‘Emilia Pérez’ Faces Backlash Over Cultural Inauthenticity and Controversial Themes

The French-produced musical about a transgender Mexican cartel boss has drawn criticism from audiences and advocacy groups despite earning 13 Oscar nominations.

The film has been criticized for its lack of authenticity, with its Mexican setting and themes created by a French director and filmed largely on Paris soundstages.
Mexican audiences and critics have rejected the portrayal of their culture, citing superficial depictions and the absence of significant Mexican talent in the cast and crew.
LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, including GLAAD, have condemned the film's portrayal of its transgender protagonist as outdated and problematic.
Despite its polarized reception, the film has earned 13 Oscar nominations, including historic recognition for Spanish actress Karla Sofía Gascón as the first trans nominee for Best Actress.
Mexican filmmaker Camila Aurora responded with a parody film mocking French stereotypes, further fueling tensions surrounding the cultural representation in ‘Emilia Pérez’.