Cube Critics discuss ‘Emilia Pérez’
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
“Emilia Pérez” is a French film set in Mexico, shot largely on soundstages in France, blending elements of noir, musicals and occasional winking comedy.
The story follows a Mexican cartel boss (Karla Sofía Gascón) who transitions to living as a woman, with Zoe Saldaña playing the lawyer who helps her navigate the dangerous logistics of the operation and its aftermath.
Gascón, a trans actress, brings authenticity to a role treated with sincerity and compassion, while the film’s humor adds a cheeky charm.
The musical elements, though sporadic, are striking, showcasing Saldaña’s dance and theater background. Highlights include an operatic sing-talking style and a gun-loading choreography sequence, though the integration of music could have been more consistent.
This is an interesting moment for offbeat musicals (compare with 2021’s “Annette,” in which Adam Driver has a puppet as a child). Hopefully, as they mature they will get a firmer grasp on what makes musicals so powerful.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.
Dear reader,
Political debates with family or friends can get heated. But what if there was a way to handle them better?
You can learn how to have civil political conversations with our new e-book!
Download our free e-book, Talking Sense: Have Hard Political Conversations, Better, and learn how to talk without the tension.
