As a long-time admirer of Jacques Audiard‘s work, I have been consistently impressed by his fearless approach to storytelling and his ability to tackle diverse subjects with nuance and authenticity. His latest creation, “Emilia Pérez,” is no exception. It’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring the human condition in unexpected ways.

The film’s genre-defying nature, its complex characters, and its powerful message resonate deeply with me. I find it fascinating how Audiard manages to create a floating narrative that seamlessly transitions between different genres, keeping the audience on their toes. It’s like watching an opera, but with a modern twist.

The challenges faced during the production of “Emilia Pérez” are a testament to Audiard’s vision and determination. The decision to shoot the film in a studio instead of on location in Mexico was a bold move, but it adds a unique operatic feel to the movie.

Regarding the criticism about casting non-Mexican actors, I believe that those who voice such criticisms are missing the forest for the trees. Karla Sofía Gascón’s character, Manitas del Monte, is not Mexican and is presented as an American in the film. Selena Gomez plays her tormented wife, Jessi, with a depth and authenticity that speaks volumes about Audiard’s directing skills.

In terms of historical significance, “Emilia Pérez” could make history if Karla Sofía Gascón wins the best actress Oscar. It would open up new possibilities for trans actors in Hollywood and serve as a powerful statement about representation and inclusivity.

Lastly, I can’t help but chuckle at the thought of Audiard suggesting that the thinking of an era is always behind. Given his knack for creating groundbreaking films that challenge societal norms, it seems fitting that he would make such a witty observation!

Jacques Audiard has consistently shown an knack for the unexpected. Spanning over three decades, this Palme d’Or-winning French filmmaker has offered a diverse array of works: from the raw prison drama “A Prophet,” to the examination of passionate yet destructive relationships in “Rust and Bone,” to the story of Tamil Sri Lankan refugees in “Dheepan,” and venturing into Western genres with his first English production, “The Sisters Brothers.

In a new project titled “Emilia Pérez,” Karla Sofía Gascón takes on the role of Manitas del Monte, a notorious cartel leader who disguises her true identity as a trans woman by staging her own death in this Spanish-language, Mexico-set crime musical. The ensemble also features Selena Gomez as Jessi, Manitas’ tormented spouse, and Zoe Saldaña as Rita, an accomplished but overburdened lawyer hired by Emilia to assist her in beginning a fresh life.

Audiard, neither Mexican nor transgender, admits that creating ‘Emilia Pérez’ was a daunting task, but he insists to EbMaster that it was an unavoidable endeavor.

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Audiard, who is neither Mexican nor transgendered, concedes that making ‘Emilia Pérez’ was a tough mission, but he maintains to EbMaster that it was something destined to happen.

Following its triumph at Cannes and recognition for its exceptional female cast, the film “Emilia Pérez” has surged ahead in the Oscar competition. Although it’s nominated as best musical or comedy at the Golden Globes (among 10 nominations), director Audiard characterizes “Emilia Pérez” as a melodrama rather than a musical. Interestingly, he intended to make a film that would “constantly switch genres.

Audiard compares it to being in a drug-related movie one moment, and then switching to a soap opera the next, and so forth,” says Audiard, who is set to receive the Creative Impact in Directing Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. “I aimed for a sense of fluidity or disorientation,” he adds.

One of the movie’s most significant hurdles, as stated by Audiard, was the difficult choice to film it in a studio. The entire production took place within soundstages located just outside of Paris, using a local team as the crew.

As a passionate cinephile, I’ve found myself drawn to the vibrant landscapes of Mexico no less than three or four times. Yet, the raw, potent essence of Mexican reality is such that one cannot merely observe and walk away; you either delve into it headfirst for filming, or shatter it. This is what Director Audiard so eloquently conveys.

In the case of our film ‘Emilia’, the choice to film within a studio was indeed practical. After all, Emilia’s very essence mirrors that of an opera – a grand, theatrical spectacle designed for the big screen.

Film director Audiard has faced criticism for casting non-Mexican actors, such as Gomez, in his films. In fact, Gomez’s acting abilities in the movie sparked controversy when criticized by Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez (who later apologized). However, Audiard dismisses these critics, labeling them as “unobservant viewers.” Notably, Gomez’s character explicitly states that she is not Spanish nor Mexican, but rather an American.

In a potential milestone, this film might write history. If Gascón clinches the Golden Globe, they would be the first trans actor to receive the Best Actress award at the Oscars.

Audiard spoke emotionally about Karla, who passed away at 46. He reflects that the depth, humor, and spirit in her performance as Emilia Pérez was deeply influenced by a past character she portrayed, ‘Carl,’ which he had not known before.

On the prospect of seeing Gascón win a statuette, Audiard says it would “open up something.”

He goes on to say that the thoughts of each period are usually lagging behind,” he notes. “This is much like how it takes some time for industrial revolutions to align themselves with the progression of society.

According to Audiard, the film holds a greater impact now compared to when he initially drafted the screenplay in 2019.

Although “Emilia Pérez” aims to cross various genres, Audiard points out that there is still a significant, dramatic aspect that remains unseen. He refers to this as the “off-screen area,” which revolves around Manitas’ desire to be a woman despite being a gang leader with a wife. He suggests that this could potentially serve as a prequel to “Emilia Pérez.

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2025-01-03 21:16