant and Transformative World of ‘Emilia Pérez

Jacques Audiard’s new film Emilia Pérez tells the unique and powerful story of a Mexican drug lord’s transformation into a woman, set to music. This Spanish-language musical takes a deep look at identity, change, and making amends for past actions. With a runtime of 132 minutes, the film promises an immersive experience into the world of its characters.

The film follows Manitas del Monte, a tough and feared drug lord known for his ruthlessness. Despite his intimidating exterior, Manitas harbors a deep desire to live as his true self, a woman.

He seeks the help of Rita, a lawyer played by Zoe Saldaña, to get a gender reassignment surgery. Rita, who often defends unsavory characters and struggles with her conscience, is drawn into Manitas’ world.

Manitas becomes Emilia Pérez, trying to leave his violent past behind. Selena Gomez plays Jessi, Manitas’ wife, who must deal with the changes in her family. Emilia must hide her past from her family, posing as a long-lost aunt to reconnect with them. This creates tension and emotional complexity, as Jessi and their two sons navigate their new reality.

After becoming Emilia, she starts an organization called La Lucecita to help families find relatives who went missing because of cartel violence, violence she once caused. This act of creating La Lucecita represents Emilia’s attempt to make amends for her past and contribute positively to society.

Emilia Pérez explores deep questions about identity and the possibility of personal change. The film shows Emilia’s journey not just as a physical change but as a transformation of her entire self. It looks at how society views such changes and challenges stereotypes about gender and identity.

The narrative emphasizes that transitioning is not just about the physical process but about finding personal fulfillment and acceptance.

One of the standout aspects of the film is its approach to the theme of redemption. Emilia’s efforts to atone for her past actions through her NGO, La Lucecita, highlight the possibility of change and the impact one can have on the community. This journey is contrasted with the criminal past of Manitas, adding layers to Emilia’s character.

The film is also a musical, with songs that blend into the dialogue. The music, created by Camille and Clément Ducol, helps tell the story and adds emotion to Emilia’s journey.

Unlike traditional musicals, Emilia Pérez avoids grand showstoppers and instead uses music to enhance everyday moments.

For example, the song “La Vaginoplastia” humorously yet thoughtfully addresses the transition process, while Selena Gomez’s song “El Camino” becomes an anthem of self-love and acceptance.

The musical numbers transition smoothly between spoken words and singing, creating a fluid narrative. The choreography aligns with the mood and message of each scene, adding depth to the storytelling.

The movie is visually stunning, with vibrant colors and rich textures. The set designs, especially in the second half of the film, are luxurious and striking, reminiscent of the style of director Pedro Almodóvar. The interior design of the luxurious Mexico City house, where much of the film takes place, is a visual highlight.

Costume design, provided by Saint Laurent, plays a significant role in showing Emilia’s new identity. The dresses and robes worn by Emilia are not just clothing but symbols of her transformation and newfound confidence. These visual elements contribute to the film’s overall aesthetic, making it a feast for the eyes.

Karla Sofía Gascón’s performance as Manitas/Emilia is central to the film. She brings out the vulnerability and strength of a person going through such a major change. Gascón effectively shows the complexities of Emilia’s character, balancing her past and future. There is pride, vulnerability, and a sense of newfound purpose in her portrayal, making Emilia a compelling and relatable character.

Zoe Saldaña and Selena Gomez also deliver strong performances. Saldaña’s Rita is a lawyer struggling with her own principles, providing a strong emotional anchor for the film. Gomez’s Jessi portrays the emotional turmoil of a wife dealing with her partner’s transformation, adding depth to the family dynamics explored in the film.