Controversy Surrounds "Emilia Pérez" as Oscars Approach

"Emilia Pérez," nominated for 13 Oscars, has been widely criticized in Mexico for its portrayal of the country and has sparked controversy among audiences and film experts alike.

"Emilia Pérez," a film that tells the story of a transgender Mexican cartel leader and her journey of self-reconciliation, enters the Academy Awards with an impressive 13 nominations, making it the most nominated film this year and the highest-ever for a non-English language film. Despite its international recognition, the movie has faced severe backlash in Mexico, where it was released in theaters on January 23, five months after its initial debut in France and two months following its U.S. release.

Critics argue that the film inaccurately represents Mexico, downplays the rampant cartel violence, and features too few Mexican contributors in its production. Comments from French writer-director Jacques Audiard regarding the Spanish language and remarks by lead actress Karla Sofía Gascón on sensitive topics like Islam and George Floyd further fueled dissatisfaction among Mexican audiences.

The film’s runtime in Mexican cinemas has seen disappointing turnout, with many theaters being largely empty. Distressed viewers have even sought refunds, expressing their discontent through social media memes and parodies, contrasting sharply with the film's critical acclaim abroad. Francisco Peredo Castro, a film scholar, asserted that "it has become a real disaster," reflecting the disconnection between the film's portrayal and the sentiments of those in Mexico who lived through the realities depicted.