“Emilia Pérez” has emerged as a significant contender in the 2025 Academy Awards, boasting an impressive 13 nominations, the highest for any film this year, and a record for non-English language films. However, its reception in Mexico has been sharply critical, highlighting a stark contrast to its international accolades.
The film tells the story of a transgender Mexican cartel leader grappling with her history. Despite its acclaim, many in Mexico have labeled it as a misguided representation of their culture, underscoring a perceived minimization of the ongoing violence attributed to drug cartels. The film’s French writer-director, Jacques Audiard, has come under fire for comments regarding the Spanish language, which were interpreted by some as disrespectful, further inflaming tensions among local audiences.
Notably, "Emilia Pérez" was released in Mexican cinemas on January 23—significantly delayed compared to its earlier releases in France and the U.S. The result has been disappointing attendance figures, with theaters reporting low turnout and some ticket buyers even demanding refunds. In stark contrast, a satirical short film that parodies "Emilia Pérez" has gained popularity on social media, reflecting the public sentiment towards the original.
Francisco Peredo Castro, a film expert, describes the film's situation as “a real disaster,” indicating strong dissatisfaction among viewers. The film's portrayal of Mexico and its themes has become fodder for memes and public outrage, even drawing criticism from families affected by gang violence.
As it heads into the Oscars on Sunday, “Emilia Pérez” may struggle with its legacy in its home country, overshadowed by the strong national sentiment against its interpretation of Mexican culture and issues.
