‘Emilia Pérez’ Cast on Why the Musical Film Is a ‘Gift’: We Had the Opportunity to ‘Showcase Everything We Consider Art’

As a film enthusiast with a soft spot for stories that challenge the status quo and push boundaries, I find myself utterly captivated by the upcoming musical “Emilia Pérez”. The journey of Karla Sofía Gascón, who portrays the titular character, is nothing short of inspiring. Her transformation into Emilia, a complex and layered character reminiscent of Hollywood greats like Marlon Brando or Meryl Streep, is a testament to her dedication and talent. The fact that she had to change her voice, accent, and even sing for this role makes it all the more impressive.

For Karla Sofia Gascón, who shines as the lead in “Emilia Pérez,” there’s a chance she could make Oscar history by becoming the first trans actress ever nominated. She takes pride in her performances in this energetic musical.

Gascón described the character as being on par with iconic Hollywood roles, similar to those portrayed by actors like Marlon Brando, Meryl Streep, or Javier Bardem. He played this intricate and multi-dimensional character in a challenging performance that required him to alter his voice, accent, and even sing. Looking at himself on screen, he feels it was a gift bestowed upon him by life.

Gascón, together with her co-stars Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldaña, Édgar Ramírez, and Adriana Paz, commended director Jacques Audiard for his vision behind the critically praised musical. In this production, Gascón not only embodies the main character but also portrays the transformation of a drug lord kingpin that Emilia’s character undergoes. This transition process reminded her of personal experiences from her own life.

Saldaña, renowned for acting in some of the highest-earning movies ever made, feels that the character “Emilia Pérez” enabled her to perform tasks that no previous role had demanded.

As a movie enthusiast who’s had the privilege to dive into the world of science fiction with roles like Neytiri in “Avatar” and Gamora in “Guardians of the Galaxy,” I can’t help but smile, thinking about it. The shades of blue and green have not just been colors on my costume, they’ve opened doors to a genre that feels like home to me.

Saldaña went on to say: “Now, let’s move on to ‘Emilia.’ I was fortunate enough to display various aspects of what we define as art… Being involved in a narrative that is significant, progressive, genuine, innovative, and bold was, for me, the pinnacle of the experience.

Gomez remembered trying out for the part of Jessi, a woman grappling with her affection for her husband and a life without him in the future. “It was Jacques who recognized my potential. During the audition, I achieved things I never thought possible due to his vision of the character. I yearned to fully embody her.

Ramirez, portraying Gustavo, the drug lord character, expressed his enthusiasm about serving as a “spark” in the narrative and relishing the chance to develop feelings for Selena since he feels their love was genuine. He noted that love isn’t always straightforward; it can be complex, deviating from a smooth path.

Gomez grinned, “I used to adore Edgar, but now there’s someone else who holds that place in my heart.

In the movie named after them, Epifanía’s romantic partner, Emilia, joins forces with Gascón for a captivating duet.

Paz remarked, ‘This tale is quite daring and adventurous.’ At first glance at the script, I had my doubts as it seemed prone to failure. Yet, it turned out to be extraordinary. Such outcomes are a testament to taking risks.

On Tuesday, September 10, Emilia Perez is set to be screened at TIFF. The movie will have a limited theatrical release on November 1, with Netflix handling distribution, followed by its online premiere on their platform on November 13.

2024-09-08 23:46

‘Emilia Pérez’ Cast on Why the Musical Film Is a ‘Gift’: We Had the Opportunity to ‘Showcase Everything We Consider Art’

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