Netflix’s new feature film Emilia Perez tackles a multitude of issues in just over two hours and swings big with execution. To describe all that encapsulates this truly unique film would be a challenge for anyone, but the plot is about a lawyer in Mexico who assists a cartel leader named Juan “Manitas” Del Monte to complete gender-affirming surgery and begin a new life.
After the procedure and transformation, Emilia attempts to return to her roots with startling results and trauma. Audiences will find unexpected humor sprinkled within various family situations and a spotlight on gender norms to express stereotypes in a cinematic format.
While sometimes a hard watch, the film is easier to digest upon multiple viewings, which works well on a streaming platform. For awards consideration, Emilia Perez is required to be released in theaters for a limited engagement and seeing the bold visuals on the big screen adds to the experience thanks to riveting dance sequences and hypnotic lyrics in the songs.
If Karla Sofia Gascon is nominated for the title role with an Academy Award, then this will make her the first trans actress in a major category to have this honor. Emilia Perez has already broken boundaries as the first female ensemble to win in the Best Actress section at the 77th Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
When asked about why her character chose the name of Emilia, Gascon explained, “When they first mentioned the title of the film would be Emilia Perez I couldn’t believe it because in Spain it’s a very common name. My dad has the last name of Perez and I am able to add that as part of my story now.”
The 52-year-old actress spoke on the difficulties of playing Manitas. “His character is complicated, but in the end, it was easier to play two characters that are as different as the sun and moon,” she said. “I had to mix a little light into the darkness of one of them and put some darkness into the light of the other one. It was a lot of work, including having an authentic Mexican accent, but I found the results to be rewarding and extremely beautiful.”
Even if she doesn’t win any other accolades, Gascon plans to return to her home to see her family, including her longtime partner Marisa Gutierrez and daughter then maybe write another book when she has time.
Emilia Perez marks the first time French filmmaker Jacques Audiard wrote a film loosely based on his opera libretto with ideas taken from the novel Ecoute. The director was asked by Windy City Times about the possibility of the lawyer Rita Mora Castro, portrayed by Zoe Saldana, being lesbian.
He confessed, “There is a secret story that is not told within the movie where I believe Emilia Perez is the love of Rita’s life. She has no kids and is possibly unable to, but in the end, Emilia’s love is shown for her by giving Rita her children.”
From the start, this project was not simple or conventional, and this production was made to possibly provoke reactions from anyone who sees it. For those who like their relationships complicated in a multilayered musical tale full of female diversity, Emilia Perez is the perfect match.
Emilia Perez is released on a limited run in select theaters such as the Davis Theater, 4614 N. Lincoln Ave., with streaming to begin Nov. 13 only on netflix.com.
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