Selena Gomez, the multi-talented singer and actress, has never shied away from challenging roles, but her latest film, Emilia Perez, has sparked an intense debate among viewers. Released on Netflix on November 13, this drama-musical hybrid, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jacques Audiard, has been called everything from “brilliantly daring” to “the most offensive movie of the year.”
With an IMDb rating of 7/10 and an 80% score on Rotten Tomatoes, Emilia Perez has been praised by critics while simultaneously drawing sharp criticism from fans. What is it about this film that has left audiences so divided? Let’s explore the movie’s plot, the controversies surrounding it, and Selena Gomez’s reflections on her daring performance.
A Bold Plot That Pushes Boundaries
Set in Mexico, Emilia Perez tells the unconventional story of a high-powered lawyer, Rita (played by Zoe Saldaña), who receives an unusual proposition from a feared cartel boss. The boss, tired of his criminal lifestyle, wants to disappear and live as the woman he has always dreamed of being. Spanish trans actress Karla Sofía Gascón portrays the title character, Emilia Perez, while Selena Gomez stars as Jessi Del Monte, a wife and mother who becomes intricately tied to the unfolding drama.
The film merges elements of suspense, personal transformation, and cultural identity, tackling topics like gender, criminal reform, and societal acceptance. The plot dares to ask big questions, but not everyone agrees with how those questions are answered.
Watch the trailer below:
Critical Acclaim Meets Fierce Backlash
While Emilia Perez has impressed some critics—winning the Jury Prize at the 77th Cannes Film Festival and earning accolades for its daring narrative—many viewers have voiced their dissatisfaction on social media. The polarized reactions highlight both cultural sensitivity issues and perceived missteps in the storytelling.
One of the most vocal critiques has been the film’s portrayal of trans identities and Mexican culture. On X (formerly Twitter), a viewer labeled the movie “the most offensive movie of the year,” while another claimed it relied on “distasteful, borderline offensive stereotypes.” Reddit threads have also erupted with commentary, with some users accusing the film of mishandling complex topics, calling it “a pile of trash masquerading as bold representation.”
Despite the harsh criticisms, others have defended the film as an artistic exploration of identity, applauding its audacity in tackling subjects rarely seen in mainstream cinema.
Selena Gomez: Stepping Out of Her Comfort Zone
For Selena Gomez, Emilia Perez represented a significant leap in her acting career. Known for her roles in lighthearted films and TV series, Gomez took on a more challenging role in this movie, showcasing her versatility as an actress. One of the unique hurdles she faced was speaking Spanish for her role. In interviews, Gomez admitted that while she isn’t fluent, she felt deeply connected to the experience.
“It was very exciting,” Gomez shared with Sky News. “I’m not completely fluent, so for me, it was really incredible to even just be around people who were speaking it. I found it to be a very proud moment for sure.”
Gomez also expressed how this role has encouraged her to pursue more unconventional material. “I definitely don’t have any regrets. Doing this movie gave me a little pat on the back, and I feel eager to go for material that I don’t think people would typically expect of me.”
The Controversies: Cultural Sensitivity and Artistic Risks
One of the central issues sparking backlash is the film’s treatment of Mexican culture. Critics argue that it fails to authentically represent the complexities of Mexican identity, with some calling it “out of touch.” This criticism is amplified by the film’s ambitious blending of music, drama, and social commentary, which some viewers found jarring.
Additionally, the portrayal of trans experiences through Emilia Perez has drawn mixed reactions. While the inclusion of Karla Sofía Gascón, a trans actress, has been praised as a step toward authentic representation, some feel the film’s narrative reinforces harmful tropes. One reviewer noted, “It manages to hit every bad trans movie trope before even scratching the surface of deeper themes.”
The Musical Component: A Hit or a Miss?
Another major point of contention lies in the film’s musical sequences. While Emilia Perez is partly a musical, many critics and fans have found the songs polarizing. Some viewers enjoyed the bold choice of integrating musical elements into the story, while others called the songs “laughably bad” and criticized their placement within the film.
One Reddit user summed up this divide, stating, “The songs felt so out of place, I laughed at most of the scenes. It took me out of the movie entirely.”
The Film’s Accolades and Its Divisive Legacy
Despite the controversy, Emilia Perez has received significant recognition on the awards circuit. Winning the Jury Prize at Cannes and earning acclaim for its ambitious storytelling, the movie has cemented its place as a conversation starter. Karla Sofía Gascón’s performance has been particularly praised, with many acknowledging the importance of casting a trans actress in such a high-profile role.
For Gomez, the film marks a milestone in her career as she transitions into more daring and transformative roles. Her performance has been praised for its emotional depth, even by some of the film’s detractors.
A Movie That Defies Categorization
At its core, Emilia Perez is a movie that refuses to play it safe. It takes bold risks in its storytelling, casting, and presentation, making it a divisive work of art. Whether you view it as a daring masterpiece or a misstep, there’s no denying that the film has sparked a conversation about representation, culture, and the boundaries of cinema.
Selena Gomez’s Future in Hollywood
For Gomez, this project has opened new doors. She has proven her willingness to step outside of her comfort zone and take on roles that challenge her skills and push the boundaries of mainstream entertainment. As she continues to evolve as an actress, it’s clear that Gomez is ready to embrace projects that defy expectations.
In her own words: “I feel eager and excited to go for material that I don’t think people would typically expect of me.”
As Emilia Perez continues to stir conversations, it will be fascinating to see how Selena Gomez and the film itself shape the broader discourse on representation and storytelling in cinema. Whether loved or hated, Emilia Perez is undeniably unforgettable—and that’s the mark of a movie that dares to be different.
